When searching for the ultimate side dish to accompany perfectly grilled chicken, whether you’re working with breasts, thighs, or legs, we’ve got you covered. Grilled chicken is renowned for its versatility, making it a staple in many households.
It’s just as suitable for a quick weeknight dinner as it is for a special occasion or meal prep for the week ahead. The beauty of grilled chicken lies in its ability to be paired with an array of sides, from comforting potatoes and sweet corn to fresh and crunchy salads.
With so many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect accompaniment to elevate your grilled chicken game.
Berry Caprese Salad
As Independence Day approaches, why not shake things up with a refreshing twist on the classic Caprese salad? Ditch the tomatoes and substitute in sweet-tart berries instead – it’s a game-changer. The key to taking your main course to new heights is using only the freshest produce available. This simple yet impressive recipe is perfect for family gatherings, and everyone is sure to love the unique flavor combination.
Sesame Ramen Noodle Salad
This noodle salad is a standout when it comes to showcasing juiciness, boasting an impressive array of fresh vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette that brings everything together. What I appreciate most about this recipe is its ability to seamlessly integrate carbohydrates and vegetables into one harmonious side dish. By doing so, you’re effortlessly covering multiple food groups, making it a convenient and satisfying option for any meal.
Italian Pasta Salad
When it comes to pasta salads, Italians know a thing or two about elevating the humble potluck classic. Their version, a refreshing cold salad, is the perfect accompaniment to a grilled chicken meal, offering a delightful contrast in textures and temperatures. To truly take this dish to new heights, top it with parmesan cheese for an explosion of flavor. For more inspiration on what to serve alongside your BBQ chicken, be sure to check out our curated list of side dishes.
Ukrainian Beet Salad
With its kaleidoscope of colors and bursting flavors, Ukrainian beet salad is an impressive addition to any table. This vibrant creation comes together in no time at all, relying on the simplicity of fresh ingredients and a light vinaigrette that lets each component take center stage. For those seeking a distinctive side dish, this beet salad stands out as a true showstopper.
Air Fryer Zucchini
Zucchini often flies under the radar as a side dish, but it’s time to give it the recognition it deserves. Despite its simplicity in preparation, this underrated vegetable packs a punch when it comes to flavor. I’m particularly fond of this recipe because it skips the step of breading the zucchini before frying, resulting in a delightfully low-carb and high-flavor dish that’s hard to resist.
Cucumber Tomato Salad
The timeless appeal of classic recipes is undeniable. This delectable cucumber and tomato salad stands out by showcasing the vibrant colors and natural flavors of its organic ingredients, allowing them to be the true stars of the dish. When paired with a succulent grilled chicken component, this salad becomes an irresistible combination that will leave you craving more.
Village Greek Salad
A vibrant tapestry of flavors and textures unfolds on the plate, with each bite a symphony of sensations that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye. This salad is designed to be shared with others, making it an ideal choice for gatherings of all kinds, from dinner parties to potlucks.
Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
When it comes to summer gatherings, a fruit salad paired with grilled chicken makes for an unbeatable combination. The smoky flavor of the chicken provides a savory foundation, which is expertly balanced by the sweet and refreshing qualities of the fruit salad. To elevate this dish even further, try dressing your chicken with a honey and lime marinade that harmoniously blends the flavors.
Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Wings
When it comes to grilled chicken, there’s a world of difference between your average breasts and the crowd-pleasing thrill of grilled chicken wings. These bite-sized morsels are perfect for game days, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for an easy, satisfying meal. And yet, they require their own unique accompaniments – a fact that we’re eager to explore.
Maple Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Indulge in the sublime fusion of flavors and textures as you wrap succulent asparagus spears with rich, maple-glazed goodness and crispy bacon. This harmonious union creates an unforgettable sensory experience that pairs beautifully with a smoky grilled chicken wing. For more delectable side dishes to accompany your wings, explore our curated selection.
Veggie Skewers
To add a quick and easy side dish to your game day spread, consider preparing vegetable skewers ahead of time. These can be conveniently tossed on the grill alongside the wings, allowing you to effortlessly combine flavors by dressing them in the same sauce used for the wings. For maximum versatility, feel free to mix and match a variety of vegetables, but classic combinations often feature bell peppers, red onions, and mushrooms.
Black Bean Corn Avocado Salad
Adding a flavorful twist to traditional barbecue fare, this black bean and corn avocado salad is a vibrant and nutritious option that’s sure to please. Its Mexican-inspired flavors are equally at home on a backyard grill as they are in a packed lunchbox, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping. Simply prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a quick and satisfying grab-and-go meal.
Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw
The Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw reimagines the classic recipe with a tropical flair that amplifies the juiciness of grilled chicken wings. A mayonnaise-free twist not only sets it apart from traditional slaws but also makes it a healthier option. The tangy, tart flavor of pineapple adds a delightful contrast to savory chicken, elevating any meal with its unique charm.
Roasted Sweet Potato Salad
Consider trading in roasted sweet potatoes for a cold-boiled potato salad instead. This satisfying side dish is perfect for complementing chicken wings, which can be relatively lean. With limited meat on the bone, you’ll want a filling accompaniment to make up for any lost protein.
Chimichurri Potato Salad
This potato salad takes a classic twist by combining the smoky flavors of the grill with caramelized onions, bell peppers, and roasted potatoes. The result is a dish that’s bursting with flavor and visually stunning. What’s more, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare – simply make a large batch of chimichurri in advance and you’re ready to go. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add some excitement to their outdoor gatherings or picnics.
Grilled Corn with Orange Honey Butter
Unlocking the secret to mouthwateringly grilled corn lies in a clever combination of flavors, specifically the orange honey butter used in this recipe. This sweet and savory sauce creates a tantalizing caramelized crust on the outside of the corn, elevating it from a simple summer side dish to a show-stopping accompaniment to your chicken meal.
Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Thighs
The crown jewel of chicken’s culinary kingdom lies in its dark meat, specifically concentrated within the succulent confines of chicken thighs. It’s only logical that when serving these flavorful morsels, one would want to pair them with equally impressive accompaniments, capable of standing tall alongside their bold and juicy presence.
Mexican Corn Salad
When it comes to sides, Mexican corn salad is a showstopper. This flavorful recipe skillfully blends sweet and creamy elements into an unforgettable accompaniment that can hold its own against even the most mouthwatering grilled chicken thighs. The caramelized grill marks on your charred chicken will harmonize beautifully with the natural sweetness of the corn, while the generous sprinkling of spice adds a bold depth to the dish.
Grilled Pineapple Spears with Jalapeno Honey
Pineapple takes center stage in this recipe, effortlessly pairing with chicken to create a harmonious balance of flavors. The grilling process brings out the natural sweetness of the pineapple, transforming it into a rich and caramelized delight that complements savory dishes perfectly. To take it to the next level, a drizzle of cinnamon glaze adds a warm and comforting touch.
Crispy Oven Baked Potato Wedges
Elevate your grilled chicken thigh dish with a delightful side of crispy oven-baked potato wedges that harmonize perfectly with the main event. To create a cohesive flavor profile, apply complementary seasonings to both the chicken glaze and wedge seasoning. A match made in heaven can be achieved by pairing chipotle seasoning on the wedges with lime on the chicken, allowing the two elements to meld together seamlessly.
Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes
With an air fryer at your disposal, whipping up twice-baked potatoes is a cinch, yielding crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors with minimal fuss. This satisfying side dish pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, its tender texture providing a delightful contrast to the juicy poultry.
Asian Avocado Peanut Coleslaw
The humble coleslaw is a beloved staple at potlucks around the world, offering a delightful medley of flavors and textures in every bite. From the satisfying crunch of toasted nuts to the richness of creamy avocado, each mouthful promises a new sensory experience. This innovative Asian-inspired take on the classic recipe will transport your taste buds on a thrilling culinary journey.
Summer Quinoa Salad
Summer is the ideal season to indulge in refreshing and nutritious dishes that perfectly complement grilled chicken thighs. One such dish that stands out is a harmonious blend of grains and vegetables, showcasing their most tantalizing forms. For those seeking innovative ways to enjoy quinoa, this delightful side dish is an excellent starting point.
Easy Sides for Grilled Chicken
For many home cooks, the pursuit of a perfect side dish can be daunting – especially when time is of the essence. We all crave something that’s not only scrumptious but also easy to prepare, allowing us to devote more attention to the main event. Enter these mouthwatering grilled chicken side dishes, each one carefully crafted to deliver on both fronts: simplicity and flavor.
Caprese Pasta Salad
This delectable Caprese pasta salad boasts an astonishing simplicity, requiring only four ingredients to bring it all together. The effortless preparation belies a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. Every bite is a masterclass in harmony, with the sweetness of tomatoes, the savory essence of basil, and the richness of mozzarella mingling in perfect unison.
Fried Potatoes and Onions
In addition to its iconic duo, this classic chicken side dish takes a bold step forward by combining the savory trio of chicken, potato, and onion. This one-pan wonder requires only a single burner, making it an incredibly swift and effortless preparation.
Roasted Rutabaga
When it comes to roasted rutabaga, this underrated root vegetable shines with its ability to absorb flavors while providing a satisfying starchiness. A notable advantage of rutabaga over potatoes is its lower carb content, making it an excellent option for those monitoring their carbohydrate intake. The versatility of rutabaga lies in its adaptability to various spice combinations, allowing you to tailor the flavor profile to harmonize with your chicken dish and create a cohesive culinary experience.
Edamame Salad
The trifecta of cooking has been achieved with this effortless dish, which not only impresses with its simplicity but also excels in terms of healthiness and affordability. One of the greatest perks of a salad is the opportunity to showcase organic ingredients at their finest. This refreshing side dish is perfect for lunch, providing a light yet satisfying accompaniment that leaves plenty of room for the star of the show – the chicken thighs – to take center stage.
Lemon Basil Potatoes
Transforming the humble potato into a refreshing delight, these lemon basil potatoes skillfully lighten the starchiness of this comfort food classic. The best part? They can be prepared in a single pan in mere thirty minutes, making them an ideal choice for feeding a crowd. With their ability to scale up effortlessly without compromising on flavor, it’s no wonder that these potatoes are perfect for large gatherings or even just a quick weeknight meal.
Turmeric Rice
When preparing your chicken thighs, consider serving them atop a flavorful foundation of turmeric-infused rice. This harmonious combination yields a satisfying, easy-to-prepare meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to be scaled up for meal prep purposes, allowing you to create substantial quantities at once. Moreover, the cooked rice retains its texture and flavor remarkably well, making it an ideal choice for advance preparation. For further inspiration on side dishes that pair perfectly with chicken, explore our collection of recipes.
Watermelon Feta Mint Salad
As you search for the ultimate summer side dish, this refreshing watermelon, feta, and mint salad is a must-try. The combination of juicy watermelon and cooling mint provides a delightful contrast to the savory grilled chicken, while crumbled feta adds a rich and satisfying element that ties the entire dish together. This harmonious balance of flavors and textures makes for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Grilled Zucchini
Zucchini’s humble reputation belies its impressive culinary potential. This straightforward recipe elevates it to new heights, coaxing out its natural sweetness and tender texture through a harmonious balance of grill and seasoning. The result is nothing short of exceptional, worthy of the finest restaurants. Paired with a perfectly grilled chicken thigh, the zucchini’s subtle yet satisfying flavor profile provides a delightful counterpoint, its refreshing lightness leaving you wanting more.
Boursin Mashed Potatoes
Indulge in a culinary delight by transforming traditional mashed potatoes into Boursin-infused masterpieces. The rich, creamy cheese adds an unparalleled level of sophistication, elevating the humble spud to new heights. Best of all, these luxurious mashed potatoes require no more effort than their plain counterparts, yet deliver twice the flavor. For the ultimate indulgence, finish with a sprinkle of crispy fried shallots and a pat of butter for a truly decadent treat.
Vegetarian Fried Rice
As we wrap up this culinary journey, we’re left with a tried-and-true recipe that pairs perfectly with any chicken dish, whether you’re indulging in crispy fried chicken or sweet and sticky chicken. This versatile vegetarian fried rice is the ultimate sidekick, capable of standing on its own as a satisfying lunch option or helping you prep meals for the week ahead.
