Grilled chicken is a popular main dish for good reason. It’s tasty, healthy, and easy to make. But what should you serve with it?

This article will give you plenty of ideas for side dishes that pair well with grilled chicken.

You’ll find over 26 delicious side dish options to complement your grilled chicken meal. From crispy potato wedges to fresh salads, there’s something for every taste.

These sides are quick and easy to prepare, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are a perfect side for grilled chicken. They’re creamy, flavorful, and easy to make.

Start by boiling potatoes until soft. Mash them with butter and milk for a smooth texture.

Add roasted garlic cloves for a rich, savory taste that goes well with chicken.

For extra flavor, mix in some herbs like chives or parsley. You can also sprinkle cheese on top for a gooey finish.

These potatoes are filling and comforting. They soak up juices from the chicken, making each bite even tastier.

2. Caprese Salad

Caprese salad is a perfect side for grilled chicken. This Italian classic combines fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil.

Slice the mozzarella and tomatoes, then arrange them on a plate. Tuck basil leaves between the slices. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

For extra flavor, add a pinch of salt and black pepper. You can also use cherry tomatoes and small mozzarella balls for a bite-sized version.

This light, refreshing salad complements the smoky taste of grilled chicken. It’s quick to make and requires no cooking, ideal for warm summer days.

3. Grilled Asparagus with Lemon

Grilled asparagus with lemon makes a tasty side for grilled chicken. Start by trimming the woody ends off the asparagus spears.

Brush them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill the asparagus over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes.

Turn them occasionally until they’re tender-crisp. The spears will get nice grill marks and a slightly smoky flavor.

After grilling, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the asparagus. You can also add some lemon zest for extra citrus flavor.

The bright lemon complements the char-grilled taste perfectly.

This simple side dish is quick to make and goes great with any grilled chicken. The asparagus stays crisp while soaking up delicious smoky and lemony notes.

4. Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach is a tasty side dish that goes well with grilled chicken. You can make it by cooking fresh spinach leaves with cream, butter, and garlic. This creates a rich and smooth texture.

The creamy spinach adds a nice contrast to the grilled chicken. It brings a soft, velvety element to your plate. You can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.

This side dish is easy to make and adds a touch of elegance to your meal. It’s also a good way to get more veggies into your diet. Creamed spinach pairs nicely with other sides like roasted potatoes or garlic bread too.

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts make a tasty side dish for grilled chicken. To prepare them, cut the sprouts in half and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes. The high heat brings out their natural sweetness and creates crispy edges.

For extra flavor, try adding minced garlic or grated Parmesan cheese before roasting. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens up the dish.

Roasted Brussels sprouts offer a nice contrast to juicy grilled chicken. Their crispy texture and slightly caramelized taste complement the meat well.

6. Quinoa Salad with Feta

Quinoa salad with feta makes a tasty and healthy side for grilled chicken. Cook quinoa according to package directions and let it cool.

Mix the cooled quinoa with diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives. Add crumbled feta cheese for a salty tang.

Dress the salad with a simple vinaigrette of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like parsley or mint. Toss everything together gently.

This protein-packed salad complements grilled chicken perfectly. The mix of textures and Mediterranean flavors will liven up your meal.

You can make this salad ahead of time and chill it. The flavors will blend nicely as it sits in the fridge.

7. Coleslaw with Pineapple

Pineapple coleslaw adds a tropical twist to your grilled chicken meal. This refreshing side dish combines shredded cabbage with sweet pineapple tidbits.

The tangy dressing balances the flavors, creating a light and zesty accompaniment. You can use fresh or canned pineapple chunks, depending on what’s available.

For extra flavor, try grilling the pineapple before adding it to the slaw. This brings out the fruit’s natural sweetness and adds a subtle smoky note.

Pineapple coleslaw pairs well with various grilled meats, making it a versatile choice for your barbecue spread. Its crisp texture and bright taste complement the savory grilled chicken perfectly.

8. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a tasty and colorful side for grilled chicken. They offer a mix of sweet and savory flavors that complement the meat well.

You can make them crispy on the outside and soft inside. Season them with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs for extra flavor.

Baking sweet potato fries is healthier than deep-frying. Cut them into even strips and spread them out on a baking sheet. This helps them cook evenly and get crispy.

Serve these fries hot alongside your grilled chicken for a satisfying meal. They’re sure to be a hit at your next barbecue or family dinner.

9. Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter

Grilled corn on the cob is a perfect side for your chicken. Start by soaking the corn in salted water for 10 minutes. This helps keep it moist while cooking.

Grill the corn for 15-20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes. The kernels should be tender and lightly charred when done.

While the corn cooks, make herb butter. Mix softened butter with garlic, parmesan, parsley, and basil. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Once the corn is ready, spread the herb butter on each ear. The heat will melt the butter, creating a delicious coating. This tasty side adds great flavor and texture to your meal.

10. Cucumber and Tomato Salad

Cucumber and tomato salad is a refreshing side dish for grilled chicken. It’s quick to make and full of flavor.

Slice cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Add some thinly sliced red onion for extra crunch and flavor.

Mix the veggies with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. You can add fresh herbs like basil or dill for more taste.

This light salad pairs well with grilled chicken. It adds a cool contrast to the warm meat. The crisp vegetables and tangy dressing complement the chicken nicely.

11. Wild Rice Pilaf

Wild rice pilaf is a tasty side dish for grilled chicken. It’s made with a blend of wild rice and other grains. You cook the rice in broth for extra flavor.

Add veggies like onions, carrots, and celery to make it more nutritious. Garlic and herbs boost the taste. Some recipes include mushrooms too.

The nutty flavor of wild rice pairs well with grilled chicken. It has a nice chewy texture that contrasts with tender meat.

You can make this pilaf ahead of time. It reheats well, making it great for busy meals. Serve it hot alongside your grilled chicken for a filling dinner.

12. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Zucchini noodles with pesto make a tasty and healthy side for grilled chicken. You can easily make zucchini noodles using a spiralizer or vegetable peeler.

Sauté the zucchini noodles briefly in a pan, about 2-3 minutes. This keeps them crisp-tender. Toss the warm noodles with homemade or store-bought pesto sauce.

Top your pesto zucchini noodles with sliced grilled chicken for a complete meal. Add halved cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese works well too.

This low-carb side dish comes together quickly. It’s ready in about 10 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

13. Caesar Salad

Caesar salad is a classic pairing with grilled chicken. The crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing complement the smoky flavor of the chicken perfectly.

You can make your own Caesar dressing at home with egg yolks, lemon juice, garlic, anchovies, and olive oil. For added crunch, top the salad with homemade croutons.

To elevate your Caesar salad, try adding some grilled prawns. Marinate them in garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil before grilling for extra flavor.

For a twist, you can also grill the romaine lettuce briefly. This adds a smoky taste that goes well with the grilled chicken.

14. Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Balsamic glazed carrots are a tasty side dish for grilled chicken. You can make them easily with a few simple ingredients.

Start by peeling and cutting carrots into sticks. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast the carrots in the oven until tender.

While the carrots cook, mix balsamic vinegar with a bit of honey or brown sugar. Pour this glaze over the roasted carrots and return them to the oven for a few minutes.

The result is sweet and tangy carrots that go well with grilled chicken. The balsamic flavor complements the meat nicely.

15. Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Parmesan roasted broccoli is a tasty side dish for grilled chicken. It’s easy to make and adds great flavor to your meal.

Cut broccoli into florets and toss with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread it on a baking sheet and roast in a hot oven for about 20-25 minutes.

When the broccoli is tender and slightly charred, take it out of the oven. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest over the top.

The roasted broccoli will have crispy edges and a nutty flavor from the cheese. It pairs well with many chicken dishes and adds color to your plate.

16. Crispy Baked Avocado Fries

Crispy baked avocado fries are a tasty side dish for grilled chicken. You can make them by cutting avocados into wedges and coating them in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned breadcrumbs in separate dishes.

Dip each avocado wedge in flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Serve your avocado fries hot alongside grilled chicken for a delicious meal.

17. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a tasty side dish that pairs well with grilled chicken. It’s easy to make and adds a savory flavor to your meal.

You can buy pre-made garlic bread or make it at home. To make it yourself, spread butter mixed with minced garlic on sliced bread. Then toast it in the oven until golden and crispy.

The garlic flavor complements the grilled taste of the chicken. The crunchy texture also provides a nice contrast to the meat.

Garlic bread helps soak up any juices from the chicken. It’s filling and satisfying, making your meal more complete.

18. Cilantro Lime Rice

Cilantro lime rice is a tasty side dish that goes great with grilled chicken. It’s easy to make and adds fresh flavors to your meal.

To prepare it, cook white rice as usual. When it’s done, mix in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a bit of salt. The result is a zesty rice that complements the chicken nicely.

You can customize this dish by adding other ingredients. Try mixing in some diced tomatoes or corn for extra color and texture. Black beans are another good addition that makes the rice more filling.

Cilantro lime rice works well with many types of grilled chicken, especially those with Mexican or Southwest flavors.

19. Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms make a tasty side dish for grilled chicken. They add a savory, earthy flavor that pairs well with the meat.

You can stuff mushrooms with various fillings like cheese, herbs, breadcrumbs, or sausage. This gives you options to match different chicken seasonings.

For an easy version, mix cream cheese, garlic, and parmesan. Spoon this into button mushroom caps and bake until golden.

Stuffed portobello mushrooms work great for a heartier side. Fill them with spinach and feta for a Greek-inspired combo.

Serve the mushrooms alongside your grilled chicken for a satisfying meal. The mushrooms provide a nice texture contrast to the chicken.

20. Beet and Goat Cheese Salad

Beet and goat cheese salad is a tasty side for grilled chicken. It mixes sweet and tangy flavors with different textures.

Roast beets in the oven until tender. Let them cool, then peel and slice them.

Add mixed greens to a bowl. Top with the sliced beets and crumbled goat cheese. Sprinkle some chopped nuts for crunch.

Drizzle the salad with a simple vinaigrette. Balsamic dressing works well with these flavors.

This colorful salad adds variety to your grilled chicken meal. The earthy beets and creamy cheese balance the meat nicely.

21. Chilli Lime Grilled Corn

Chilli lime grilled corn is a tasty side dish for grilled chicken. It adds a zesty kick to your meal.

To make it, brush corn cobs with butter and grill until lightly charred. Then sprinkle with chili powder, salt, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

The smoky flavor from grilling combines nicely with the spicy chili and tangy lime. This creates a bold taste that complements the chicken well.

You can adjust the spice level to your liking. Add more chili powder for extra heat or keep it mild. The lime helps balance out the spiciness.

This side dish is easy to prepare and cook alongside your chicken on the grill. It’s a crowd-pleaser that adds color and flavor to your plate.

22. Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey glazed carrots make a tasty side dish for grilled chicken. They offer a sweet and savory flavor that balances the smoky taste of the chicken.

To make them, you’ll need carrots, honey, butter, and some spices. Cut the carrots into even pieces and cook them until tender.

Then, add honey, butter, and your choice of spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Cook everything together until the carrots are coated in a sticky glaze.

The result is a colorful side dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. The natural sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by the honey, creating a crowd-pleasing veggie option.

23. Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a tasty vegetable dish that goes great with grilled chicken. This French classic is made with eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and bell peppers.

The veggies are cooked until soft and mixed with herbs like basil and thyme. The result is a flavorful side that complements the smoky taste of grilled chicken.

Ratatouille adds color and nutrition to your plate. It’s also a good way to use up extra summer vegetables from your garden.

You can serve ratatouille hot or cold. Either way, it makes a delicious partner for your grilled chicken meal.

24. Arugula and Pear Salad

Arugula and pear salad is a tasty side for grilled chicken. You can make it quickly and easily.

Start with fresh arugula as the base. Add sliced pears for sweetness. Toss in some toasted walnuts for crunch.

For extra flavor, crumble goat cheese on top. A light vinaigrette dressing works well. Mix lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey.

This salad brings freshness to your grilled chicken meal. The peppery arugula balances the sweet pears nicely. It’s light yet satisfying.

You can customize it to your taste. Try adding dried cranberries or swapping walnuts for pecans.

25. Ranch Potato Wedges

Ranch potato wedges are a tasty side dish for grilled chicken. You can make them easily at home. Cut potatoes into wedges and season them with ranch flavoring.

Bake the wedges in the oven until they’re crispy on the outside and soft inside. You can also grill them for extra flavor. They cook in about 30 minutes.

These wedges are great for dipping. Serve them with extra ranch dressing on the side. Kids and adults both love the zesty ranch taste.

Try making ranch potato wedges next time you grill chicken. They’re a step up from plain fries or baked potatoes. The ranch seasoning adds a nice kick to your meal.

26. Mediterranean Couscous

Mediterranean couscous is a tasty side for grilled chicken. This light grain dish cooks quickly and easily absorbs flavors. You can mix in diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese for fresh taste.

Add some lemon juice and olive oil to brighten it up. Sprinkle in herbs like parsley or mint for extra Mediterranean flair. The fluffy texture of couscous pairs well with juicy grilled chicken.

This side dish is filling without being heavy. It’s perfect for warm weather meals. You can serve it hot or cold depending on your preference.

Pairing Flavors with Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken is a blank canvas for flavor. The right sides can make your chicken sing. Let’s look at how to pick tasty pairings.

Understanding Flavor Profiles

Grilled chicken has a mild, savory taste. You can match it with bold or subtle flavors.

Citrus sides like lemon rice or orange salad add bright notes. Creamy dishes like mac and cheese give rich contrast.

Sweet flavors work well too. Try grilled peaches or a honey glaze. Smoky flavors boost the grilled taste. Add roasted peppers or chipotle sauce.

Herbs are your friends. Basil, rosemary, and thyme all shine with chicken. Use them in sides or rubs.

Balancing Spices

Spices can take your grilled chicken to new heights. Start with a simple dry rub. Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Pat it on before grilling.

For heat, add chili powder or cayenne. Balance spicy chicken with cool sides. Try cucumber salad or tzatziki sauce.

Indian spices work great too. Use curry powder in a marinade. Pair with raita and rice.

Don’t forget BBQ sauce. It’s a classic for a reason. Pick tangy or sweet to match your taste.

Remember, you can always add more spice. Start mild and taste as you go.

Nutritional Benefits of Side Dishes

Side dishes can boost the health value of your grilled chicken meal. They add important nutrients and variety to your plate.

Incorporating Vegetables

Veggie sides pack a nutritional punch. They’re low in calories but high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Try a colorful salad with leafy greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers. This gives you vitamins A and C, plus antioxidants.

Roasted veggies are another good choice. Carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers become sweeter when roasted. They keep most of their nutrients too.

Grilled veggies are tasty and easy. Zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms work well. They have few calories but lots of flavor.

Whole Grains for Added Fiber

Whole grain sides give you energy and keep you full. They have more fiber, vitamins, and minerals than refined grains.

Brown rice is a simple whole grain option. It has magnesium, selenium, and B vitamins. Quinoa is packed with protein and all nine essential amino acids.

Whole wheat pasta is another good choice. It has more fiber and nutrients than regular pasta. Try it cold in a pasta salad with veggies.

Barley and farro are less common but very nutritious. They’re chewy and filling. Mix them with herbs and lemon juice for a tasty side.

Cultural Influences on Side Dishes

Different cultures bring unique flavors and ingredients to side dishes for grilled chicken. These diverse options can add excitement to your meal.

Mediterranean Inspirations

Greek-inspired sides are perfect with grilled chicken. Try a classic Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. Drizzle it with olive oil and lemon juice for a fresh taste.

Tabbouleh is another great choice. This herb-packed salad uses bulgur wheat, parsley, mint, and lemon. It’s light and refreshing.

For a warm side, make roasted vegetables with Mediterranean herbs. Mix zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers with olive oil, garlic, and oregano. Roast until tender for a tasty dish.

Asian-Inspired Flavors

Asian-inspired sides can give your grilled chicken meal a flavor boost.

Make a simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a pinch of sugar. It’s cool and crunchy.

Stir-fried vegetables are quick and easy.

Use a mix of snap peas, carrots, and bell peppers. Add soy sauce and ginger for taste.

For a heartier option, try fried rice.

Use leftover rice, eggs, and frozen peas. Add a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil at the end. It’s filling and pairs well with chicken.