what goes good with bbq chicken?

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken

When you’re grilling up delicious BBQ chicken, choosing the right side dishes can turn your cookout into a memorable feast. The goal is to find sides that balance the smoky, savory flavors of the chicken, while adding their own tasty touch. Whether you prefer crispy, fresh, or hearty options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Popular side dishes for BBQ chicken include classics like coleslaw, baked beans, and corn on the cob. These sides are not only easy to prepare but also complement the smoky flavor of the chicken perfectly. Experimenting with different salads and vegetables can also add variety and fun to your meal.

Popular Side Dishes to Consider

Coleslaw: A fresh mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing. It provides crunch and a refreshing contrast to the smoky chicken. For a healthier twist, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
Baked Beans: Rich, hearty, and slightly sweet, baked beans work well with BBQ chicken. For extra flavor, add chopped onion, bacon, or a splash of barbecue sauce when cooking.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with butter and a sprinkle of salt pairs beautifully with BBQ chicken. Add chili powder or parmesan cheese for a twist.
Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad with herbs, chopped pickles, and a dash of mustard is a crowd-pleaser. It adds a hearty, satisfying side to the meal.
Green Salad: A fresh, leafy salad with a light vinaigrette balances the smoky meat. Add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion for more flavor and color.

Tips for Choosing the Best Sides

Consider the flavor profile of your BBQ chicken. If it’s spicy, choose cooling sides like coleslaw or fruit salads.
Think about the texture; crispy sides like chips or roasted vegetables add crunch to your plate.
Balance your meal with a variety of colors and ingredients to make it visually appealing and nutritious.
Keep sides simple and make ahead when possible, so you can spend more time enjoying your cookout.

Serving Suggestions

Present your sides in colorful bowls or on platters for a festive look. Serving some sides warm and others chilled creates a nice variety. Garnish dishes with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for an extra touch of flavor. Remember, the best side dishes are easy to prepare and enhance the smoky flavor of your BBQ chicken without overpowering it.

Easy Salads and Slaws to Serve

Adding a fresh salad or crunchy slaw to your BBQ chicken meal is a simple way to make your gathering more vibrant and satisfying. These dishes are quick to prepare, flavorful, and perfect for balancing the smoky richness of grilled chicken. Whether you want something light and tangy or creamy and bold, there are plenty of easy options to suit your taste.

Refreshing Green Salad

A basic green salad is always a crowd-pleaser. Use fresh lettuce, spinach, or mixed greens as your base. Add sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions for extra crunch and flavor. Dress the salad with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. For added color and nutrients, sprinkle some shredded carrots or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

Crunchy Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a classic side that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken. To make a quick slaw, start with shredded cabbage (green, purple, or a mix). You can buy pre-shredded cabbage to save time. Combine it with grated carrots for sweetness. Prepare a simple dressing with mayonnaise, a splash of apple cider vinegar, a teaspoon of honey, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it sit for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. For a healthier twist, substitute part of the mayo with Greek yogurt.

Fruit Salad for a Sweet Touch

For a refreshing contrast, serve a colorful fruit salad. Use seasonal fruits like berries, pineapple, melon, or grapes. Toss them gently in a bowl and squeeze some fresh lime or lemon juice over. Add a few chopped mint leaves for extra freshness. This naturally sweet side is especially good on hot days and adds a vibrant touch to your table.

Potato Salad

Another popular choice is potato salad. Boil potatoes until tender, then peel and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Prepare a dressing from mayonnaise, mustard, chopped pickles, and a little celery for crunch. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika for color. Chill it well before serving. Potato salad is hearty and pairs well with grilled chicken’s smoky flavors.

Tips for Perfect Salads and Slaws

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and crunch.
Dress salads just before serving to keep them crisp.
Adjust the acidity in your dressings to suit your taste and balance the flavors.
Mix in nuts, seeds, or cheese for added texture and richness.
Let slaws sit for a few minutes after mixing to develop flavor and soften cabbage slightly.

Creating a variety of easy salads and slaws will give your BBQ chicken meal a burst of freshness and color. Plus, most of these dishes require minimal prep time and can be made ahead. They’ll keep your table lively and your guests satisfied with flavorful, crunchy bites served alongside the smoky goodness of your grilled chicken.

Grilled Vegetables Perfect with BBQ

Grilled vegetables are a fantastic way to add color, flavor, and nutrition to your BBQ meal. When paired with BBQ chicken or other grilled meats, they bring a smoky, charred taste that complements the savory flavors perfectly. Whether you’re new to grilling or looking to elevate your veggie game, knowing which vegetables work best and how to prepare them makes all the difference.

Some vegetables are naturally suited for grilling because they hold up well to direct heat and develop those irresistible grill marks and smoky flavors. Bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms, corn, and onions are classic choices. They become tender, slightly caramelized, and full of flavor after a few minutes on the grill. Plus, they add a splash of vibrant color to your plate, making your BBQ spread more appealing.

Choosing the Right Vegetables

Bell Peppers: Red, yellow, or green bell peppers are sweet and juicy. Cut them into large pieces or strips so they don’t fall through the grill grates. They develop nice char marks and soften beautifully.
Zucchini and Summer Squash: Slice into rounds or lengthwise strips. These vegetables cook quickly and turn tender with a hint of smoky flavor.
Eggplant: Cut into thick slices or cubes. Eggplant absorbs flavors well and becomes creamy inside with a smoky exterior.
Mushrooms: Whole portobellos or smaller button mushrooms threaded onto skewers work great. Mushrooms develop an earthy, smoky taste that pairs well with grilled meats.
Corn on the Cob: Grill the husked or husked ears directly over the heat until golden and slightly charred. Corn adds sweetness and crunch to your BBQ plate.
Onions: Sliced into rings or wedges. Grilled onions get sweet and tender, adding depth to your meal.

Preparing Vegetables for Grilling

Preparing vegetables correctly ensures they grill evenly and taste amazing. First, wash all vegetables thoroughly. For dense vegetables like carrots or potatoes, consider parboiling or pre-cooking to reduce grilling time and prevent burning.

For most vegetables, slicing into uniform pieces helps them cook evenly. Use a sharp knife and cut vegetables into similar thicknesses. Marinating vegetables with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, herbs, or spices enhances their flavor and prevents sticking. Let them sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes before grilling.

Grilling Tips for Perfect Veggies

Preheat the grill: Make sure the grill grates are hot before adding vegetables. This helps prevent sticking and promotes nice grill marks.
Use skewers or grill baskets: Skewers keep smaller vegetables like mushrooms or cherry tomatoes contained. Grill baskets are great for chopped vegetables to make turning easier and prevent pieces from falling through.
Watch the cooking time: Most vegetables cook in about 4-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Turn vegetables regularly for even charring.
Maintain moderate heat: High heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Use medium heat and cover the grill if needed to cook through evenly.
Don’t forget safety: Use long-handled tools and avoid touching hot surfaces. Always keep an eye on the grill to prevent flare-ups.

Serving Your Grilled Vegetables

Once grilled, serve vegetables hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil. A drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon brightens their flavors. These vegetables make lovely sides or can be added to wraps, salads, or pasta dishes.

Remember, experimenting with different veggies and seasonings can make every BBQ unique. With a bit of prep and patience, your grilled vegetables will be a hit alongside your BBQ chicken or other grilled goodies.

Rice and Grain Options for BBQ

When serving BBQ chicken, choosing the right rice or grain can make your meal even more satisfying. These hearty sides not only complement the smoky flavors of the meat but also add texture and variety to your plate. From fluffy rice to wholesome grains, there are plenty of options that are simple to prepare and taste fantastic alongside BBQ.

Popular Rice Options

Rice is a classic side for BBQ because it absorbs flavors well and is quick to cook. Here are some popular choices:

White Rice: Light, fluffy, and neutral, white rice is a versatile side. It works well with tangy BBQ sauces and can be seasoned simply with a bit of salt, garlic, or herbs.
Brown Rice: For a nuttier flavor and more fiber, brown rice is a healthy choice. It takes a bit longer to cook but adds a hearty touch to your meal.
Jasmine or Basmati Rice: These aromatic rices bring a fragrant aroma that pairs nicely with smoky BBQ. Rinsing the rice before cooking helps keep it light and fluffy.

Cooking tips: Use a 1:2 ratio of rice to water. Bring water to a boil, add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until tender. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Grain Options Beyond Rice

If you want to go beyond traditional rice, grains like quinoa, millet, or bulgur offer wonderful alternatives. These add different textures and flavors and can be prepared in similar ways to rice.

Quinoa: A complete protein with a slightly nutty flavor. Rinse before cooking to remove saponins, which can taste bitter. Cook in a 1:2 ratio of quinoa to water until fluffy.
Millet: Mildly sweet and versatile, millet cooks quickly and can be flavored with herbs or spices for extra zest. Use a 1:2.5 ratio of millet to water for cooking.
Bulgur: Cracked wheat that cooks fast and adds a chewy texture. Soak or boil depending on the recipe, and season well to enhance flavor.

Tip: These grains can be prepared ahead of time and reheated. Mix them with chopped herbs, lemon juice, or a dash of olive oil for extra flavor.

Pairing Tips

Balance flavors: Pair smoky BBQ chicken with a light, fresh grain salad or a simple seasoned rice.
Add crunch: Consider topping grains with chopped vegetables or nuts for added texture.
Keep it simple: Use herbs, lemon, or a splash of soy sauce to season grains without overpowering the BBQ flavors.

In short, whether you choose fluffy white rice, fragrant jasmine, protein-packed quinoa, or nutty millet, these grains make excellent partners for BBQ chicken. Their versatility means you can easily customize your sides to suit your taste and the occasion.

How to Pick the Perfect Beverage

Choosing the right beverage to go with your BBQ chicken can make your meal even more enjoyable. Whether you prefer refreshing drinks, wines, or beers, selecting the best options depends on the flavors of your chicken and the occasion. Here are some friendly tips to help you pick the perfect beverage every time.

Consider the Flavor Profile of Your BBQ Chicken

Think about how your BBQ chicken is seasoned. Is it spicy, smoky, tangy, or sweet? For spicy or smoky chicken, you might want a beverage that cools your palate, like a crisp beer or a refreshing soda. If your chicken has a sweet glaze, a slightly tangy drink or a light wine can balance the sweetness nicely.

Refreshing Drinks for a Summery Feel

If you’re hosting a summer cookout, opt for cold and refreshing beverages. Here are some popular choices:

Iced Tea: A lightly sweetened or unsweetened iced tea with lemon works well. It’s cool and not overpowering.
Citrus Punch: Freshly squeezed lemonade or a citrus-infused sparkling water can brighten up your meal.
Ice-cold sodas or flavored waters: Flavors like berry, lime, or watermelon add fun and refreshment.

Remember to serve these drinks well-chilled to keep your guests cool during warm days.

Wines That Complement BBQ Chicken

For wine lovers, certain types of wine pair better with BBQ chicken, depending on its flavor. Here are some helpful suggestions:

Type of BBQ Chicken	Recommended Wine	Why it Works
Smoky or spicy	Zinfandel or Shiraz	Bold reds with fruity or spicy notes complement smoky flavors.
Sweet or glazed	Riesling or a light Chardonnay	Sweet wines balance the sugar and enhance the glaze.
Herbed or citrus	Dry Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio	Fresh, crisp whites that match herbal and citrus notes.

Choosing the Right Beer

Beer is a classic pairing for BBQ chicken. Here are some tips:

Lighter beers: Pilsners and lagers are great for milder, smoky flavors because they are crisp and refreshing.
Wheat beers: These have a slightly fruity or spicy flavor that pairs well with BBQ spices and sauces.
Amber or darker beers: If your chicken has a caramelized or smoky taste, darker beers like ales or porters add depth.

Avoid very hoppy beers if you want a smooth experience, as they can sometimes overpower the flavor of the chicken.

Final Tips for Selecting Your Beverage

Match the beverage’s intensity with the strength of your BBQ flavor;
Consider your guests’ preferences and dietary restrictions;
Chill drinks properly before serving for maximum refreshment;
Experiment with different pairings to find your favorite combo.

With these tips, you’ll be ready to pick the perfect beverage for your BBQ chicken, whether you want to offer a variety of drinks or focus on one signature pairing. Cheers to a delicious and refreshing meal!

Delicious Desserts to Pair

After enjoying a flavorful BBQ chicken, the right dessert can perfectly balance the savory and smoky flavors. Sweet treats add a touch of indulgence and help round out your meal on a high note. Whether you prefer creamy, fruity, or crunchy desserts, there are plenty of options that complement grilled chicken beautifully.

One popular choice is fresh fruit-based desserts. Light and refreshing, they bring a natural sweetness that pairs well with the bold flavors of BBQ. Think of a fruit salad with a splash of lime or a berry parfait layered with yogurt. These desserts are not only easy to make but also add a vibrant color and a healthy touch to your meal.

If you’re in the mood for something richer, consider classic options like ice cream or sorbet. Vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm fruit crisps or cobblers, creating a lovely contrast of hot and cold. For a more tart and refreshing finish, lemon sorbet is a perfect palate cleanser that clears the mouth after a smoky main course.

Chocolate lovers won’t be disappointed either. A simple chocolate mousse or brownies can provide a decadent end to your BBQ feast. If you want to keep things light, try chocolate-covered strawberries—they’re quick to prepare and combine fruity freshness with sweet, smooth chocolate.

Sweet and Crunchy

If you enjoy texture variety, consider desserts that add a crunchy element. Crispy cookies, sticky caramel bars, or nut-topped crisps can bring a satisfying crunch to your dessert plate. For example, apple crisp topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a scoop of vanilla ice cream offers warmth, sweetness, and crunch all in one.

Tips for the Perfect Pairing

Balance flavors: Pair sweet desserts with the smoky, savory notes of BBQ chicken to create harmony. A tangy fruit tart can cut through rich, smoky flavors nicely.
Serve at the right temperature: Many desserts, like ice cream or fruit salads, taste best chilled, while warm crisps or brownies go well with a scoop of cold cream or ice cream.
Keep it simple: Sometimes, a plain piece of fruit with a drizzle of honey or a small handful of nuts can be just the right finish after a hearty meal.

Helpful Tips

Prep ahead: Many desserts, such as fruit salads or baked goods, can be made a day in advance, saving you time during your meal.
Avoid overpowering flavors: Strong desserts like peanut butter cookies or heavily frosted cakes can overshadow the taste of your BBQ chicken. Opt for lighter options if you want a balanced meal.
Consider dietary needs: Include options like dairy-free sorbets or gluten-free bars if your guests have special dietary restrictions.

Choosing the right dessert can elevate your BBQ experience and leave your guests satisfied. From fruity and refreshing to rich and indulgent, these sweet treats are perfect for finishing off your grilled chicken dinner on a delicious note.

Tips for the Best BBQ Accompaniments

When it comes to barbecue, the right side dishes can make a good meal great. Choosing the best accompaniments for your BBQ chicken helps create a balanced, flavorful, and memorable feast. Whether you prefer classic sides or something a little more inventive, these tips will guide you in selecting and preparing the perfect BBQ accompaniments.

Consider Flavor Balance

BBQ chicken is usually smoky, savory, and sometimes slightly sweet. To complement these flavors, aim for sides that add different textures and tastes. For example, crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast, while sweet baked beans add richness. If your chicken has a spicy rub, pairing it with cooling sides like cucumber salad or creamy potato salad works well.

Choose a Variety of Textures

Variety makes the meal more interesting. Pair crispy chips or roasted vegetables with softer sides like mashed potatoes or cornbread. For instance, crunchy pickles or fresh vegetable salads add a delightful crunch, while creamy mac and cheese offers a smooth, comforting texture.

Prepare Make-Ahead Sides

BBQ meals often involve last-minute grilling, so choosing sides that can be prepared ahead saves time and stress. You can prepare salads, coleslaw, or baked dishes earlier in the day and chill them until serving. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures your sides are fresh and tasty when it’s time to eat.

Pick Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients

Fresh vegetables and fruits make your sides more vibrant and flavorful. For example, ripe tomatoes in a salad, seasonal corn on the cob, or juicy watermelon slices can boost your meal’s freshness. Shopping locally or during peak season ensures the best quality produce.

Keep Vegetables Simple

Vegetables can be quick and easy to prepare with a little seasoning. Grilled corn, roasted peppers, or a simple green salad enhance your meal without overshadowing the main course. Use herbs, lemon, or vinegar for added flavor without extra complexity.

Stretch with Carbs and Breads

Barbecue and bread go hand in hand. Cornbread, garlic bread, or rolls are excellent for soaking up sauces and juices. These hearty sides also help round out your meal and make it more filling.

Be Mindful of Dietary Needs

If your guests have dietary restrictions, include vegetarian, gluten-free, or low-sugar options. Grilled vegetables, quinoa salads, or fruit skewers are tasty and inclusive choices. It shows thoughtfulness and makes the meal enjoyable for everyone.

Presentation Matters

Finally, serve your accompaniments nicely arranged. Use colorful bowls and plates, garnish with fresh herbs, and consider offering different textures and colors. A well-presented table makes the meal more inviting and fun.

Match sides with the flavor profile of your BBQ chicken.
Prepare sides ahead of time when possible.
Use fresh, seasonal ingredients for best taste.
Offer a mix of crunchy, creamy, and fresh options.
Think about dietary preferences to include everyone.