Table of contents
What Goes with Barbecue Chicken? Best Sides and Pairings
When it comes to barbecue chicken, picking the right sides can make or break your meal. Whether you’re throwing a summer cookout or just whipping up a quick dinner, having the perfect side dishes can turn your barbecue chicken from good to great. In this article, we’ll cover everything from classic side dishes to creative and healthy options. You’ll also find answers to some common questions about what goes with barbecue chicken. Let’s dive in!
Classic Side Dishes
Sweet Baked Beans
Sweet baked beans are a staple at any barbecue. They’re rich, flavorful, and pair perfectly with the smoky taste of barbecue chicken. To make them, you’ll need canned beans, brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, and a bit of bacon for added flavor. Cook them slow and low for that perfect, gooey consistency.
Rich and Creamy Coleslaw
No barbecue is complete without coleslaw. This classic side dish is a must-have because it adds a nice crunch and tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the barbecue sauce. A simple coleslaw recipe includes shredded cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together and let it chill in the fridge before serving.
Smoked Mac and Cheese
Smoked mac and cheese takes comfort food to the next level. This dish combines the creamy goodness of mac and cheese with a hint of smokiness, making it an ideal partner for barbecue chicken. Use a blend of cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and mozzarella for the best flavor. Don’t forget to add a touch of paprika for an extra kick.
Buttery Cornbread
Buttery cornbread is another classic that goes hand-in-hand with barbecue chicken. It’s slightly sweet, moist, and perfectly buttery. To make it, you’ll need cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, milk, eggs, and butter. Bake it until golden brown and serve it warm with a pat of butter on top.
Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a simple yet delicious side that works wonderfully with barbecue chicken. You can either grill it or boil it, then slather it with butter and sprinkle some salt on top. For a bit of extra flavor, try adding a squeeze of lime juice or a sprinkle of chili powder.
Salads
Tomato Cucumber Salad
A tomato cucumber salad is refreshing and easy to make. This salad brings a burst of freshness that pairs well with the rich flavors of barbecue chicken. All you need are tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olive oil, vinegar, and some salt and pepper. Toss everything together and serve chilled.
Shaved Fennel and Celery Salad
For something a bit different, try a shaved fennel and celery salad. This salad offers a unique crunch and a slightly sweet flavor that contrasts nicely with barbecue chicken. Slice the fennel and celery thinly, then toss with a light dressing made of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Apple and Walnut Salad
An apple and walnut salad is another great option. The sweetness of the apples and the crunch of the walnuts create a delightful texture that complements barbecue chicken perfectly. Combine sliced apples, walnuts, mixed greens, and a simple honey mustard dressing for a delicious salad.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll cover modern and creative side dishes to pair with barbecue chicken!
Modern and Creative Sides
Innovative Salads
Hawaiian Coleslaw
If you want to put a tropical twist on your barbecue, Hawaiian coleslaw is a fantastic choice. This version includes pineapple, cabbage, carrots, sesame seeds, and a ginger-soy lime vinaigrette. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors makes it a refreshing side that pairs beautifully with barbecue chicken.
Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a healthier side. Mix cooked quinoa with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a light lemon vinaigrette. For extra flavor, add some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Quinoa’s slight nuttiness complements the smoky barbecue chicken well. For more on the benefits of quinoa, check out this Quinoa Nutrition Facts.
Vegetables
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a classic yet modern choice that brings out the natural flavors of the veggies. Some great options include bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, and mushrooms. Drizzle them with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill until they’re tender. These veggies add a wonderful charred flavor that goes perfectly with barbecue chicken. Learn more about grilling vegetables here.
Steamed or Stir-Fried Vegetables
If you prefer a lighter side, steamed or stir-fried vegetables are excellent options. Steaming preserves the natural flavors and nutrients, while stir-frying adds a bit of crunch. Broccoli, green beans, and snap peas are all great choices. Simply season with a bit of salt, pepper, and garlic for a quick and healthy side dish.
Starches
Potato Salad
Potato salad is a barbecue staple, but you can give it a modern twist by trying different recipes. Classic potato salad is made with mayonnaise, mustard, and hard-boiled eggs. For a healthier version, try a vinegar-based potato salad with herbs and a touch of olive oil. Both versions are tasty and pair well with the rich flavors of barbecue chicken.
Rice Dishes
Rice dishes are versatile and can be a great complement to barbecue chicken. A simple herbed rice pilaf or a zesty lime cilantro rice can add a flavorful touch to your meal. Rice dishes are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for busy cooks.
Noodles
Noodles might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of barbecue, but they can be a delightful surprise. Cold noodle salads with sesame dressing or warm garlic butter noodles can add a unique twist to your barbecue spread. These dishes are easy to make and can be served hot or cold.
Stay tuned for Part 4, where we’ll explore light and healthy options to pair with barbecue chicken!
Light and Healthy Options
Healthy Salads
Green Salad
A green salad is a simple, yet refreshing side that pairs wonderfully with barbecue chicken. Combine fresh mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Dress it lightly with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. You can also add some avocado slices or nuts for extra texture and flavor. This light option balances out the richness of barbecue chicken perfectly.
Grain Bowls
Grain bowls are a great way to incorporate healthy grains and vegetables into your meal. Start with a base of quinoa, brown rice, or farro, and add a variety of colorful veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and spinach. Top it off with a light dressing made from olive oil and lemon juice, and you’ve got a nutritious side that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Light Vegetables
Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus is a simple and healthy side that complements barbecue chicken well. Toss the asparagus with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in the oven until tender. For added flavor, you can sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top before serving. This dish is quick to prepare and adds a nice, crunchy texture to your meal.
Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” are a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. They’re light, healthy, and easy to make. Use a spiralizer to turn zucchinis into noodles, then sauté them with a bit of olive oil, garlic, and cherry tomatoes. You can serve them warm or cold, and they provide a fresh, crisp contrast to the smoky barbecue chicken.
Stay tuned for Part 5, where we’ll discuss delicious desserts that pair well with barbecue chicken!
Desserts to Pair with BBQ Chicken
Sweet Endings
Fruit Salad
Fruit salad is a light and refreshing way to end your barbecue meal. Use a mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, melon, and kiwi. For an added touch, drizzle a bit of honey or sprinkle some mint leaves on top. This dessert is not only delicious but also helps cleanse the palate after a rich meal.
Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple is a simple yet delightful dessert that pairs wonderfully with barbecue chicken. The grilling process caramelizes the natural sugars in the pineapple, bringing out a sweet and smoky flavor. Cut the pineapple into rings or wedges, grill until you see char marks, and serve warm. You can even sprinkle a bit of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Simple Desserts
Berry Parfait
A berry parfait is an easy and elegant dessert that can be made in minutes. Layer fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries with Greek yogurt and a bit of granola. This dessert is light, healthy, and provides a satisfying end to your barbecue meal.
Lemon Sorbet
Lemon sorbet is another excellent choice for a refreshing dessert. Its tangy and sweet flavor is perfect for cleansing the palate. Serve it in small bowls or even in hollowed-out lemon halves for a fun presentation.
Stay tuned for Part 6, where we’ll talk about drinks that complement barbecue chicken!
Drinks to Complement BBQ Chicken
Beverages
Lemonade
Lemonade is a classic choice that pairs wonderfully with barbecue chicken. Its tart and sweet flavor provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and smoky taste of the chicken. You can make a simple lemonade by mixing fresh lemon juice, water, and sugar. For an extra twist, add some fresh mint leaves or a splash of sparkling water.
Iced Tea
Iced tea is another great option that complements the flavors of barbecue chicken. Whether you prefer it sweetened or unsweetened, iced tea offers a cool and refreshing drink to wash down your meal. You can also infuse your tea with flavors like peach, lemon, or mint for a unique twist.
Fruit-Infused Water
Fruit-infused water is a healthy and flavorful way to stay hydrated during your barbecue. Simply add slices of fruits like strawberries, oranges, or cucumbers to a pitcher of water. Let it sit for a few hours to allow the flavors to blend. This drink is not only refreshing but also adds a subtle sweetness that pairs well with barbecue chicken.
Sparkling Water with Lime
If you’re looking for something light and bubbly, sparkling water with a squeeze of lime is a perfect choice. The fizz of the sparkling water combined with the tartness of the lime creates a refreshing drink that cuts through the richness of barbecue chicken.
Stay tuned for Part 7, where we’ll address common questions in the FAQs section!
FAQs Section
Several vegetables pair wonderfully with BBQ chicken. Grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, and mushrooms add a smoky flavor that complements the chicken. Steamed or stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, and snap peas are also excellent choices for a lighter side.
Healthy side dishes for BBQ chicken include green salads, quinoa salad, roasted asparagus, and zucchini noodles. These sides are not only nutritious but also add a variety of textures and flavors to your meal, making it more enjoyable without being too heavy.
Absolutely! Pasta can be a great side for BBQ chicken. Cold pasta salads with a light vinaigrette or warm pasta dishes like garlic butter noodles can add a delightful twist to your meal. Just ensure the flavors complement the barbecue sauce.
Good starches to pair with BBQ chicken include potato salad, rice dishes, and cornbread. These sides provide a hearty addition to your meal, balancing out the rich flavors of the chicken. For a healthier option, try a grain bowl with quinoa or brown rice.
Desserts that pair well with BBQ chicken include fruit salad, grilled pineapple, berry parfait, and lemon sorbet. These desserts are light and refreshing,
providing a sweet finish without being overly heavy. The natural sweetness of the fruits and the tangy notes in lemon sorbet help cleanse the palate after a rich barbecue meal.
Conclusion
Pairing the right sides and drinks with barbecue chicken can turn a simple meal into a delightful experience. From traditional favorites like sweet baked beans and coleslaw to modern and healthy options like quinoa salad and roasted asparagus, there’s a side dish for every taste. Refreshing drinks like lemonade and iced tea complement the smoky flavors of the chicken, while light desserts such as fruit salad and lemon sorbet provide a sweet finish.
Remember, the key to a great barbecue chicken meal is balance. Mix and match different sides to find your perfect combination, and don’t be afraid to try something new. With these suggestions, you’re sure to impress your guests and enjoy a fantastic meal. Happy grilling!
For more, check out this BBQ Chicken Menu: Delicious Recipes, Sides, and Tips.