Chicken is a popular and versatile main dish that can be prepared in many ways. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, frying, or baking chicken, finding the right side dishes can take your meal to the next level.

The right sides can add flavor, texture, and nutrition to complement your chicken.

You have many options for tasty side dishes to pair with chicken. From classic mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables to fresh salads, there are sides to suit every taste and cooking style.

Choosing complementary sides allows you to create a balanced, satisfying meal centered around chicken as the star.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are a perfect side dish for chicken. They add creamy texture and rich flavor to your meal.

To make them, boil peeled potatoes until tender. Drain and mash them with butter, milk, and roasted garlic cloves.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra smoothness, use a potato ricer or food mill. You can also add grated Parmesan cheese for more flavor.

Serve your garlic mashed potatoes hot alongside your favorite chicken dish. They pair well with roasted, grilled, or fried chicken.

2. Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey glazed carrots add a sweet and colorful touch to your chicken dinner. You can easily make this side dish at home.

Start by peeling and slicing carrots into even pieces.

Cook the carrots in a pan with some butter until they start to soften. Then add honey, a splash of vinegar, and some thyme for extra flavor. Let everything simmer together.

Keep stirring the carrots as they cook. They’re done when they’re tender and coated in a shiny glaze. The honey brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots.

This side dish goes great with many chicken recipes. It adds a pop of orange to your plate and a nice contrast to savory meat.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts make a tasty and healthy side dish for chicken. You can easily prepare them by tossing the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting in the oven.

The high heat caramelizes the outer leaves, creating a crispy exterior and tender interior. This cooking method brings out the sprouts’ natural sweetness and nutty flavor.

For extra flavor, try adding garlic, lemon zest, or balsamic vinegar before roasting. You can also sprinkle Parmesan cheese or crispy bacon bits on top after cooking.

Roasted Brussels sprouts pair well with many chicken dishes, from simple grilled breasts to whole roasted birds. They add color, texture, and nutrients to your plate.

4. Creamy Coleslaw

Creamy coleslaw is a perfect side dish for chicken. Its cool, crisp texture balances the warmth of cooked chicken nicely. The creamy dressing adds richness that complements both grilled and fried chicken.

You can make coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a mayo-based dressing. Add a touch of vinegar for tang. Some recipes include chopped onions or apples for extra flavor and crunch.

Coleslaw goes well with many chicken dishes. Try it with barbecue chicken, fried chicken, or grilled chicken breasts. The refreshing slaw provides a nice contrast to heavier chicken meals.

5. Lemon Herb Quinoa

Lemon herb quinoa is a tasty and healthy side dish that goes great with chicken. To make it, you’ll need quinoa, water, lemon juice, lemon zest, and herbs like parsley and basil.

Cook the quinoa in a saucepan with water, lemon juice, and zest. Add minced garlic and your favorite herbs for extra flavor. Simmer for about 20 minutes until the quinoa is tender and fluffy.

This bright and zesty quinoa dish adds a fresh taste to your chicken meal. It’s quick to make and packed with protein and nutrients. You can easily customize it by using different herbs or adding vegetables.

6. Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is a tasty and easy side dish for chicken. You can cook it quickly on the grill while your chicken is resting.

To prepare, toss the asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill them for 5-7 minutes, turning once.

The heat gives the asparagus a nice char and smoky flavor. It also keeps them crisp-tender.

For extra flavor, try adding lemon zest or grated Parmesan cheese after grilling. You can also wrap the spears in prosciutto before cooking for a fancier dish.

Grilled asparagus pairs well with many chicken recipes, from simple grilled breasts to richer sauces.

7. Balsamic Glazed Vegetables

Balsamic glazed vegetables make a tasty side dish for chicken. You can use a mix of veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers.

Toss the vegetables with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and some herbs. Roast them in the oven until they’re tender and caramelized.

The sweet and tangy glaze complements the chicken nicely. It adds a rich flavor that pairs well with both grilled and baked chicken dishes.

This side is easy to make and looks great on the plate. It’s a good way to add color and nutrition to your meal.

8. Truffle Mac and Cheese

Truffle mac and cheese adds a luxurious twist to the classic comfort food. This rich side dish pairs perfectly with chicken, elevating your meal to new heights.

The earthy aroma of truffles blends beautifully with creamy cheese sauce. You can use truffle oil or fresh truffle shavings to infuse the dish with flavor.

For extra indulgence, try adding crispy pancetta or breadcrumbs on top. The crunchy texture contrasts nicely with the smooth pasta.

Serve this decadent side in small portions alongside your chicken main course. It’s sure to impress guests at dinner parties or make weeknight meals feel special.

9. Parmesan Risotto

Parmesan risotto is a creamy and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken. You’ll love the rich taste of Parmesan cheese mixed into the tender rice.

To make it, start by sautéing onions in butter. Then add Arborio rice and cook until lightly toasted. Slowly stir in warm chicken broth, letting the rice absorb the liquid before adding more.

Finish by stirring in grated Parmesan cheese and a pat of butter. The result is a luxurious, velvety risotto that complements your chicken beautifully. Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor will elevate your meal.

10. Sautéed Green Beans

Sautéed green beans make a tasty side for chicken dishes. You can prepare them quickly on the stovetop.

Start by trimming the ends off fresh green beans. Heat some oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often.

For extra flavor, toss in minced garlic or sliced almonds. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the beans are bright green and crisp-tender.

This simple side adds color and crunch to your plate. It pairs well with grilled, roasted, or fried chicken.

11. Cranberry Wild Rice

Cranberry wild rice is a tasty side dish that goes well with chicken. It mixes wild rice with sweet cranberries for a blend of flavors and textures.

The nutty taste of wild rice pairs nicely with tart cranberries. This combo complements both the taste and look of your chicken meal.

You can cook the rice in chicken broth to add more flavor. Some recipes also include pecans for extra crunch.

This side dish works great for holiday meals but is good year-round too. It’s easy to make and adds color to your plate.

12. Cheesy Cauliflower Bake

You’ll love this tasty side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.

Start by cooking cauliflower until tender. Mix it with cream of chicken soup and sour cream for a rich base.

Add shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture. This gives the dish its signature cheesy taste.

Pour everything into a casserole dish. Top with more cheese and bake until golden and bubbly.

The result is a comforting side that complements chicken well. It’s easy to make and sure to be a hit at your next meal.

13. Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole is a tasty side dish that goes well with chicken. You can make it by mashing cooked sweet potatoes and mixing them with butter, milk, and spices.

Top the mixture with a crunchy pecan topping for extra flavor and texture. Some recipes add a touch of sweetness with brown sugar or marshmallows on top.

This casserole is easy to prepare ahead of time. You can assemble it earlier in the day and bake it just before serving your chicken main course. The creamy, slightly sweet potato pairs nicely with savory chicken dishes.

14. Herbed Couscous Salad

Herbed couscous salad is a tasty and easy side dish for chicken. It’s light and refreshing, perfect for warm weather meals.

To make it, cook couscous according to package directions. Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, mint, and cilantro. Add diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese for extra flavor and texture.

Dress the salad with a simple lemon and olive oil vinaigrette. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can serve this salad warm or chilled.

For a heartier option, add some diced cooked chicken to turn it into a complete meal. This versatile dish pairs well with grilled, roasted, or pan-seared chicken.

15. Dijon Roasted Red Potatoes

Dijon roasted red potatoes are a tasty side dish for chicken. Cut red potatoes into 1-inch pieces and toss them with olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and herbs like thyme and rosemary.

Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet and roast them in a 375°F oven. They’ll turn golden brown and crispy on the outside while staying soft inside.

The Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick that complements chicken nicely. These potatoes are easy to make and full of flavor. You can adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more herbs or spices.

16. Caprese Salad Skewers

Caprese salad skewers are a fun twist on the classic Italian dish. You’ll love these bite-sized appetizers that pair perfectly with chicken.

Thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves onto small skewers. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze for extra flavor.

These skewers are easy to make and look great on a plate. They offer a fresh, light contrast to your chicken dish.

Serve them as a starter or alongside your main course. Your guests can easily grab a skewer and enjoy the classic caprese flavors in one bite.

17. Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Maple bacon Brussels sprouts make a tasty side dish for chicken. You start by cooking bacon until crisp in a skillet.

Next, add Brussels sprouts to the pan with the bacon grease. Cook them until they start to brown and caramelize.

The maple syrup comes in at the end. It adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory bacon and slightly bitter sprouts.

This combo of flavors works really well together. The sprouts get crispy on the outside while staying tender inside.

You can adjust the amount of maple syrup to your liking. Start with a little and add more if needed.

18. Roasted Butternut Squash

Roasted butternut squash makes a delicious side dish for chicken. Cut the squash into cubes and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes. The squash will become tender and caramelized.

You can add extra flavor by sprinkling herbs like rosemary or thyme before roasting. For a twist, try adding a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Roasted butternut squash pairs well with many chicken dishes. Its sweet, nutty flavor complements both simple roasted chicken and more complex recipes.

19. Saffron Rice Pilaf

Saffron rice pilaf is a tasty side dish that goes well with chicken. You can make it easily in about 30 minutes.

The saffron gives the rice a nice yellow color and unique flavor. To make it, you’ll need rice, chicken broth, saffron, and spices.

Toast the rice first for extra flavor. Then add the broth and saffron. Cook it covered on low heat until the rice is fluffy.

You can add extras like onions or herbs if you want. This pilaf works great with grilled or roasted chicken. It’s also good with other meats or even by itself.

20. Classic Caesar Salad

A classic Caesar salad pairs perfectly with chicken dishes. It has crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing. The salad adds freshness and lightness to your meal.

You can make it easily at home. Toss romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and croutons.

For extra flavor, add some lemon juice and black pepper. This salad works well as a side or main dish.

You can even top it with grilled chicken for a complete meal. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser.

21. Cornbread Muffins

Cornbread muffins are a tasty side dish for chicken. They’re easy to make and add a touch of Southern charm to your meal.

These golden, slightly sweet muffins have a soft texture that pairs well with crispy fried chicken. You can also serve them with grilled or roasted chicken for a delicious contrast.

For extra flavor, try adding cheese, jalapenos, or corn kernels to your muffin batter.

Serve the muffins warm with a pat of butter for the best taste. Cornbread muffins are great for soaking up sauces or gravy from your chicken dish. They’re also portable, making them perfect for picnics or packed lunches.

22. Mediterranean Tomato Salad

A Mediterranean tomato salad is a fresh and zesty side dish for chicken. You can make it with ripe tomatoes, red onions, and cucumbers.

Add some kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor. Drizzle the salad with olive oil and lemon juice.

Sprinkle some dried oregano and fresh basil on top. This salad brings bright flavors that go well with Mediterranean chicken dishes.

It’s quick to put together and doesn’t need cooking. The crisp veggies and tangy dressing complement the savory chicken nicely.

23. Savory Bread Pudding

Savory bread pudding makes a tasty side dish for chicken. You can use stale bread cubes mixed with eggs, milk, and savory ingredients.

Add cooked chicken, vegetables, herbs, and cheese to create a filling dish. Onions, garlic, mushrooms, and thyme work well for flavor.

Bake the bread pudding until golden and set. The result is a warm, comforting side with crispy edges and a soft center.

You can customize it with different cheeses, veggies, or seasonings. It’s a great way to use up leftover bread and create a satisfying accompaniment to your chicken main course.

24. Avocado Corn Salad

Avocado corn salad is a fresh and tasty side dish for chicken. It combines creamy avocado with sweet corn kernels for a delightful mix of textures.

To make this salad, mix diced avocado and corn in a large bowl. Add some diced red onion and chopped cilantro for extra flavor.

You can dress the salad with a simple lime juice and olive oil vinaigrette. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of chili powder to taste.

For added protein, you can include diced cooked chicken in the salad. This turns it into a light main dish perfect for warm days.

Serve your avocado corn salad chilled. It pairs wonderfully with grilled or roasted chicken.

25. Spinach Artichoke Dip

Spinach artichoke dip is a tasty side dish that goes well with chicken. You can serve it warm with pieces of bread or crackers for dipping.

This creamy dip combines spinach, artichokes, and cheese. It’s rich and flavorful, making it a popular choice for parties and gatherings.

You can make spinach artichoke dip ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. For a lighter version, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or sour cream.

Some people like to add chicken to their spinach artichoke dip for extra protein. This turns it into a heartier dish that can work as a main course.

26. Couscous with Pine Nuts

Couscous with pine nuts is a tasty side dish for chicken. It’s quick and easy to make. You can cook couscous in chicken broth for more flavor.

Toast pine nuts in a dry pan until golden brown. This brings out their nutty taste. Add them to the couscous after it’s cooked.

Mix in some butter or olive oil for richness. You can also add herbs like parsley for freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the dish.

This side pairs well with many chicken recipes. It’s light but filling. The pine nuts add a nice crunch to the soft couscous.

Nutritional Balance in Side Dishes

A balanced side dish can make your chicken meal more nutritious and satisfying. Good side dishes add vitamins, fiber, and complex carbs to complement the protein in chicken.

Incorporating Vegetables

Vegetables are key for a healthy chicken side dish. Try roasting broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. These veggies add color, nutrients, and flavor to your plate.

You can also make a simple salad with leafy greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

These veggie-based sides are light but filling. Grilled or sautéed bell peppers and onions work well too. They’re tasty and full of vitamins. Don’t forget about green beans or asparagus.

Steam them lightly to keep their crunch and nutrients. A squeeze of lemon adds brightness to these green sides.

Adding Whole Grains

Whole grains give you energy and fiber. Brown rice is an easy, healthy choice. It has more nutrients than white rice and goes well with many chicken dishes.

Quinoa is another good pick. It’s high in protein and cooks quickly. Mix it with herbs or diced veggies for extra flavor and nutrition.

Whole wheat couscous is fast to make and soaks up flavors well. It’s perfect for busy nights. You can also try barley or farro for a chewy texture.

Whole grain pasta is filling and nutritious. Choose smaller shapes that cook fast. Toss with olive oil and herbs for a simple side.

Pairing Flavors with Chicken

Chicken’s mild flavor makes it perfect for pairing with many different tastes. You can enhance your chicken dishes by choosing the right herbs, spices, and flavor combinations.

Complementary Herbs and Spices

Rosemary and thyme are classic herbs that go well with chicken. Their earthy flavors bring out the best in roasted or grilled chicken.

Garlic and onion powder add depth to chicken dishes without overpowering them. For a zesty kick, try using paprika or cayenne pepper.

These spices give chicken a nice color and a bit of heat. Dried herbs like oregano and basil work great in chicken marinades.

Fresh herbs can really brighten up a chicken dish. Cilantro adds a fresh taste to Mexican-inspired chicken recipes. Parsley works well as a garnish and adds a pop of color.

Balancing Sweet and Savory

You can create tasty chicken dishes by mixing sweet and savory flavors.

Honey and mustard make a great glaze for baked chicken. The sweetness of the honey balances out the tangy mustard.

Lemon juice adds brightness to chicken dishes. It cuts through rich flavors and makes the meat taste fresher.

Try adding some lemon zest for extra flavor.

Fruit can also pair well with chicken. Pineapple chunks in a stir-fry add sweetness to balance soy sauce.

Dried cranberries in a chicken salad give a tart contrast to creamy dressing.

For a savory-sweet combo, try using maple syrup in your chicken marinade. It adds depth and a subtle sweetness that’s not too strong.