Barbecue chicken is a classic favorite among lovers of grilled meats. It’s versatile, easy to cook, and packs a flavorful punch. Whether you like it grilled, smoked, or roasted, BBQ chicken is perfect for any occasion, from casual backyard parties to fancy dinners. But with so many side dishes to choose from, it can be challenging to decide what goes well with BBQ chicken.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best side dishes, drinks, and desserts that perfectly complement BBQ chicken. Whether you’re planning a summer cookout, tailgate party, or a simple family dinner, we’ve got you covered. From classic potato salad and corn on the cob to refreshing cocktails and sweet treats, we’ll help you take your BBQ chicken to the next level.
Classic Sides to Pair with BBQ Chicken
When it comes to BBQ chicken, there are some classic sides that are popular choices to serve alongside this delicious dish. One of the most popular sides is corn on the cob. Grilled corn on the cob is easy to make and adds a pop of sweetness and texture to the meal. Additionally, potato salad is a great option and is a staple at most BBQs. The starchy and creamy combination of potatoes, mayonnaise, and other seasonings, is a perfect partner for BBQ chicken.
Another popular side to pair with BBQ chicken is coleslaw. This crunchy and tangy side dish is a particularly great option if you’re serving pulled BBQ chicken sandwiches. The combination of the sweet and tangy dressing with the smoky flavors of the chicken, works together perfectly. Baked beans are another option and are a classic choice for a reason. The sweet and savory flavors of a good batch of baked beans perfectly complement the smoky, sweet flavor of BBQ chicken. Ultimately, the classic sides to serve with BBQ chicken are easy to prepare, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Creative Salad Ideas to Complement Your Grilled Chicken
When it comes to BBQ chicken, you can never go wrong with a fresh and vibrant salad to balance out the richness of the sauce. But, why settle for a boring bowl of greens when you can get creative and mix up some unique flavors and textures? Here are some salad ideas to complement your grilled chicken that will delight your taste buds.
First up, try adding some fruit to your salad for a juicy and sweet twist. Think sliced strawberries, peaches, or even pineapple. Or, mix up a colorful and crunchy slaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a dressing made of mayo, vinegar, and honey. You could also go for a more exotic flavor profile with a salad featuring ingredients like mango, avocado, and jicama with a lime and chili dressing. Whatever salad you choose, don’t be afraid to play around with flavors and textures to find your perfect pairing.
How to Choose the Perfect Marinade for Your BBQ Chicken
Marinades are an essential part of barbecue chicken, as they help to add flavor and tenderize the meat. When it comes to selecting the perfect marinade for your BBQ chicken, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, choose a marinade that pairs well with the ingredients you plan to incorporate in your BBQ chicken. If you are using herbs, select a marinade with complementary flavors. Similarly, if you are using acidic ingredients like lemon or vinegar, use a marinade that is not too sour, so it doesn’t overpower the chicken’s natural flavors.
Secondly, consider the type of meat you are using. Chicken is versatile and can be grilled, roasted, or baked. Depending on the cooking method, choose a marinade that is suited to your cooking style. For example, if you are grilling chicken, you might want to choose a thicker marinade that will stick to the meat and create a beautiful caramelized crust. Ultimately, selecting the right marinade for your BBQ chicken depends on your personal preference and taste. Experiment with different flavors, and you’re sure to find a marinade that you and your guests will love.
5 Tasty Vegetable Dishes That Add Flavor to Your BBQ Chicken Meal
Vegetable dishes add a flavorful and wholesome touch to any BBQ chicken meal. They are not only delicious but also contribute to the nutritional value of your meal. Here are 5 vegetable dishes that will take your BBQ chicken meal to the next level.
Firstly, grilled vegetables are an excellent choice. A mix of zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms can make a colorful and flavorful addition to your plate. They are easy to prepare and cook, and also add a healthy dose of fiber to your meal. Secondly, roasted sweet potato fries are a great alternative to regular fries. They are loaded with vitamins and nutrients and have a natural sweetness that complements the smoky flavor of the BBQ chicken. These 5 tasty vegetable dishes are guaranteed to bring a delicious and healthy twist to your BBQ chicken meal.
Unexpected Fruit Combinations to Serve with Your Grilled Chicken
Grilling chicken is a classic summer staple, and while traditional sides like corn on the cob and potato salad are always delicious, why not mix it up with some unexpected fruit combinations? Not only do they add a refreshing twist to the meal, but they also provide essential vitamins and nutrients to your diet.
One surprising option is grilled peaches with a drizzle of honey and balsamic vinegar. The sweetness of the peaches balances out the smoky flavor of the chicken, and the balsamic adds a tangy kick. Another great option is a fresh watermelon salad with feta cheese, lime, and mint. The juicy watermelon pairs perfectly with the savory chicken, while the feta and lime provide a zesty finish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fruit combinations, and you may just discover your new favorite BBQ side dish.
Spice Up Your BBQ Chicken with These Flavorful Seasonings
Spicing up your BBQ chicken is the perfect way to elevate its flavor and make it stand out. You can use a variety of flavorful seasonings that complement the smoky taste of BBQ chicken. One such seasoning is Cajun seasoning, which adds a perfect blend of spices, including paprika, cumin, and garlic to your BBQ chicken. It gives your chicken a deep and exciting flavor that is hard to ignore.
Another seasoning you can try is a simple blend of salt, paprika, and pepper. This seasoning is perfect for those who enjoy a little bit of spice in their food. It adds a kick of heat to your BBQ chicken, making it more exciting and enjoyable to eat. You can also try using a blend of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano. These herbs are perfect for those who enjoy a mild flavor that is fragrant and refreshing. Whichever seasoning you choose, be sure to experiment with different blends until you find the perfect one for your taste.
A Guide to Choosing the Right Wine to Accompany Your BBQ Chicken
When it comes to pairing wine with BBQ chicken, it’s essential to choose a bottle that complements the flavors of the dish. The smoky, sweet, and savory notes in BBQ chicken can clash with some traditional wine pairings, so it’s important to choose a wine that stands up to the bold flavors of the chicken and BBQ sauce.
For a classic BBQ sauce, a red wine with bold tannins like Syrah/Shiraz or Zinfandel can be an excellent match. For a more subtle sauce, like a honey BBQ, a lighter red such as Pinot Noir can pair well. White wines like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc can also be paired with BBQ chicken, especially if the chicken is served with a side of grilled vegetables or a tangy coleslaw. Ultimately, the best wine pairing for BBQ chicken is one that you enjoy, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect match.
Conclusion
There are numerous options when it comes to pairing BBQ chicken with different types of side dishes. Whether you like starches like baked potatoes, sweet potatoes or pasta, or prefer leafy greens like salad or collard greens, there is something to complement the savory and smoky flavor of BBQ chicken.
While the options may seem overwhelming, the combination of BBQ chicken and the perfect side dish can make for a satisfying and delicious meal. Experiment with different flavors and textures to find what works best for you, and enjoy the deliciousness that comes from pairing BBQ chicken with the perfect side dish.