BBQ chicken is a classic favorite at gatherings. Finding the right side dishes can take your meal from good to great.
The right sides complement the smoky, sweet flavors of BBQ chicken while adding variety to your plate. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a weeknight dinner, your side dish choices matter.
The best side dishes for BBQ chicken include traditional options like coleslaw, baked beans, and potato salad, as well as lighter choices such as fresh salads and roasted vegetables. You’ll find that a mix of classics and creative sides gives your guests options while maintaining the casual, satisfying feel that makes BBQ chicken so popular.
1. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
Grilled corn on the cob makes a perfect side dish for BBQ chicken. The smoky flavor from the grill complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully.
To prepare it, husk the corn and place it directly on a medium-hot grill. Turn occasionally until you see those nice char marks forming, usually about 10-12 minutes.
Mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs like parsley and chives, plus a little salt and pepper. Smear this flavorful butter on the hot corn right after grilling.
The butter melts into all the kernels, creating a delicious side your guests will love.
2. Quinoa Salad with Avocado and Black Beans
This protein-rich quinoa salad makes a perfect side for BBQ chicken. The nutty quinoa pairs wonderfully with creamy avocado and hearty black beans.
Combine cooked and cooled quinoa with black beans, chopped onion, and fresh corn. Add tomatoes and red onion for extra flavor and texture.
A zesty lime dressing ties everything together, giving the salad a refreshing taste that balances the rich flavors of BBQ chicken. Customize this dish by adding jalapeño for heat or queso fresco for creaminess.
3. Sweet Baked Beans
Sweet baked beans are a perfect match for BBQ chicken. The smoky-sweet flavor of the beans complements the grilled taste of the chicken.
Make them from scratch or use canned beans with added ingredients. Brown sugar, molasses, and bacon bits can transform basic beans into a crowd-pleasing side dish.
For a quick version, mix canned beans with ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Heat them on the stove or in a slow cooker.
4. Rich and Creamy Coleslaw
Creamy coleslaw is a classic BBQ chicken companion that brings cool, crisp texture to every bite. The rich dressing provides a perfect contrast to the smoky flavors of your grilled chicken.
Make a basic coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a dressing of mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and seasonings. Add a touch of celery seed or dill for extra flavor.
Prepare it ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld together for an even tastier side dish.
5. Smoked Mac and Cheese
Smoked mac and cheese takes a classic comfort food and elevates it with smoky flavor that perfectly complements BBQ chicken. Smoke it alongside your chicken for an easy, coordinated meal.
The smoking process infuses the creamy cheese sauce with a woodsy depth. Use a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and monterey jack for the best flavor profile.
Top your mac and cheese with buttered breadcrumbs or crumbled bacon before smoking. This creates a delicious crust that contrasts with the creamy interior.
6. Buttery Cornbread
Buttery cornbread is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken. Its sweet and savory flavors complement the smoky taste of the chicken.
The slightly sweet, crumbly texture provides a delicious contrast to the tangy BBQ sauce. Serve cornbread warm with a pat of butter melting on top.
Add jalapeños, cheese, or corn kernels to your cornbread batter for extra flavor. Cornbread is versatile and easy to make ahead of time.
7. Peach Salad with Feta
A peach salad with feta makes a perfect side for BBQ chicken. The sweet juicy peaches create a delightful contrast to the smoky chicken flavors.
Creamy, salty feta cheese and sweet peaches create a balanced flavor profile. Add ingredients like spring greens, red onions, and pecans for extra texture and taste.
Fresh herbs like basil and mint bring brightness to this simple 25-minute side dish. Some recipes include cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or avocado for additional freshness.
8. BLT Pasta Salad
BLT Pasta Salad combines all the flavors of your favorite sandwich into a perfect BBQ side dish. It features pasta mixed with crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes.
The creamy dressing ties everything together, creating a dish that complements BBQ chicken beautifully. Prepare this pasta salad ahead of time for outdoor gatherings.
This versatile side works with various BBQ main dishes, from chicken thighs to pulled chicken burgers. Chill the salad before serving to let the flavors meld together.
9. Tahini Roasted Cauliflower
Tahini roasted cauliflower makes a delicious side dish that pairs wonderfully with BBQ chicken. The nutty flavor of tahini sauce complements the smoky flavors of the BBQ perfectly.
Roast cauliflower florets until they’re crispy and golden, then drizzle with a creamy tahini sauce. Add extra flavor with spices like harissa or garlic for more depth.
Serve it alongside hummus, roasted chickpeas, or sautéed green beans for a complete meal. Make the tahini sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
10. Crispy Oven-Baked Fries
Oven-baked fries offer a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried potatoes while still delivering that satisfying crunch. They pair wonderfully with BBQ chicken, creating a classic comfort food combination.
Soak your cut potatoes in cold water first to remove excess starch, then dry them thoroughly before tossing with a light coating of oil. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or herbs.
11. Pan-Fried Potatoes and Onions
Pan-fried potatoes and onions make a delicious side dish that complements BBQ chicken perfectly. The crispy exterior of the potatoes contrasts nicely with the tender, smoky chicken.
Slice potatoes and onions thinly, then fry them in a skillet with butter or oil until golden brown. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
Add bell peppers or garlic to customize this versatile side. The dish cooks in about 15-20 minutes, making it convenient for busy weeknight dinners.
12. Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Air fryer smashed potatoes make an excellent side dish for BBQ chicken. They’re crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, creating a perfect texture contrast.
You only need about 5 ingredients to make this simple side. The potatoes get golden brown edges with a buttery flavor that complements the smokiness of BBQ chicken.
These potatoes cook in just 20 minutes in the air fryer. Season them with garlic for extra flavor or add cheese on top for a more indulgent version.
13. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasted sweet potatoes make a perfect side dish for BBQ chicken. They offer a sweet contrast to the savory, smoky flavors of the meat.
Cube sweet potatoes, toss with olive oil, salt, and your favorite seasonings. Cinnamon and sea salt create a delicious flavor combination that enhances their natural sweetness.
Roast them in the oven until they’re tender inside and slightly crispy outside. Try adding a light maple glaze or a sprinkle of herbs before serving.
Sweet potatoes provide nutritional benefits with their high vitamin A content and fiber.
14. Green Salad with Vinaigrette
A simple green salad with vinaigrette is the perfect light side for BBQ chicken. It adds freshness and balances the smoky, rich flavors of the meat.
Mix olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and seasonings for a basic vinaigrette. Use mixed lettuce, spinach, arugula, or your preferred greens.
Add cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions for crunch. Tomatoes bring a juicy element that complements the chicken nicely.
15. Baked Potato Salad
Baked potato salad offers a warm twist on traditional potato salad that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken. It combines the hearty texture of baked potatoes with creamy dressing and savory mix-ins.
Bake russet potatoes until tender, then cube them while still warm. Mix with sour cream, mayo, bacon bits, cheddar cheese, and green onions for a rich side dish.
Serve it warm or cold depending on your preference. Add a dash of BBQ seasoning to tie the flavors together with your main dish.
16. Cucumber and Red Onion Salad
Cucumber and red onion salad is a refreshing side that perfectly balances the smoky flavors of BBQ chicken. This light dish brings a crisp texture and cooling effect to your meal.
Thinly slice cucumbers and red onions, then toss them with a simple vinaigrette of olive oil, vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add fresh dill or mint for extra flavor.
Let the salad marinate in the refrigerator to blend the flavors while the vegetables stay crisp.
17. Grilled Asparagus with Lemon
Grilled asparagus with lemon makes a perfect side dish for BBQ chicken. The smoky flavor from the grill complements the natural sweetness of asparagus while lemon adds brightness.
Toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper before placing them directly on the grill. Cook for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp with nice grill marks.
After grilling, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the asparagus and add a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra flavor. The citrus cuts through the richness of BBQ chicken, creating a balanced meal.
This healthy side dish cooks quickly on the same grill as your chicken.
18. Warm Grilled Eggplant with Balsamic
Grilled eggplant with balsamic vinegar brings a smoky, sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken. You can prep this side dish ahead, making it convenient for your next cookout.
Slice eggplant, brush with olive oil, and grill until tender with nice char marks. Toss the warm slices in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs.
Add more flavor with soy sauce or fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, and basil. The tender, charred eggplant makes a delicious accompaniment to your main dish.
Serve it warm alongside your BBQ chicken for a Mediterranean-inspired side.
19. Tomato and Endive Salad with Parmesan
This light and refreshing salad offers the perfect contrast to smoky BBQ chicken. Crisp endive leaves create an ideal base for juicy tomatoes and shavings of nutty Parmesan cheese.
Arrange the endive leaves on a plate and fill them with diced fresh tomatoes and cheese for an elegant presentation. A simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs brings everything together.
Add a light drizzle of balsamic vinegar on top for extra flavor. This salad comes together in minutes.
20. Classic Potato Salad
Classic potato salad is a perfect match for BBQ chicken. The creamy, cool texture balances the smoky heat of the chicken.
This side dish typically features soft gold potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and diced onions mixed in a mayo-based dressing. Some versions add celery for crunch or pickle relish for tang.
Prepare it ahead of time, and keep it refrigerated until serving. For best results, let the potato salad chill for a few hours before serving.
21. Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies
Pasta salad makes a perfect side for BBQ chicken, offering a cool contrast to the hot, smoky meat. You can prepare it ahead of time for less stress when you’re ready to serve.
Choose colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, and red onion to brighten up your pasta salad. Add broccoli, peas, olives, or artichokes for extra flavor.
A simple vinaigrette dressing works well, but you can also try a creamy option. Some pasta salads even incorporate BBQ sauce to complement your chicken.
Mix in fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of flavor.
How to Choose the Perfect Sides for BBQ Chicken
Selecting the right sides for BBQ chicken requires thoughtful consideration of flavors, textures, and nutritional balance. Your choices can transform a simple grilled chicken into a memorable meal.
Factors to Consider: Flavors and Textures
When pairing sides with BBQ chicken, think about complementary flavors. Tangy sides like coleslaw or pickled vegetables balance the smoky sweetness of BBQ sauce.
Creamy dishes such as mac and cheese or potato salad offer contrast to the char of grilled chicken. Mix crisp elements like corn on the cob or fresh salads with soft sides such as mashed potatoes or beans.
This creates an interesting eating experience that keeps guests engaged. Consider the BBQ sauce profile too.
Spicy sauces pair well with cooling sides like cucumber salad or creamy corn. Sweet BBQ chicken benefits from sides with acidic notes like tomato salad or vinegar-based slaws.
Seasonal availability matters for freshness. Summer BBQs shine with fresh corn, watermelon, and garden vegetables.
Fall gatherings might feature roasted sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts.
Balancing Nutrition and Indulgence
Creating a well-rounded BBQ meal means including both treats and healthier options. For every indulgent side like mac and cheese, add a nutrient-dense option such as grilled vegetables or quinoa salad with avocado.
Quick Nutritional Balance Guide:
- Include at least 2-3 vegetable-based sides
- Offer 1 whole grain option (cornbread, brown rice, quinoa)
- Limit heavy, cream-based sides to 1-2 choices
Colorful sides like bell peppers, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens add visual appeal and essential nutrients. These brighter options balance the protein-heavy chicken main dish.
Consider dietary needs of your guests. Label dishes with common allergens and include plant-based options that everyone can enjoy.
Roast vegetables with herbs and olive oil to please most dietary preferences. Make sides healthier with simple swaps like Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in coleslaw or baked sweet potato fries instead of traditional French fries.
Pairing Drinks with BBQ Chicken and Sides
The right beverages can enhance your BBQ chicken meal by complementing the smoky flavors and balancing the richness of the meat and sides. Choose drinks that refresh the palate between bites for a better barbecue experience.
Best Refreshing Beverages
Classic BBQ Refreshers:
- Sweet Tea – The traditional Southern choice that cuts through rich BBQ flavors
- Lemonade – Tart and sweet balance works perfectly with smoky chicken
- Arnold Palmer (half tea, half lemonade) – Offers the best of both worlds
Fruit-based drinks like watermelon agua fresca or pineapple punch provide a tropical contrast to spicy BBQ sauces. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with fresh lime or cucumber for a clean, refreshing palate cleanser.
Soda lovers should try root beer or cola because their caramel notes enhance BBQ sauce flavors. Make a batch of smoky peach iced tea to mirror the grill’s flavor profile.
Wine and Beer Pairing Tips
Wine Recommendations:
- Dry rosé – Versatile enough for most BBQ styles
- Zinfandel – Fruity notes complement sweet sauces
- Pinot Noir – Light enough for chicken but complex enough for smoke flavors
When you select beer, match intensity with your sauce style. Lighter beers pair well with mild BBQ.
Bolder styles stand up to spicy varieties.
Beer Pairings by Sauce:
| Sauce Type | Beer Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Sweet/Mild | Wheat beer, Pilsner |
| Spicy | IPA, Amber Ale |
| Smoky | Porter, Brown Ale |
Craft beer enthusiasts can try a local pale ale. Its hop character cuts through fatty sides like mac and cheese without overwhelming the chicken.
