Barbecue pulled chicken is a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger dish. However, many people struggle with what to serve alongside this flavorful meat. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, making a weeknight dinner, or just looking for new meal ideas, this article will provide you with tips and inspiration to make your barbecue pulled chicken meal complete.
From classic sides such as coleslaw and cornbread to more creative options like grilled vegetables and sweet potato fries, there are countless tasty and easy-to-make dishes that pair perfectly with barbecue pulled chicken. So, whether you prefer classic Southern comfort food or a more globally-inspired cuisine, there’s sure to be something to suit your tastes and make your meal a hit. So, let’s take a look at some delicious sides and accompaniments to make your barbecue pulled chicken meal stand out!
Classic Sides: Corn on the Cob and Baked Beans
When it comes to classic sides to serve with BBQ pulled chicken, nothing beats corn on the cob and baked beans. Corn on the cob is a simple yet delicious side dish that perfectly complements the sweet and savory flavor of BBQ sauce. You can cook it by grilling, boiling, roasting, or even microwaving. To add some zing, you can also sprinkle some chili powder, garlic, or Parmesan cheese on top.
Baked beans, on the other hand, are a barbecue staple that is rich, hearty, and packed with protein and fiber. You can make them from scratch or use store-bought canned beans that are already seasoned. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add some diced bacon, onion, or jalapeno for some extra flavor and texture. Baked beans also make a great side dish for other barbecue favorites like ribs, brisket, and pulled pork. Overall, serving corn on the cob and baked beans with BBQ pulled chicken is a satisfying and classic combo that will surely please your palate.
Creative Twists: Grilled Corn Salad and Sweet Potato Fries
When it comes to barbecue pulled chicken, it’s no secret that it’s a tasty and satisfying meal on its own. However, to take it to the next level, why not pair it with some creative and delicious sides? A Grilled Corn Salad is a perfect option for those hot summer days, with its fresh and colorful blend of grilled corn, tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and cilantro, all topped with a tangy lime dressing. The sweetness of the corn contrasts perfectly with the smoky flavor of the pulled chicken.
Another great option is to serve your BBQ pulled chicken with Sweet Potato Fries. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, sweet potato fries add a element of sweetness and texture that is unmatched. These fries are also a healthier alternative to regular fries, making them a perfect partner for your protein-packed pulled chicken. So, get creative with your sides and elevate the taste of your BBQ pulled chicken to a whole new level.
Bold Flavors: Spicy Coleslaw and Jalapeño Cornbread
If you’re looking to add some bold flavors to your BBQ pulled chicken meal, look no further than spicy coleslaw and jalapeño cornbread. These two sides will take your dish to the next level with their spicy kick and unique textures.
Starting with the spicy coleslaw, the addition of red pepper flakes or hot sauce will give it the perfect heat to balance out the sweetness of the BBQ sauce. The cool and creamy texture of the coleslaw also pairs well with the tender and juicy pulled chicken. As for the jalapeño cornbread, the combination of savory and spicy flavors make it an ideal choice for any BBQ meal. The cornbread’s dense texture is perfect for soaking up any remaining BBQ sauce on your plate. Both sides are easy to make and will impress your guests with their bold and flavorful punch.
Fresh and Light Options: Mixed Greens Salad and Grilled Vegetables
If you’re looking for a fresh and light option to balance out your BBQ pulled chicken, consider serving it alongside a mixed greens salad. The crispness of the greens, combined with the smoky flavor of the chicken, creates a healthy and satisfying meal. To add some variety, try adding sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, or your favorite dressing to the salad. Not only does it add flavor, but it also provides some added nutrients.
Grilled vegetables are another great choice to pair with BBQ pulled chicken. Grilling brings out the natural sweetness and smoky flavor of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions. Not only do they add color to your plate, but they also provide a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals. Plus, grilling is a quick and easy way to prepare vegetables, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or outdoor gatherings.
Indulgent Additions: Mac and Cheese and Buttermilk Biscuits
Indulgent Additions: Mac and Cheese and Buttermilk Biscuits
For those looking to pair their BBQ pulled chicken with rich and indulgent addition, mac and cheese and buttermilk biscuits make for the perfect side dishes. The creamy and cheesy mac and cheese can add a perfect balance to the spicy and smoky flavors of the chicken. The best part about this pairing is it can cater to both adults and children, making it an excellent choice for family dinners and gatherings.
Buttermilk biscuits are another classic addition that can add a unique twist to your regular BBQ meal. These flaky treats when served warm, can make the perfect vehicle for the BBQ sauce and Pulled chicken. Additionally, if you feel like adding a little bit of sweetness, mix honey and butter to create a delicious spread. For those who love to indulge, mac and cheese, and buttermilk biscuits are must-have side dishes, making a perfect marriage between comfort food and BBQ.
Alternative Proteins: Black Beans and Grilled Tofu
If you’re not a meat-lover or looking to switch things up, black beans and grilled tofu are fantastic protein options to pair with bbq pulled chicken. Black beans are rich in fiber and protein while being low in fat, making them an incredibly healthy and delicious addition to any meal.
Grilled tofu is a vegetarian alternative that has grown in popularity over the years. It’s high in protein and low in fat, and when grilled to perfection, it has a smoky flavor that pairs well with bbq pulled chicken. Tofu is also incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of side dishes, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a balanced and tasty meal.
Beverage Pairings: Beer, Lemonade, and Sweet Tea
When it comes to barbecue pulled chicken, you need to consider what beverage will complement the flavors of this mouthwatering dish. One of the most popular choices is beer, which pairs well with the smokiness of the chicken and the spices used in the barbecue sauce. A cold and refreshing beer can cut through the richness of the meat and bring out the sweetness of the sauce. Look for a light beer, such as a pilsner or lager, to prevent it from overpowering the flavor of the chicken.
If you’re not a fan of beer, you can try sipping on a refreshing glass of lemonade. The acidity of the lemonade helps to cut through the richness of the chicken and provides a nice balance to the meal. A tall glass of sweet tea can also do the trick. The sweetness of the tea complements the sweet and savory BBQ sauce and can help to refresh your palate between bites. No matter which beverage you choose, make sure it’s served cold to help counteract the heat of the chicken and the barbecue sauce.
The Conclusion
There are plenty of delicious options to pair with BBQ pulled chicken that can take your meal to the next level. From traditional sides like coleslaw and potato salad to more unique options like grilled veggies or avocado salsa, the possibilities are endless. It’s all about finding the flavors that complement the smoky, savory taste of the chicken and enhance the overall dining experience.
Regardless of your personal preferences, there’s no denying that BBQ pulled chicken is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a summer BBQ, a family dinner, or just craving something comforting, this versatile meat is sure to hit the spot. So next time you’re whipping up a batch, don’t be afraid to get creative with your side dishes and discover new flavor combinations that will make your taste buds sing.