Grilled chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides to create a tasty meal. Whether you are hosting a barbecue or having a quiet family dinner, the right side dishes can enhance your grilled chicken and make your meal more satisfying.
What are the best sides to serve with grilled chicken? From fresh salads to creamy pastas, there are many options that can add flavor and balance to your plate. In this article, you will discover 25 excellent sides for your next grilled chicken dinner.
1) Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are a flavorful and comforting side dish that pairs well with grilled chicken. The creamy texture of the potatoes complements the smokiness of the grilled chicken, creating a well-balanced meal.
To start, peel and chop five pounds of Yukon gold potatoes. Boil them in salted water until they are tender. While the potatoes cook, take a small pan and heat one tablespoon of butter with one teaspoon of olive oil.
Add sliced garlic to the pan and cook until it is golden and crispy. This step adds a rich, garlicky depth to the dish. Once the potatoes are done, drain them and mash them in a large mixing bowl with the toasted garlic.
For extra flavor, add more butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth. This will make your mashed potatoes creamy and delicious. Serve them hot alongside your grilled chicken to enjoy a hearty meal.
2) Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey glazed carrots make an excellent side dish for grilled chicken. They offer a sweet and savory flavor that complements the smoky taste of grilled meat.
Start by peeling and slicing the carrots. You can cut them into rounds or diagonal pieces, whichever you prefer.
To prepare the glaze, mix together honey, brown sugar, and a bit of olive oil. You can also add butter for extra richness and some salt to balance the sweetness.
For grilling, brush the carrots with olive oil and place them on the grill. Turn them every few minutes to ensure they cook evenly. After about 10 minutes, brush them with the honey glaze.
If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the carrots in the honey glaze and spread them on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until they are tender and caramelized.
Adding a pinch of cinnamon or some freshly chopped ginger to the glaze can enhance the flavor even more.
These honey glazed carrots are quick to prepare and pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, offering a delicious mix of textures and tastes.
3) Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Crispy Brussels sprouts make a great side dish for grilled chicken. Start by preheating your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat helps achieve that perfect crispiness.
Slice off the hard ends of the Brussels sprouts. Then, cut them in half lengthwise. Removing any brown or loose leaves ensures your sprouts cook evenly.
Toss the Brussels sprouts in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each sprout is evenly coated. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread your Brussels sprouts cut-side down for best results.
Roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven for about 25 minutes. Check them midway to give them a toss. This ensures they cook evenly and get that golden, crispy texture.
Once out of the oven, you can add extra flavor by tossing the sprouts with balsamic vinegar or garlic butter. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Your guests will love the crunchy, flavorful Brussels sprouts paired with your grilled chicken.
4) Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken. It’s simple to make yet full of flavor.
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450 degrees Fahrenheit.
Clean the asparagus by rinsing it and patting it dry. Trim the woody ends by snapping them off naturally.
Bundle 5-6 asparagus spears together. Wrap two slices of thin bacon around each bundle, making sure the bacon is snug but not too tight. This helps the bacon cook evenly.
Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the asparagus bundles on the grill.
Grill for about 3 minutes per side, turning to ensure the bacon crisps up all around. This should take 20-25 minutes total.
For extra flavor, you can sprinkle some parmesan cheese over the bundles while grilling. This will add a nice, cheesy crust to the bacon.
Serve your bacon-wrapped asparagus hot off the grill alongside your grilled chicken for a tasty and impressive meal. The smoky flavor from the bacon complements the fresh taste of the asparagus, making it a versatile and satisfying side.
5) Cheddar Biscuits
Cheddar biscuits make a delicious side dish for grilled chicken. Their rich, buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with the savory taste of the chicken.
The cheesy goodness of cheddar biscuits adds a comforting element to your meal. They are easy to prepare and bake, making them a convenient choice for any dinner.
These biscuits have a flaky texture that contrasts nicely with the tender, juicy grilled chicken. You can serve them warm with a pat of butter for added flavor.
Cheddar biscuits are versatile and can be paired with almost any type of grilled chicken, from spicy to herb-seasoned. Their mild taste complements the chicken without overpowering it.
For a little extra zest, you can add herbs like chives or garlic powder to the biscuit dough. This will enhance the flavors and make your meal even more enjoyable.
Cheddar biscuits also go well with other sides like coleslaw or a fresh salad, adding variety to your plate. You can enjoy them at picnics, barbecues, or family dinners.
6) Caprese Salad
Caprese Salad is a fresh and simple side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken. You start with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. These ingredients come together to make a colorful and delicious salad.
Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into even pieces. Arrange them on a plate, alternating between tomato and cheese slices.
Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the top. Drizzle everything with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This salad is not only easy to make but also light and refreshing. You can even add a bit of arugula or spinach for extra greens if you like.
Serve this vibrant salad alongside your grilled chicken for a perfect combination.
7) Grilled Zucchini
Grilled zucchini is a simple and tasty side dish for your grilled chicken. The smoky flavor from the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the zucchini. It’s a quick side that adds a nice touch to any meal.
Start by cutting the zucchini into thick slices. Season with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add some garlic powder for extra flavor.
Place the zucchini slices on the grill over medium heat. Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes until you get nice grill marks and the zucchini is tender.
You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh twist. For a bit of a kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes before serving.
Grilled zucchini pairs well with many types of grilled chicken. It’s light, healthy, and complements the chicken without overpowering it.
Try experimenting with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil. These can bring new dimensions to the dish and make your meal even more delightful.
8) Balsamic Roasted Mushrooms
Balsamic roasted mushrooms are a perfect side dish for grilled chicken. They bring a savory, slightly tangy flavor that complements the smokiness of the chicken.
Start by cleaning and trimming your mushrooms. You can use button, cremini, or portobello mushrooms, depending on your preference.
Toss the mushrooms in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Make sure each mushroom is well-coated.
Spread the mushrooms in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast them in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized.
Stir the mushrooms halfway through roasting to ensure even cooking. When they are done, drizzle with a little extra balsamic vinegar if desired.
These balsamic roasted mushrooms are a simple yet flavorful addition to your grilled chicken meal. Enjoy the rich taste and pleasing texture they offer.
9) Greek Quinoa Salad
Greek Quinoa Salad is a perfect side for grilled chicken. It blends fresh and vibrant flavors that complement the savory taste of grilled meat. You’ll enjoy a mix of healthy ingredients in every bite.
Start by cooking quinoa. Rinse it well, then add it to boiling water. Simmer until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Fluff it with a fork and let it cool.
Once the quinoa is ready, you can mix in chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and kalamata olives. Add a can of garbanzo beans for extra protein and texture.
For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, and a bit of mustard. Pour this over the quinoa mix and stir well.
Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese for a salty and creamy finish. Chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. This dish not only tastes great but also adds color to your meal.
10) Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
Parmesan roasted broccoli is a simple, tasty side dish for grilled chicken. You start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Trim the tough base off the broccoli stems, then cut the broccoli into florets. If the stems are long, cut them into smaller coins.
Drizzle olive oil over the broccoli and toss to coat evenly. Add some garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Spread the broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.
Roast the broccoli in the oven for 10-12 minutes. You want the broccoli to be tender and slightly crispy. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the broccoli. Toss gently to coat the broccoli with the cheese.
Return the baking sheet to the oven for another 5-7 minutes. When it’s done, you can squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top for a burst of flavor. Serve it hot with your grilled chicken for a delightful meal.
11) Cucumber Tomato Salad
Cucumber Tomato Salad is a fresh and easy side that pairs well with grilled chicken.
To make this salad, you need cucumbers, tomatoes, and a simple dressing. Start by slicing cucumbers and cutting tomatoes into wedges.
For the dressing, mix olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk until combined.
Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers and tomatoes. Toss to coat the veggies evenly.
Let the salad sit in the fridge for an hour. This allows the flavors to blend nicely.
Before serving, drain any excess liquid and sprinkle some fresh dill over the top. This adds an extra burst of flavor.
This salad is crisp, refreshing, and a great complement to grilled chicken.
12) Sweet Cornbread
Sweet cornbread is a classic side that pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken. Its slightly sweet flavor contrasts nicely with the smoky taste of the chicken.
You can make sweet cornbread using basic ingredients like cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, milk, eggs, and butter. These ingredients create a moist and fluffy texture that everyone loves.
When making sweet cornbread, ensure you preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix your dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another. Combine them until just mixed, then pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Cornbread can be served warm with a bit of butter on top. It complements the grilled chicken by offering a sweet and buttery contrast. This makes it a hit at any barbecue or family gathering.
13) Caesar Salad
Caesar Salad is a classic side that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken. It’s simple to prepare yet packed with flavor.
Start with fresh romaine lettuce. Chop it into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Add anchovy paste and Dijon mustard for extra depth. This mixture should be creamy and tangy.
Toss the lettuce with the dressing.
Add shaved Parmesan cheese and croutons.
These ingredients give the salad a crunchy texture and a savory taste.
For added protein, slice your grilled chicken and place it on top of the salad.
This makes it a heartier side that complements the smoky flavor of the chicken.
Caesar Salad is a versatile and delicious choice for any meal with grilled chicken.
14) Rice Pilaf
Rice Pilaf is a great side dish for grilled chicken. It’s a blend of rice and pasta that’s cooked with broth and seasoned with herbs and spices. This dish is known for its fluffy texture and rich flavors.
To start, toast uncooked rice and orzo in a skillet for a few minutes. This gives the rice a nutty flavor. Add chicken broth, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover.
Let it simmer until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. This usually takes about 20 minutes. After cooking, remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
You can add some vegetables like peas or carrots for extra taste and color. Rice Pilaf is versatile and pairs well with any type of grilled chicken.
15) Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a classic side dish that pairs well with grilled chicken.
The crisp texture and tangy flavor of coleslaw complement the smoky taste of the chicken.
You can make coleslaw with shredded cabbage and carrots, adding a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar.
There are many variations you can try.
For a bit of spice, add some sliced jalapeños.
For extra crunch, toss in sunflower seeds or chopped apples.
Incorporating different ingredients can change the flavor and texture.
Coleslaw is easy to prepare ahead of time.
This makes it perfect for picnics or barbecues.
Just store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
The dish is also versatile.
You can adjust the sweetness or acidity by tweaking the dressing.
Add more vinegar for tanginess or more sugar for sweetness.
Serve coleslaw chilled for the best results.
This side dish is sure to be a hit with your grilled chicken.
16) Pico de Gallo
Pico de Gallo is a refreshing side that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken. This salsa is made from fresh ingredients like tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice.
To make Pico de Gallo, dice your tomatoes, onions, and cilantro finely. Mix them together in a bowl.
Add freshly squeezed lime juice to give it a tangy kick. Season the mixture with a bit of salt to taste.
You can also add chopped jalapeños if you like a little heat. Let the Pico de Gallo sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
This allows the flavors to blend well. Once ready, serve it as a topping for your grilled chicken.
The cool, crisp vegetables in Pico de Gallo balance the smoky flavor of grilled chicken.
17) Lemon Herb Quinoa
Lemon Herb Quinoa is a perfect side for grilled chicken. It combines light, fluffy quinoa with the fresh flavors of lemon and herbs.
Start by cooking the quinoa in water until it’s tender. Let it rest for a few minutes, then fluff it with a fork.
Add lemon juice and zest for a vibrant citrus kick. Mix in fresh chopped parsley, basil, and minced garlic for added flavor.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. This light and refreshing side dish pairs well with the smoky flavor of grilled chicken.
18) Garlic Parmesan Green Beans
Garlic Parmesan Green Beans make a fantastic side dish for grilled chicken. They’re simple to prepare and full of flavor. You can use fresh green beans for the best texture and taste.
Start by washing and trimming the ends off the green beans. Then, toss them in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Next, prepare your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. Place the green beans in a vegetable grilling basket to ensure they don’t fall through the grates. Grill them for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally.
While they are grilling, you can prepare the garlic Parmesan butter sauce. Melt some butter in a pan, and add minced garlic. Let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then remove it from the heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
Once the green beans are done grilling, toss them with the garlic Parmesan sauce. They should be crisp-tender and coated evenly with the buttery, cheesy goodness. Serve them hot alongside your grilled chicken for a delicious and easy meal.
These green beans add a burst of flavor and a nice crunch that complements the smoky taste of grilled chicken perfectly.
19) Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Baked macaroni and cheese is a timeless side dish. Perfectly paired with grilled chicken, it combines tender pasta with a rich, creamy cheese sauce.
Making this dish is simple. First, cook the macaroni until al dente. Then, prepare a cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and your favorite cheeses.
Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and mix well. Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs for added crunch. Bake until golden and bubbly.
The result is a comforting, cheesy delight that everyone will love. This side is sure to satisfy kids and adults alike. Enjoy it warm from the oven with your grilled chicken.
20) Tangy BBQ Baked Beans
Tangy BBQ baked beans are a delicious side dish perfect for any grilled chicken meal.
You start by soaking the beans overnight or for at least 8 hours. If you’re short on time, you can quickly soak the beans by boiling them for 2-3 minutes, then letting them sit for an hour.
Cook some diced bacon until crispy, then add chopped onions, jalapenos, and garlic to the pan. Once these veggies are soft, combine them with the beans in a large pot or cast iron skillet.
Pour in your favorite barbecue sauce, a bit of brown sugar, and a dash of mustard for that tangy kick. Stir everything together and let it simmer until the flavors meld.
You can cook these baked beans either in the oven at 275 degrees F or on your smoker for a deeper, smokier flavor. Make sure to stir occasionally to keep from sticking.
Serve these tangy BBQ baked beans warm, and enjoy the rich flavors that perfectly complement your grilled chicken.
21) Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasted sweet potatoes make a fantastic side dish for grilled chicken. They are easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients.
To start, peel your sweet potatoes and cut them into cubes or wedges. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness.
Spread the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
You can also add spices like cinnamon or paprika for extra flavor. Sweet potatoes pair well with the smoky taste of grilled chicken, creating a delicious and balanced meal.
22) Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a great choice to serve with grilled chicken. The light and flavorful ingredients make it a refreshing side dish.
You start by cooking orzo pasta until it’s al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, olives, and red onions. This adds a lot of color and crunch.
For the dressing, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Add salt and pepper to taste. Pour this dressing over the orzo and vegetables.
Toss everything well, ensuring the salad is evenly coated with the dressing. Add feta cheese on top for a creamy texture.
Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. The flavors meld together nicely as it sits.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving. This Mediterranean Orzo Salad pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of grilled chicken.
23) Spinach Strawberry Salad
A Spinach Strawberry Salad is a refreshing and colorful side dish for grilled chicken. It’s easy to prepare and packed with fresh ingredients.
Start with a base of fresh spinach leaves. Add sliced strawberries for sweetness.
Include grilled or chopped chicken for added protein and texture.
Top with thinly sliced red onions, which add a slight zing.
For more flavor, add crumbled goat cheese and toasted walnuts. They bring richness and crunch.
You can also toss in blueberries and cucumber slices. These add even more freshness and color.
Serve the salad with your favorite dressing on the side, like a balsamic vinaigrette.
This salad is light, tasty, and perfect for summer meals.
24) Creamy Dill Potato Salad
Creamy Dill Potato Salad is a classic side dish that’s perfect with grilled chicken. It combines tender boiled potatoes with a rich, tangy dressing.
You start by boiling potatoes until they’re just tender. Once they’re cool, cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Mix together mayonnaise, dill, Dijon mustard, and a bit of buttermilk. This creates a creamy and flavorful dressing.
Combine the cooled potatoes with the dill mixture. Make sure to coat all the potatoes well.
Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. This helps all the flavors meld together.
Creamy Dill Potato Salad offers a refreshing contrast to the grilled chicken. It’s a great choice for any barbecue or family gathering.
25) Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a delightful side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken. Its natural sweetness and juicy kernels offer a fresh contrast to savory grilled items.
Boil or grill the corn to enhance its flavor. For grilling, leave the husks on for a smoky taste or remove them for grill marks and char.
Butter, salt, and pepper are classic toppings, adding richness and a bit of zing. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle with cheese, herbs, or spices.
Corn on the cob is both easy to prepare and a favorite among many, making it a great addition to your meal. The combination of textures and flavors will complement the grilled chicken perfectly.
Health Benefits of Sides for Grilled Chicken
Enjoying sides with grilled chicken comes with many health perks. They can offer various nutrients and help in maintaining a balanced diet, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Nutritional Value
Sides can be packed with essential nutrients. For example, broccoli salad provides vitamins C and K, which aid in boosting your immune system and bone health. Black bean salad offers protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. These nutrients help maintain muscle function and energy levels.
Watermelon feta mint salad is a refreshing side that hydrates you and provides vitamins A and C. It also contains antioxidants that protect your cells from damage. Each of these sides complements grilled chicken by providing nutrients that might not be present in the meat alone.
Balanced Diet
Having various sides can help you achieve a balanced diet. For instance, pairing grilled chicken with fried potatoes and onions gives you a mix of protein, carbs, and fibers, ensuring that your meal is well-rounded. Sous vide mixed vegetables add color and a range of nutrients from different veggies, promoting overall health.
Incorporating different side dishes ensures you get a variety of nutrients. Black bean salad with avocado offers healthy fats and proteins. Broccoli salad adds greens and vitamins to your plate. By mixing and matching these sides, you ensure that your meal includes multiple food groups, which is key for a balanced diet.
Pairing Sides with Grilled Chicken
Pairing sides with grilled chicken enhances the flavors and brings balance to the meal. Focus on bold combinations and cultural inspirations for a delightful dining experience.
Flavor Combinations
Pair grilled chicken with sides that complement and enhance its smoky, savory flavor. Cucumber and tomato salad offers a fresh, crispy contrast. The mix of bright and acidic qualities balances the rich taste of the chicken.
Broccoli salad is another great choice. It’s packed with flavors from cheddar cheese, cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon. This mix provides a creamy and crunchy texture, making the meal more satisfying.
Another option is pesto orzo with vegetables. With basil pesto, spinach, green beans, and tomatoes, this side adds a wonderful herbaceous note. It’s easy to prepare and versatile, making it perfect for various chicken dishes.
Cultural Inspirations
Explore sides from different cultures to add excitement to your meal. Buttermilk-brined grilled chicken pairs well with Southern dishes like sautéed squash and zucchini. The creamy, tangy chicken aligns with the fresh, buttery vegetables for a comforting Southern meal.
For an Asian twist, try grilled chicken thighs with apricot-miso glaze alongside lemongrass-based sides. These flavors work well with a refreshing cucumber and mint salad, balancing the savory-sweet notes.
Finally, Mediterranean sides like zucchini salad enhance grilled chicken beautifully. The simple preparation allows the fresh taste of zucchini to shine, while herbs and lemon add a bright finish. This creates a light, yet flavorful pairing perfect for warm weather meals.
Preparing and Storing Sides
Making and keeping side dishes fresh is essential for a tasty and safe meal. Follow these tips to ensure your sides are delicious and ready when needed.
Preparation Tips
Start by gathering all ingredients before cooking to save time. Fresh produce, like broccoli and corn, should be washed and dried thoroughly.
When making salads, combine vegetables and dressings just before serving to keep them crisp. For pasta salads, cook the pasta al dente and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. If using a cream-based dressing, blend mayo, sour cream, or yogurt smoothly to avoid clumps.
To make mixed vegetables, use methods like steaming or sous vide. This keeps the flavors vibrant and the texture firm. Season them with simple herbs or a touch of lemon for added zest.
Storing Leftovers
Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and safety of your side dishes. Use airtight containers to store leftovers. For salads, keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to avoid sogginess.
Label containers with the date to keep track of freshness. Refrigerated sides are best eaten within 3-4 days.
For items like corn on the cob, wrap them in foil before refrigerating. This keeps them moist. Keep pasta salads in the coldest part of your fridge to ensure they remain fresh.
When reheating, do so gently to avoid overcooking. Microwaving on low heat or steaming works well for most sides.
