What Sides Go with Barbecue Chicken? Top BBQ Side Dishes

Barbecue chicken is a crowd favorite at many gatherings, from family cookouts to summer picnics. But what really sets a great barbecue apart are the delicious side dishes that complement the smoky, savory flavors of the chicken. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of sides, from classic options like coleslaw and potato salad to fresh, light choices and comfort foods. Whether you’re looking for something traditional or a bit more unique, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!

Introduction to Barbecue Chicken

Barbecue chicken has a rich history and is loved across cultures for its juicy, smoky flavor. It’s a staple at cookouts and BBQ parties. But the right side dishes can elevate your meal, making it more enjoyable and memorable. Sides bring balance, add variety, and complement the flavors of the barbecue chicken. In this article, we’ll discover the best sides to serve with barbecue chicken.

Classic Side Dishes for Barbecue Chicken

Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a quintessential side dish for barbecue chicken. Its creamy, tangy flavor provides a perfect contrast to the smoky taste of the chicken.

Traditional Coleslaw Ingredients

• Shredded cabbage
• Carrots
• Mayonnaise
• Vinegar
• Sugar
• Salt and pepper

For a simple yet delicious coleslaw, combine shredded cabbage and carrots with a dressing made of mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well and chill before serving.

Different Variations and Recipes

There are many ways to twist the classic coleslaw recipe. You can add:

• Apple slices for a sweet crunch
• Jalapeños for a spicy kick
• Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter version

Tips for Perfect Coleslaw

• Use fresh, crisp cabbage
• Let the coleslaw sit for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference

Potato Salad

Another beloved side dish is potato salad. It’s creamy, hearty, and complements barbecue chicken perfectly.

Traditional Potato Salad Recipe

• Boiled potatoes
• Mayonnaise
• Mustard
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Pickles
• Onions

Combine boiled potatoes with mayonnaise, a bit of mustard, chopped hard-boiled eggs, pickles, and onions. Season with salt and pepper.

Variations: German, Creamy, Mustard-Based

• German Potato Salad: Uses a vinegar-based dressing with bacon and onions.
• Creamy Potato Salad: Extra mayonnaise or sour cream for added creaminess.
• Mustard-Based Potato Salad: More mustard for a tangier taste.

Pairing Potato Salad with Barbecue Chicken

Potato salad is versatile and can be adjusted to match the flavor profile of your barbecue chicken, whether you prefer it tangy, creamy, or smoky.

Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is a simple yet delightful side dish that goes wonderfully with barbecue chicken.

Grilled Corn on the Cob Recipe

• Fresh corn on the cob
• Butter
• Salt and pepper

Grill the corn until slightly charred, then slather with butter and season with salt and pepper.

Seasoning Ideas

• Sprinkle with chili powder and lime juice
• Add a dusting of Parmesan cheese
• Brush with garlic butter

Why Corn on the Cob Complements Barbecue Chicken

The sweetness and crunch of corn on the cob provide a great contrast to the savory and smoky flavors of barbecue chicken. Plus, it’s a fun and easy side to eat at a BBQ.

Baked Beans

Baked beans are a hearty and flavorful side dish that pairs well with barbecue chicken.

Classic Baked Beans Recipe

• Canned baked beans
• Brown sugar
• Bacon
• Onion
• Mustard

Mix canned baked beans with brown sugar, chopped bacon, diced onions, and a bit of mustard. Bake until bubbly and hot.

Adding Meat or Vegetarian Options

For added depth, you can include:

• Ground beef or sausage for a meaty version
• Bell peppers and mushrooms for a vegetarian option

Flavor Profile that Complements Barbecue Chicken

The sweet and smoky flavor of baked beans is an excellent match for the rich, smoky taste of barbecue chicken. The beans’ hearty texture also adds a satisfying element to the meal.

Stay tuned for the next part where we’ll discuss fresh and light side dishes that are perfect for pairing with barbecue chicken!

Fresh and Light Side Dishes for Barbecue Chicken

Garden Salad

A fresh garden salad is a refreshing side that balances the rich flavors of barbecue chicken. It’s light, crunchy, and easy to make.

Basic Garden Salad Ingredients

• Lettuce (Romaine, iceberg, or mixed greens)
• Tomatoes
• Cucumbers
• Carrots
• Red onions
• Bell peppers

Chop your preferred vegetables and toss them together in a large bowl.

Dressings That Pair Well with Barbecue Chicken

• Vinaigrette: A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
• Ranch: A creamy ranch dressing for a more indulgent option.
• Balsamic: Balsamic dressing adds a sweet-tangy flavor that complements the smoky chicken.

Customizing Your Salad with Seasonal Veggies

• Add avocados for a creamy texture.
• Include radishes for a peppery bite.
• Sprinkle with nuts or seeds for extra crunch.

Fruit Salad

Fruit salad is a sweet and refreshing side that works perfectly with the savory flavors of barbecue chicken.

Ideal Fruits for a Summer Fruit Salad

• Strawberries
• Blueberries
• Pineapple
• Watermelon
• Grapes

Cut the fruits into bite-sized pieces and mix them together.

Dressing Ideas for Fruit Salad

• Honey-Lime: Mix honey and lime juice for a zesty dressing.
• Mint-Yogurt: Combine Greek yogurt with chopped mint and a bit of honey.

How Fruit Salad Balances the Flavors of Barbecue Chicken

The natural sweetness and juiciness of fruit salad provide a refreshing counterpoint to the smoky, savory chicken. It’s also a light option that won’t weigh you down.

Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables are a nutritious and delicious side dish that pairs well with barbecue chicken.

Best Vegetables for Grilling

• Zucchini
• Bell peppers
• Eggplant
• Asparagus
• Mushrooms

Slice the vegetables and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Simple Seasoning Ideas

• Herbs: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil.
• Garlic: Mince garlic and toss it with the vegetables before grilling.
• Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the grilled veggies for a bright finish.

Benefits of Adding Grilled Vegetables to Your Barbecue Spread

Grilled vegetables are not only tasty but also add a healthy element to your meal. Their smoky flavor complements the barbecue chicken, and they provide a satisfying crunch.

Next, we’ll move on to comfort food side dishes that make your barbecue chicken meal even more satisfying!

Comfort Food Side Dishes for Barbecue Chicken

Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Its creamy, cheesy goodness is a perfect match for barbecue chicken.

Classic Mac and Cheese Recipe

• Elbow macaroni
• Butter
• Flour
• Milk
• Cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper

Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. In a separate pot, make a roux with butter and flour, then add milk and cheddar cheese to create a creamy sauce. Mix the macaroni with the sauce and bake until bubbly.

Variations: Baked, Stovetop, with Breadcrumbs

• Baked Mac and Cheese: Top with breadcrumbs and bake for a crispy crust.
• Stovetop Mac and Cheese: Quick and easy, just mix the sauce and pasta on the stovetop.
• With Breadcrumbs: Add a crunchy topping of buttered breadcrumbs.

How Mac and Cheese Complements Barbecue Chicken

The rich, creamy texture of mac and cheese provides a delightful contrast to the smoky, savory flavors of barbecue chicken, making it a crowd-pleaser at any BBQ.

Cornbread

Cornbread is a classic Southern side dish that pairs wonderfully with barbecue chicken.

Traditional Cornbread Recipe

• Cornmeal
• Flour
• Baking powder
• Sugar
• Milk
• Eggs
• Butter

Mix the dry ingredients (cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and sugar) with the wet ingredients (milk, eggs, and melted butter). Pour into a greased baking dish and bake until golden brown.

Sweet vs. Savory Cornbread

• Sweet Cornbread: Add a bit more sugar or honey for a sweeter version.
• Savory Cornbread: Include ingredients like cheddar cheese, jalapeños, or herbs.

Why Cornbread is a Perfect Match for Barbecue Chicken

Cornbread’s slightly sweet and crumbly texture complements the smoky, savory flavors of barbecue chicken. It’s great for soaking up any extra sauce!

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a comforting and versatile side dish that goes well with barbecue chicken.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe

• Potatoes
• Butter
• Milk or cream
• Salt and pepper

Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.

Adding Garlic, Cheese, or Herbs

• Garlic: Mix in roasted garlic for extra flavor.
• Cheese: Stir in grated cheddar or Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
• Herbs: Add fresh chives, parsley, or dill for a herbaceous touch.

Complementing Barbecue Chicken with Mashed Potatoes

The smooth, creamy texture of mashed potatoes balances the rich, smoky flavors of barbecue chicken. Plus, it’s an excellent side for soaking up any delicious BBQ sauce!

Next, we’ll discuss unique and creative side dishes that can make your barbecue chicken meal stand out!

Unique and Creative Side Dishes for Barbecue Chicken

Quinoa Salad

Quinoa salad is a light, nutritious side that pairs well with barbecue chicken, offering a modern twist to your meal.

Ingredients for a Basic Quinoa Salad

• Cooked quinoa
• Cherry tomatoes
• Cucumber
• Red onion
• Feta cheese
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or mint)

Mix cooked quinoa with chopped cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh herbs.

Variations with Vegetables and Dressings

• Mediterranean Style: Add olives, artichokes, and a lemon-olive oil dressing.
• Southwestern Style: Include black beans, corn, and a lime-cilantro dressing.

Nutritional Benefits and Flavor Pairing with Barbecue Chicken

Quinoa is packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy side dish. Its light and fluffy texture pairs well with the hearty, smoky flavor of barbecue chicken.

Couscous Salad

Couscous salad is another creative side that brings a delightful texture and flavor to your barbecue meal.

Basic Couscous Salad Recipe

• Couscous
• Cherry tomatoes
• Cucumber
• Red onion
• Fresh herbs (like parsley and mint)
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil

Prepare couscous according to package instructions, then toss with chopped cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, fresh herbs, lemon juice, and olive oil.

Adding Mediterranean Flavors

• Feta Cheese: Add crumbled feta for a creamy texture.
• Olives: Kalamata olives for a briny touch.
• Dried Fruits: Raisins or dried apricots for a hint of sweetness.

How Couscous Salad Complements Barbecue Chicken

The light, fluffy texture of couscous, combined with fresh vegetables and herbs, provides a refreshing contrast to the smoky, rich flavors of barbecue chicken.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a unique and tasty side that adds a touch of sweetness to your barbecue meal.

Recipe for Crispy Sweet Potato Fries

• Sweet potatoes
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Paprika

Cut sweet potatoes into fries, toss with olive oil, salt, and paprika, and bake until crispy.

Seasoning Ideas

• Cinnamon Sugar: For a sweet twist, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
• Garlic Parmesan: Toss with garlic powder and grated Parmesan cheese.

Health Benefits and Flavor Pairing

Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and fiber, making them a healthier alternative to regular fries. Their natural sweetness and crispy texture pair beautifully with the smoky, savory flavors of barbecue chicken.

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Stay tuned for the next part where we’ll discuss bread and grain side dishes that perfectly complement barbecue chicken!

Bread and Grains for Barbecue Chicken

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic side that brings a burst of flavor and a satisfying crunch to your barbecue meal.

Simple Garlic Bread Recipe

• Baguette or Italian bread
• Butter
• Garlic
• Parsley

Slice the bread and spread a mixture of softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley on each piece. Bake until golden and crispy.

Adding Herbs and Cheese

• Herbs: Sprinkle with rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
• Cheese: Add grated Parmesan or mozzarella for a cheesy twist.

Why Garlic Bread is a Great Side for Barbecue Chicken

The rich, buttery flavor of garlic bread complements the smoky, savory taste of barbecue chicken. Plus, it’s perfect for sopping up any extra sauce.

Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf is a versatile and flavorful side dish that pairs wonderfully with barbecue chicken.

Basic Rice Pilaf Recipe

• Long-grain rice
• Onion
• Chicken broth
• Butter
• Fresh herbs

Sauté the rice and onions in butter until slightly toasted, then cook in chicken broth with fresh herbs until tender.

Adding Nuts, Dried Fruits, and Spices

• Nuts: Mix in toasted almonds or pine nuts for crunch.
• Dried Fruits: Add raisins or dried apricots for a hint of sweetness.
• Spices: Season with cumin, cinnamon, or turmeric for extra depth.

Pairing Rice Pilaf with Barbecue Chicken

The savory, aromatic flavors of rice pilaf balance the rich, smoky taste of barbecue chicken. Its light and fluffy texture also makes it a delightful addition to the meal.

Dinner Rolls

Soft dinner rolls are a comforting and versatile side that pairs well with barbecue chicken.

Soft Dinner Rolls Recipe

• Flour
• Yeast
• Milk
• Butter
• Sugar
• Salt

Combine the ingredients to form a dough, let it rise, then bake until golden brown and fluffy.

Variations: Whole Wheat, Sweet Rolls

• Whole Wheat Rolls: Use whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
• Sweet Rolls: Add a bit of honey or sugar to the dough for a sweeter taste.

How Dinner Rolls Enhance the Meal

Soft, warm dinner rolls are perfect for balancing the smoky flavors of barbecue chicken. They’re great for making mini sandwiches or just enjoying on the side.

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In the next part, we’ll dive into international side dishes that add an exotic touch to your barbecue chicken meal!

International Side Dishes for Barbecue Chicken

Mexican Street Corn

Mexican street corn, or elote, is a flavorful and spicy side that adds a vibrant touch to your barbecue meal.

Recipe for Elote (Mexican Street Corn)

• Corn on the cob
• Mayonnaise
• Cotija cheese
• Chili powder
• Lime juice
• Cilantro

Grill the corn until it’s slightly charred. Spread mayonnaise on the corn, then sprinkle with crumbled Cotija cheese and chili powder. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.

Seasoning and Toppings

• Butter: Swap mayonnaise for butter if you prefer.
• Tajin: Use Tajin seasoning for a tangy, spicy kick.
• Hot Sauce: Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.

How It Complements Barbecue Chicken

The creamy, tangy flavors of elote pair wonderfully with the smoky taste of barbecue chicken. It’s a delicious way to bring some Mexican flair to your BBQ.

Greek Salad

Greek salad is a fresh and zesty side dish that pairs well with barbecue chicken, offering a refreshing contrast.

Traditional Greek Salad Ingredients

• Tomatoes
• Cucumbers
• Red onions
• Kalamata olives
• Feta cheese
• Olive oil
• Oregano

Chop the vegetables and combine with olives and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano.

Best Dressings for Greek Salad

• Lemon-Olive Oil: A simple mix of lemon juice and olive oil.
• Red Wine Vinegar: Red wine vinegar with a bit of olive oil and oregano.

Pairing Greek Salad with Barbecue Chicken

The crisp, fresh vegetables and tangy feta cheese provide a refreshing balance to the rich, smoky flavors of barbecue chicken. It’s a light and healthy side option.

Asian Slaw

Asian slaw is a crunchy and flavorful side that brings an exotic twist to your barbecue meal.

Ingredients for a Basic Asian Slaw

• Cabbage
• Carrots
• Red bell pepper
• Green onions
• Cilantro

Shred the cabbage and carrots, and slice the bell pepper and green onions thinly. Toss with chopped cilantro.

Flavor Profile and Dressing Ideas

• Soy-Ginger Dressing: Soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and rice vinegar.
• Peanut Dressing: Peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and honey.

How Asian Slaw Enhances the Barbecue Experience

The crunchy texture and tangy, savory flavors of Asian slaw provide a unique contrast to the smoky taste of barbecue chicken. It’s a delightful way to add some Asian-inspired flavors to your BBQ.

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Next, we’ll look at desserts to pair with barbecue chicken that can round out your meal perfectly!

Desserts to Pair with Barbecue Chicken

Apple Pie

Apple pie is a classic American dessert that pairs wonderfully with barbecue chicken.

Classic Apple Pie Recipe

• Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• Sugar
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Lemon juice
• Pie crust

Slice the apples and mix with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a bit of lemon juice. Fill the pie crust with the apple mixture and cover with another crust. Bake until golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Add a drizzle of caramel sauce.
• Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.

Why Apple Pie is Perfect for Barbecue

The warm, spiced flavors of apple pie complement the smoky taste of barbecue chicken. It’s a comforting and satisfying way to end a BBQ meal.

Ice Cream

Ice cream is a refreshing dessert that pairs well with the rich flavors of barbecue chicken.

Best Ice Cream Flavors to Pair with Barbecue Chicken

• Vanilla: A classic choice that goes with anything.
• Butter Pecan: Adds a nutty, buttery flavor.
• Strawberry: Offers a sweet and fruity contrast.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought

• Homemade: Fresh and customizable with your favorite flavors.
• Store-Bought: Convenient and comes in a wide variety of flavors.

Serving Ideas

• Serve in bowls or cones for easy eating.
• Add toppings like chocolate chips, sprinkles, or fresh fruit.

Berry Cobbler

Berry cobbler is a sweet and tangy dessert that pairs well with barbecue chicken.

Simple Berry Cobbler Recipe

• Mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Sugar
• Lemon juice
• Flour
• Butter
• Biscuits or pie crust

Mix the berries with sugar and lemon juice, then pour into a baking dish. Top with dollops of biscuit dough or a pie crust. Bake until the berries are bubbly and the crust is golden brown.

Variations with Different Fruits

• Peach Cobbler: Use fresh or canned peaches.
• Apple Cobbler: Substitute apples for the berries.
• Mixed Fruit Cobbler: Combine your favorite fruits.

How Berry Cobbler Complements Barbecue Chicken

The sweet and tart flavors of the berries provide a refreshing contrast to the smoky, savory taste of barbecue chicken. It’s a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that everyone will love.

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Next, we’ll explore drinks that pair well with barbecue chicken to complete your BBQ meal!

Drinks to Pair with Barbecue Chicken

Iced Tea

Iced tea is a classic and refreshing beverage that pairs perfectly with barbecue chicken.

Classic Iced Tea Recipe

• Black tea bags
• Water
• Sugar
• Lemon slices

Brew black tea bags in boiling water, then let it cool. Sweeten with sugar to taste and serve over ice with lemon slices.

Variations: Sweet Tea, Flavored Iced Tea

• Sweet Tea: Add more sugar for a traditional Southern sweet tea.
• Flavored Iced Tea: Infuse with flavors like peach, raspberry, or mint for a fruity twist.

How Iced Tea Complements Barbecue Chicken

The crisp, refreshing taste of iced tea helps balance the smoky and savory flavors of barbecue chicken. It’s a cooling beverage that’s perfect for hot summer days.

Lemonade

Lemonade is another classic drink that pairs well with barbecue chicken.

Homemade Lemonade Recipe

• Fresh lemons
• Water
• Sugar

Squeeze the juice from fresh lemons and mix with water and sugar. Adjust the sweetness to your liking and serve over ice.

Adding Herbs and Fruits

• Mint Lemonade: Add fresh mint leaves for a cool, refreshing flavor.
• Berry Lemonade: Mix in strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a fruity variation.

Refreshing Pairing with Barbecue Chicken

The tart and sweet flavor of lemonade provides a bright contrast to the rich taste of barbecue chicken. It’s a thirst-quenching option that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings.

Sparkling Water

Sparkling water is a light and fizzy drink that complements the flavors of barbecue chicken.

Best Sparkling Water Flavors for Barbecue

• Lime: A zesty and refreshing option.
• Berry: Adds a hint of sweetness.
• Cucumber: Offers a crisp and cool taste.

Homemade Sparkling Water

If you have a soda maker, you can easily create your own flavored sparkling water by adding a splash of fruit juice or fresh fruit slices.

Serving Ideas

Serve sparkling water over ice with a slice of lemon or lime. For a festive touch, add a few fresh berries or a sprig of mint.

Arnold Palmer

An Arnold Palmer, a mix of iced tea and lemonade, is a delightful beverage that pairs excellently with barbecue chicken.

Arnold Palmer Recipe

• Iced tea
• Lemonade

Mix equal parts iced tea and lemonade. Adjust the proportions to taste and serve over ice.

Variations

• Sweet Arnold Palmer: Use sweet tea for a sweeter drink.
• Herbal Arnold Palmer: Add a sprig of fresh mint or basil for an herbal twist.

How It Complements Barbecue Chicken

The combination of the bold flavors of iced tea with the tartness of lemonade makes an Arnold Palmer a perfect match for the savory and smoky notes of barbecue chicken.

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Next, we’ll cover frequently asked questions (FAQs) about sides for barbecue chicken to help you make the most of your BBQ meal!

FAQs Section

These FAQs should help you plan the perfect sides for your barbecue chicken, ensuring a delicious and well-rounded meal for your guests. Stay tuned for our conclusion to wrap up everything you need to know about the best sides for barbecue chicken!

Conclusion

Choosing the right sides for barbecue chicken can transform your meal into an unforgettable feast. Whether you prefer classic sides like coleslaw and potato salad, fresh and light options like garden salad and fruit salad, or comfort foods such as mac and cheese and mashed potatoes, there’s something to suit every palate.

Recap of Key Points

• Classic Sides: Coleslaw, potato salad, corn on the cob, and baked beans are timeless choices that complement the smoky flavors of barbecue chicken.
• Fresh and Light Sides: Garden salad, fruit salad, and grilled vegetables offer a refreshing balance to the richness of the chicken.
• Comfort Foods: Macaroni and cheese, cornbread, and mashed potatoes provide a hearty, satisfying addition to your meal.
• Unique Sides: Quinoa salad, couscous salad, and sweet potato fries add a modern twist and bring new flavors to the table.
• Bread and Grains: Garlic bread, rice pilaf, and dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up sauces and adding variety to your spread.
• International Sides: Mexican street corn, Greek salad, and Asian slaw introduce global flavors that pair beautifully with barbecue chicken.
• Desserts: Apple pie, ice cream, and berry cobbler are delightful ways to end your barbecue on a sweet note.
• Drinks: Iced tea, lemonade, sparkling water, and Arnold Palmers keep your guests refreshed and complement the smoky flavors of the chicken.

Final Thoughts

Creating a memorable barbecue chicken meal involves more than just grilling the perfect chicken. The sides, desserts, and drinks you choose play a crucial role in enhancing the overall dining experience. By mixing and matching these diverse options, you can cater to various tastes and preferences, making your barbecue a hit with everyone.

So, next time you fire up the grill for some delicious barbecue chicken, consider trying out some of these side dishes, desserts, and drinks. Not only will they complement the flavors of the chicken, but they will also add variety and excitement to your meal. Enjoy your barbecue, and happy cooking!

For more ideas on what to serve with barbecue chicken, check out this BBQ Chicken Sides Guide.