Sophie Bennett
Chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes. From roasted vegetables to salads, potatoes to rice, there are numerous options to choose from. Chicken is a popular choice for a weeknight dinner as it is budget-friendly, healthy, and easy to cook. However, as chicken is a relatively mild-flavoured meat, it is important to choose side dishes that complement and enhance its flavour. Some popular side dishes include mashed potatoes, baked beans, grilled corn, and Brussels sprouts.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Vegetables | Broccoli, baby carrots, mushrooms, potatoes, peas, green beans, corn, snow peas, Brussels sprouts |
| Fruits | Strawberries, watermelon, apples |
| Salads | Greek salad, summer couscous salad, potato salad, salad with collards, fennel, orange segments, and dried cherries |
| Seasonings | Rosemary, raisins, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, pepper |
| Other | Cornbread, baked beans, mashed potatoes, French onion baked potatoes, rice, fettuccine Alfredo, whipped feta roasted potatoes, sweet potato gratin, coleslaw |
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What You'll Learn
Salads and vegetables
Salads
A crisp and refreshing salad can provide a tangy twist to your meal. Consider a Greek salad, a summer favourite that pairs well with chicken. For a unique combination of flavours, try a salad with collards, fennel, fresh orange segments, and tart dried cherries.
For a light and refreshing option during the summer, a salad of watermelon, strawberries, arugula, and basil is a perfect choice. You can also opt for a potato salad, a classic side dish that blends creamy potatoes with tangy mayonnaise and crunchy vegetables.
Vegetables
Vegetables offer a variety of textures and flavours that can enhance your chicken dish. Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, baby carrots, or Brussels sprouts, are simple yet delicious options. You can also add herbs and spices like rosemary or leftover turkey herbs to elevate the flavour.
Grilled or roasted potatoes are always a popular choice, offering a crispy exterior and soft, creamy interior. For a unique twist, try whipped feta roasted potatoes or potatoes with a rich cream sauce and baked cheese.
Sweet potatoes are another versatile option, delicious when boiled, baked, sautéed, or fried. You can also try sweet potato gratin or sweet potato fries for a unique side dish.
Other vegetable sides include green beans, which can be prepared with onion and bacon for added flavour, or with a ranch seasoning twist. Mushrooms, grilled or basted with a lemony sauce, make for a simple yet tasty side.
Cauliflower rice, stir-fried snow peas, and grilled corn on the cob are also excellent vegetable sides to accompany chicken.
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Potatoes
Roasted Potatoes
Roasted potatoes are a classic side dish that can be made in various ways. One popular method is to boil the potatoes first and then brown them in a skillet to achieve a crispy exterior and tender interior. Another option is to use an onion soup mix as a seasoning for roasted potatoes, creating a flavourful and easy-to-make side dish.
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a comforting and creamy side dish that goes well with chicken. For the best results, it is recommended to heat the milk and butter before adding them to the potatoes, ensuring a smooth and non-gummy texture.
Potato Salad
Potato salad is a refreshing summer side dish that can be served alongside barbecued chicken. It typically includes potatoes, red wine vinegar, feta cheese, and fresh herbs, creating a mix of sweet, tangy, and salty flavours.
Sweet Potato Gratins and Fries
Sweet potatoes are a versatile ingredient and can be boiled, baked, sautéed, or fried. Sweet potato gratin is a delicious side dish, while sweet potato fries are a popular and easy option.
Sliced Potatoes in Cream Sauce
This hearty side dish is perfect for roast chicken or baked cutlets. Thinly sliced potatoes are baked in a rich cream sauce with plenty of cheese, resulting in a creamy and indulgent texture.
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Rice
Wild Rice
Wild rice has a nutty flavor and chewy texture, making it a unique and tasty option to pair with chicken. It can be cooked in advance and seasoned with herbs and spices to add extra flavor. This type of rice is a healthy and nutritious option, packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Cauliflower Rice
For a low-carb or gluten-free option, cauliflower rice is a great alternative to traditional rice. It has a similar texture to rice but with a milder flavor, making it a versatile side dish. Cauliflower rice can be stir-fried with vegetables or herbs to add extra flavor and color to the dish.
Grilled Rice
For a more creative option, grilled rice can be a unique and tasty side dish. Cook the rice in advance and form it into patties or balls, which can then be grilled to create a crispy outer layer. This method adds a smoky flavor to the rice and is perfect for a summer barbecue or outdoor gathering.
Flavored Rice
To elevate your rice dish, consider adding flavors such as lemon, garlic, or herbs. Lemon rice, for example, can be a refreshing option during the summer months. You can also experiment with different spices and ingredients to create unique flavor profiles that complement the chicken.
For a heartier option, a rice casserole combines rice with cheese, vegetables, or meats to create a comforting and filling side dish. Cheeses such as cheddar or smoked Gouda can be melted into the rice, creating a creamy and indulgent texture. This option is perfect for a winter meal or when you want a more substantial side.
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Beans
Baked Beans
Baked beans are a classic side dish that pairs well with grilled chicken. They are packed with sweet and savoury flavours and can be made in under 40 minutes. To make baked beans, start by cooking bacon in a skillet until it's browned and crisp. Remove the bacon and leave some grease in the skillet. Add onion, pepper, and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened. Stir in seasonings, tomato paste, vinegar, BBQ sauce, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, water, and brown sugar. Finally, add the beans and bring the mixture to a boil. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and bake in the oven until bubbling and thick.
Green Beans
Green beans are a healthy and tasty option to serve with chicken. They can be prepared in a variety of ways, such as stir-frying or steaming. For a simple stir-fry, heat oil in a pan, add green beans and cook until tender. Remove the beans from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add oil and season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken until browned and cooked through. Combine the green beans and chicken in the pan, adding a honey garlic sauce. Simmer until thickened and serve over rice.
Refried Beans
Refried beans are a hearty and flavourful option that can be served as a side dish or used as an ingredient in other dishes. They are typically made with pinto beans, but black beans or navy beans can also be used. To make refried beans, soak the beans overnight, then cook them in water with onion, garlic, and spices. Once the beans are tender, mash them or blend them until they reach the desired consistency. Refried beans can be served as a side dish with chicken or used as a filling for burritos or tacos.
BBQ Beans
BBQ beans are a perfect side dish for summer cookouts and pair well with grilled chicken. They can be made with a variety of beans, such as pinto, black, or navy beans. To make BBQ beans, cook the beans with bacon, onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Add BBQ sauce, vinegar, and seasonings to taste. Simmer the beans slowly to allow the flavours to combine and achieve the desired texture. Serve BBQ beans alongside grilled chicken, cornbread, or a green salad.
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Breads
Bread is a classic side dish that can elevate a simple chicken dinner. Here are some bread options that can complement your chicken dish:
Cornbread
Cornbread is a perfect match for fried chicken. The fluffy and slightly spicy cornbread can be made even more delicious by adding peppers to the batter. For a milder version, simply remove the seeds from the peppers before mixing them in. Dip your cornbread into the juices of your fried chicken for an explosion of flavours and textures.
Grilled Bread
Grilled bread, such as grilled cornbread, can add a unique twist to your chicken dinner. Grilled cornbread gives it a lightly caramelized surface and a slightly smoky flavour. The contrast between the cool, crisp interior and the grilled exterior creates a delightful sensory experience.
Dinner Rolls
Dinner rolls are a classic side dish that can round out a chicken dinner. They are soft, fluffy, and perfect for soaking up sauces or juices from the chicken. Dinner rolls can be plain or seasoned with herbs and spices to add extra flavour to the meal.
Chicken and bread are a classic combination, and by offering a variety of bread options, you can enhance the dining experience and satisfy your guests' cravings.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many side dishes that can be served with chicken, including mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, salads, and corn on the cob.
Some roasted vegetable side dishes that can accompany chicken include roasted fennel with delicata squash and apples, French onion baked potatoes, and Parmesan-crusted Brussels sprouts.
Yes, some summer side dishes that can be served with chicken are Greek salad, summer couscous salad, and grilled dishes like watermelon, strawberries, arugula, and basil.
Yes, some winter side dishes that can be served with chicken include mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, and cornbread stuffing.
Yes, some side dishes that are well-suited for grilled chicken include salads, corn on the cob, and potato salad.
