A perfect meal should include delicious sides to serve with fried chicken. Mashed potatoes, full of creamy goodness and often topped with rich gravy, are a classic choice. For a invigorating contrast, coleslaw offers a tangy crunch. Macaroni and cheese, with its rich, cheesy texture, is always a crowd-pleaser. Cornbread, with its golden crust and slightly sweet crumb, pairs perfectly, especially with a hint of jalapeno. Don't forget green beans, seasoned just right, for a fresh and savory touch. There are so many delightful options that will transform your meal into something special. Explore further to discover more.
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic and comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with the crispy texture of fried chicken. They can be enhanced with various gravy options, from rich brown gravy to creamy white sauce.
Butter varieties, such as salted or unsalted, add depth and richness. This combination creates a hearty and satisfying meal that delights the palate with every bite.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw, with its invigorating crunch and tangy flavor, serves as an ideal complement to the rich and savory taste of fried chicken.
Offering numerous flavor variations, coleslaw can range from sweet to spicy, catering to diverse palates.
Additionally, its health benefits—thanks to ingredients like cabbage and carrots—provide a rejuvenating, nutritious balance to the meal, making it both delicious and wholesome.
Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese, with its creamy texture and rich, cheesy flavor, pairs perfectly with the crispy and savory profile of fried chicken. This beloved side dish can be customized with various cheese variations, such as cheddar, gouda, or parmesan, to suit different tastes.
Additionally, experimenting with different pasta types, like traditional elbow macaroni or cavatappi, can elevate this comforting classic.
Cornbread
Cornbread, with its golden crust and slightly sweet, crumbly interior, offers a delightful contrast to the savory crunch of fried chicken.
For a spicy twist, jalapeno cornbread adds a zesty kick that enhances the meal. Pair it with honey butter for a sweet and creamy complement, creating a balanced and mouthwatering side dish that elevates your fried chicken experience.
Green Beans
Green beans, whether sautéed with garlic or simmered with bacon, provide a fresh and savory accompaniment to the rich flavors of fried chicken.
For a delicious twist, try green beans in garlic butter or almondine style, where they're cooked with almonds and a touch of lemon.
These preparations add a delightful crunch and zest, perfectly balancing the hearty main dish.
Biscuits
Biscuits are a classic and indispensable side that perfectly complements the crispy and savory flavors of fried chicken.
Whether you choose buttermilk biscuits for their fluffy texture or cheddar biscuits for a hint of cheesy goodness, they add a comforting element to your meal.
Their warm, buttery layers are ideal for sopping up any extra gravy or sauce, making every bite delightful.
Potato Salad
Potato salad consistently proves to be a crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs seamlessly with the rich flavors of fried chicken. Its creamy dressing complements the crispy texture of the chicken, creating a delightful balance.
With endless flavor variations, from classic mustard to tangy dill, potato salad offers something for everyone, ensuring this timeless combination remains a favorite at any gathering.
Baked Beans
Baked beans, with their savory and slightly sweet flavor profile, serve as an excellent accompaniment to fried chicken.
A homemade recipe can elevate this classic side dish, offering endless flavor variations such as smoky bacon, tangy barbecue, or spicy jalapeño.
These options add depth and richness, ensuring that baked beans complement the crispy, juicy goodness of fried chicken perfectly.
Corn on the Cob
With its natural sweetness and satisfying crunch, corn on the cob pairs wonderfully with the flavors of fried chicken.
Grilling techniques like lightly charring the corn can enhance its texture, while simple seasoning tips such as a sprinkle of salt, butter, and a dash of paprika can elevate its taste.
This classic side dish brings a delightful contrast, making your meal even more enjoyable.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts offer a savory and slightly nutty flavor that complements the richness of fried chicken. Their health benefits include high levels of vitamins C and K.
Cooking techniques like roasting at high heat until crispy bring out their natural sweetness. This preparation guarantees a delightful contrast to the fried chicken, making it a tasty and nutritious side dish.
Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries offer a perfect blend of sweetness and crispiness that pairs harmoniously with the savory flavors of fried chicken. Not only do they complement the dish well, but they also provide health benefits such as being rich in vitamins and fiber.
Enhance their flavor further with a variety of dipping sauces, from spicy aioli to tangy ketchup.
Collard Greens
Collard greens, a staple in Southern cuisine, provide a nutritious and flavorful side dish that complements the richness of fried chicken perfectly.
Collard preparation usually involves simmering the greens with smoked meats, like ham hocks, to enhance their taste.
The nutritional benefits are substantial; collards are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, promoting overall health.
Hush Puppies
Hush puppies are an iconic Southern side dish that pairs excellently with fried chicken. Their simple cooking techniques involve a seasoned cornmeal batter, deep-fried to perfection.
Flavor variations can include adding chopped onions, jalapeños, or even cheese. These variations provide a delightful contrast to the savory, crispy fried chicken, making them a beloved choice for any meal.
Fried Okra
Fried okra, with its crispy exterior and tender interior, is a quintessential Southern side dish that complements the rich flavors of fried chicken. Various okra varieties can be used to achieve perfect texture.
Mastering different frying techniques, such as deep-frying or pan-frying, guarantees a delightful crunch. This beloved dish adds a satisfying contrast, making it an ideal pairing for fried chicken.
Are the same side dishes suitable for both fried chicken and curried chicken?
When deciding on the best side dishes for curried chicken, it’s important to consider the flavors of the curry. Creamy dishes like coconut rice or vegetable korma complement the spiciness of the curry. However, the same side dishes may not be suitable for fried chicken, which pairs better with coleslaw or macaroni and cheese.
Cucumber Salad
For a rejuvenating contrast to the rich and crispy textures of fried okra and fried chicken, a crisp cucumber salad offers a light and vibrant side option.
Explore various pickling techniques to give cucumbers an invigorating twist, or experiment with invigorating salad dressings like lemon vinaigrette.
This simple yet flavorful dish provides a cooling balance, enhancing the overall dining experience.