What Goes Well with Barbecue Chicken for Dinner?

Barbecue chicken is the ultimate dinner star—juicy, flavorful, and smoky. However, let’s be honest: it doesn’t shine all by itself. In fact, a good side dish is what truly takes that plate to the next level, creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re planning a family meal, hosting friends, or simply satisfying a craving, you’ll want to know what pairs best with barbecue chicken to make your dinner unforgettable. After all, the sides are just as important as the chicken itself.

In this article, we’ll explore all the best sides, salads, veggies, and even some unexpected combos that go perfectly with barbecue chicken. And yes, I’ll even toss in some ingredients and tips to make them extra special.

1. Classic Comfort Foods That Pair with Barbecue Chicken

When it comes to barbecue chicken, comfort food classics are a no-brainer. These dishes feel like home and bring out the best in smoky, saucy chicken.

Mac and Cheese: The Creamy Partner Your BBQ Needs

Who can resist a bowl of gooey, cheesy mac and cheese alongside a plate of barbecue chicken? The creamy texture and rich flavor of mac and cheese provide a mouthwatering contrast to the tangy, smoky barbecue sauce.

Ingredients for Extra Creamy Mac and Cheese:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook the macaroni, whip up a creamy cheese sauce using butter, flour, and milk, then stir in your cheeses until smooth. Mix it with your cooked pasta, and bake for a crispy golden top—or skip the baking for a stovetop version.

Cornbread: Sweet and Savory Southern Favorite

Cornbread has that soft, crumbly sweetness that balances the smoky spices in barbecue chicken. Whether you like yours with a touch of honey or fully savory, it’s a must-have on the table.

Ingredients for Fluffy Cornbread:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 cup milk
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup melted butter

Mix everything together, bake at 375°F for about 25 minutes, and enjoy with a little butter or a drizzle of honey for sweetness.

2. Fresh and Crunchy Salads for a Balanced Plate

If you’re looking for something light and refreshing to go with barbecue chicken, salads are the way to go. They cut through the richness of the chicken and add a satisfying crunch.

Coleslaw: The Ultimate BBQ Sidekick

Coleslaw is a classic BBQ side dish for a reason—it’s cool, crunchy, and tangy, making it the perfect match for smoky barbecue chicken.

Ingredients for Tangy Coleslaw:

• 1 small cabbage, shredded
• 2 carrots, grated
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Toss the veggies with the dressing, let it chill for 30 minutes, and you’re good to go! Add some apples or raisins for a twist.

Potato Salad: A BBQ Party Staple

Potato salad is creamy, filling, and oh-so-good with barbecue chicken. It’s a dish everyone expects at a barbecue, so you can’t go wrong with it.

Ingredients for Classic Potato Salad:

• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp mustard
• ½ cup chopped celery
• ½ cup diced onion
• 2 boiled eggs, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Boil your potatoes until tender, mix them with the other ingredients, and chill for an hour before serving.

3. Grilled and Roasted Veggies to Compliment BBQ Chicken

Vegetables, especially when grilled or roasted, are fantastic companions to barbecue chicken. They add depth, flavor, and a touch of smokiness that ties the whole meal together.

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and Smoky Goodness

Corn on the cob is a summer favorite, and it’s even better when grilled. The charred kernels and buttery finish make it irresistible.

Ingredients for Grilled Corn on the Cob:

• 4 ears of corn
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Brush the corn with butter, season with salt and pepper, and grill over medium heat for about 10 minutes. Sprinkle on some parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lime for an extra kick.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes: A Sweet and Savory Option

Sweet potatoes are a dream side dish. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with smoky barbecue chicken.

Ingredients for Roasted Sweet Potatoes:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Toss the sweet potatoes in olive oil and seasonings, then roast at 425°F for 25-30 minutes.

4. Light and Healthy Options That Pair Well with BBQ Chicken

For those who want to keep it light, there are plenty of healthy sides that work wonderfully with barbecue chicken.

Quinoa Salad: A Nutritious Twist

Quinoa is hearty and pairs well with the bold flavors of barbecue chicken. Toss it with fresh veggies for a light, colorful side.

Ingredients for Quinoa Salad:

• 1 cup quinoa, cooked
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Combine everything, toss with the dressing, and serve chilled.

Steamed Asparagus: Simple and Elegant

Asparagus brings a touch of elegance to the table while staying light and healthy.

Ingredients for Steamed Asparagus:

• 1 lb asparagus spears, trimmed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Lemon wedges

Steam the asparagus for 5-7 minutes, drizzle with olive oil, and serve with a squeeze of lemon.

5. Unexpected Pairings to Surprise Your Guests

Sometimes, the best pairings are the ones you least expect. These unique sides can bring a fun twist to your barbecue chicken dinner.

Watermelon and Feta Salad: Sweet and Salty Perfection

Watermelon and feta salad is refreshing, light, and surprisingly perfect alongside barbecue chicken.

Ingredients for Watermelon Salad:

• 4 cups cubed watermelon
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Toss everything together for a side that screams summer.

Pickled Veggies: Tangy and Crunchy

Pickled vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, and red onions add a tangy, crunchy element to your barbecue spread.

Ingredients for Quick Pickles:

• 1 cup sliced cucumbers
• ½ cup white vinegar
• ½ cup water
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt

Mix the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt, then pour over the veggies. Let it sit for at least an hour.

6. Bread-Based Sides for a Full Plate

Dinner Rolls: Soft and Buttery Perfection

Fluffy dinner rolls are ideal for sopping up any leftover barbecue sauce.

Ingredients for Dinner Rolls:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp yeast
• ¾ cup warm water
• 2 tbsp melted butter

Knead the dough, let it rise, and bake until golden brown.

Pasta Salad: A Cool and Creamy Choice

Pasta salad is quick, easy, and customizable with your favorite veggies and dressings.

Ingredients for Pasta Salad:

• 2 cups cooked pasta
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup diced cucumbers
• ¼ cup Italian dressing

Mix everything, chill, and serve.

Conclusion

When it comes to pairing barbecue chicken with the perfect sides, the possibilities are endless. Whether you prefer hearty comfort foods like creamy mac and cheese or healthier options such as quinoa salad and steamed asparagus, each side dish adds a unique flavor and texture to complement the smoky, tangy chicken. In fact, the beauty of barbecue chicken lies not just in its versatility but in how well it pairs with a variety of accompaniments.

For example, classics like cornbread and coleslaw bring a sense of tradition and balance to your plate, while unexpected additions like watermelon and feta salad or pickled veggies can add a refreshing twist to your meal. No matter what your preference is, incorporating a mix of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and tangy sides ensures a well-rounded dining experience that satisfies everyone at the table.

As you plan your next barbecue chicken dinner, remember the importance of variety. By using bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a mix of textures, you can create a memorable meal. From the smoky grill to the colorful sides, the key to a great dinner is bringing it all together in harmony. So, go ahead—grab your favorite recipes, fire up the grill, and enjoy a meal that’s as delicious as it is satisfying.

FAQs About What Goes Well with Barbecue Chicken

1. What’s the best starch to serve with barbecue chicken?
Classic options like mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, or cornbread work perfectly.

2. Can I serve barbecue chicken with cold side dishes?
Yes! Potato salad, pasta salad, and coleslaw are all excellent cold sides.

3. Are there healthy side dishes for barbecue chicken?
Absolutely. Quinoa salad, steamed asparagus, and fresh garden salads are all healthy options.

4. What drinks go well with barbecue chicken?
Sweet tea, lemonade, or even a cold beer pair beautifully with barbecue chicken.

5. Can I make the sides ahead of time?
Most sides, like potato salad and coleslaw, can be prepped ahead of time, making your dinner stress-free.

Final Thoughts What Goes Well with Barbecue Chicken for Dinner?

As you put together your barbecue chicken dinner, remember that the best meals are those that bring people together and leave everyone satisfied. Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner with family, the right side dishes elevate your barbecue chicken to new heights. In fact, it’s not just about filling the plate—it’s about creating a cohesive meal where every bite feels like it belongs.

For example, while classics like mac and cheese or coleslaw always hit the mark, don’t hesitate to try something new. In addition, transitioning to lighter options like quinoa salad or roasted veggies can make the meal feel fresher and more modern. On the other hand, leaning into comfort foods such as mashed potatoes or baked beans will never go out of style. By combining these elements with your perfectly cooked barbecue chicken, you create a balance that appeals to every taste.

Moreover, don’t forget the importance of presentation and variety. Adding colorful dishes like watermelon and feta salad or grilled corn not only enhances the flavors but also makes the table more inviting. Ultimately, the best meals are those crafted with care and shared with love. So go ahead—pair thoughtfully, serve generously, and savor every delicious bite.

For more delicious recipes and culinary tips, explore the collection of recipes available on our website.