Our Best Sides to Serve with BBQ Chicken

BY Valerie Russo March 19, 2025

BBQ chicken is a summertime favorite, but it’s not complete without great side dishes.

The right sides can take your meal from good to amazing. They add variety, balance flavors, and make the meal more filling.

You have lots of tasty options for sides to serve with BBQ chicken. From classic coleslaw to baked potatoes, there are many choices that pair well.

This article will look at over 19 side dishes that go great with BBQ chicken. You’ll find ideas for salads, veggies, and comfort foods to round out your barbecue menu.

1. Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken. You can make it easily by mixing shredded cabbage with carrots and a creamy dressing.

The tangy flavor and crunchy texture of coleslaw balance out the rich, smoky taste of BBQ chicken. It adds a cool, refreshing element to your meal.

For the best coleslaw, use a mix of green and red cabbage. Add some grated carrots for color and sweetness.

Toss it all with a dressing made from mayo, vinegar, sugar, and seasonings.

2. Cornbread

Cornbread is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken. Its slightly sweet and crumbly texture balances out the savory, smoky flavors of the meat.

You can make traditional cornbread or try a spicy version with jalapenos for an extra kick. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or honey for added richness.

Cornbread soaks up BBQ sauce nicely, making it great for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate. It’s also filling and adds a comforting touch to your meal.

For convenience, you can bake cornbread ahead of time and reheat it just before serving your BBQ chicken. This allows you to focus on grilling the chicken to perfection.

3. Baked Beans

Baked beans are a classic side dish for BBQ chicken. They’re sweet, savory, and packed with flavor. You can make them from scratch or use canned beans for a quicker option.

To make baked beans, combine navy beans with bacon, onion, molasses, mustard, and ketchup. Add brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce for extra taste.

Cook the beans until they’re tender and the sauce thickens.

For a twist, try adding diced bell peppers or a splash of bourbon to your baked beans. This will give them a unique flavor that your guests will love.

4. Potato Salad

Potato salad is a classic BBQ side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken. This creamy, tangy salad adds a cool contrast to hot grilled meat.

You can make potato salad with mayo or try a vinegar-based version for a lighter option. Add chopped celery and onions for crunch.

Sprinkle in some fresh herbs like dill or parsley to brighten the flavors. For extra protein, mix in chopped hard-boiled eggs.

Make your potato salad ahead of time and chill it. This allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier on BBQ day.

5. Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken. Its creamy texture and rich flavor complement the tangy, smoky taste of the chicken.

You can make it from scratch or use a boxed mix for convenience. Add some crispy breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.

For a twist, try different cheese blends or mix in some bacon bits. You can also add veggies like peas or broccoli to make it more nutritious.

Serve your mac and cheese hot alongside your BBQ chicken for a comforting and satisfying meal.

6. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is a perfect side for BBQ chicken. Its sweet, smoky flavor complements the savory chicken beautifully.

To prepare, husk the corn and brush it with melted butter. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally.

For extra flavor, try adding herbs or spices to the butter. Garlic powder, paprika, or chili flakes can add a nice kick.

When done, the kernels should be tender and lightly charred. Serve hot with extra butter on the side. Your guests will love this classic summer side dish alongside their BBQ chicken.

7. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread makes a tasty side for BBQ chicken. Its crispy exterior and soft, buttery inside pair well with the smoky meat.

The garlic flavor complements the chicken’s seasoning. You can make garlic bread easily at home or buy it pre-made.

For a twist, try cheesy garlic bread. The melted cheese adds richness that balances the tangy BBQ sauce.

Garlic bread helps soak up extra sauce from the chicken. It’s filling and satisfying alongside your main dish.

8. Caesar Salad

Caesar salad is a tasty side dish for BBQ chicken. It adds a fresh and crisp element to your meal. The cool lettuce contrasts nicely with the warm chicken.

The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons give extra flavor and texture. You can make your own dressing or use store-bought for convenience.

For a heartier option, add grilled chicken to the salad. This turns it into a complete meal. You can also toss in some cherry tomatoes or avocado for more variety.

9. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables make a tasty side for BBQ chicken. You can choose from a variety of veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and onions.

Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast in a hot oven until they’re tender and lightly browned. The high heat brings out their natural sweetness.

These colorful roasted veggies add nutrition and flavor to your BBQ meal. Their slightly crispy edges and soft centers pair well with juicy chicken.

You can also try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.

10. Loaded Baked Potatoes

Loaded baked potatoes make a tasty side dish for BBQ chicken. Start with large russet potatoes baked until tender. Cut them open and fluff the insides with a fork.

Top the potatoes with shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and a dollop of sour cream. Add chopped green onions for extra flavor and color.

You can customize the toppings to your liking. Try diced tomatoes, jalapenos, or chives. For a healthier option, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

The creamy, cheesy potatoes complement the smoky flavors of BBQ chicken perfectly. They’re filling and satisfying, making your meal more complete.

11. Corn Pudding

Corn pudding is a tasty side dish for BBQ chicken. It’s creamy, sweet, and pairs well with smoky flavors. You can make it easily with corn, eggs, milk, and butter.

This dish adds a comforting touch to your barbecue meal. Its soft texture contrasts nicely with crispy chicken skin. Corn pudding also brings a bit of sweetness to balance spicy or tangy BBQ sauces.

You can add cheese, herbs, or peppers to your corn pudding for extra flavor. Serve it warm alongside your BBQ chicken for a delicious combo. Your guests will love this classic Southern side dish at your next cookout.

12. Fresh Fruit Salad

A fresh fruit salad is a perfect side dish for BBQ chicken. It adds a burst of color and refreshing flavors to your plate.

You can mix together a variety of fruits like strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, grapes, and melon.

The natural sweetness of the fruits complements the smoky taste of the BBQ chicken. It’s also a healthy option that provides essential nutrients and vitamins.

For added crunch, you can toss in some sliced almonds or chopped walnuts. A light honey-lime dressing can tie all the flavors together nicely.

This easy-to-make side dish is great for summer cookouts and can be prepared ahead of time.

13. Caprese Salad

Caprese salad is a fresh and light side dish that pairs well with BBQ chicken. You can make it by layering sliced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves.

Drizzle some olive oil and balsamic glaze over the top for extra flavor. This salad adds a nice contrast to the smoky, savory taste of BBQ chicken.

The juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella complement the chicken nicely. The basil brings a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note to your plate.

Caprese salad is easy to prepare and doesn’t require cooking. It’s a great option for hot summer days when you want something cool and refreshing with your BBQ.

14. Zucchini Fritters

Zucchini fritters are a tasty side dish that pairs well with BBQ chicken. You can make these crispy treats by grating zucchini and mixing it with flour, eggs, and seasonings.

Pan-fry the fritters until golden brown on both sides. They offer a nice contrast to the rich flavors of BBQ chicken with their light, veggie-packed taste.

Serve your zucchini fritters hot with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top. You can also add some chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.

These fritters are a great way to use up extra zucchini from your garden. They’re easy to make and will be a hit at your next BBQ gathering.

15. Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a tasty side dish that pairs well with BBQ chicken. You’ll love the mix of tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crunchy fried onions on top.

This classic comfort food adds a nice veggie element to your BBQ meal. The creamy texture contrasts nicely with the smoky, grilled chicken.

To make it, combine cooked green beans with cream of mushroom soup and milk. Top with French-fried onions and bake until bubbly. The result is a crowd-pleasing side that’s easy to prepare.

Try adding some crispy bacon bits or slivered almonds for extra flavor and crunch. Your guests will enjoy this traditional favorite alongside your BBQ chicken.

16. Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs make a tasty side dish for BBQ chicken. These creamy, protein-packed bites offer a cool contrast to the warm, savory chicken.

You can easily make deviled eggs ahead of time. Just boil eggs, mix the yolks with mayo and mustard, and pipe the filling back into the egg whites.

Try adding different flavors to your deviled eggs. Sprinkle paprika on top for a classic look. Or mix in bacon bits, chives, or pickles for extra taste.

Deviled eggs are great for picnics and outdoor meals. They’re easy to eat and transport. Plus, they’re a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults enjoy.

17. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Brussels sprouts with bacon make a tasty side for BBQ chicken. To prepare, cook bacon in a skillet until crisp. Remove the bacon and set aside.

Cook shallots in the bacon grease until lightly browned. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Grill the sprouts for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally. For extra flavor, wrap them in bacon before grilling.

When done, sprinkle with the crispy bacon pieces. This savory side adds a nice contrast to sweet BBQ chicken.

18. Southern Biscuits

Southern biscuits are a classic side dish for BBQ chicken. You can make them easily at home with flour, butter, and buttermilk. Mix the ingredients and shape the dough into rounds.

Bake the biscuits until they’re golden brown on top. They’ll come out warm, flaky, and perfect for soaking up BBQ sauce.

Serve your biscuits with butter or honey for extra flavor. They’re great for making mini chicken sandwiches too. Southern biscuits add a comforting touch to any BBQ meal.

19. Quinoa Salad

Quinoa salad is a tasty and healthy side for BBQ chicken. It’s cool and refreshing, making it perfect for warm summer days.

You can mix quinoa with chopped veggies like cucumber, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Add some herbs like parsley or mint for extra flavor.

A simple dressing of lemon juice and olive oil works well. You can also toss in some chickpeas or feta cheese for more substance.

This salad is easy to make ahead of time. It keeps well in the fridge, so you can prepare it before your BBQ starts.

Flavor Pairings with BBQ Chicken

BBQ chicken pairs well with many flavors. The key is finding the right balance between sweet, savory, and fresh tastes.

Balancing Sweet and Savory Flavors

BBQ chicken has a rich, smoky taste that goes great with sweet and tangy flavors.

Try pairing it with:

  • Sweet corn on the cob
  • Baked beans
  • Coleslaw with a sweet dressing
  • Grilled pineapple slices
  • Honey butter cornbread

The sweetness in these sides balances out the savory chicken. For more tang, add vinegar-based sauces or pickled veggies. A little acidity cuts through the richness.

You can also play up the savory flavors:

  • Garlic mashed potatoes
  • Roasted vegetables with herbs
  • Mac and cheese
  • Baked potato with sour cream and chives

These hearty sides complement the meaty chicken flavors.

Incorporating Fresh Ingredients

Fresh, crisp sides provide a nice contrast to BBQ chicken. They add brightness and crunch to your plate.

Some good options are:

  • Garden salad with tomatoes and cucumbers
  • Watermelon wedges
  • Grilled zucchini or asparagus
  • Corn and black bean salad
  • Sliced bell peppers and carrots with dip

Raw veggies give a cool, refreshing bite. Grilled or lightly cooked veggies keep some crunch while adding smoky notes.

Herbs also bring freshness. Try topping your chicken with:

  • Chopped cilantro
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Parsley sprigs

These add color and a burst of flavor. They make the dish feel lighter and more summery.

Enhancing Culinary Experiences

Serving BBQ chicken with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. Great pairings create a mix of flavors and textures that make eating more fun.

Tips for Serving BBQ Chicken with Sides

Choose sides that go well with smoky flavors.

Fresh salads and cool slaws balance out the rich taste of BBQ chicken.

Think about the weather.

On hot days, serve light sides like fruit salads or chilled pasta dishes.

Add some crunch.

Crispy fries or chips give a nice contrast to soft, saucy chicken.

Don’t forget drinks.

Iced tea or lemonade are great with BBQ.

Try new things.

Mix classic sides with unique options to keep meals exciting.

Creating a Harmonious Plate

Balance is key when putting together your plate. Aim for a mix of colors, textures, and tastes.

Start with your BBQ chicken as the main focus.

Add a scoop of creamy coleslaw next to it.

Include a warm side like corn on the cob or baked beans. These go great with BBQ flavors.

Add something green, like a salad or grilled veggies. This brings color and nutrition to your plate.

Finish with a slice of watermelon or a small dessert. Sweet treats round out the meal nicely.

Remember portion sizes. Fill half your plate with veggies, a quarter with chicken, and a quarter with other sides.