Abdullahi Lamb
BBQ chicken is a delicious dish, but what are some good side dishes to serve with it? A great barbecue is made or broken by the sides that accompany the main course. Here are some side dish suggestions to elevate your next barbecue and impress your guests.
One option is to serve a salad, such as a peach, arugula, and blue cheese salad, a Greek tomato and feta salad, or a cucumber, tomato, and avocado salad. You could also try a pasta salad, like a classic Italian pasta salad or a BLT pasta salad. Potato salad is another popular choice, with options like a creamy golden dijon potato salad or a loaded baked potato salad.
If you're looking for something more filling, baked beans and mac and cheese are classic barbecue sides. For a unique twist, try bacon and brown sugar baked beans or skillet bacon mac and cheese. Coleslaw is another essential side dish, whether it's a classic creamy coleslaw or a smoky Cajun slaw.
Other side dish ideas include grilled corn on the cob, crispy roasted potatoes, or even deviled eggs. So, the next time you fire up the grill, don't forget to include some of these delicious sides to pair with your BBQ chicken!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Salads | Peach, Arugula, and Blue Cheese Salad, Greek Tomato and Feta Salad, Wedge Salad, BLT Salad, Chickpea Tomato Cucumber Salad, Creamy Cucumber Salad, Heirloom-Tomato Salad, Tomato-Avocado-Cucumber Salad, Marinated Cucumber-Tomato-Onion Salad, Three-Pickle Potato Salad, Broccoli Slaw, Tangy Potato-Green Bean Salad, Herbed Potato Stacks, Watermelon-Cucumber-Feta Salad, Big Daddy's Grilled Blue Cheese-And-Bacon Potato Salad, Watermelon-Mint-Feta-Fried Peanut Salad, Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad, Frito Corn Salad, Shout Hallelujah Potato Salad, Zesty Corn-And-Squash Salad, Whipped-Cream Corn Salad, Deviled Egg Pasta Salad, Heirloom Tomato-Cracker Salad, Tomato-Pistachio-Cucumber Salad, Roasted Tomato Macaroni And Cheese, Broccoli-Grape-Pasta Salad, Easy Squash Casserole, Roasted Asparagus with Avocado Hollandaise Sauce, Roasted Baby Potatoes with Garlic and Fresh Herbs, Shaved Fennel and Celery Salad, Peach Caprese Salad, Chickpea Salad with Smashed Cucumbers, Cucumber-Radish Salad, Ranch Slaw, BLT Pasta Salad, Succotash, Grilled Cabbage Wedges with Creamy Caraway Dressing, Lime and Aleppo Pepper Green Beans, Grilled Romaine Lettuce with Creamy Feta Dressing |
| Breads | Skillet Angel Biscuits, Yogurt Flatbreads, Cornbread, Bacon, Cheddar and Chive Biscuits, Buttermilk Biscuits, Cast Iron Skillet Corn Bread, Corn Flour Biscuits, Baking Powder Biscuits, Roasted Garlic Cheese Bread with Rosemary, Homemade Soda Bread with Fresh Herbs |
| Dips | Spicy Ginger Beer-and-Bourbon Cooler, Matt's Sriracha Pimento Cheese Dip |
| Vegetables | Grilled Corn, Mexican Corn (Elotes), Classic Grilled Corn on the Cob, Classic Macaroni Salad with Ham, Zesty Corn-and-Squash Salad, Crispy Andouille Hush Puppies, Field Pea-Corn-Bacon Salad, Roasted Asparagus with Avocado Hollandaise Sauce, Roasted Baby Potatoes with Garlic and Fresh Herbs, Charred Corn with Parmesan-Parsley Butter, Grilled Broccoli, Grilled Cabbage Wedges with Creamy Caraway Dressing, Creamy Corn Pasta, Grilled Romaine Lettuce with Creamy Feta Dressing |
| Beans | Root Beer Baked Beans, Old Fashioned Molasses and Bacon Baked Beans, Bacon and Brown Sugar Baked Beans, Barbeque Baked Beans, Italian-Style Baked Beans, The Ultimate Baked Beans, Smoky-Sweet Baked Beans, Home-Style Butterbeans, Calico Beans |
| Pasta | Alfredo Mac and Cheese, Baked Mac and Cheese, Skillet Bacon Mac and Cheese, Southwestern Chipotle Lime Pasta Salad, Lemon Shrimp Pasta Salad, Mediterranean Quinoa Salad, Penne Pasta Salad with Shrimp Chili and Lime, Quick and Easy Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Classic Macaroni Salad with Ham, Broccoli-Grape-Pasta Salad, Roasted Tomato Macaroni and Cheese, Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese, Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, Popcorn Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad, Arugula Beans Salad, Macaroni Salad with Cucumber and Radish, Greek Inspired Couscous Salad, Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad, Chicken Pesto Pasta, Easy Three Bean Salad, Crock Pot Macaroni and Cheese, Chicken Fajita Pasta Salad, Loaded Baked Potato Cups, Best Ever Macaroni Salad, Mexican Macaroni Salad, Italian Shell Pasta Salad, Cold Italian Shell Pasta Salad, Gluten-Free and Vegan American Macaroni Salad, Mexican Street Corn Salad, Broccoli Salad with Creamy No Mayo Dressing, Pressure Cooker Baked Beans, Bacon Ranch Potato Salad, Tri-Colored Pasta Salad, Classic Coleslaw, Gluten-Free and Vegan American Macaroni Salad, Mexican Sweet Corn Risotto |
| Meat | Bacon Macaroni and Cheese, Skillet Bacon Mac and Cheese, Crispy Andouille Hush Puppies, Deviled Egg Potato Salad, Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus |
What You'll Learn
Salads
BBQ Chicken Salad
This salad features juicy grilled chicken, black beans, tortilla chips, and a creamy BBQ ranch dressing. The addition of crispy onions, smoky corn, and cherry tomatoes adds texture and flavour to the dish. This salad is a perfect blend of crisp veggies, juicy chicken, and crunchy tortilla chips.
Classic Potato Salad
A classic potato salad is a must-have at any barbecue. It is a simple yet delicious side dish that pairs well with BBQ chicken. The baby potatoes used in this salad have a naturally sweet flavour and creamy texture, making it a refreshing option for a summer picnic or backyard barbecue.
Strawberry Spinach Salad
This summer salad combines sweet strawberries, herby chicken, tangy feta, and crunchy pecans. It is a light and fresh option that will satisfy both spinach lovers and haters alike. The combination of sweet flavours and sharp textures makes it an excellent choice to serve alongside grilled meats at a barbecue.
Greek Salad
A Greek salad is a simple, refreshing, and reliable option for a barbecue. It is filled with fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a classic red wine vinaigrette. This bright and colourful salad can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute addition to any summer celebration.
Grilled Romaine Caesar Wedge
If you're looking for something unique, try grilling your greens. Grilled romaine lettuce gives it a slight char that pairs perfectly with a Caesar dressing. This grilled romaine Caesar wedge salad is a creative way to enjoy your greens and a tasty side dish for your BBQ chicken.
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Breads
A BBQ chicken meal is incomplete without some bread to soak up all the delicious sauces and juices. Here are some bread options that will perfectly complement your BBQ chicken:
Cornbread
Cornbread is a long-time favourite at backyard BBQs. It has a delicious, slightly sweet flavour and a fluffy texture. You can top it with butter or honey, or even serve it with jams or jellies for a classic Southern touch.
Texas Toast
Also known as garlic toast, Texas Toast is a type of garlic bread made with Texas-style bread that is thicker and denser than regular bread. It's crispy, garlicky, and perfect for soaking up all the delicious juices from your BBQ chicken.
White Bread
Simple yet effective, straight-out-of-the-bag white bread is a popular choice for BBQs. It may not be fancy, but it's excellent at soaking up sauces, and its neutral flavour won't overwhelm the flavours of your BBQ chicken.
Flatbread
Flatbread is a versatile option that can be used as a base for your BBQ chicken or as a wrap. You can find it in most grocery stores, or make it from scratch for the ultimate flavour. Top it with BBQ chicken, cheese, and your favourite vegetables for a quick and easy weekday meal.
Biscuits
Fluffy, homemade biscuits are a classic comfort food that goes perfectly with BBQ chicken. Spread some butter on top, and you've got a delicious side that will impress your guests. Just be sure not to overmix the batter so that your biscuits rise nicely.
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Vegetables
Grilled Veggies
Grilled vegetables are a classic BBQ side and for good reason. They're a great way to showcase seasonal produce, adding a smoky flavour to your dish. Try grilling corn on the cob, asparagus, cabbage wedges, eggplant, or a mix of veggies such as corn, cherry tomatoes, green beans, and zucchini. For an extra kick of flavour, brush your veggies with a spicy, onion-y butter or a smoky Romesco sauce before grilling.
Salads
Salads are a refreshing choice for a summer BBQ, and there are endless combinations to choose from. How about a peach, cucumber, and bacon salad with a honey lemon vinaigrette, or a cucumber, tomato, and avocado salad? If you're looking for something heartier, try a BLT pasta salad or a succotash with corn, beans, squash, tomatoes, and bacon. For a more unique option, whip up a roasted beet and orange salad with arugula and shaved cheese, or a shaved fennel and celery salad with capers and Parmesan.
Roasted Veggies
Roasted vegetables are a great option if you want something a little more substantial. Try roasted baby potatoes with a dipping sauce made of mustard, horseradish, and mayonnaise, or crispy roasted potatoes. You could also roast some beetroot and orange slices and top them with arugula and shaved cheese for a unique and tasty salad.
Other Veggie Sides
There are also plenty of other vegetable side dishes to choose from. How about some creamed corn with basil, or a cornbread panzanella salad? If you're looking for something spicy, try some braised collard greens with bacon and hot pepper vinegar, or lime and Aleppo pepper green beans. For a more indulgent option, try some crispy Andouille hush puppies or loaded twice-baked potatoes.
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Dips
Spinach Artichoke Dip
A classic and delicious appetizer, this dip is a hearty combination of artichoke hearts, cheeses, spinach, and seasoning. Baked until slightly brown on top, it pairs exceptionally well with BBQ chicken. For an extra special touch, serve it with tortilla chips or pretzel thins on the side.
BBQ Chicken Dip
This dip is a fun twist on the classic buffalo chicken dip. It includes caramelized red onions, barbecue sauce, and butter-roasted chicken, all mixed together with cream cheese, ranch dressing, and sharp cheddar cheese. Baked until bubbly and hot, it's the perfect indulgent dip for a crowd.
Cream Cheese Corn Dip
A lip-smacking good dip that can be made ahead of time, this one combines cream cheese, corn, and other tasty ingredients for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. It's an easy way to elevate your BBQ chicken and impress your guests.
Tomato Relish
Tomato relish is a delicious and versatile dip that pairs wonderfully with BBQ chicken. With a rich, nutty flavour from seasoning, it's the perfect chip dip and will add a burst of flavour to your meal.
Mango Pico de Gallo
This fresh and fruity dip is a sweet and savoury combination that complements BBQ chicken beautifully. It's an excellent choice for a summer barbecue, adding a touch of tropical flavour to your spread.
Blue Cheese Dressing
If you're looking for a contrast in flavours, blue cheese dressing is an excellent choice. The creamy, tangy dressing offsets the spicy, buttery heat of BBQ chicken. It's a classic combination that never fails to impress.
There you have it! These dip options will surely elevate your BBQ chicken and provide a delicious and memorable dining experience.
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Potatoes
- Lemon Herb Roasted Potato Nuggets: These potato nuggets are a terrific side dish for BBQ chicken. The lemon herb seasoning adds a delicious flavour to the potatoes, and they can be cooked on the grill alongside the chicken.
- Bacon Potato Salad with Sweet Mustard Dressing: This potato salad combines the best of both worlds, with the savoury flavour of bacon and the tanginess of a sweet mustard dressing. It's a satisfying side dish that will leave your guests wanting more.
- Mesa Grill's Southwestern Potato Salad: Fresh lime juice, cilantro, chipotle peppers, and diced tomatoes give this potato salad a Southwestern twist. It's a perfect side dish to accompany the smokiness of BBQ chicken.
- Warm Grilled Potato Salad with Lemon and Oregano: This grilled potato salad is packed with bright, fresh flavours from the lemon and oregano. It's a tasty side dish that will complement the flavours of BBQ chicken.
- Big Daddy's Grilled Blue Cheese-And-Bacon Potato Salad: This potato salad takes a classic side dish to the next level. The combination of tangy vinegar, fresh parsley, red onion, Dijon mustard, blue cheese, bacon, and mayonnaise will make this side dish the star of your BBQ.
- Deviled Egg Potato Salad: This side dish brings together two cookout classics: deviled eggs and potato salad. It's a flavour-packed and perfectly balanced dish that will impress your guests.
- Roasted Baby Potatoes with Garlic and Fresh Herbs: These roasted baby potatoes are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. The dipping sauce, made with mustard, horseradish, and mayonnaise, takes this side dish to the next level.
- Old Bay-Spiced Potato Salad: This potato salad gets a zesty upgrade with a vinaigrette made from olive oil, Dijon mustard, and Old Bay seasoning. It's a crowd-favourite that will surely be a hit at your BBQ.
- Crispy Roasted Potatoes: These golden-brown bites of goodness are the perfect addition to your BBQ menu. They are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making them a delicious side dish for BBQ chicken.
Whether you choose to roast, grill, or turn them into a salad, potatoes are a versatile and tasty side dish that will pair well with your BBQ chicken.
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Frequently asked questions
Grilled veggies, such as corn on the cob, asparagus, cabbage wedges, and broccoli, are great options to pair with BBQ chicken. You can also try roasted beet and orange salad, cucumber radish salad, or a classic green salad.
Potato salad, in its many variations (e.g. Old Bay-spiced, loaded twice-baked, or avocado potato salad), is always a popular choice. Other options include macaroni salad, cornbread, and baked beans.
Yes, you can get creative with your side dishes! Some ideas include Frito corn salad, crispy hush puppies, or even a watermelon, cucumber, and feta salad. Don't be afraid to experiment and mix things up!
