Serving up a plate of chicken wings can be a daunting task, but don’t worry – I’ve got you covered! Not only do they pair well with a variety of sides, but the right combination can turn them into a satisfying and nutritious dinner. And as luck would have it, I’ve curated an impressive list of 46 mouth-watering side dishes that cater to every taste bud imaginable, from classic Buffalo-style wings to smoked, grilled, and exotic flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or savory, I’m here to guide you through the world of chicken wing pairings.
Salad Sides
A well-crafted salad can elevate any meal, especially when paired with a satisfying protein dish. Fortunately, the following salad options stand out from the rest, offering an unbeatable combination of flavor and nutrition that will leave you wanting more.
Classic Potato Salad
Potato salad – a staple at any gathering! Whether you’re hosting a casual potluck or a large barbecue party, this classic recipe is sure to please the crowd. With its creamy texture and subtle tanginess, it’s a flavor combination that never goes out of style. Plus, the crunchy bite adds a satisfying depth to each bite. Not only is it a hit at social gatherings, but it also makes for a fantastic side dish when paired with bold flavors like brisket.
Asian Cucumber Salad
A trifecta of flavors comes together in this salad, as cucumbers, onions, and sesame seeds unite to create a mouthwatering experience. The dressing’s Asian-inspired essence is expertly balanced by the savory nuances of soy sauce and rice vinegar, resulting in a harmonious blend that pairs surprisingly well with spicy chicken wings. This effortless side dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire, especially when served alongside your favorite finger foods.
Peach Salad
Indulge in the sweet taste of ripe peaches by incorporating them into your salads. This refreshing recipe will transport you to a sunny summer evening, perfect for barbecues or as a delightful accompaniment to grilled steak. The combination of juicy peach chunks and crunchy corn is sure to delight even the pickiest of eaters.
Vegan Broccoli Salad
Imagine a medley of wholesome ingredients combining in perfect harmony – crunchy broccoli florets, sweet dried berries, nutty pumpkin seeds, and satisfying walnuts. This delightful blend is anything but ordinary, thanks to the refreshing zing of minty and orange-infused dressing. The result is a mouthwatering game-day side dish that can be easily paired with rich brisket dishes.
Mango Bean Salad
When searching for a Mexican-inspired side dish to pair with smoked chicken wings, you can’t go wrong with a refreshing mango bean salad. This vibrant and flavorful recipe checks all the boxes – it’s a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and crunchy elements that will delight even the most discerning palates. With chunks of succulent mango adding natural sweetness, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike. And if you’re feeling adventurous, feel free to serve it alongside Polish sausage recipes for a unique flavor combination.
Creamy Cucumber Salad
When it comes to creamy cucumbers, the combination of their natural coolness and tangy yogurt-based accompaniment is truly unbeatable. The harmonious blend of flavors and textures creates an unparalleled snacking experience that’s perfect for pairing with your protein-rich meal on a sweltering summer evening.
Pasta Side Dishes for Chicken Wings
Savoring the flavors of Italy, it’s no surprise that many people can’t imagine a meal without a tangy accompaniment to their succulent chicken wings. If this sounds like you, you’re in luck because we’ve compiled an impressive list of delectable side dishes that will elevate your wing-eating experience to new heights.
Classic Macaroni Salad
Classic macaroni salad typically consists of elbow macaroni, eggs, cheese, and various vegetables, held together by a rich and creamy mayonnaise-based dressing. This harmonious blend of flavors and textures is elevated when paired with succulent chicken wings, making it an undeniable combination that will undoubtedly take your wing game to the next level.
Skillet Mac & Cheese
Indulging in the ultimate comfort food, this skillet mac and cheese is a culinary delight that transcends traditional meal times. It’s a dish that begs to be devoured at any hour of the day – whether as a side, snack, or even as a breakfast treat topped with crispy bacon. The perfect harmony of al dente macaroni smothered in a rich, buttery, and creamy cheese sauce makes it an irresistible indulgence.
Pasta Chips
While it’s undeniable that chips are a staple at most barbecue gatherings, the standard fare often falls short in terms of nutritional value and flavor variety. Enter pasta chips, a game-changing alternative that can elevate your outdoor culinary experiences.
Arugula Pesto Couscous
If you’re looking to mix things up in your kitchen, consider trying a pesto sauce made with arugula – it’s a game-changer! The peppery flavor of this leafy green adds a depth and complexity to traditional pesto that will leave you wanting more. And when paired with couscous and juicy tomatoes, the result is a satisfying and revitalizing dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Southwest Pasta Salad
The Southwest region is perfectly encapsulated in this pasta salad – think juicy tomatoes, sweet bell peppers, and crunchy onions. It’s the perfect accompaniment to those spicy, super-seasoned chicken wings that you know and love. But what really sets this dish apart is the creamy, zesty sauce that adds a fresh twist to traditional griddle recipes.
Rice Side Dishes for Chicken Wings
When it comes to pairing rice with chicken, the familiar duo of rice and chicken is a staple combination, but this doesn’t mean that the options for rice-based sides are limited. In fact, there’s an abundance of creative possibilities that can elevate your meal experience. Whether you’re looking to complement the savory flavors of your chicken wings or add a new dimension to your dish, these unconventional rice side dishes offer a world of possibilities.
Egg Fried Rice
Savor the harmonious fusion of flavors as you serve this delectable Asian-inspired fried rice with eggs alongside your mouthwatering sticky chicken wings. The addition of carrots, peas, and spring onions not only elevates the dish’s nutritional profile but also contributes to its vibrant color and texture. For those who prefer a milder taste, simply omit the red chili, allowing you to tailor this recipe to suit your palate.
Coconut Rice
Experience the unparalleled delight of cooking rice with coconut milk – a culinary revelation that will revolutionize your approach to this staple food. This delectable combination has been a game-changer for me since I first discovered it, and I’m excited to share the simplicity and effectiveness of this recipe with you. To achieve this fluffy and flavorful dish, all you’ll need are high-quality basmati rice, coconut milk, a drizzle of olive oil, and your favorite spices – a trifecta that will transport your taste buds on a journey of discovery and delight.
Cauliflower Rice Stir Fry
It’s unlikely you dislike cauliflower rice because you haven’t found the perfect iteration yet. However, this toasted coconut recipe will likely win you over. This low-carb rice boasts a delightful combination of textures and flavors, featuring crispy peanuts, sweet green peas, spicy chilies, and aromatic ginger notes all tied together with the rich essence of coconut. It’s a game-changer when paired with Asian-inspired chicken wings, but feel free to also enjoy it alongside Hawaiian recipes for a truly international culinary experience.
Healthy Vegetable Sides
Swept away by the indulgent experience of savoring succulent chicken wings smothered in sweet and rich barbecue sauce, guilt can be a natural response. However, it’s easy to strike a balance between pleasure and nutrition by pairing your wings with one of these nutritious sides that will leave you feeling satisfied rather than regretful.
Keto Creamed Spinach
Indulge in the rich flavors of this delectable low-carb side dish, where creamy, buttery, and cheesy notes meld together with an array of scrumptious flavors. The irresistible taste is sure to leave you craving more, with your fingers literally licking from satisfaction.
The aromatic properties of garlic and shallots are essential in elevating the overall flavor profile, as their robust presence cannot be replicated by other ingredients.
Sweet Celery Seed Apple Slaw
Experience the harmonious union of cabbage, carrots, and onions with a creamy sweet and vinegary mayo dressing that’s elevated by the addition of shredded Gala apple for an extra burst of sweetness and satisfying crunch. The incorporation of celery seeds adds an earthy and savory depth to the slaw, striking a balance between the diverse flavors.
Swiss Chard with Ginger
Combining sautéed Swiss chard with ginger creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. However, it’s essential to incorporate garlic as well, as its pungent flavor adds depth and character to the greens. This recipe not only makes for an excellent side dish but also allows you to enjoy the flavorful mixture straight from the refrigerator.
Asian Summer Slaw
While cabbage and carrots may be the main attractions in this slaw, it’s the peanuts that truly elevate the dish. The addition of a rich and nutty peanut butter dressing provides a velvety smoothness, while toasted peanuts add a satisfying crunch and a touch of saltiness. The combination is nothing short of addictive, making it hard to stop at just one serving.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Tomatoes, in all their juicy glory, have a way of elevating even the most mundane dishes into something truly special. And when it comes to bringing out their natural flavor, few ingredients can compete with the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar. In this recipe, halved cherry tomatoes are given a flavorful boost by being seasoned with a trio of aromatics – balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs – before being roasted to a sweet, caramelized perfection.
Asian Green Bean Salad
Imagine a harmonious union between sweet and savory flavors, as green beans with sesame seeds meet a rich balsamic dressing. This match made in heaven is the ideal accompaniment to spicy chicken wings that need taming. The process begins by boiling the beans for a few minutes before coating them with a sticky and tangy soy mixture, infusing Asian-inspired flavors into this make-ahead side dish.
Air Fryer Jicama Fries
If you’re new to Jicama, prepare to discover a root vegetable that rivals the potato in terms of flavor and versatility, but with a significant nutritional edge – and fewer carbohydrates to boot. And if you opt to cook these fries using an Air Fryer, you’ll have a guilt-free, kid-friendly side dish that’s hard to resist.
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
The quintessential attributes of an irresistible side dish include an abundance of nutrients, protein, crunchiness, natural sweetness, and depth of flavor. What’s not to love? If you’re concerned that your standard asparagus offering might fall flat in terms of visual appeal, consider elevating it by wrapping the spears in bacon slices for a refined presentation.
Air Fryer Squash
When it comes to serving alongside your delectable chicken wings at a summer BBQ party, few options can rival the delightful combination of crispy summer squash. Not only do these flavorful and nutritious squash slices boast a generous seasoning, but their Air Fryer preparation ensures they’re remarkably healthy as well.
Keto Rutabaga Fries
Rutabaga fries are surprisingly straightforward to prepare, requiring little more than a light drizzle of healthy oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The simplicity of this recipe is part of its appeal. With just 6 grams of net carbs per serving, these crispy sticks offer a delightful low-carb alternative to traditional potato fries for those following the Keto diet. The minimal ingredient list and ease of preparation make them an attractive option for anyone seeking a healthier snack or side dish.
Sauce and Dips
While it’s true that some people may be okay with enjoying chicken wings on their own, for many, pairing them with a delicious dip or sauce is an essential part of the experience. In fact, skipping out on this crucial step would be akin to neglecting the fries that accompany a juicy burger – it just doesn’t feel right! Here are some mouthwatering options that perfectly complement those crispy, savory wings.
Homemade Applesauce
While many people associate applesauce with childhood memories and simple snacks, its versatility extends far beyond the nursery. In fact, when paired with the bold flavors of spicy chicken wings, it can elevate a meal from ordinary to extraordinary. This no-added-sugar recipe leverages the natural sweetness of the apples to create a harmonious balance that will leave you wanting more.
Homemade Ranch Dressing
In just 5 minutes, you can whip up a versatile homemade ranch dressing that’s sure to become a staple at your gatherings and cookouts. Its quick prep time makes it perfect for when you’re busy catering to a crowd, whether you’re serving veggie sticks as a snack or pairing it with savory chicken wings. Not only will this creamy condiment complement the crunch of crudités, but its rich flavor will also elevate the taste of your favorite finger foods.
Keto Ranch Dressing
Indulge in the creamy, guilt-free delight of keto ranch dressing, perfectly suited for cooling down spicy chicken wings. This versatile condiment boasts a trio of fresh herbs – dill, parsley, and chives – which not only tantalize your taste buds but also complement most salads with ease.
Green Mango Chutney
This scrumptious mango chutney boasts a delightful balance of tanginess and sweetness, despite its simplicity in terms of ingredients. With its humble component list, it delivers a wealth of flavor that’s sure to tantalize the taste buds. Furthermore, the green mangos used in this recipe are not only a treat for the palate but also an excellent source of antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients that may even contribute to weight loss efforts.
Chipotle Sauce
The combination of Chipotle and chicken wings is a match made in heaven. The rich, creamy sauce and the bold, spicy flavors are a perfect complement to each other. In fact, it’s hard to imagine enjoying one without the other – you’ll be licking your fingers (and possibly even the plate!) because it’s just that good.
Buttermilk Blue Cheese Dressing
For an impressive finale to your next gathering, whip up a restaurant-quality sauce that showcases your culinary prowess. This indulgent blend of blue cheese, buttermilk, mayonnaise, and a hint of garlic creates a harmonious union with spicy chicken, allowing for effortless drizzling over salads or serving as a decadent accompaniment to your main course.
Sumac BBQ Sauce
If you’re tired of relying on store-bought BBQ sauce or find the thought of making your own overwhelming, fear not! This quick and easy alternative is just what you need to mix things up. The addition of sumac in this recipe provides a tangy and sour flavor profile, effectively replacing the need for vinegar altogether.
Popular Side Dishes
Elevate the flavor profile of your meal by serving one of these crowd-pleasing side dishes alongside your succulent main course. These tried-and-true favorites are sure to leave your guests in awe, begging for seconds.
Air Fryer Potatoes
For those who own an Air Fryer and are seeking a delicious potato side dish to accompany their mouthwatering chicken wings, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. By following the simple steps outlined below, you’ll be able to create crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and buttery-soft potatoes with minimal oil usage. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative or simply want to mix things up from your usual baked potato routine, this air-fried potato recipe is sure to satisfy.
Baked Crispy Smashed Potatoes
When it comes to cooking potatoes, even renowned chefs agree that the key to achieving the perfect texture is to smash them mid-bake. This technique allows for an unparalleled crispy exterior, particularly around the edges, while maintaining a fluffy and soft interior. The added bonus of grated cheese on top, infused with a savory garlic flavor, elevates these humble spuds into a truly exceptional side dish.
Crispy Potato Wedges
When it comes to accompanying chicken wings, crispy potatoes are a match made in heaven. The simplicity of roasted potato wedges topped with parmesan cheese creates a side dish that’s both flavorful and reassuringly safe. The real magic happens when you generously season these sliced spuds with garlic and cayenne pepper, transforming them into an unapologetically delightful accompaniment to your chicken wings.
Air Fryer Onion Rings
The iconic pairing of onion rings and chicken wings is the perfect antidote to a bad mood. While it’s easy to grab this combo at your favorite fast-food joint, there’s no need to leave your home for crispy, indulgent goodness. With these air-fried onion rings, you can enjoy that beloved flavor without the guilt-inducing excess oil.
Fried Pickles
With their crunchy exterior and tangy interior, these pickle slices make for a delightful accompaniment to rich and savory glazed chicken wings. The combination of sweet and sour flavors is a match made in heaven, making them the perfect indulgent treat to serve alongside your favorite finger foods.
Loaded Potato Skins with Candied Bacon
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience by elevating traditional potato skins to new heights! This recipe takes it up a notch by using sweet potato skins, imbuing each bite with an unparalleled depth of flavor. To add an extra layer of indulgence, crispy bacon and sharp cheddar bring a satisfying crunch and richness. The crowning glory is the drizzle of sweet and basil yogurt sauce, which harmonizes all the flavors in perfect balance, making these sweet potato skins irresistibly addictive.
Home Fries
Unlike your average potato fry, these homegrown spuds boast a unique combination of healthiness, flavor, and zero guilt. The method for preparing them is equally distinct, allowing for customization based on preferred texture. You can either partially boil the diced potatoes before frying them or skip this step altogether, depending on how crispy or fluffy you like your fries.
