Barbecue chicken. Just the words conjure images of smoky flavors, sticky sauces, and warm summer evenings. But even the most perfectly grilled chicken needs a supporting cast. Choosing the right side dishes, appetizers, and even drinks can elevate your BBQ experience from good to unforgettable. This guide will explore a range of options, providing inspiration for creating a complete and delicious meal centered around the king of the grill: barbecue chicken.
Classic BBQ Side Dishes: The Timeless Companions
Some pairings are classics for a reason. They complement the bold flavors of BBQ chicken and provide a satisfying balance to the meal. These are the tried-and-true side dishes that consistently deliver.
Corn on the Cob: A Sweet and Savory Delight
Nothing says “barbecue” quite like corn on the cob. Its natural sweetness balances the tangy and smoky notes of the chicken, and the slight char from the grill adds another layer of flavor.
Consider different preparations. Grilled corn, brushed with butter and herbs, is a simple and delicious option. For a spicier twist, try grilling the corn with a chili-lime butter. Creamed corn is another popular option.
Coleslaw: A Creamy, Crunchy Contrast
Coleslaw offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of barbecue chicken. The creamy dressing and crisp vegetables provide a satisfying textural contrast. A classic coleslaw is a simple mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and mayonnaise-based dressing.
Variations abound. You can add pineapple for a tropical touch, swap out mayonnaise for a vinegar-based dressing for a lighter option, or incorporate ingredients like shredded apple or cranberries for added sweetness and complexity.
Potato Salad: A Hearty and Versatile Choice
Potato salad is a barbecue staple, offering a comforting and filling side dish. The creamy potatoes and flavorful dressing pair well with the savory chicken. There are countless variations to explore, from classic mayonnaise-based salads to those with mustard, vinegar, or herbs.
Consider adding bacon, hard-boiled eggs, or pickles to your potato salad for extra flavor and texture. Sweet potato salad offers a delightful twist on the classic.
Baked Beans: A Smoky and Sweet Harmony
Baked beans are another classic BBQ side, providing a smoky and sweet accompaniment to the chicken. The beans soak up the flavors of the sauce, creating a rich and satisfying dish.
Homemade baked beans are always a treat, but even store-bought versions can be enhanced with additions like bacon, brown sugar, or molasses. Vegetarian baked beans are also a great option for accommodating dietary restrictions.
Beyond the Basics: Expanding Your BBQ Horizons
While the classics are always a good choice, don’t be afraid to experiment with other side dishes that complement the flavors of barbecue chicken.
Grilled Vegetables: A Healthy and Flavorful Option
Grilled vegetables are a healthy and delicious way to add color and variety to your BBQ spread. Bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and asparagus are all excellent choices.
Brush the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Grilling the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky char.
Pasta Salad: A Customizable and Convenient Choice
Pasta salad is a versatile side dish that can be customized to suit your tastes. Choose your favorite pasta shape and toss it with vegetables, cheese, and a flavorful dressing.
Pesto pasta salad, Caprese pasta salad, and Greek pasta salad are all popular options. Add grilled chicken or shrimp to the pasta salad for a heartier meal.
Mac and Cheese: A Creamy and Comforting Treat
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that pairs surprisingly well with barbecue chicken. The creamy cheese sauce complements the savory chicken, creating a satisfying and indulgent meal.
Homemade mac and cheese is always a winner, but even store-bought versions can be elevated with additions like bacon, breadcrumbs, or different types of cheese.
Watermelon Salad: A Refreshing and Light Counterpoint
For a lighter and more refreshing option, consider watermelon salad. The sweet and juicy watermelon is balanced by the salty feta cheese and the tangy vinaigrette. Add mint or basil for extra flavor.
This salad is perfect for hot summer days and provides a welcome contrast to the richness of the barbecue chicken.
Appetizers to Kickstart Your BBQ Feast
Before the main event, tantalize your guests’ taste buds with some delicious appetizers. These options pair well with the smoky flavors of barbecue chicken and set the stage for a memorable meal.
Grilled Pineapple Salsa with Tortilla Chips
The sweetness of grilled pineapple combined with the heat of jalapeños and the tanginess of lime creates a vibrant and flavorful salsa. Serve it with tortilla chips for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
The smoky char from the grill adds another layer of flavor to the pineapple, making it even more delicious.
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
These simple skewers are a classic combination of flavors that never disappoint. Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves are drizzled with balsamic glaze for a quick and easy appetizer.
The fresh and light flavors of the Caprese skewers provide a nice contrast to the richness of the barbecue chicken.
Deviled Eggs: A Classic BBQ Appetizer
Deviled eggs are a picnic and barbecue staple. The creamy filling and sprinkle of paprika make them a crowd-pleasing appetizer. There are many variations on the classic recipe.
Consider adding bacon, chives, or pickle relish to your deviled eggs for extra flavor.
Drinks to Complement Your BBQ Chicken
The right drink can enhance the flavors of your BBQ chicken and complete your meal. Here are some options to consider:
Iced Tea: A Classic BBQ Beverage
Iced tea is a refreshing and classic choice for a barbecue. Unsweetened or lightly sweetened iced tea is a great way to quench your thirst on a hot day.
Lemon or mint can be added for extra flavor.
Lemonade: A Sweet and Tart Delight
Lemonade is another classic summer beverage that pairs well with barbecue chicken. The sweet and tart flavors of lemonade provide a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
Consider adding berries or herbs to your lemonade for extra flavor.
Beer: A Crisp and Refreshing Choice
A crisp and refreshing beer is a great accompaniment to barbecue chicken. Light lagers, IPAs, and pale ales are all good options.
Choose a beer that complements the flavors of the chicken and your side dishes.
Wine: An Unexpected but Delightful Pairing
Wine might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of barbecue, but certain wines can actually pair quite well with barbecue chicken.
Look for lighter-bodied red wines like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais. Rosé is also a great option.
Desserts to End Your BBQ on a Sweet Note
No barbecue is complete without a delicious dessert. These options provide a sweet and satisfying end to your meal.
Watermelon: A Refreshing and Light Dessert
Watermelon is a simple and refreshing dessert that is perfect for hot summer days. The sweet and juicy watermelon is a light and healthy way to end your meal.
Peach Cobbler: A Warm and Comforting Treat
Peach cobbler is a classic summer dessert that is both comforting and delicious. The warm peaches and flaky crust are a perfect way to end your barbecue.
Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-indulgent treat.
Brownies: A Chocolatey Indulgence
Brownies are a chocolatey and satisfying dessert that is always a crowd-pleaser. Serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.
S’mores: A Campfire Classic
If you’re grilling outdoors, s’mores are a classic and fun dessert option. Toast marshmallows over the grill and sandwich them between graham crackers and chocolate.
Bringing it All Together: Creating Your Perfect BBQ Menu
With so many delicious options to choose from, creating the perfect BBQ menu can seem daunting. Here’s a simple framework to help you plan:
- Start with the star: Barbecue chicken, of course! Consider the type of sauce you’ll be using, as this will influence your side dish choices.
- Choose your classics: Select one or two classic BBQ side dishes, like corn on the cob, coleslaw, or potato salad.
- Add some variety: Include a lighter or healthier option, like grilled vegetables or watermelon salad.
- Don’t forget the drinks: Offer a variety of beverages to suit different tastes, including iced tea, lemonade, beer, and wine.
- End on a sweet note: Choose a dessert that is both satisfying and refreshing, like peach cobbler or watermelon.
By following these tips, you can create a BBQ menu that is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Remember to consider dietary restrictions and preferences when planning your menu. With a little planning and creativity, you can create a memorable BBQ experience centered around the delicious flavors of barbecue chicken. Remember that the key is balancing flavors and textures for a truly satisfying meal. Have fun experimenting and discovering your favorite pairings!
What are some classic side dishes that always complement barbecue chicken?
Classic barbecue chicken side dishes often include coleslaw, corn on the cob, and potato salad. Coleslaw provides a cool, creamy, and crunchy contrast to the smoky and savory chicken. Corn on the cob, especially when grilled with butter and herbs, adds a sweet and satisfying element to the meal.
Potato salad, whether made with a creamy or vinaigrette-based dressing, offers a hearty and comforting side that balances the richness of the chicken. These traditional choices have stood the test of time for their ability to complement and enhance the overall barbecue experience.
What kind of salads pair well with barbecue chicken, beyond just coleslaw?
Beyond coleslaw, salads that offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of barbecue chicken work wonderfully. Consider a watermelon and feta salad with mint and a balsamic glaze. The sweetness of the watermelon, the saltiness of the feta, and the freshness of the mint create a vibrant and palate-cleansing dish.
Another excellent choice is a grilled peach and arugula salad with pecans and goat cheese. The peppery arugula, sweet grilled peaches, crunchy pecans, and tangy goat cheese provide a delightful mix of flavors and textures that perfectly complements the smoky barbecue chicken.
Are there any vegetable-based dishes that can elevate a barbecue chicken meal?
Yes, several vegetable-based dishes can significantly elevate a barbecue chicken meal. Grilled asparagus with a lemon-herb vinaigrette offers a light and fresh counterpoint to the heavier chicken. The grilling process enhances the asparagus’s natural sweetness, and the vinaigrette adds a zesty brightness.
Another excellent option is roasted sweet potatoes with cinnamon and maple syrup. The sweetness of the potatoes, combined with the warm spices, creates a comforting and flavorful side dish that complements the smoky barbecue flavors. Consider adding pecans or walnuts for added texture.
What type of bread or rolls go best with barbecue chicken?
Soft, slightly sweet rolls or cornbread are excellent choices to accompany barbecue chicken. The sweetness of the rolls complements the savory flavor of the chicken and is perfect for soaking up any extra barbecue sauce. Cornbread adds a crumbly texture and slightly sweet, buttery flavor that enhances the meal.
Alternatively, consider toasted garlic bread or crusty bread with a drizzle of olive oil. The garlic bread provides a savory and aromatic element that pairs well with the smoky barbecue flavors. Crusty bread offers a satisfying chew and is ideal for mopping up any remaining sauce.
What are some good drink pairings for barbecue chicken?
For alcoholic beverages, a crisp, dry rosé or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir pairs well with barbecue chicken. The rosé offers a refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken, while the Pinot Noir provides subtle fruit flavors that complement the smoky taste.
For non-alcoholic options, iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water with lemon or lime are excellent choices. Iced tea and lemonade offer a refreshing sweetness and acidity that balance the savory flavors of the chicken. Sparkling water with citrus provides a light and bubbly option that cleanses the palate.
How can I create a complete and balanced barbecue chicken meal?
To create a complete and balanced barbecue chicken meal, focus on including a variety of flavors, textures, and nutrients. Combine your barbecue chicken with a mix of side dishes like a fresh salad, a starchy vegetable, and a green vegetable to ensure a well-rounded plate. Aim for color diversity in your sides.
Consider adding a source of healthy fats, such as avocado or nuts, to enhance satiety and provide nutritional value. Finish the meal with a light dessert like grilled fruit or a small portion of sorbet to satisfy your sweet tooth without being too heavy. Remember portion control for each component of the meal.
What are some less common or unique side dish ideas for barbecue chicken?
For a less common side, try a grilled pineapple salsa with red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño. The sweetness of the pineapple, combined with the spicy jalapeño and fresh herbs, provides a vibrant and unexpected flavor contrast to the barbecue chicken. This salsa can also be served as a topping for the chicken.
Another unique option is quinoa salad with black beans, corn, avocado, and a lime vinaigrette. The quinoa offers a healthy and hearty base, while the black beans and corn provide a Southwestern flair that complements the barbecue flavors. The avocado adds creaminess, and the lime vinaigrette adds a zesty touch.