The Best Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken Salad

ByJennifer Lucks

Chicken salad is a classic dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is light and flavorful, and it can be served as a main course or as a side dish.

When paired with the right side dishes, chicken salad can be a delicious and satisfying meal. In this article, we will discuss some of the best side dishes to serve with chicken salad. We will also provide tips on how to make your chicken salad even more delicious.

So whether you are planning a summer picnic or a simple weeknight meal, be sure to check out our list of the best side dishes to serve with chicken salad.

Side Dish Ingredients Instructions
Macaroni Salad
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles
  • 1/4 cup chopped pimentos
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  1. Cook the macaroni according to the package directions.
  2. While the macaroni is cooking, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, celery, onion, pickles, and pimentos in a large bowl.
  3. Drain the macaroni and add it to the bowl with the dressing. Stir to combine.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Coleslaw
  • 1 head cabbage, shredded
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  1. Shred the cabbage.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add the cabbage and green onions to the bowl with the dressing. Stir to combine.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Potato Salad
  • 3 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles
  • 1/4 cup chopped chives
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  1. Cook the potatoes in a large pot of boiling salted water until tender.
  2. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
  3. While the potatoes are cooling, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, celery, onion, pickles, chives, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
  4. Add the potatoes to the bowl with the dressing. Stir to combine.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Types of Chicken Salad

Chicken salad is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. It is made with cooked chicken, mayonnaise, celery, and other vegetables. There are many different variations of chicken salad, each with its own unique flavor and texture.

Some of the most popular types of chicken salad include:

  • Traditional chicken salad: This is the classic version of chicken salad, made with cooked chicken, mayonnaise, celery, and chopped onion.
  • Chunky chicken salad: This version of chicken salad is made with larger pieces of chicken and vegetables. It is often served with fruit, such as apples or grapes.
  • Lightened-up chicken salad: This version of chicken salad is made with reduced-fat mayonnaise or yogurt. It is also lower in calories and fat than traditional chicken salad.
  • Spicy chicken salad: This version of chicken salad is made with hot sauce or cayenne pepper. It is a great way to add a kick of heat to your meal.
  • Grilled chicken salad: This version of chicken salad is made with grilled chicken. It is a great way to enjoy the flavor of grilled chicken without having to cook it yourself.

No matter what your taste, there is sure to be a type of chicken salad that you will enjoy. Experiment with different ingredients and flavors until you find the perfect combination for you.

What to Serve with Chicken Salad

Chicken salad is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Some of the most popular sides for chicken salad include:

  • Potato salad: This classic side dish is a great way to complement the creamy flavor of chicken salad.
  • Macaroni salad: This creamy and cheesy side dish is another great option for chicken salad.
  • Coleslaw: This crunchy and tangy side dish is a refreshing way to round out your meal.
  • Fruit salad: A fresh and fruity side dish is a great way to add some sweetness to your meal.
  • Tortillas chips: Crispy tortilla chips are a great way to add some crunch to your chicken salad.

No matter what sides you choose, be sure to serve them in a way that complements the flavors of the chicken salad. For example, if you are serving a light and refreshing chicken salad, you might want to serve it with crisp and refreshing sides, such as fruit salad or tortilla chips. If you are serving a hearty and filling chicken salad, you might want to serve it with heartier sides, such as potato salad or macaroni salad.

With so many different options to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect sides to complement your chicken salad. Experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect one for you.

What Goes With Chicken Salad As A Side?

Chicken salad is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or as a side dish. It is often served on a bed of lettuce or mixed greens, but it can also be served on bread, crackers, or tortillas. There are many different ways to enjoy chicken salad, and the perfect side dish will depend on your personal preferences.

Here are some ideas for side dishes that go well with chicken salad:

  • Salad: A simple salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots is a classic choice for serving with chicken salad. You can also add other vegetables, such as avocado, red onion, or bell peppers. For a more flavorful salad, try adding a homemade dressing or vinaigrette.
  • Bread: Crusty bread, such as French bread or sourdough bread, is a great way to soak up the dressing from the chicken salad. You can also serve chicken salad on toasted bread, croutons, or biscuits.
  • Crackers: Crackers are a light and crunchy option for serving with chicken salad. They are also a good choice for parties or potlucks, as they can be easily transported.
  • Tortillas: Tortillas are a great way to turn chicken salad into a wrap or burrito. You can fill the tortillas with chicken salad, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and other vegetables.
  • Fruit: Fresh fruit is a healthy and refreshing way to round out a meal of chicken salad. Try serving chicken salad with sliced apples, oranges, or grapes. You can also add fruit to the chicken salad itself.
  • Potatoes: Potatoes are a hearty and filling side dish that goes well with chicken salad. You can serve roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, or french fries with chicken salad.
  • Vegetables: Vegetables are a healthy and nutritious way to add color and flavor to a meal of chicken salad. Try serving chicken salad with roasted vegetables, steamed vegetables, or a vegetable salad.

No matter what side dishes you choose, you are sure to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal of chicken salad.

Recipes for Chicken Salad

There are many different recipes for chicken salad, and you can easily customize them to suit your own tastes. Here are a few simple and delicious recipes to get you started:

Basic Chicken Salad

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1/2 cup celery, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, celery, red onion, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the dressing to the chicken mixture and stir to combine.
4. Serve the chicken salad on a bed of lettuce or mixed greens.

Spicy Chicken Salad

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1/2 cup celery, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup chopped carrots
  • 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/4 cup hot sauce
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, celery, red onion, carrots, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the hot sauce, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the dressing to the chicken mixture and stir to combine.
4. Serve the chicken salad on a bed of lettuce or mixed greens.

Tarragon Chicken Salad

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1/2 cup celery, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, celery, red onion, walnuts, mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, tarragon, salt, and pepper.
2. Serve

What Goes With Chicken Salad As A Side?

A. There are many different side dishes that can be served with chicken salad, depending on your personal preferences and the occasion. Some popular options include:

  • Fruit: Fresh or dried fruit, such as grapes, apples, or strawberries, can add a touch of sweetness and nutrition to your chicken salad.
  • Vegetables: Cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, and celery are all good choices for adding crunch and color to your chicken salad.
  • Grains: Quinoa, brown rice, or couscous can provide a hearty base for your chicken salad.
  • Other Proteins: Hard-boiled eggs, shredded chicken, or tofu can add additional protein and flavor to your chicken salad.
  • Dressings: A variety of dressings can be used to flavor your chicken salad, such as ranch, mayonnaise, or vinaigrette.

B. When choosing side dishes to serve with chicken salad, it is important to consider the following factors:

  • The main dish: The side dishes you choose should complement the flavors of the chicken salad. For example, if you are serving a creamy chicken salad, you might want to choose a lighter side dish, such as fruit or vegetables.
  • The occasion: The side dishes you choose should be appropriate for the occasion. For example, if you are serving chicken salad at a formal dinner party, you might want to choose more elegant side dishes, such as asparagus or roasted potatoes.
  • Your personal preferences: The side dishes you choose should be something you and your guests will enjoy. If you have any dietary restrictions, be sure to choose side dishes that are compatible with your needs.

C. Here are some additional tips for serving chicken salad:

  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients. The quality of the ingredients you use will make a big difference in the taste of your chicken salad.
  • Don’t overdress the salad. A little bit of dressing goes a long way. Too much dressing can make the salad soggy and heavy.
  • Serve the salad at room temperature. Chicken salad is best served at room temperature. If you serve it too cold, it will be difficult to eat.
  • Enjoy! Chicken salad is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed on a variety of occasions.

    :

there are many different side dishes that can be paired with chicken salad. Some of the most popular options include fruits, vegetables, breads, and salads. When choosing a side dish, it is important to consider the flavors and textures of the chicken salad in order to create a balanced and flavorful meal. By following these tips, you can create a delicious and satisfying chicken salad that everyone will enjoy.

Author Profile

Jennifer Lucks
Jennifer Lucks
With over 30 years experience, Lucks Caterers is a second generation family owned and operated business. We are committed to maintaining our family tradition of outstanding quality, excellence and reliability.

Our European trained head chef develops beautiful and delicious foods to catch the eye and satisfy the palate. Lucks provides you with imaginative and affordable menu selections.

In 2024, we embarked on a new chapter in our journey as we expanded our horizons to share our wealth of knowledge and expertise with a broader audience. With a keen focus on event management and culinary arts, we launched an informative blog aimed at empowering individuals with the insights and inspiration they need to plan unforgettable events and elevate their culinary skills.

Thank you for considering Lucks Caterers as your partner in culinary excellence. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to collaborate with you and create unforgettable memories together.