Buttermilk chicken has become quite a popular dish in recent years, and it’s not hard to see why. This crispy, golden-fried chicken packs a lot of flavor and is satisfying to eat. However, if you’re new to cooking this dish, it can be challenging to come up with side dishes that complement the flavor of the chicken.
Finding the right accompaniments can take your buttermilk chicken dish to the next level, and that’s precisely what we’re going to talk about in this article. We’ll explore some of the best side dishes that beautifully pair with buttermilk chicken, so you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends at your next dinner party.
Vegetable Sides That Pair Perfectly with Buttermilk Chicken
Vegetable sides are a great way to add some freshness and nutrition to a plate of buttermilk chicken. Not only do they provide a nice balance to the creamy and savory flavors of the chicken, but they also add some texture and color to the dish. Some great vegetable sides that pair perfectly with buttermilk chicken include roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. Roasting these veggies in the oven with some olive oil, salt, and pepper brings out their natural sweetness and creates a crispy exterior.
Another option is to serve a simple salad with your buttermilk chicken. A mix of greens like arugula or spinach, topped with some sliced cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette, creates a light and refreshing side that complements the rich flavor of the chicken. Additionally, steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans can also make an excellent addition to your plate and provide some much-needed vitamins and nutrients. Overall, incorporating vegetable sides into your buttermilk chicken meal is a great way to create a balanced and delicious meal.
The Best Starches to Serve with Buttermilk Chicken
When it comes to pairing buttermilk chicken with a starch, there are numerous options to choose from. The most popular starches that complement the tangy and rich flavors of buttermilk chicken are rice, potatoes, and bread.
Rice is a versatile and simple starch that can be prepared in many different ways such as plain steamed rice, pilau, biryani or risotto. Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes are also a great choice as they can absorb the flavors of the chicken and add a creamy texture to the meal. In addition, breads like cornbread, biscuits or dinner rolls can be used to create a Southern-style meal.
Overall, the best starch to serve with buttermilk chicken is one that can complement and enhance the taste of the chicken. Whether it’s simple rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or warm bread, a good starch can make all the difference in a satisfying meal.
Sauces and Condiments That Complement Buttermilk Chicken
There are several sauces and condiments that pair perfectly with buttermilk chicken. These not only add flavor but can also add texture to the dish. Some popular options include honey mustard, BBQ sauce, hot sauce, and ranch dressing.
Honey mustard is a classic choice that adds a sweet and tangy flavor, while BBQ sauce provides a smoky flavor that complements the juicy chicken. Hot sauce can add a spicy kick and ranch dressing gives a creamy contrast to the crispy buttermilk chicken. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different sauces and condiments to create your own unique flavor combination. Just be mindful of not overpowering the taste of the chicken.
Salad Options to Accompany Buttermilk Chicken
If you’re looking for a lighter complement to your buttermilk chicken, a salad is a great option. Not only will it add some fresh flavors and healthy greens to your meal, but it can also help balance out the richness of the fried chicken.
One classic salad option is a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing. You can add in some sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, or avocado for extra texture and flavor. Another option is a Caesar salad, which features crispy romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and a creamy dressing. For something a little more unique, try a roasted beet salad with arugula, goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette. No matter what type of salad you choose, it’s sure to be a delicious accompaniment to your buttermilk chicken.
Bread and Biscuit Varieties to Serve with Buttermilk Chicken
Bread and biscuits are perfect accompaniments for buttermilk chicken. Their ability to soak up the flavorful juices makes them an ideal side dish. When it comes to bread, you can never go wrong with a freshly baked baguette or a crusty sourdough. These breads have a distinct texture that pairs well with the crispy coating of the buttermilk chicken. You can also try toasted ciabatta or focaccia, brushed with garlic butter for an added flavor boost.
Biscuits are another great option to serve with buttermilk chicken. Flaky buttermilk biscuits with a dollop of honey or fig jam add a touch of sweetness to the savory chicken dish. Cheddar biscuits or jalapeno biscuits are excellent choices for those who prefer a little bit of spice. Finally, for a southern twist, you can serve the buttermilk chicken with hot and buttery cornbread. The combination of the crunchy coating of the chicken with the soft and crumbly texture of the cornbread creates a heavenly culinary experience.
Beverages to Serve with Buttermilk Chicken: A Guide
When serving a delicious buttermilk chicken dish, it is essential to pair it with the right beverage to enhance its flavors and provide a refreshing drink alongside it. A popular choice is iced tea, as its sweetness and acidity complement the tangy and savory taste of the chicken. Other suitable beverages include lemonade, which adds a pop of citrus to the dish, and beer, which is a classic pairing for fried foods.
For those who prefer wine, opt for a full-bodied white like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, which can hold up against the bold flavors of the chicken. In terms of spirits, a bourbon or whiskey-based cocktail would be an excellent choice as its smoky notes complement the dish’s richness. Whether you prefer beer, wine, or cocktails, there are many different beverages that can be served alongside buttermilk chicken to create a memorable dining experience.
Desserts that Balance Out Buttermilk Chicken’s Flavor Profile
When it comes to dessert, choosing something that will balance out the flavors of buttermilk chicken can be a delicate process. One option is to go for a sweet and tart dessert, such as a lemon tart or a fruit sorbet. The acidity in these desserts helps to cut through the richness of the chicken, while the sweetness complements the subtle tanginess of the buttermilk.
Another great option is to serve something creamy and decadent, such as a chocolate mousse or a crème brûlée. These desserts offer a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the buttermilk chicken, while still being rich and indulgent. However, it’s important to be careful not to overdo it – since buttermilk chicken is already a fairly heavy dish, pairing it with a heavy dessert can leave you feeling uncomfortably full. Opting for a lighter dessert or a small portion can help to keep things balanced and enjoyable.
Final Words
In conclusion, buttermilk chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides and drinks. Its tangy and crispy flavor lends itself well to creamy or acidic accompaniments, such as coleslaw or pickles, and can be either a main course or a finger food.
Whether you choose to pair your buttermilk chicken with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans, or opt for more unique options like sweet potato fries or roasted broccoli, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And with its easy preparation and endless customization options, buttermilk chicken is quickly becoming a staple of many home cooks’ dinner rotations.