Fried chicken, with its crispy exterior and juicy interior, is a beloved dish enjoyed across the globe. While it can certainly stand alone as a delicious meal, the right side dishes can elevate it into a truly memorable feast. The best sides for fried chicken complement its richness and texture, adding variety, balance, and contrast to your plate. From creamy coleslaws and buttery mashed potatoes to vibrant salads and sweet cornbread, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a summer picnic, or simply indulging in a comfort food craving, choosing the perfect accompaniments is key to creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. This collection of side dishes is designed to pair beautifully with fried chicken, offering a mix of classic favorites and creative new ideas to suit any taste and occasion.
1. Classic Coleslaw
A Crunchy, Creamy Delight
Classic Coleslaw is the quintessential side dish for fried chicken, offering a creamy, tangy contrast to the dish’s crispy exterior. Made with shredded cabbage and carrots in a mayonnaise-based dressing, it provides a refreshing crunch with each bite.
Balances Rich Flavors
The acidity and creaminess of coleslaw balance the richness of fried chicken, cleansing the palate and adding a light, fresh element to the meal.
Versatile and Easy to Make
Simple to prepare and universally loved, classic coleslaw is a versatile side that complements a wide range of meals, making it a must-have for any fried chicken dinner.
2. Buttermilk Biscuits
A Soft, Fluffy Companion
Buttermilk Biscuits are a soft, fluffy side that pairs perfectly with fried chicken. Their buttery richness and tender crumb make them ideal for sopping up juices or enjoying with a slather of honey or gravy.
Comforting and Satisfying
These biscuits add a comforting and satisfying element to your meal, embodying the essence of Southern cuisine when served alongside fried chicken.
Great for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a more formal gathering, buttermilk biscuits are a great addition, offering a touch of homemade warmth to the table.
3. Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
A Creamy, Indulgent Side
Mashed Potatoes with Gravy are a creamy and indulgent side dish that complements the savory flavors of fried chicken. The smooth texture of the potatoes paired with rich, flavorful gravy creates a comforting and satisfying pairing.
Elevates Comfort Food
This classic combination elevates comfort food to new heights, offering a mouthwatering blend of flavors and textures that enhance the fried chicken experience.
Ideal for a Hearty Meal
Perfect for those seeking a hearty and fulfilling meal, mashed potatoes with gravy are an ideal choice, promising to leave diners satisfied and content.
4. Cornbread
A Sweet, Crumbly Treat
Cornbread offers a sweet and crumbly counterpoint to the savory taste of fried chicken. Its slight sweetness and moist texture make it a delightful side that can be enjoyed on its own or used to mop up any leftover gravy or dressing.
A Southern Staple
As a staple in Southern cuisine, cornbread holds a place of honor alongside fried chicken, embodying the rich culinary traditions of the region.
Versatile and Beloved
Cornbread’s versatility and beloved status make it a popular choice for any meal featuring fried chicken, appealing to guests of all ages and preferences.
5. Baked Macaroni and Cheese
A Cheesy, Comforting Classic
Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a cheesy, comforting side that’s the perfect companion to fried chicken. Its creamy texture and rich flavor profile provide a decadent contrast to the crispy chicken, creating a truly indulgent meal.
Adds Depth to the Meal
This dish adds depth and warmth to your fried chicken meal, offering a satisfyingly cheesy element that’s hard to resist.
Great for Feeding a Crowd
Ideal for feeding a crowd, baked macaroni and cheese is a hit at gatherings, ensuring there’s something on the table that everyone will love.
6. Sweet Potato Fries
A Sweet and Savory Snack
Sweet Potato Fries are a sweet and savory side that adds a modern twist to the traditional fried chicken meal. Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken, providing a delightful blend of flavors.
Crispy and Flavorful
Baked or fried until crispy, these fries offer a healthier alternative to traditional fries, packing a flavorful punch that complements the meal.
Perfect for Casual Dining
With their casual appeal and delicious taste, sweet potato fries are perfect for a laid-back meal, adding a touch of sweetness that pairs well with the savory depth of fried chicken.
7. Garlic Green Beans
A Fresh, Flavorful Side
Garlic Green Beans are a fresh and flavorful side dish that brings a pop of color and a burst of taste to the fried chicken table. Sautéed with garlic and a hint of lemon, they offer a light and zesty complement to the meal.
Balances Richness
The crisp texture and refreshing taste of the green beans balance the richness of fried chicken, making each bite more enjoyable and palate-cleansing.
Quick and Healthy
This side dish is not only quick to prepare but also adds a healthy element to your meal, ensuring you have a well-rounded plate that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
8. Collard Greens with Bacon
A Southern Comfort Classic
Collard Greens with Bacon is a Southern comfort classic that pairs excellently with fried chicken. The smokiness of the bacon and the hearty greens create a deeply flavorful side that embodies the soul of Southern cuisine.
Rich in Flavor and Tradition
This dish is steeped in tradition and rich in flavor, making it a meaningful and delicious addition to any meal featuring fried chicken.
Ideal for a Hearty Feast
Perfect for those looking for a hearty, flavorful feast, collard greens with bacon are an ideal side, bringing warmth and depth to the table.
9. Creamy Cucumber Salad
A Cool, Tangy Refreshment
Creamy Cucumber Salad is a cool, tangy side dish that offers a refreshing counterpoint to the warm, crispy fried chicken. Made with thinly sliced cucumbers and a creamy dill dressing, it’s a light and flavorful salad that cleanses the palate.
Adds Freshness to the Meal
The freshness of the cucumber and the tanginess of the dressing add a delightful freshness to the meal, balancing the heavier flavors of the fried chicken.
Perfect for Summer Gatherings
Especially perfect for summer gatherings, creamy cucumber salad is an excellent choice for a picnic or outdoor meal, offering a cool and refreshing side that complements the savory chicken.
10. Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread
A Spicy Twist on a Classic
Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread offers a spicy twist on the classic cornbread, incorporating sharp cheddar and diced jalapeños for a side that’s both savory and slightly spicy. It complements fried chicken by adding a kick of heat and a burst of flavor.
Read also: 23 Best Sides For Beef Wellington
Comfort Food with a Kick
This cornbread is comfort food with a kick, bringing together the sweetness of cornbread with the heat of jalapeños and the richness of cheddar cheese.
Great for Adding Dimension
Perfect for those looking to add dimension to their meal, Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread is a great side that introduces new flavors and textures to the fried chicken dining experience.
11. Potato Salad
A Classic Picnic Staple
Potato Salad is a classic picnic staple that pairs wonderfully with fried chicken. Made with boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, and crisp vegetables, it offers a creamy and comforting side that’s both familiar and satisfying.
Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing
This versatile dish can be customized with various add-ins and seasonings, making it a crowd-pleaser that complements the crispy chicken with its creamy texture and flavorful bite.
Ideal for Outdoor Meals
Potato salad is ideal for outdoor meals, barbecues, and picnics, serving as a hearty and delicious side that holds up well and tastes great alongside fried chicken.
12. Grilled Corn on the Cob
A Smoky, Sweet Favorite
Grilled Corn on the Cob is a smoky, sweet side dish that enhances the fried chicken meal with its charred flavors and natural sweetness. Grilling the corn brings out its inherent sugars, making it a perfect complement to the savory chicken.
Adds a Festive Touch
The act of grilling adds a festive touch to the meal, making it perfect for celebrations and family gatherings where fried chicken is featured.
Perfect for Hands-On Dining
Grilled corn on the cob is perfect for hands-on dining, encouraging a casual and interactive meal that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious.
13. Southern-Style Green Beans
A Slow-Cooked Delicacy
Southern-Style Green Beans are a slow-cooked delicacy, simmered with bacon, onion, and spices until tender and flavorful. This side dish embodies the essence of Southern cooking, offering a savory complement to fried chicken.
Rich and Flavorful
The long cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and flavorful side that pairs perfectly with the crispiness of fried chicken.
A Comforting Addition
These green beans are a comforting addition to any meal, bringing warmth and depth to the table with their home-cooked taste and tender texture.
14. Rainbow Carrot Slaw
A Colorful, Crunchy Side
Rainbow Carrot Slaw is a colorful and crunchy side dish that offers a vibrant contrast to fried chicken. Made with multi-colored carrots, this slaw is dressed in a light vinaigrette, providing a tangy and fresh complement to the meal.
Adds Brightness and Texture
This slaw not only adds visual appeal to your plate but also introduces a delightful texture and brightness, cutting through the richness of the fried chicken with its acidity and crispness.
Perfect for Health-Conscious Diners
Ideal for those looking to add a healthy and flavorful side to their meal, Rainbow Carrot Slaw is a nutritious choice that doesn’t skimp on taste, making it a hit at any table.
15. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
A Savory, Crispy Treat
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon combine the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts with the smoky flavor of bacon, creating a savory and crispy side dish. Roasted until golden and crisp, this dish adds a delightful crunch and depth of flavor to accompany fried chicken.
A Harmonious Blend of Flavors
The combination of Brussels sprouts and bacon offers a harmonious blend of flavors that complement the savory notes of fried chicken, making every bite more satisfying and complex.
Ideal for Adding Sophistication
This side dish is ideal for adding a touch of sophistication to your fried chicken meal, appealing to both adults and children alike with its flavorful profile and appealing texture.
16. Zucchini and Tomato Gratin
A Light, Cheesy Vegetable Bake
Zucchini and Tomato Gratin is a light yet cheesy vegetable bake that pairs beautifully with fried chicken. Layered with slices of zucchini, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese, then baked until bubbly, this gratin offers a comforting and flavorful side.
Brings Freshness and Color
The freshness of zucchini and tomatoes brings a welcome pop of color and lightness to the meal, offering a counterbalance to the richness of fried chicken.
A Versatile, Crowd-Pleasing Dish
With its versatile flavors and crowd-pleasing appeal, Zucchini and Tomato Gratin is a great addition to any meal, providing a delicious way to enjoy vegetables alongside the main course.
17. Baked Beans
A Hearty, Sweet-Savory Classic
Baked Beans are a hearty side dish that brings a sweet-savory flavor profile to the table. Slow-cooked with molasses, bacon, and spices, baked beans offer a rich and comforting complement to fried chicken.
Adds Depth to Casual Dining
This classic dish adds depth and warmth to casual dining experiences, making it perfect for picnics, barbecues, and family dinners where fried chicken takes center stage.
Loved by All Ages
Baked beans are a beloved side that appeals to diners of all ages, offering a familiar and satisfying taste that pairs well with the crispy, savory flavors of fried chicken.
18. Caprese Salad
A Refreshing, Elegant Side
Caprese Salad, with its simple combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze, offers a refreshing and elegant side dish that contrasts beautifully with fried chicken. Its lightness and freshness provide a palate-cleansing effect, making each bite of chicken even more enjoyable.
Showcases Quality Ingredients
This dish is all about showcasing quality ingredients in their best form, adding a touch of elegance to your fried chicken meal without requiring extensive preparation.
Ideal for Summer Meals
Especially ideal for summer meals, Caprese Salad pairs wonderfully with fried chicken for a dining experience that feels both indulgent and refreshing, making it a perfect choice for outdoor gatherings and picnics.
19. Hush Puppies
A Deep-Fried Delight
Hush Puppies are deep-fried balls of seasoned cornmeal batter, offering a crispy and flavorful side that matches the texture and taste of fried chicken. Their outer crunch and soft, savory interior make them an irresistible addition to any fried chicken meal.
Adds a Southern Touch
Incorporating hush puppies into your meal adds a traditional Southern touch, embracing the comfort food aspect of dining and providing a side that’s both satisfying and nostalgic.
Perfect for Dipping
Hush puppies are perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces, adding an interactive element to the meal. Whether it’s honey, ranch, or a spicy dipping sauce, they offer a fun and tasty way to complement the fried chicken.
20. Potato Wedges
A Rustic, Hearty Companion
Potato Wedges are a rustic and hearty side dish that pairs perfectly with fried chicken. Seasoned and roasted to crispy perfection, these wedges offer a satisfying crunch and a fluffy interior, making them an ideal companion for the crunchy chicken.
Versatile and Flavorful
These potato wedges can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices, allowing you to tailor them to your taste preferences. Whether you prefer them spicy, herby, or simply salted, they add a flavorful and satisfying element to the meal.
Great for Casual Meals
Perfect for a casual meal with family and friends, potato wedges are a crowd-pleaser that complements the informal and comforting nature of fried chicken, making them a staple side for any gathering.
21. Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
A Sweet and Buttery Treat
Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter offers a sweet and buttery side that’s both simple and delightful. The natural sweetness of the corn is enhanced by the rich, herb-infused butter, creating a side dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Easy to Prepare and Serve
This dish is not only easy to prepare but also fun to serve and eat, making it a great addition to outdoor barbecues, picnics, or family dinners where fried chicken is the star.
Adds a Summery Touch
Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter adds a touch of summer to any meal, pairing wonderfully with fried chicken for a combination that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
22. Pickled Vegetables
A Tangy, Refreshing Side
Pickled Vegetables offer a tangy and refreshing side dish that contrasts nicely with the rich flavor of fried chicken. A mix of cucumber, carrots, and onions, pickled in vinegar and spices, provides a crunchy and flavorful accompaniment.
Cuts Through Richness
The acidity of pickled vegetables cuts through the richness of fried chicken, cleansing the palate and adding a light, bright element to the meal that enhances the overall dining experience.
Versatile and Colorful
With their versatility and colorful presentation, pickled vegetables are a delightful addition to any fried chicken meal, offering a side that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
23. Fried Okra
A Crispy, Southern Classic
Fried Okra is a crispy, Southern classic that pairs excellently with fried chicken. Dredged in cornmeal and fried until golden, these little bites offer a crunchy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior that complements the main dish perfectly.
Read also: 30 Best Side Dishes For Venison
Adds Texture and Flavor
The unique texture and mild, grassy flavor of fried okra add an interesting dimension to the meal, providing a side that’s both satisfying and distinctive.
Perfect for a Southern Feast
Incorporating fried okra into your fried chicken meal emphasizes the Southern roots of the cuisine, making it perfect for a themed feast or simply as a delicious way to enjoy this traditional vegetable.
24. Apple Slaw
A Sweet and Crunchy Contrast
Apple Slaw is a sweet and crunchy side dish that offers a refreshing contrast to fried chicken. Made with crisp apples, cabbage, and a light vinaigrette, this slaw is a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Balances the Meal
The sweetness of the apples and the acidity of the dressing balance the savory, rich flavors of fried chicken, providing a side dish that’s both light and satisfying.
Ideal for Adding Freshness
Perfect for adding a touch of freshness to any meal, Apple Slaw is an ideal side for fried chicken, especially during the warmer months when you crave something crisp and revitalizing.
25. Cheddar and Chive Biscuits
A Cheesy, Flavorful Bread Option
Cheddar and Chive Biscuits offer a cheesy and flavorful bread option that pairs wonderfully with fried chicken. The sharpness of the cheddar and the mild onion flavor of the chives create biscuits that are tender, fluffy, and packed with taste.
Comfort Food at Its Best
These biscuits embody comfort food at its best, providing a warm and inviting side that complements the home-cooked feel of a fried chicken meal.
Great for Sandwiches or on Their Own
Cheddar and Chive Biscuits can be enjoyed on their own, slathered with butter, or used to make mini fried chicken sandwiches, adding versatility and fun to your meal.
26. Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
A Creamy, Comforting Vegetable Dish
Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is a creamy and comforting vegetable dish that’s an excellent side for fried chicken. The combination of tender broccoli florets and a rich cheese sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, creates a side that’s both nutritious and indulgent, offering a cozy complement to the main course.
A Family Favorite
This casserole is a family favorite, appealing to both adults and children with its familiar flavors and comforting texture. It’s a great way to incorporate vegetables into a meal in a way that everyone will enjoy.
Perfect for Gatherings
With its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing appeal, Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion where fried chicken is served. It’s a side dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table.
27. Caesar Salad
A Crisp, Classic Salad
Caesar Salad offers a crisp, classic side that brings a refreshing balance to a fried chicken meal. With its crunchy romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and croutons, this salad adds a light and flavorful counterpoint to the richness of the chicken.
Elevates the Meal with Freshness
The freshness and tanginess of Caesar Salad elevate the meal, providing a palate-cleansing effect that makes each bite of chicken even more enjoyable.
Versatile for Any Meal
Whether it’s a formal dinner or a casual lunch, Caesar Salad is versatile enough to fit any meal featuring fried chicken, adding a touch of sophistication and a burst of freshness to the table.
28. Macaroni Salad
A Chilled, Creamy Pasta Dish
Macaroni Salad is a chilled, creamy pasta dish that serves as a delightful side for fried chicken. Made with elbow macaroni, mayonnaise, mustard, and crisp vegetables, it offers a cool and creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the warmth and crispiness of the chicken.
Adds a Comforting Element
This macaroni salad adds a comforting element to the meal, blending well with the flavors of fried chicken and providing a satisfying side that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any casual dining occasion.
A Crowd-Pleasing Choice
With its universal appeal and easy preparation, Macaroni Salad is a crowd-pleasing choice that complements the informal, enjoyable nature of eating fried chicken, making it a go-to side for gatherings.
29. Roasted Vegetable Medley
A Colorful, Nutritious Option
Roasted Vegetable Medley brings together a colorful array of vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and onions, roasted to perfection. This side dish offers a nutritious and flavorful complement to fried chicken, adding a variety of textures and tastes to the meal.
Enhances the Plate with Color and Flavor
The vibrant colors and rich flavors of the roasted vegetables enhance the plate, providing a healthy and delicious way to round out the meal. The natural sweetness and char of the vegetables offer a perfect balance to the savory chicken.
Great for Adding Diversity
Ideal for adding diversity to your fried chicken meal, Roasted Vegetable Medley is a versatile side that appeals to diners seeking a flavorful, healthful option. It’s a delightful addition that complements the main dish beautifully.
Conclusion
Pairing the perfect side dishes with fried chicken transforms a simple meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. From the creamy textures of mashed potatoes and macaroni salad to the crisp freshness of green salads and the hearty warmth of baked beans and casseroles, there’s a side dish to satisfy every palate and complement every bite of crispy chicken. Whether you’re aiming for a classic Southern spread or looking to mix traditional favorites with contemporary flavors, these 30 side dishes offer a range of options that ensure your fried chicken meal is as memorable as it is delicious.
