BBQ chicken is a staple of summer cookouts and picnics. But, what makes a great BBQ spread is the side dishes that accompany the main course.
A perfectly grilled chicken deserves to be paired with delicious, complementary sides that enhance its flavors and texture.
In this article, we have put together a list of 20 must-try side dishes that will take your BBQ chicken to the next level.
Complement Your BBQ Chicken with These Delicious Side Dishes
1. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
Corn on the cob is a staple of summer barbecues and pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken.
To make it even more delicious, brush it with a mixture of melted butter and herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley before grilling.
The natural sweetness of the corn and the fragrant herbs will complement the smoky flavor of the chicken beautifully.
2. Baked Mac and Cheese with a Crispy Topping
Mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser and adds a comforting touch to your BBQ spread. To make this dish even more indulgent, try baking it in the oven until it’s bubbly and golden on top.
Top it with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and grated parmesan cheese for a crispy, crunchy texture. The creamy pasta and the crispy topping will balance out the bold flavors of the BBQ chicken.
3. Coleslaw with a Kick of Spicy Mustard Dressing
Coleslaw is a classic side dish that adds a fresh crunch to any meal, especially BBQ chicken.
To give it a twist, try using a dressing made with spicy mustard, apple cider vinegar, and mayonnaise.
The tangy and spicy flavors of the dressing will cut through the richness of the BBQ chicken, making it a perfect combination.
4. Roasted Garlic and Lemon Potatoes
Roasted potatoes are a staple of any BBQ spread and adding garlic and lemon to the mix will elevate their flavor profile.
Simply toss diced potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and your choice of herbs before roasting in the oven until crispy and tender.
The garlic and lemon will add a bright and aromatic flavor to the potatoes, making them a great complement to the smoky BBQ chicken.
5. Grilled Vegetables with Balsamic Glaze
Grilled vegetables are a healthy and flavorful addition to any BBQ spread. To make them even more delicious, brush them with a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey before grilling.
The sweet and tangy glaze will caramelize the vegetables, adding depth and richness to their flavor. Grilled vegetables are a great way to balance out the bold flavors of BBQ chicken, making them a must-have side dish.
6. Southern-Style Baked Beans
Baked beans are a staple of southern cuisine and pair perfectly with BBQ chicken. To make them even more delicious, try adding bacon, onions, and BBQ sauce to the mix.
The savory and smoky flavors of the baked beans will complement the bold flavors of the BBQ chicken, making them a must-have side dish.
7. Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon Butter
Grilled sweet potatoes are a sweet and savory addition to any BBQ spread.
To make them even more delicious, brush them with a mixture of melted butter and cinnamon before grilling.
The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and the warmth of the cinnamon will balance out the bold flavors of the BBQ chicken.
8. Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Raisins
Broccoli salad is a fresh and crunchy side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken.
To make it even more indulgent, try adding bacon, raisins, and a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise and vinegar.
The combination of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors will balance out the bold flavors of the BBQ chicken.
9. Grilled Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan
Grilled asparagus is a healthy and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken.
To make it even more delicious, brush it with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and grated parmesan cheese before grilling.
The bright and tangy flavors of the asparagus will balance out the bold flavors of the BBQ chicken, making it a must-have side dish.
10. Southern-Style Collard Greens
Collard greens are a staple of southern cuisine and pair perfectly with BBQ chicken. To make them even more delicious, try slow-cooking them with bacon, onions, and vinegar.
The savory and tangy flavors of the collard greens will complement the bold flavors of the BBQ chicken, making them a must-have side dish.
11. Grilled Zucchini with Balsamic Glaze
Grilled zucchini is a healthy and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken.
To make it even more delicious, brush it with a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey before grilling.
The sweet and tangy glaze will caramelize the zucchini, adding depth and richness to its flavor.
12. Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad
Grilled peaches are a sweet and juicy addition to any BBQ spread, especially when paired with creamy burrata cheese.
To make this dish even more delicious, try tossing the grilled peaches with mixed greens, balsamic glaze, and crumbled burrata cheese.
The combination of sweet, creamy, and tangy flavors will balance out the bold flavors of the BBQ chicken.
13. Southern-Style Potato Salad
Potato salad is a staple of southern cuisine and pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken. To make it even more delicious, try making it with mayonnaise, mustard, eggs, and dill pickles.
The creamy and tangy flavors of the potato salad will complement the bold flavors of the BBQ chicken, making it a must-have side dish.
14. Grilled Caesar Salad with Chicken
Grilled Caesar salad is a fresh and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken.
To make it even more delicious, try grilling the romaine lettuce and topping it with a classic Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese.
The combination of creamy, crunchy, and tangy flavors will balance out the bold flavors of the BBQ chicken.
15. Grilled Watermelon and Feta Salad
Grilled watermelon and feta salad is a sweet and salty side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken.
To make it even more delicious, try tossing the grilled watermelon with mixed greens, crumbled feta cheese, and a vinaigrette made with balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
The combination of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors will balance out the bold flavors of the BBQ chicken, making it a must-have side dish.
16. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herbs and Butter
Grilled corn on the cob is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken.
To make it even more delicious, try brushing it with a mixture of melted butter, garlic, and fresh herbs before grilling.
The savory and buttery flavors of the corn will complement the bold flavors of the BBQ chicken, making it a must-have side dish.
17. Baked Mac and Cheese
Baked mac and cheese is a comfort food classic that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken.
To make it even more indulgent, try adding crispy breadcrumbs and a mixture of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese to the mix.
The creamy and cheesy flavors of the mac and cheese will balance out the bold flavors of the BBQ chicken, making it a must-have side dish.
18. Grilled Carrots with Honey Glaze
Grilled carrots are a healthy and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken.
To make them even more delicious, brush them with a mixture of honey, olive oil, and spices before grilling.
The sweet and savory glaze will caramelize the carrots, adding depth and richness to their flavor.
19. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Garlic Butter
Grilled portobello mushrooms are a savory and meaty side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken.
To make them even more delicious, brush them with a mixture of melted garlic butter before grilling.
The rich and earthy flavors of the portobello mushrooms will complement the bold flavors of the BBQ chicken, making them a must-have side dish.
20. Southern-Style Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a staple of southern cuisine and pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken.
To make it even more delicious, try making it with a mixture of green and red cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar.
The creamy and tangy flavors of the coleslaw will complement the bold flavors of the BBQ chicken, making it a must-have side dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, BBQ chicken is a classic dish that can be elevated to new heights with the right side dishes.
Whether you prefer creamy mac and cheese, tangy coleslaw, or grilled vegetables, there is something for everyone on this list.
So, next time you fire up the grill, try one (or all) of these side dishes and enjoy a complete and delicious BBQ spread. Happy cooking!
