When it comes to pairing a side dish with chicken, it’s easy to fall into a rut, relying on the same old recipes time and again. But fear not! We’ve got just the thing to shake things up: 26 mouthwatering side dishes that are sure to reignite your culinary creativity and elevate your meals to new heights.
Lemon Garlic Sauteed Cabbage
Lemon and garlic are an undeniable match made in heaven, and this easy recipe harnesses their power to create a nutritious and delectable cabbage side dish. By sautéing the cabbage in olive oil, we not only tenderize it but also imbue it with a subtle sweetness, making it a healthier option too. The punch of minced garlic and the zesty zip of lemon zest bring a vibrant depth to the dish, while shredding the cabbage ensures an optimal texture.
Sauteed Mushrooms With Garlic Butter
Savoring the rich flavors of garlic butter, mushrooms become an irresistible accompaniment to a variety of proteins like steak, chicken, or burgers. The versatility of mushrooms lies in their ability to absorb and amplify the flavors from the pan, resulting in an exceptional culinary experience. To achieve the perfect texture and flavor, these mushrooms are cooked twice, ensuring they’re both meaty and caramelized. This meticulous approach yields a dish that’s sure to leave you craving more.
Ultimate Roast Potatoes
The humble roast potato is a staple that elevates any meal, whether it’s paired with chicken or forming the centerpiece of a classic Sunday roast dinner. Its crispy exterior and fluffy interior make it a delight to devour. This recipe is ideal for cooking novices, as it provides a foolproof guide to producing perfectly cooked potatoes that are sure to impress.
For those following a plant-based diet, don’t worry – simply substitute goose fat with sunflower or vegetable oil for a delicious and inclusive side dish.
Roasted Leeks With Olive Oil And Parmesan
Indulge in the subtle sweetness of caramelized leeks! This process transforms their natural flavor into a rich, velvety taste experience. To achieve this, simply roast the leeks until they’re perfectly caramelized, then enhance their flavor with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and a pinch of Parmesan cheese. The result is a delectable side dish that’s sure to impress.
BLT Potato Salad
Transforming the classic BLT into a potato salad, this recipe is perfect for a summer gathering or a special occasion. The combination of crispy bacon, fresh tomatoes, and lettuce still shines through in this dish, but it’s now elevated by the sweet and tangy flavors of caramelized red onions and a zesty mustard dressing. This unique twist adds an extra layer of depth to the dish, making it a great accompaniment to tender chicken thighs or a simple grilled breast.
Roasted Parsnips
While parsnips are often relegated to holiday meals, they deserve year-round attention. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, transforming them into a delightful treat. In fact, parsnips are sweeter than carrots and boast a rich, nutty flavor when caramelized in the oven. To unlock this flavor, simply season with salt and pepper, then coat in oil for a simple yet satisfying roasted parsnip experience.
Seriously, The Best Broccoli Of Your Life
Broccoli’s versatility in various cuisines is one of its greatest strengths, making it a perfect match for chicken. When roasted, this green vegetable undergoes a transformation, yielding an unparalleled culinary experience. The key to achieving this lies in combining olive oil, aromatic seasonings, pungent garlic, nutty Parmesan cheese, and the tangy essence of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
As the broccoli roasts, it develops a satisfying crispness that harmonizes beautifully with the citrusy zing of the lemon, creating a delightful flavor profile.
Fresh Summer Salad
Imagine a summery salad that’s not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients. This perfect combination of juicy vegetables and zesty flavors makes it an ideal accompaniment to grilled chicken, creating a satisfying and filling meal. The real showstopper here is the Dijon-based vinaigrette dressing, which adds a tangy bite to the salad.
A medley of fresh ingredients such as radishes, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and avocado keeps things light and simple, while the sophisticated dressing steals the spotlight with its masterful balance of sweet and sour notes – a match made in heaven when paired with some perfectly grilled chicken.
Garlic Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a nutrient-dense food powerhouse, boasting impressive amounts of fiber, antioxidants, and more. When seasoned with the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, these bite-sized cubes become an irresistible addition to any dinner table. A harmonious marriage of garlic, honey, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper creates a dish that’s both flavorful and healthy. What’s more, this recipe is incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with a wide range of proteins and accompaniments.
Whether you’re looking for a nutritious side or a satisfying main course, these sweet potato cubes have got you covered.
Balal – Persian Street Corn
Get ready to experience the unparalleled flavor of Persian street food! The secret to its irresistible taste lies in the grilling process that leaves the cobbs blackened, followed by a bath in saltwater. Once you’ve indulged in this salty corn, you’ll never look at boiling the same way again. Traditionally, street vendors cook this dish over hot charcoal, but we can easily replicate the results using a grill or griddle pan.
To take it to the next level, submerge the cooked corn directly into a large jug of salted water. The longer it stays in there, the saltier it becomes. This mouthwatering treat is a staple at every Iranian family gathering and makes for perfect barbecue fare.
Roasted Cauliflower Au Gratin
This oven-roasted cauliflower dish offers a healthier alternative to traditional potato au gratin, providing a nutritious and delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals. Cauliflower’s versatility makes it an ideal ingredient for various cooking methods, from roasting to boiling. To create this creamy, cheesy masterpiece, simply pre-heat your oven to the perfect temperature.
Then, toss the cauliflower with a rich and tangy sauce, allowing the natural earthy flavors to shine through. For added texture, sprinkle Panko breadcrumbs on top, creating a crunchy contrast that will leave everyone at the dinner table wanting more.
Best Simple Tossed Green Salad
Green salads offer a nutritional powerhouse, packed with iron and other vital nutrients. The combination of crisp greens and crunchy cucumber creates a light and refreshing meal perfect for a lunchtime pick-me-up that won’t leave you feeling lethargic. This versatile salad recipe serves as an excellent base, allowing you to customize it to your liking by adding or subtracting ingredients as desired.
One simple yet effective way to boost the nutritional profile is to add seeds like sunflower seeds or sesame seeds, which provide a rich source of healthy fats and vitamins. Although the inclusion of bacon bits may seem counterintuitive in a health-conscious dish, the small quantity makes it a relatively guilt-free addition. In fact, the combination of the salad with chicken creates an excellent and satisfying meal option.
Easy Creamed Spinach
To satisfy your craving for a comforting side dish after a long day, look no further than this delectable creamed spinach recipe. The combination of wilted spinach leaves coated in a rich and creamy white sauce is perfect for any occasion. But what truly sets this dish apart is the care and attention that goes into crafting the sauce itself. By whisking together a blend of flour, onion, garlic, milk, and nutmeg on the stovetop, you can achieve the ideal consistency to suit your taste.
Once the flavors have melded together, add a pinch of extra nutmeg and a dash of cayenne pepper for an added depth of flavor if desired. The result is a sophisticated yet effortless creamed spinach side dish that’s sure to impress.
Sweet And Spicy Roasted Cauliflower
Combining the harmonious trio of sweet, spicy, and savory notes, this cauliflower-based dish is a flavor bomb just waiting to be devoured. By tossing florets with a sauce infused with sriracha, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of spices, you’ll create a culinary masterpiece that’s as quick and easy to prepare as it is nutritious and adaptable. Whether paired with succulent chicken or tender steak, this low-calorie delight is sure to impress.
Spicy Cucumber Side Dish
Oi-muchim, a delectable Korean spicy cucumber side dish, combines the freshness of cucumbers and green onions in a harmonious blend. This versatile condiment pairs perfectly with any noodle or rice dish, elevating the flavors to new heights.
Timing is crucial when preparing oi-muchim, as serving it immediately after preparation ensures a crisp texture that complements its spicy and sweet undertones. The absence of these conditions can result in an unappetizing watery and mushy salad.
The true magic happens when the cucumbers and onions are coated with aromatic spices and fiery chili flakes, awakening the senses and tantalizing the taste buds. A touch of sugar is added to balance out the flavors, preventing the heat from overpowering the dish.
Sauteed Green Beans With Mushrooms
Indulge in a delightful and nutritious vegan side dish, perfectly harmonizing the textures of green beans and button mushrooms. The latter’s ability to absorb the savory garlic oil in the pan is expertly complemented by the crunch provided by the former. For an optimal flavor experience, it’s essential to enjoy this dish during its natural seasonality, spanning from May to September.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes With Balsamic Vinegar
When it comes to cherry tomatoes, roasting brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delightful pop of flavor. The tanginess of balsamic vinegar perfectly balances their inherent sweetness, creating a harmonious taste experience. Furthermore, the process of roasting them in garlic, thyme, and oil allows the tomatoes to absorb the rich flavors, leaving some delicious juices leftover for drizzling over your entire meal. This culinary combination is sure to elevate any dish.
Chef John’s Perfect Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes have long been a crowd-pleaser, bringing excitement to the dinner table. This recipe yields a silky-smooth, lump-free side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken. The art of creating this delightful dish relies on just a few essential ingredients: butter and milk, which work in harmony to imbue the potatoes with a light and creamy texture.
To achieve the perfect consistency, it’s crucial to mash the potatoes before incorporating any other components.
By doing so, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a lump-free masterpiece that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Buttery Steamed Cabbage
While steamed cabbage may not be the most thrilling dish, we’re here to convince you that it’s a game-changer when paired with butter. This effortless method of cooking cabbage doesn’t require any special equipment – just a deep skillet pan and a pot lid to create a makeshift steamer. The simplicity of this recipe lies in its ability to let the natural flavors of the cabbage shine, while a trio of seasonings – garlic, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper – adds depth and warmth.
And then, of course, there’s the unsalted butter, which brings everything together in perfect harmony. The result is a deliciously buttery vegetable side dish that complements a wide range of main courses.
Spicy Garlic Broccoli
To elevate a classic vegetable side dish, this recipe combines the flavors of chili and garlic with tender broccoli. The result is a savory and aromatic accompaniment that pairs well with chicken served over noodles or rice. With its ease of preparation and cooking, it’s an ideal option for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
To create this flavorful medley, aromatics like green onions, garlic, and ginger are initially sautéed to bring out their natural oils and pungency before being joined by the broccoli and chili. Feel free to adjust the level of heat in your dish to suit your personal taste preferences.
Italian Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your roast potatoes to new heights by incorporating the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese. The perfect combination of crispy exterior and fluffy interior, topped with melted cheese, makes for a show-stopping side dish that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. While the process is straightforward, similar to traditional roasted potatoes, the addition of Parmesan takes it to the next level.
Simply top your spuds with grated Parmesan before baking, and you’ll be rewarded with a deliciously filling and satisfying accompaniment perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. Pair them with some grilled chicken and steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Mango And Cabbage Salad With Lime And Jalapeno Dressing
Imagine a refreshing summer’s day, and in your hands lies a vibrant mango and cabbage salad that not only quenches your thirst but also satisfies your hunger. This delectable dish is elevated to a complete meal by adding roasted chicken, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and nutrients. The freshness of mint and cilantro infused throughout the salad provides a delightful contrast to the tangy lime and jalapeno dressing drizzled over the top.
You can mix the chicken into the salad for a more substantial experience or serve it as a side dish, allowing you to savor each bite at your leisure.
Tuscan Style Roasted Asparagus
Savoring the flavor of asparagus at its peak seasonality, it’s little wonder why many chefs swear by cooking this delightful veggie on the day it’s picked. In a nod to Tuscan cuisine, this recipe incorporates the bright flavors of cherry tomatoes, pungent garlic, and zesty lemon zest and juice, all balanced by the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese. Meanwhile, toasted pine nuts inject a satisfying crunch into each bite.
The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability – feel free to adjust the level of citrus to your liking, simply reserving some of that zest and juice to add a burst of freshness once the asparagus has reached tender perfection.
Roasted Carrots With Thyme
When it comes to Christmas sides, carrots can truly shine when prepared just right. Caramelizing them until they’re tender yet still crisp brings out their natural sweetness, making them a standout accompaniment. Adding fresh herbs like thyme to the roasting process adds an extra layer of flavor and aroma to the dish, elevating it to new heights.
Buttered Leeks
While it’s common for people to dismiss vegetables as bland and unappetizing, the truth is that with a little creativity, they can be truly exciting. It’s time to move beyond the uninspiring memories of steamed or boiled veggies from our childhoods. Instead, let’s focus on showcasing their natural flavors and textures. Take leeks, for example – a simple drizzle of unsalted butter can transform them into a sweet and savory treat that will leave you wanting more.
Final Thoughts
With the versatility of chicken as a main course, it’s no wonder there are countless side dish options to complement its rich flavor. We’ve curated a selection of our favorite recipes that showcase the best pairings for this crowd-pleasing protein. From classic combinations to innovative twists, these dishes are sure to elevate your meal and leave you eager to explore more.
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.