Chicken wings are a favorite for many people. They’re tasty, easy to eat, and perfect for parties or game nights.
But what should you serve with them?
The right side dishes can take your chicken wing meal to the next level. From classic options like fries and coleslaw to more unique choices, there are many sides that pair well with wings.
This article will explore some of the best side dishes to serve with your chicken wings.
1. Celery sticks
Celery sticks are a classic side for chicken wings. They offer a cool, crisp contrast to the hot and savory wings.
You can easily prepare celery sticks by washing and cutting celery stalks into 3-4 inch pieces.
Serve them raw alongside your wings.
Celery provides a refreshing crunch and helps cleanse your palate between bites of spicy wings. It’s also low in calories and high in fiber.
For extra flavor, try dipping your celery sticks in blue cheese or ranch dressing. These creamy dips complement both the wings and celery.
2. Carrot sticks
Carrot sticks are a classic side for chicken wings. They offer a cool, crisp contrast to the hot and savory wings.
You can easily cut fresh carrots into sticks or buy pre-cut ones at the store.
Carrots provide a healthy crunch and vitamins. They’re great for dipping in ranch or blue cheese dressing. The sweetness of carrots also balances spicy wing flavors.
Serve carrot sticks chilled for the best taste and texture. You can arrange them on a plate or in small cups for easy grabbing. Kids and adults alike enjoy this simple, nutritious side with wings.
3. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a perfect side for chicken wings. Its cool crunch balances the hot, crispy wings.
You can make a classic creamy version or try a tangy vinegar-based slaw.
Mix shredded cabbage with carrots and onions for texture. Add a dressing of mayo, vinegar, sugar, and seasonings. Let it chill before serving for the best flavor.
For a twist, try adding apple slices or nuts. You can also use purple cabbage for color. Coleslaw keeps well, so make extra to enjoy with leftovers.
4. Potato wedges
Potato wedges are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken wings.
You can easily make them at home by cutting potatoes into thick wedges and seasoning them with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
Bake the wedges until they’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
For extra flavor, try adding garlic powder, paprika, or herbs like rosemary.
Potato wedges offer a satisfying contrast to the tender chicken wings. They’re great for dipping in the same sauces you use for your wings, like ranch or blue cheese dressing.
5. Sweet potato fries
Sweet potato fries make a tasty side dish for chicken wings. They offer a nice balance of sweet and savory flavors.
You can easily bake or fry them at home.
Cut sweet potatoes into thin strips. Toss them with a little oil and your favorite seasonings. Salt and pepper work well, or try cinnamon for a sweeter twist.
Bake the fries until they’re crispy on the outside and soft inside. Serve them hot alongside your wings.
They’re great for dipping in the same sauces you use for your wings.
Sweet potato fries provide a healthier alternative to regular fries. They contain more vitamins and fiber than white potatoes.
6. Garlic bread
Garlic bread makes a tasty side for chicken wings. Its crispy exterior and soft interior complement the wings nicely. The garlic flavor pairs well with many wing sauces.
You can make garlic bread at home easily. Just spread butter and minced garlic on sliced bread. Then toast it in the oven until golden brown.
For extra flavor, sprinkle some herbs like parsley or oregano on top. Cheese lovers can add a layer of mozzarella before baking.
Serve the warm garlic bread alongside your wings for a satisfying meal.
7. Corn on the cob
Corn on the cob is a tasty side dish that pairs well with chicken wings. It’s easy to prepare and fun to eat with your hands, just like wings.
You can boil, grill, or roast corn on the cob. Brush it with butter and sprinkle with salt for a classic flavor. Or try adding spices like chili powder or garlic for extra kick.
Corn complements both mild and spicy wing flavors. Its natural sweetness balances out hot sauces. Plus, the juicy kernels offer a refreshing contrast to crispy wing skin.
Serve corn on individual plates or on a big platter for sharing. It’s a crowd-pleaser at barbecues and game day parties.
8. Onion rings
Onion rings make a great side for chicken wings. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. You can fry them or bake them for a lighter option.
To make onion rings, slice onions into rings and dip them in batter. Then coat them in breadcrumbs. Fry until golden brown or bake in the oven until crispy.
Serve onion rings hot alongside your wings. The crunchy texture pairs well with juicy chicken. Dip them in the same sauces you use for your wings.
Kids and adults alike enjoy onion rings. They’re a crowd-pleasing side that’s sure to disappear quickly at any gathering.
9. Mac and cheese
Mac and cheese is a perfect side for chicken wings. Its creamy texture balances the crispy wings nicely. The cheesy flavor complements both spicy and mild wing sauces.
You can make mac and cheese from scratch or use a boxed mix. Add some extras like bacon bits or diced jalapeños to jazz it up. For a smoky twist, try cooking it on the grill or smoker alongside your wings.
Serve mac and cheese hot in a big bowl next to your wings. It’s great for dipping too. Kids and adults alike will love this classic combo of comfort foods.
10. Caesar salad
Caesar salad is a tasty side dish for chicken wings. Its crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the wings.
The creamy garlic flavor of Caesar dressing complements the savory taste of the chicken. The crunchy croutons add a nice texture to balance the soft wings.
You can easily make Caesar salad at home or buy a pre-made kit. For a twist, try adding grilled chicken to make it a heartier side dish.
11. Mozzarella sticks
Mozzarella sticks are a tasty sidekick for chicken wings. These crispy, gooey treats offer a nice change from the savory wing flavors.
You can make them at home or buy them frozen. Either way, they’re easy to prepare. Just pop them in the oven or air fryer until golden brown.
Serve mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy sauce pairs well with the melty cheese. Wings and mozzarella sticks together make a fun, finger-food feast.
This combo is great for game nights or casual get-togethers. Your guests will love the variety of textures and flavors on their plate.
12. Baked beans
Baked beans are a tasty side dish for chicken wings. They add a sweet and savory flavor to your meal. You can make them from scratch or use canned beans for convenience.
For homemade baked beans, start with navy beans. Add molasses, brown sugar, and bacon for richness. Simmer the beans until they’re soft and the sauce is thick.
Baked beans complement both spicy and mild wing flavors. Their sweetness balances out hot wings nicely. They also pair well with barbecue or honey-glazed wings.
Serve your baked beans warm in a bowl next to your wings. Add some bread to soak up the extra sauce. This hearty side will make your wing meal more filling and satisfying.
Nutritional Value of Side Dishes
Side dishes can add important nutrients to your meal while complementing the flavors of chicken wings. The right choices can boost your vitamin and mineral intake.
Balancing Flavors and Nutrients
When picking sides for chicken wings, think about balance.
Rich, fatty wings pair well with lighter veggie options. A fresh veggie platter gives you fiber and vitamins. It’s low in calories too. Carrots and celery sticks are classic choices.
For more filling sides, sweet potato fries are tasty and nutritious. They have vitamin A and fiber. Bake them instead of frying to keep them healthier.
Coleslaw can be a good mix of veggies and flavor. Use a light dressing to keep calories in check. Add extra veggies like bell peppers or carrots for more nutrients.
Popular Healthy Options
Many healthy sides work well with wings. Here are some good picks:
- Cauliflower rice: Low in carbs, high in vitamins
- Zucchini noodles: Light and full of nutrients
- Green beans: Rich in vitamins A and C
- Smoked veggies: Adds flavor without extra fat
A baked sweet potato is another great choice. It’s full of vitamins and fiber. Top it with a bit of butter for taste.
For a protein boost, try a bean salad. It adds fiber and keeps you full.
Pairing Sides with Chicken Wings
Choosing the right sides can take your chicken wing meal to the next level. The key is balancing flavors and textures while considering portion sizes.
Complementary Textures
Pair crispy wings with creamy sides for a tasty contrast. Try mac and cheese or a cool coleslaw. These smooth textures balance the crunch of the wings.
For a double crunch, serve wings with crispy fries or onion rings. The different shapes and sizes add fun variety to each bite.
Soft, pillowy baked potatoes work well too. Top them with butter and sour cream for richness that complements spicy wings.
Selecting Appropriate Serving Sizes
When planning sides, think about how many wings you’ll serve.
For a main meal, aim for 1-2 larger sides per person.
Here’s a quick guide:
- 6-8 wings: 1 cup of fries or 1/2 cup of coleslaw
- 10-12 wings: 1 medium baked potato or 3/4 cup of mac and cheese
For parties, offer smaller portions of multiple sides.
This lets guests try different flavors without getting too full.
Remember to adjust portions based on your guests’ appetites and the occasion.
Game day spreads may need more food than a casual dinner.