Grilled chicken is a fantastic and versatile protein that can be enjoyed in so many different ways. Of course, grilling a chicken breast on its own is a delicious and healthy option, but sometimes you want to make your meal a little more interesting. That’s where pairing your grilled chicken with the right side dishes can really make a difference.
In this article, we’ll explore a range of options for what you can serve with grilled chicken. Whether you’re looking for healthy sides, classic dishes, or creative options, we’ve got you covered. So let’s fire up the grill and get ready to create some delicious and satisfying meals!
Healthy Side Dishes to Pair with Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is a healthy and flavourful protein source that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. But what should you serve alongside it to make it a complete meal? Look no further than these healthy side dishes that are both delicious and nutritious.
Roasted vegetables are a great option for a side dish to grilled chicken. Choose seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant, toss them in olive oil and your favourite seasoning, and roast them in the oven until tender. This will add colour, texture, and flavour to your meal while also providing an extra serving of veggies.
Another healthy side dish idea is a mix of quinoa, black beans, and fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomato, and avocado. Toss everything together with a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and your favourite herbs for a flavourful and filling salad that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken. These side dishes are sure to elevate your grilled chicken to a delicious and nutritious meal.
Creative Salad Ideas to Accompany Your Grilled Chicken
Salads are a perfect accompaniment to grilled chicken as they are light, refreshing, and packed with nutrients. From classic greens to exotic fruits and nuts, there are countless creative salad ideas to complement your grilled chicken. One of the easiest and most popular options is a simple garden salad with a mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots dressed with a light vinaigrette. To add some crunch and texture, you can sprinkle some roasted nuts or sunflower seeds on top.
If you want to take your salad game to the next level, try experimenting with unusual ingredients and flavor combinations. For instance, you can try a grilled peach and burrata salad with arugula, basil, and balsamic glaze. Another tasty option is a strawberry spinach salad with bacon, goat cheese, and honey mustard dressing. You can also use grilled chicken as a base and add different toppings to create a variety of salads, such as a Southwest salad with black beans, corn, avocado, and cheddar cheese, or an Asian-inspired salad with mandarin oranges, sesame seeds, and ginger dressing. The sky’s the limit when it comes to salad ideas, so don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with your grilled chicken side dishes.
Quick and Easy Grilled Vegetable Recipes for Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is undoubtedly one of the easiest and most delicious meats to cook up on a summer evening. But what about the sides? Up your game with some grilled veggies that are both delicious and easy to make. Here are some quick and easy grilled vegetable recipes to serve with your grilled chicken.
First up, grilled corn on the cob is a classic staple that never fails to impress. Simply soak the husks for 30 minutes, brush with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Another easy option is grilled zucchini and squash kebabs. Cut the vegetables into similar-sized pieces and brush with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Skewer them and grill for 8-10 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred. These simple and tasty grilled vegetable recipes are sure to elevate any grilled chicken meal.
Delectable Grilled Fruit Options to Serve with Grilled Chicken
Grilled fruit is a delicious and refreshing addition to any meal, particularly when served alongside grilled chicken. The sweetness of the fruit pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of the chicken, creating a balanced and flavorful dish.
One popular option is grilled pineapple. Simply slice the pineapple and grill it until golden brown, then serve alongside your grilled chicken for a tropical twist. Another fantastic option is grilled peaches. Halve the peaches and grill them until they’re caramelized, then enjoy their juicy sweetness on the side of your main dish. You can also try grilling watermelon or mango for a unique and tasty variation. These grilled fruit options are an excellent way to add some extra flavor and nutrition to your meal while keeping things fresh and exciting.
Classic and Wholesome Carbohydrates to Accompany Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is a classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. But, what can you serve it with to make it a complete meal? Look no further than wholesome carbohydrates like rice, potatoes, and pasta.
One of the most popular options to serve with grilled chicken is rice. Whether it’s fluffy white rice, fragrant basmati rice, or hearty brown rice, it’s an excellent source of carbohydrates that complements the flavors of grilled chicken well. Similarly, potatoes are another go-to carb that pairs excellently with grilled chicken. Whether you roast them, slice them, or bake them, potatoes offer a rich and fulfilling taste. Additionally, pasta is an excellent option that comes in many forms, including spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne. It provides a hearty and filling meal that’s perfect for comfort food lovers while rounding out the meal with a touch of carbohydrates. With classic and wholesome carbs at your disposal, creating a delicious meal with grilled chicken is easy.
Light and Refreshing Sauces to Complement Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is a delicious and healthy meal option for any occasion. However, what you serve with it can make all the difference. Light and refreshing sauces are an excellent addition to grilled chicken, as they offer a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the taste of the chicken.
One option is a simple lemon and olive oil dressing. This sauce is made with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper, and it adds a bright and tangy flavor to the chicken. Another option is a cucumber and yogurt sauce, which is made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. This sauce is creamy and refreshing, making it a perfect complement to the grilled chicken. So, if you’re looking for a flavor boost to your grilled chicken, try out these light and refreshing sauce options.
Delicious Grilled Chicken Recipes to Try with Your Favorite Side Dish.
Grilled chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue, weeknight dinner or any occasion. Whether you prefer boneless chicken breasts or a hearty chicken thighs, this versatile protein pairs well with a variety of side dishes. From fresh salads to savory vegetables, the options are endless.
If you want to take your grilled chicken to the next level, try pairing it with one of these delicious recipes. From barbecue chicken skewers to grilled chicken fajitas, these tasty dishes will make mealtime a breeze. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your side dishes and experiment with new flavors and textures to find the perfect combination. With these delicious recipes, your grilled chicken dinners are sure to be a hit!
The Bottom Line
Grilled chicken is a versatile and popular dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a satisfying and balanced meal. Whether you are looking for something light and refreshing, or hearty and filling, there is no shortage of options to complement your grilled chicken.
From fresh salads and grilled vegetables to classic starches like rice and potatoes, the key to finding the perfect accompaniment to your grilled chicken is to experiment and try new things. By exploring different flavor combinations and textures, you can create the perfect meal for any occasion, from a casual summer barbecue to a fancy dinner party. So next time you are wondering what to serve with grilled chicken, don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with your food!