Are you looking for some tasty side dishes to pair with your grilled chicken? Well, you’ve come to the right place. When it comes to elevating a classic grilled chicken dinner, the perfect accompaniments can make all the difference.
From creamy coleslaw and crispy fries to refreshing salads and savory roasted vegetables, there are countless options to choose from.In the summer, grilling chicken outdoors is a great way to avoid heating up the house. But with an indoor grill, you can enjoy grilled foods year-round. Grilled chicken is perfect for eating hot, and you can use leftovers to add flavor and texture to soups and salads.
Trisha Yearwood Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe
While considering what to pair with grilled chicken, it’s not always necessary to venture into uncharted culinary territory. Sometimes, putting a fresh spin on a timeless favorite is the perfect approach. One such classic that never goes out of style is mac and cheese, a staple that has been elevated by country music star Trisha Yearwood’s signature recipe. This comforting dish requires just a few simple ingredients: macaroni, evaporated milk, milk, cheddar cheese, butter, and a sprinkle of paprika (optional) for added depth. When selecting the perfect pasta shape, opt for standard-sized elbows to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency that complements the grilled chicken beautifully. For inspiration, look no further than Trisha Yearwood’s own recipe on thecozycook.com.
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is quickly becoming one of our go-to side dishes for roast chicken. With only six ingredients and the ability to prep up to two days in advance, this dump-and-go recipe from the renowned chef is a true time-saver. Imagine being able to focus on grilling your savory chicken while letting the casserole cook away in the crockpot or oven. The simplicity of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients: creamed corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, whole kernel sweet corn (drained), sour cream, cheddar cheese (shredded from a block for the best flavor and texture), and butter. We’re big fans of this recipe’s ease and versatility.
KFC Coleslaw Recipe
One of our go-to chicken breast accompaniments is KFC coleslaw, but why settle for restaurant prices when you can whip up your own version at home? The best part? It’s surprisingly easy and budget-friendly! This creamy, crunchy, and refreshingly cool slaw recipe is a dead ringer for the real deal, making it the perfect companion to those grilled, tender birds. To get started, you’ll need mayonnaise, milk, buttermilk, granulated sugar, salt, ground black pepper, apple cider or white vinegar, lemon juice, shredded and diced cabbage, carrot, and yellow onion. With these ingredients in tow, you’re just a few minutes away from hosting the ultimate backyard bash!
Cucumber Tomato Salad
This delectable cucumber salad recipe is a game-changer for pairing with chicken breast – its simplicity belies the depth of flavor it brings to the table. The harmonious blend of crunchy textures and bold flavors will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or a springtime gathering, this refreshing side dish is sure to impress. At its core are diced English cucumbers, quartered cherry tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey or granulated sugar, salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh dill – all of which combine to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience. For the original recipe, head to meatwave.com.
Grilled Mushrooms
As you’re firing up the grill for your grilled chicken, why not elevate it with a healthy side dish that’s just as mouthwatering? Grilled mushrooms are an excellent choice, and this herb-crusted recipe takes them to new heights! In my opinion, mushrooms are the ultimate crowd-pleaser – they complement any dish without overpowering it. This flavorful fungi recipe is sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters.
The magic happens with just a few simple ingredients: cremini mushrooms, extra-virgin olive oil, minced herbs like thyme, rosemary, chives, parsley, garlic, butter, Kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. With these humble components, you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
Popeye’s French Fries Recipe
The classic combination of grilled chicken and Cajun fries from Popeye’s is a match made in heaven. The secret to their addictive flavor lies in the perfect balance of crispy crust and fluffy insides, all thanks to a carefully crafted blend of spices. When it comes to recreating this magic at home, it’s surprisingly simple. All you need are potatoes, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and vegetable oil. It’s astonishing that such a flavorful recipe can be achieved with so few ingredients. A quick glance at the original source from cookthink.com reveals that the simplicity of this recipe is all part of its charm.
Paula Deen’s Broccoli Salad
This delectable broccoli salad recipe from Paula Deen is a true showstopper, boasting not only a stunning visual appeal but also an irresistible flavor profile. The tangy and creamy sauce adds an extra layer of delight, making it impossible for your guests to resist a second helping! Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, potluck, or picnic, this crowd-pleasing side dish is sure to be a hit with its simplicity and adaptability. To prepare this delightful treat, you’ll need just a few key ingredients: a head of broccoli, sweet raisins, crunchy red onion, a splash of white vinegar, juicy cherry tomatoes, a touch of sugar, sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and creamy mayonnaise. The harmonious contrast between the cool and creamy elements and the hot and savory grilled chicken makes this side dish an undeniable winner!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are often overlooked, but they can truly shine when prepared with the right techniques. Despite any preconceived notions, this humble vegetable can be transformed into a delectable treat that will win over even the most skeptical palates. The key to success lies in subtle nuances like the addition of honey and strategic pairings with ingredients like crispy bacon and pungent garlic. A medley of flavors awaits, all nestled within a simple yet elegant framework. Simply combine Brussels sprouts with salt, olive oil, white pepper, and honey for an experience that will leave you and your guests devouring these roasted green delights with reckless abandon.
Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a match made in heaven when it comes to pairing with grilled chicken. The sweetness of the fries perfectly complements the smoky flavor of the chicken, creating a delightful harmony that will leave your taste buds singing. Not only do they make a fantastic side dish, but they also serve as a satisfying appetizer to keep hunger at bay while you’re finishing up the grilling process. To bring this delectable combination to life, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients: sweet potatoes, potato starch, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and a drizzle of olive oil. When baking your fries, be mindful that sweet potatoes have a tendency to brown quickly under high heat, so keep an eye on them to ensure they reach the perfect level of crispiness. With these guidelines in hand, you’ll be well on your way to creating a finger-lickin’ good dish that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Microwave Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a summertime classic, but what about when space is limited or you’re looking for a quick side dish to bring along? The good news is that you can easily whip up delicious microwave corn on the cob in just minutes. To ensure it stays moist and flavorful, there’s a simple trick to keep an eye out for. Simply combine un-husked corn on the cob with salt and butter, but feel free to get creative by adding additional seasonings like mayonnaise and parmesan (or cotija), cheese, honey, and herbs. With these few ingredients, you can create a tasty treat that’s sure to please.
Moist Cornbread Recipe
When in culinary conundrums, trust the timeless wisdom of cornbread as a reliable BBQ side dish companion. Our go-to recipe yields a tender, flavorful loaf with satisfying crunch around the edges. To achieve this harmony of textures and tastes, you’ll need fine cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, unsalted butter, brown sugar, honey, egg, and buttermilk. Crucially, ensure your egg and buttermilk are at room temperature to preserve the desired consistency. And as a bonus, this cornbread can be frozen for up to three months, making it an excellent option for meal prep or a quick reheat.
Amish Macaroni Salad
While grilled chicken is often the star of the show, a delicious side dish can elevate the entire meal experience. One such underappreciated gem is macaroni salad, specifically the Amish-style recipe that’s about to become your new go-to. This creamy, sweet, and tangy pasta salad checks all the boxes for a satisfying accompaniment.The list of ingredients is impressive: cooked elbow macaroni, a colorful medley of yellow, red, and green bell peppers, hard-boiled eggs, Miracle Whip salad dressing, white vinegar, sugar, yellow mustard, and ground black pepper. But it’s the optional add-ins that really make this dish shine – think white and red onions, cheddar cheese cubes, peas, crispy bacon, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill. The possibilities are endless!
Oven-Baked Potato Wedges
When it comes to pairing grilled chicken with a delicious potato side dish, baked potato wedges are a game-changer. What sets this recipe apart is the clever soaking technique that helps remove excess starch from the potatoes, resulting in crispy, golden-brown wedges that are simply irresistible. Not only do these tasty treats pair perfectly with grilled chicken, but they also complement burgers and can be enjoyed on their own with a side of BBQ sauce or ketchup. To make this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need russet potatoes, a seasoning mix, extra-virgin olive oil, parsley (if desired), and your choice of dipping sauces like BBQ sauce or ketchup. As for my go-to seasoning, I’m a big fan of Za’atar – its unique flavor adds an extra layer of depth to the dish.
Fresh Tomato Salad
When it comes to grilled chicken, a refreshing tomato salad is the perfect accompaniment. This vibrant side dish combines an assortment of tomatoes with herbs and other ingredients to create a harmonious fusion of flavors. To prepare this delightful BBQ companion, you’ll need halved grape tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, fresh oregano and basil, as well as olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Additionally, feel free to experiment with other seasonings like parsley, dill, or balsamic vinegar to further enhance the dish’s character. As a reliable source suggests, this recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Best Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables provide a delightful contrast to grilled chicken, and their preparation is incredibly straightforward. With just a few basic ingredients, including avocado or olive oil, freshly ground black pepper, salt, and your preferred vegetables, you can create a delectable side dish that’s sure to please. The list of suitable veggies is extensive, encompassing green beans, asparagus, bell peppers, sliced yellow or red onion, mushrooms, zucchini, yellow squash, carrots, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, eggplant, cauliflower, sweet potatoes, potatoes, beets, rutabaga, and spaghetti squash. The beauty of roasted vegetables lies in their versatility, allowing you to combine multiple options to create one-of-a-kind flavor profiles.
Oven Roasted Zucchini
Roasted zucchini is a game-changer for any meal, and I’m not the only one who thinks so! When you’ve tried it, you’ll understand why this side dish earns its spot among the best. What sets this recipe apart is its ease – with just six ingredients, including zucchini, Italian seasoning, olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and sea salt, you can create a culinary masterpiece in no time. This delightful accompaniment to your BBQ or any meal can be ready in a mere 25 minutes, making it an excellent way to sneak in some nutritious veggies without sacrificing flavor.
Baked Parsnip Fries
When it comes to pairing with grilled chicken, I recommend trying something beyond the usual potato fare. Baked parsnip fries are a game-changer – and they’re surprisingly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients, including parsnips, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, grated Parmesan, and chopped parsley, you’ll be well on your way to a delicious side dish. To ensure perfectly crispy fries, it’s essential to arrange them in a single layer on your baking tray with some space between each one. This simple technique will reward you with an evenly baked snack that’s sure to please.
Sweet Potato Salad Recipe
Shaking things up in the world of potato salads, this recipe for sweet potato salad is a game-changer. By trading in traditional potatoes for sweet potatoes, you’ll experience a bold and flavorful twist that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with just a handful of essential ingredients, including sweet potatoes, onion, salt, pepper, garlic, oil, lime juice, red bell pepper, black beans, corn (optional), and fresh cilantro. The harmonious blend of savory flavors infused into your sweet potatoes is nothing short of remarkable.
Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Indulge in the delightful twist on traditional potato dishes with this delectable recipe for crispy smashed potatoes! This straightforward preparation method requires no culinary expertise, simply boiling, smashing, and baking – an effortless treat for spud enthusiasts.To create these flavorful morsels, you’ll need yellow or red potatoes, a drizzle of olive oil, freshly ground black pepper, fine salt, and unsalted butter. Feel free to elevate the dish with optional seasonings such as minced parsley, garlic, and Fleur de Sel.For an added layer of creaminess, prepare your sour cream dip by combining sour cream, pepper, salt, fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or dill, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This harmonious blend will delightfully complement the crispy potatoes.
The Best Potato Salad Recipe
When it comes to cooking, there’s something comforting about revisiting tried-and-true recipes that evoke memories of family gatherings and special occasions. Potato salad, in particular, is a beloved side dish that has been a staple at countless backyard barbecues and holiday feasts for generations. This timeless classic is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, pairing perfectly with grilled chicken, burgers, and other meats. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, requiring just a handful of ingredients including gold potatoes, eggs, scallions, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, ranch dressing, fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Whether you’re hosting a casual cookout or a more formal dinner party, this potato salad is sure to delight your guests with its creamy texture and rich flavor.
Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Cucumber salad, a refreshing and creamy delight that pairs exquisitely with grilled chicken, can be whipped up in no time with just a handful of simple ingredients. These include the usual suspects like sour cream, olive oil, lemon juice, sea salt, garlic powder, black pepper, as well as the star of the show – cucumbers, fresh dill, and red onion. What’s more, this salad is a great option for those watching their carb intake, as cucumbers are essentially low-carb, boasting a mere 2 grams per 1/2 cup serving. To truly bring out the flavors, it’s recommended to refrigerate your salad for at least 30 minutes, allowing all the ingredients to mingle and meld together in harmony.
Zucchini Salad
While we’re thrilled to feature roasted zucchini twice in our blog, this savory recipe takes a unique approach by slicing the zucchini thinly and infusing it with a rich flavor profile that’s sure to impress your guests. The combination of ingredients – including zucchini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, and salt – creates a dish that’s both simple yet sophisticated. When selecting the perfect zucchini, look for small ones measuring 6-9 inches in length, with a dark green skin and no blemishes. A slight heaviness to the vegetable is also a good indicator of its quality.
Zucchini Fritters
Zucchini fritters offer a delightful twist on traditional recipes, delivering a satisfying crunch on the outside and tender moisture within. The key to achieving this textural contrast lies in the carefully balanced blend of ingredients. To get started, you’ll need a modest medley of zucchinis, salt, eggs, green onions, parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, flour, baking powder, pepper, and olive oil. A judicious use of these components yields fritters that are not only pleasing to the palate but also visually appealing. For an added layer of sophistication, consider serving your creations with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream, garnished with chopped green onions. The parmesan cheese plays a crucial role in infusing the fritters with its signature flavor and satisfying crunch.
Orzo Salad with Spinach, Olives, Pesto, and Feta
If you’re seeking a show-stopping grilled chicken side dish, our orzo salad recipe is sure to impress. This delectable creation combines baby spinach, walnuts, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, lemon zest, kosher salt, olive oil, orzo pasta, crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a hint of shallot flavor, all tied together with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper.
Summary
Get ready to delight your loved ones with these exceptional recipes! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to share a meal with family and friends, these dishes are sure to bring everyone together.
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.