Best Sides for Chicken Entrees
Chicken is one of the most versatile proteins, and the right side dish can elevate any chicken meal from simple to spectacular! Whether you’re making grilled, roasted, fried, or baked chicken, there’s a perfect side to complement it. From crispy veggies to creamy comfort foods, here are 18 delicious sides that pair perfectly with chicken.
1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, buttery, and full of garlicky goodness, mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food that pairs beautifully with chicken. Whether you’re having fried chicken, roasted chicken, or chicken gravy, mashed potatoes provide a rich, smooth balance to the dish.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, roasted Brussels sprouts bring a delicious crunch and caramelized flavor to any chicken dish. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, and a touch of balsamic glaze for an irresistible bite.
3. Mac and Cheese
When you need something extra indulgent, mac and cheese is the perfect match for crispy fried chicken. The creamy, cheesy pasta creates a delicious contrast to crispy, juicy chicken, making it a Southern classic.
4. Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus adds a fresh, slightly smoky flavor that pairs well with grilled or roasted chicken. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese for a side that’s both light and flavorful.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes add a touch of natural sweetness that complements spicy, smoky, or savory chicken dishes. Roast them whole, mash them with butter and cinnamon, or turn them into crispy sweet potato fries for an irresistible side.
6. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is cool, crunchy, and refreshing, making it an ideal pairing for fried or barbecue chicken. The tangy dressing balances out rich, crispy chicken, and the crunchy cabbage adds texture to every bite.
7. Buttered Corn on the Cob
Juicy, sweet, and buttery corn on the cob is a side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted chicken. Sprinkle with parmesan, chili powder, or lime juice for an extra layer of flavor.
8. Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing pairs perfectly with grilled or roasted chicken. If you’re making chicken Caesar salad, it can even become the main dish!
9. Garlic Butter Rice
Fluffy, buttery, and lightly garlicky, garlic butter rice is an easy, flavorful side that complements grilled, baked, or roasted chicken. The buttery richness makes it a perfect pairing for herb-seasoned or citrusy chicken dishes.
10. Roasted Vegetables
A mix of roasted carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and onions adds color, texture, and a delicious smoky sweetness to any chicken dish. Roasting brings out natural flavors and works well with herb-roasted or grilled chicken.
11. Honey-Glazed Carrots
Tender, slightly sweet, and packed with flavor, honey-glazed carrots provide a touch of sweetness that pairs well with savory roasted or grilled chicken. The honey caramelizes beautifully, giving them a rich, golden color and a deep flavor.
12. Creamy Polenta
Smooth, buttery polenta is an excellent alternative to mashed potatoes, especially when paired with herb-roasted or pan-seared chicken. The creamy texture and mild, cheesy flavor make it a comforting, elegant side dish.
13. Sautéed Green Beans
Green beans add a fresh, crisp bite that pairs well with garlic butter chicken, lemon chicken, or herb-roasted chicken. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, and almonds for extra crunch and flavor.
14. Quinoa Salad
For a light, nutritious side, a lemony quinoa salad with fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, and feta is the perfect match for grilled or Mediterranean-style chicken. It’s protein-packed, refreshing, and loaded with bright flavors.
15. Biscuits
Flaky, buttery biscuits are a Southern classic that pair wonderfully with fried chicken or barbecue chicken. They’re perfect for soaking up sauces, gravies, or honey butter.
16. Mediterranean Couscous
Fluffy couscous, tossed with olive oil, fresh herbs, roasted veggies, and feta, makes a fantastic light and refreshing side for grilled or lemon herb chicken. The flavors blend beautifully, making it a go-to side dish for Mediterranean meals.
17. Fried Plantains
For a slightly sweet and crispy contrast to savory chicken dishes, fried plantains are a must-try. Popular in Caribbean and Latin American cuisine, they add a caramelized sweetness that complements spicy or smoky chicken.
18. Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Crispy, cheesy, and packed with garlic and herbs, Parmesan roasted potatoes are a no-fail side for any chicken dish. They provide the perfect balance of crispiness and softness, making them a delicious and satisfying pairing.
Final Thoughts
Whether you love your chicken grilled, roasted, or fried, these 18 side dishes bring the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients to your plate. From comforting classics like mac and cheese to fresh, healthy options like quinoa salad, there’s a perfect pairing for every type of chicken dish.
