10 Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is a summer staple, but it can be easy to get bored with the same old sides. From grilled vegetables to salads to fruit, there are endless possibilities when it comes to what to serve with grilled chicken. To help you narrow down your options, we’ve put together a list of 10 of our favorite sides that go great with grilled chicken. Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or something hearty and satisfying, we’ve got you covered.
So fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy some delicious grilled chicken with these 10 great sides!
| Side Dish | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Macaroni Salad |
– 1 pound elbow macaroni, cooked – 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 pimento peppers – Salt and pepper to taste |
1. In a large bowl, combine the macaroni, mayonnaise, sour cream, celery, onion, and pimento peppers. 2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 3. 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 – 1/4 cup chopped celery |
1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. 2. Stir until well combined. 3. Fold in the green onions and celery. 4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. |
| Corn on the Cob |
– 6 ears corn, shucked – 1/4 cup melted butter – 1/4 cup chili powder – 1/4 cup brown sugar – 1/4 teaspoon salt – 1/8 teaspoon black pepper |
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat. 2. Brush the corn with the melted butter. 3. In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. 4. Sprinkle the corn with the spice mixture. 5. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, or until the kernels are tender and slightly charred. 6. Serve immediately. |
| Baked Potatoes |
– 4 large potatoes, scrubbed and dried – 1 tablespoon olive oil – 1 teaspoon salt – 1/2 teaspoon black pepper |
1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). 2. Pierce the potatoes all over with a fork. 3. Brush the potatoes with the olive oil. 4. Sprinkle the potatoes with the salt and pepper. 5. Bake the potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender and cooked through. 6. Serve immediately. |
Grilled chicken is a popular dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal. It is a versatile protein that can be paired with a variety of sides, making it a great option for any occasion.
In this article, we will discuss some of the best sides to serve with grilled chicken. We will cover a variety of options, including salads, vegetables, and other dishes. We will also provide tips on how to choose the right sides for your grilled chicken meal.
Salads
Salads are a great way to add fresh vegetables and healthy fats to your grilled chicken meal. They can also help to balance out the richness of the chicken.
Some of the best salads to serve with grilled chicken include:
- Green salads. Green salads are a classic choice for grilled chicken. They are typically made with a variety of greens, such as lettuce, spinach, and arugula. You can also add other vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots. For a dressing, you can use a simple vinaigrette or a more flavorful option, such as a honey-mustard dressing.
- Potato salads. Potato salads are another popular choice for grilled chicken. They are typically made with boiled or roasted potatoes, celery, onions, and mayonnaise. You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots, peas, and corn. For a more flavorful option, you can try a potato salad with bacon, blue cheese, or chives.
- Pasta salads. Pasta salads are a great way to use up leftover grilled chicken. They are typically made with cooked pasta, grilled chicken, vegetables, and a dressing. You can use any type of pasta you like, and you can also add other vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers. For a dressing, you can use a simple vinaigrette or a more flavorful option, such as a pesto dressing or a sun-dried tomato dressing.
- Fruit salads. Fruit salads are a refreshing and healthy choice for grilled chicken. They are typically made with a variety of fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, and grapes. You can also add other fruits, such as apples, oranges, and bananas. For a dressing, you can use a simple vinaigrette or a flavored honey-lemon dressing.
- Other salads. There are many other salads that you can serve with grilled chicken. Some popular options include:
- Caesar salad
- Cobb salad
- Greek salad
- Tuna salad
- Chicken salad
Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your grilled chicken meal. They can be grilled on the same grill as the chicken, or you can cook them separately.
Some of the best vegetables to grill with chicken include:
- Grilled vegetables. Grilled vegetables are a classic choice for grilled chicken. They are typically made with a variety of vegetables, such as zucchini, squash, peppers, and onions. You can also add other vegetables, such as tomatoes, mushrooms, and asparagus. For a marinade, you can use a simple olive oil and lemon juice marinade or a more flavorful option, such as a balsamic vinegar marinade or a teriyaki marinade.
- Roasted vegetables. Roasted vegetables are another great option for grilled chicken. They are typically made with a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts. You can also add other vegetables, such as tomatoes, onions, and peppers. For a dressing, you can use a simple olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing or a more flavorful option, such as a pesto dressing or a honey-mustard dressing.
- Steamed vegetables. Steamed vegetables are a healthier option for grilled chicken. They are typically made with a variety of vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots. You can also add other vegetables, such as tomatoes, onions, and peppers. For a dressing, you can use a simple olive oil and lemon juice dressing or a more flavorful option, such as a balsamic vinegar dressing or a teriyaki marinade.
- Raw vegetables. Raw vegetables are a refreshing and healthy option for grilled chicken. They are typically made with a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and cucumbers. You can also add other vegetables, such as tomatoes, peppers, and radishes. For a dressing, you can use a simple olive oil and lemon juice dressing or a more flavorful option, such as a ranch dressing or a balsamic vinegar dressing.
- Other vegetables. There are many other vegetables that you can serve with grilled chicken. Some popular options include:
- Corn on the cob
- Baked potatoes
- Mashed potatoes
- Sweet potatoes
- French fries
Other Sides
In addition to salads and vegetables
3. Breads and Grains
Grilled chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of breads and grains. Here are some of the best options:
- Cornbread is a classic side dish for grilled chicken. It is made with cornmeal, flour, eggs, milk, and butter, and it is typically baked in a cast-iron skillet. Cornbread is a hearty and flavorful side dish that pairs well with the smoky flavor of grilled chicken.
- Biscuits are another great option for grilled chicken. They are made with flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, milk, and butter, and they are typically baked in a muffin tin. Biscuits are light and fluffy, and they have a slightly sweet flavor that complements the grilled chicken.
- Rolls are a good option for grilled chicken if you are looking for something a little more substantial. They are made with flour, yeast, sugar, salt, milk, and butter, and they are typically baked in a loaf pan. Rolls are soft and chewy, and they have a slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the grilled chicken.
- Pita bread is a great option for grilled chicken if you are looking for something that is easy to eat on the go. Pita bread is made with flour, water, yeast, salt, and olive oil, and it is typically baked in a hot oven. Pita bread is light and fluffy, and it has a slightly chewy texture.
- Rice is a good option for grilled chicken if you are looking for something that is filling and nutritious. Rice is made with rice grains, water, and salt, and it is typically cooked in a rice cooker. Rice is a versatile side dish that can be flavored with a variety of herbs and spices.
- Quinoa is a good option for grilled chicken if you are looking for something that is gluten-free and high in protein. Quinoa is made with quinoa grains, water, and salt, and it is typically cooked in a rice cooker. Quinoa is a light and fluffy side dish that has a slightly nutty flavor.
- Couscous is a good option for grilled chicken if you are looking for something that is light and refreshing. Couscous is made with couscous grains, water, and salt, and it is typically cooked in a couscous maker. Couscous is a versatile side dish that can be flavored with a variety of herbs and spices.
4. Dips and Sauces
Grilled chicken is a great dish to serve with a variety of dips and sauces. Here are some of the best options:
- Ranch dressing is a classic dip for grilled chicken. It is made with mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, herbs, and spices. Ranch dressing is a creamy and tangy dip that pairs well with the grilled chicken.
- Blue cheese dressing is another great option for grilled chicken. It is made with blue cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and herbs. Blue cheese dressing is a creamy and tangy dip that has a slightly sharp flavor.
- Honey mustard dressing is a good option for grilled chicken if you are looking for something sweet and tangy. It is made with honey, mustard, mayonnaise, and herbs. Honey mustard dressing is a flavorful and versatile dip that pairs well with the grilled chicken.
- Ketchup is a good option for grilled chicken if you are looking for something simple and classic. Ketchup is made with tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and spices. Ketchup is a tangy and sweet dip that pairs well with the grilled chicken.
- BBQ sauce is a good option for grilled chicken if you are looking for something smoky and flavorful. BBQ sauce is made with tomato sauce, vinegar, sugar, and spices. BBQ sauce is a rich and flavorful dip that pairs well with the grilled chicken.
- Tahini sauce is a good option for grilled chicken if you are looking for something creamy and flavorful. Tahini sauce is made with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and water. Tahini sauce is a versatile dip that can be flavored with a variety of herbs and spices.
- Salsa is a good option for grilled chicken if you are looking for something spicy and flavorful. Salsa is made with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices. Salsa is a fresh and flavorful dip that pairs well with the grilled chicken.
Grilled chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes and dips. By choosing the right sides and dips, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
What are some good sides to serve with grilled chicken?
- Vegetables: Grilled or roasted vegetables are a classic side dish for grilled chicken. Some popular choices include asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions.
- Salads: A fresh salad is a light and healthy option to serve with grilled chicken. You can make a simple salad with greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots, or you can create a more elaborate salad with grilled chicken, avocado, and blue cheese.
- Potatoes: Potatoes are another popular side dish for grilled chicken. You can make them mashed, roasted, or fried.
- Grains: Grilled chicken also pairs well with grains, such as rice, quinoa, or couscous.
- Bread: A slice of crusty bread is a simple but delicious side dish for grilled chicken. You can also serve grilled chicken sandwiches with bread.
What are some tips for grilling chicken?
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. This will help to prevent the chicken from burning.
- Oil the chicken before grilling. This will help to prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill.
- Grill the chicken for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to turn the chicken halfway through cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making it more flavorful.
What are some common mistakes people make when grilling chicken?
- Not preheating the grill. This can cause the chicken to stick to the grill and burn.
- Not oiling the chicken. This can also cause the chicken to stick to the grill.
- Overcooking the chicken. Chicken is done cooking when it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Overcooking the chicken can make it dry and tough.
- Not letting the chicken rest. Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making it more flavorful.
What are some other grilled chicken recipes I can try?
- Grilled Chicken Teriyaki: This is a classic grilled chicken recipe that is simple to make and delicious.
- Grilled Chicken Fajitas: These fajitas are a great way to use up leftover grilled chicken.
- Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad: This salad is light and refreshing, and it’s perfect for a summer meal.
- Grilled Chicken Pizza: This pizza is a fun and easy way to use up leftover grilled chicken.
- Grilled Chicken Sandwiches: These sandwiches are a great way to enjoy grilled chicken on the go.
Grilled chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of sides. Some popular choices include grilled vegetables, salads, and potatoes. When choosing sides to serve with grilled chicken, it is important to consider the flavors and textures of the dish. For example, grilled chicken pairs well with grilled vegetables because the smoky flavor of the chicken complements the fresh flavors of the vegetables. Similarly, grilled chicken can be served with a salad to create a light and refreshing meal. Finally, potatoes are a classic side dish for grilled chicken because they are hearty and filling.
When preparing sides to serve with grilled chicken, it is also important to consider the cooking method. For example, grilled vegetables should be cooked until they are slightly charred and tender, while salads should be made with fresh, crisp ingredients. Potatoes can be roasted, mashed, or fried to create a variety of different side dishes.
By following these tips, you can create delicious and satisfying sides to serve with your grilled chicken. Whether you are looking for a simple and straightforward side dish or something more elaborate, there is sure to be a side dish that is perfect for your grilled chicken.
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