When it comes to pairing side dishes with chicken dinners, the options can be overwhelming. But fear not, for we’ve curated a list of 37 easy and delicious recipes that use simple ingredients to bring out the best in your meal. As one of the most versatile proteins around, chicken lends itself well to a wide range of accompaniments. So, whether you’re looking for something classic and comforting or a little more adventurous, we’ve got you covered. With these tasty and straightforward side dishes, you’ll be all set for a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Cherry Tomato Salsa with Red Onion
When serving chicken, you want to showcase its natural juiciness. This delectable cherry tomato salsa, infused with a tangy kick from red onion, is the ideal accompaniment to do just that. The combination of flavors and textures in this side dish is nothing short of impressive, offering a burst of freshness in every bite. Moreover, it’s incredibly easy to prepare in advance, making it an excellent choice for potlucks, barbecues, or any gathering where you want to impress with minimal effort.
Tahini Roasted Cauliflower
As I reflect on this uncomplicated recipe, my anticipation is piqued, and I’m confident it will have the same effect on you. The combination of roasted cauliflower smothered in Mediterranean spices and drizzled with creamy tahini has me hooked! This hearty side dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a nutrient-rich powerhouse. The roasting process makes preparation a breeze, allowing the natural sweetness of the cauliflower to shine through. And let’s not forget the star of the show: the rich and indulgent tahini dressing. With its simple, wholesome ingredients, this dish is sure to hit the spot.
Grilled Potatoes
While it’s true that potatoes can be a part of a healthy diet, there’s no need to eliminate them altogether! Instead of frying them, you can prepare potatoes in ways that add plenty of flavor without adding unhealthy fats. In fact, potatoes are incredibly versatile, much like chicken, and can be paired with a wide range of spices and seasonings to complement your choice of protein. For example, if you’re making barbecue-style chicken, you might opt for cajun spices to give the dish a bold, smoky flavor. On the other hand, if you’re serving up Italian-inspired cuisine, herbs and olive oil are a natural fit. This simple side dish is an amazing comfort food classic that’s perfect for those days when you’re feeling lazy and just want something easy and satisfying.
Sauteed Radishes
For those still hesitant to incorporate potatoes into their healthy diet, radishes offer a delicious and nutritious alternative. While raw radishes can have a pungent flavor, sautéing them mellows out the taste and texture, making them surprisingly similar to potatoes – with an added kick. This versatility also allows for easy customization of seasonings to suit your preferred flavor profile. Notably, radishes are incredibly adept at absorbing flavors, taking on a soft and crispy consistency when cooked. If you’re struggling to get a picky eater to try something new, serving sautéed radishes is an excellent way to introduce them to the world of colorful vegetables – they might just become their new favorite dish!
Air Fryer Green Beans
When it comes to getting people to enjoy their veggies, this air fryer green bean recipe is a game-changer. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to prepare. Simply toss the beans with some oil and salt, and let the air fryer do its magic. What’s more, these crunchy little morsels are packed with nutrients like protein and folate, making them a guilt-free snack option. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or just want to whip up a quick side dish, this recipe is easily scalable – just double or triple the batch as needed.
Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasted vegetables make for an excellent accompaniment to a classic roast chicken dinner. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility – you can pop both the bird and the veggies in the oven at the same time, using just one pan. Feel free to mix things up by experimenting with different root vegetables, such as beetroot, red onion, sweet potato, pumpkin, or even cauliflower. Each new addition brings a unique set of nutrients to the table, all wrapped up in a tasty and nutritious plate of roast veggies.
Sauteed Zucchini, Squash, and Onions
While I’m a huge fan of zucchini, I understand why some people might be skeptical about trying it. However, this recipe is designed to convert even the most hesitant zucchini haters into believers. The dish has a comforting, mild flavor that complements chicken perfectly without overpowering it. What’s more, it’s incredibly easy to prepare in just one pan and packs a nutritious punch thanks to its medley of veggies.
Roasted Carrots
In the realm of nutritious side dishes, roasted carrots stand out as a true champion. With their unparalleled flavor, effortless preparation, and impressive health benefits, it’s no wonder they’ve earned a special place in many culinary hearts.
The secret to achieving this perfect harmony lies in allowing the carrots to become tender and succulent during roasting, before finishing them off with a caramelized crust. This double-roasted treatment results in a truly elevated culinary experience.
While some might be tempted to get creative with spices or herbs, the truth is that even simple combinations like salt and oil can elevate these carrots to new heights.
As such, they make an excellent accompaniment to a juicy steak, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Crispy Air Fryer Cauliflower Steaks
When it comes to show-stopping side dishes, this cauliflower recipe is sure to impress. The combination of earthy cauliflower and rich turmeric is a match made in heaven, especially when paired with chicken. What sets these cauliflower ‘steaks’ apart is the air fryer’s ability to give them a perfectly charred exterior, all while keeping the cooking process remarkably simple. With this recipe, you can focus on perfecting your main dish, knowing that your side dish will be just as impressive.
Sauteed Asparagus and Mushrooms
Sauteed asparagus and mushrooms make a versatile and flavorful side dish that can elevate any chicken recipe, regardless of the season. These vegetables are renowned for their ability to absorb flavors quickly, making them an excellent choice for pairing with a variety of dishes. I find it particularly useful to drizzle the asparagus and mushrooms with the juices from a roast chicken, which adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. This side dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal that needs a pop of color, and can even be served alongside hearty options like brisket for a satisfying meal.
Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potatoes
I’m not alone in my enthusiasm for the Instant Pot – this versatile pressure cooker has earned a special place in many a home kitchen. Its ability to transform even the humblest of ingredients into culinary masterpieces is truly impressive. Case in point: these divine sweet potatoes, whose fluffy texture and subtle sweetness are elevated to new heights when paired with savory chicken. Whether you’re cooking for one or hosting a gathering, the Instant Pot makes quick work of large batches, ensuring that every potato is cooked to perfection. And let’s not forget its perfect pairing with juicy chicken wings – a match made in heaven!
Lemon Green Bean Salad
This refreshing lemon green bean salad recipe is the epitome of a perfect summer side dish – light, bright, and crunchy, it’s sure to hit the spot. Whether you’re looking to elevate a weeknight dinner or impress at your next social gathering, this salad is an excellent choice. Its versatility makes it suitable for everything from casual get-togethers to more formal occasions like date nights. What sets this recipe apart is its ease of preparation; with minimal effort, you can transform the ingredients into a dish that’s both impressive and effortless. To achieve success, focus on using high-quality, fresh components – vibrant green beans with a nice snap and a juicy lemon that packs a zesty punch.
Rice Side Dishes for Chicken
Rice is an incredibly versatile and accessible ingredient that can be the foundation for a wide range of dishes. Its ease of preparation, light yet satisfying texture, and adaptability make it a staple in many pantries. Furthermore, rice pairs exceptionally well with chicken, its mild flavor allowing the rich flavors of the poultry to shine through. Whether used as a side dish or served atop a chicken-based meal, the possibilities are endless.
Lemon Rice Pilaf with Dill and Pistachios
Rice pilaf is often considered a staple in many cuisines due to its exceptional nutritional value, satisfying nature, and simplicity. This recipe stands out by highlighting the importance of freshness in its preparation.
The addition of lemon and dill to the pilaf not only adds an explosion of flavor but also visually enhances the dish, making it perfect for pairing with chicken or other protein sources. This harmonious combination will keep your hunger at bay throughout the meal.
In addition to its numerous benefits, this pilaf recipe is remarkably quick to prepare, requiring only twenty minutes from start to finish – a true culinary triumph.
Easy Golden Rice Pilaf
This vibrant pilaf shines like a gold medal on the culinary podium, elevating your plate with its captivating appearance and flavors. The dish bursts with Mediterranean flair and earthy notes, a true taste sensation in the making.
Not only is this recipe remarkably easy to prepare, but it will also transform your plate of chicken into a restaurant-quality masterpiece. This pilaf fits seamlessly whether you’re serving Mediterranean or roasted chicken.
What I adore about this recipe is its versatility – you can effortlessly scale it up or down to suit your needs. Roasted onions, sweet peppers, or potatoes are the perfect accompaniments to take this pilaf to new heights.
Kimchi Bacon Fried Rice
Kimchi is a flavor game-changer for many people. For those who’ve already experienced its bold, tangy taste, this recipe is a no-brainer. But even if you’re new to kimchi, don’t worry – it’s an adventure worth taking. The addition of crispy bacon takes this fried rice dish to stratospheric heights, marrying the pungent kimchi flavor with rich, savory undertones. This recipe is incredibly quick and easy to make, yet packs a punch that will leave even the most discerning palates reeling.
Black Beans and Rice
When seeking a simple yet nutritious side dish that’s bursting with protein, black beans and rice are an unbeatable combination. This recipe is particularly well-suited for pairing with chicken seasoned with Mexican flair. Its simplicity also makes it an ideal choice for large gatherings, as it can be easily scaled up to feed a crowd. To take it to the next level, consider adding some corn and other beans to create a filling and satisfying dish that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Garlic Basmati Rice with Oregano and Fresh Parsley
A game-changer for any Italian-inspired meal, this aromatic rice recipe is infused with the subtle flavors of garlic and Italian herbs. When cooked to perfection, it provides a delicate foundation for your next culinary creation. As the aromas unfold, the dish takes on a new dimension, elevating the juiciness of the accompanying chicken without overpowering its natural flavor profile.
Cranberry and Edamame Brown Rice Salad
This unique take on rice salad combines the earthy sweetness of dried cranberries and edamame in a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds with each bite. The addition of protein-rich edamame and fiber-packed brown rice makes this dish a nutrient-dense option, defying expectations of blandness given its health benefits. Instead, every forkful is bursting with delectable flavor, from the subtle tang of mustard grains scattered throughout, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.
Pasta Side Dishes for Chicken
Pasta offers a delightful alternative to rice-based dishes. The combination of pasta and chicken is a match made in heaven, much like the perfect blend of sunshine and a refreshing drink. When it comes to Italian-inspired flavors or Mediterranean-style cooking that transports you to the coast, these five scrumptious recipes are sure to please.
Caprese Pasta Salad
Imagine the vibrant flavors of Caprese, that quintessential Italian combination of creamy mozzarella, succulent Roma tomatoes, and fragrant basil, reimagined in a quick and effortless pasta side dish. The result is a delightful fusion of freshness and richness, perfect for transporting the essence of an Italian summer to your dinner table in just twenty minutes or less. This show-stopping yet stress-free creation is sure to impress your guests, who will revel in its bold flavors, while you’ll appreciate the ease with which it can be prepared.
Best Italian Pasta Salad
When exploring Italy’s culinary landscape, another pasta salad that deserves attention is this vibrant dish, boasting an array of ingredients that make each bite a sensory delight. This recipe combines the quintessential elements of Italian cuisine, including olives, salami, mozzarella, and tomatoes, making it a true representation of the country’s gastronomic flair. The title ‘the best’ isn’t an exaggeration; this salad truly stands out from the crowd. For events where you need to impress, such as a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit. Pair it with some lightly charred chicken for a well-rounded meal that combines complex carbohydrates with smoky protein, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or casual dinners.
BLT Pasta Salad
Indulge in the creamy goodness of a healthier BLT-inspired salad that’s just as satisfying as its sandwich counterpart. Think of it as a modern twist on the classic Caesar salad, minus the croutons. With its versatile nature and endless opportunities for customization, this comforting side dish is perfect for pairing with your favorite meals.
The key to elevating this humble salad lies in its dressings – try combining your go-to creamy sauce with some zesty red onion slices for a punch of flavor, or add some sundried tomato bits for a depth charge. You can even take it up a notch by incorporating roasted chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
The possibilities are endless, making this salad a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Caesar Pasta Salad
Rather than sticking with the traditional Caesar salad recipe, I’d like to introduce a game-changing twist that’s sure to become a new favorite. By incorporating pasta into this classic dish, we’re not only adding flavor and texture but also increasing its satisfying factor. This reimagined Caesar salad is perfect for those who crave more substance in their meal without sacrificing the signature tanginess of the original. As an added bonus, all the necessary ingredients are likely to be already stocked in your pantry, making it a convenient option for potlucks or impromptu gatherings.
Mediterranean Pasta Salad
As we wrap up our exploration of pasta dishes, a Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad takes center stage – its freshness and flavor evoking the essence of a beachside retreat. This versatile dish pairs particularly well with chicken, as it adds a welcome brightness to the meal. The end result is a satisfying, yet restrained, culinary experience that leaves you feeling refreshed and pleasantly full, rather than uncomfortably stuffed. And the best part? This salad’s simplicity belies its ease of preparation – all it takes is under twenty minutes from start to finish (with most of that time dedicated to cooking the pasta), making it an ideal solution for a quick yet impressive meal.
Side Dishes for Chicken Parmesan
Indulge in the quintessential comfort food that is chicken parmesan – a harmonious blend of crispy breaded chicken breast, savory ham, melted mozzarella, and tangy tomato sauce. The combination is nothing short of culinary nirvana.
When it comes to selecting a side dish to accompany this mouthwatering main course, the objective is to find something that will complement its bold flavors without overpowering them. In other words, you want a side that will highlight the rich and satisfying nature of this beloved classic.
In an effort to satisfy your cravings, we’ve curated a list of ten delectable side dishes that fit the bill perfectly.
Creamy Linguine Pasta Al Limone
Pasta al Limone is an exemplary accompaniment to chicken parmesan, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. This effortless side dish recipe strikes the perfect harmony between lightness and creaminess, effectively tempering the richness of its counterpart. What’s more, it boasts an impressive ease of preparation, requiring minimal ingredients yet delivering a culinary experience that’s hard to resist. Moreover, this crowd-pleasing dish is unlikely to leave any diners unsatisfied, making it an excellent addition to any meal.
Caprese Orzo Pasta Salad
A reimagined Caprese pasta salad, this luxurious take features delicate orbs of mozzarella cheese scattered throughout, harmonizing with the sweetness of fresh tomato slices. What elevates this dish from its humble beginnings is the utilization of orzo, a small, rice-like pasta grain that brings an intriguing texture to the table.
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
While many may claim to be indifferent to mashed potatoes, it’s rare to find someone who doesn’t harbor a deep affection for these comforting spuds. Roasted garlic takes this love to new heights in these exceptional mashed potatoes.
Grilled Eggplant
Eggplants are an incredibly versatile ingredient, boasting both exceptional flavor and nutritional value. Their pairing with rich chicken parmesan is particularly noteworthy, as the slightly charred eggplant slices can enhance the sweetness of the tomato sauce and juiciness of the chicken. This harmonious combination also translates well to accompanying other bold flavors, such as those found in ribs – a match made in culinary heaven.
Instant Pot Red Potatoes
Discover the secret to effortless yet flavorful side dishes: Instant Pot red potatoes that deliver a wealth of flavor and ease with minimal effort. With almost no prep required, these tender and fluffy spuds are perfect for bulk cooking or a quick weeknight meal. The bonus? You can easily re-purpose leftovers by simply reheating them the next day, resulting in crispy garlic butter potatoes with a fraction of the work.
Air Fryer Zucchini
When it comes to effortless side dishes, air fryer zucchini is a game-changer. The secret lies in the simplicity of its flavor profile – just a harmonious blend of oregano, paprika, and garlic powder that yields a deep, warm, mellow taste experience. But what truly elevates this dish is when you dip these crispy zucchini pieces into a rich tomato sauce. The smoky notes from the air fryer and the sweetness from the sauce meld together in perfect harmony. And if you want to take it to the next level, simply grate some parmesan cheese over the hot zucchini for an added dimension of salty, creamy goodness. It’s no wonder this side dish quickly becomes a favorite. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with pasta for a satisfying and filling meal.
Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
Earlier, we explored a recipe for mouthwatering garlic mashed potatoes. However, the garlic mashing magic doesn’t stop there. This delightful garlic mashed cauliflower is another culinary masterpiece that’s sure to please. When prepared correctly, this dish yields a rich and creamy texture packed with an abundance of flavor. For an added layer of depth, consider roasting your cauliflower before blending it to release even more aromatic notes.
Garlic Parmesan Fries
While I’ve had my fair share of fries, it’s the combination of crunch on the outside and fluffiness within that truly gets me excited. And when you add a generous helping of something savory to tie everything together, it’s a match made in heaven. In this particular recipe, all these elements come together seamlessly, making it an ideal pairing for chicken parmesan. What I love about this combination is the way the flavors from each dish complement and contrast with one another, resulting in a harmonious culinary experience.
Roasted Cauliflower with Parmesan
This earthy and satisfying side dish elevates the classic combination of chicken parmesan with its impressive boost of fiber and nutrients. The best part? It’s an effortless one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights. For anyone who’s struggled to win over a cauliflower skeptic, this recipe is an excellent starting point. Who can resist the allure of roasted vegetables smothered in melted cheese?
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes on the Vine
The Italian grandmother’s guide to culinary simplicity takes center stage with the penultimate dish on our list. These delectable roasted cherry tomatoes are a masterclass in letting the ingredients shine, resulting in an effortless yet impressive recipe that will elevate any meal. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make and visually stunning on your plate. When you combine these luscious morsels with olive oil, they transform into tender, sweet bites that explode with flavor when popped into your mouth.
Cheesy Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Closing out our list of creative Brussels sprouts recipes is a personal favorite that’s sure to delight: cheesy Brussels sprouts. Despite their reputation for being bland and unappetizing, these little green vegetables are surprisingly flavorful when prepared correctly.
To make this dish, you’ll only need a few simple ingredients: a pan, some oil, garlic, and cheese. Whether you’re cooking up a weeknight meal or impressing your loved one with a romantic dinner, cheesy Brussels sprouts are the perfect choice.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make – and because of that, there’s no need to worry about leftovers. You can enjoy every bite without worrying about having to store any extra in the fridge.
