BBQ chicken is a classic summertime favorite. The smoky, tangy flavors of the chicken are hard to beat.

But to truly make your meal shine, you need some tasty sides to go with it.

The right side dishes can turn your BBQ chicken into a complete and satisfying meal. From crisp salads to hearty baked beans, there are many options to choose from.

This article will explore 18 delicious sides that pair perfectly with BBQ chicken.

1. Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a perfect match for BBQ chicken. Its cool crunch balances the warm, smoky meat.

You can make coleslaw easily at home.

Start with shredded cabbage and carrots. Mix them with a creamy dressing.

Combine mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and salt for a classic taste.

For a twist, try adding apple slices or raisins. This gives a sweet touch to the tangy slaw.

You can also use a vinegar-based dressing instead of mayo for a lighter version.

Serve your coleslaw cold. It’s best when made a few hours ahead to let the flavors mix.

2. Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Baked macaroni and cheese is a perfect side dish for BBQ chicken. It’s creamy, cheesy, and comforting.

You can make it from scratch or use a boxed mix for convenience.

For extra flavor, try adding some crispy bacon bits or diced jalapeños to your mac and cheese. A crunchy breadcrumb topping gives it a nice texture contrast.

The rich, gooey cheese sauce balances out the smoky flavors of the BBQ chicken. Kids and adults alike will love this classic comfort food pairing.

3. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is a perfect match for BBQ chicken. You can easily cook it alongside your chicken on the grill.

Start by pulling back the husks and removing the silk. Brush the corn with butter or oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Grill the corn over high heat for about 10-15 minutes. Turn it occasionally to get even char marks on all sides.

For extra flavor, try adding spices like chili powder or paprika before grilling. You can also brush the corn with herb butter after cooking.

Serve your grilled corn hot off the grill with extra butter and salt on the side. It’s a simple yet delicious addition to your BBQ chicken meal.

4. Potato Salad

Potato salad is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken. You can make it with creamy gold potatoes, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese for extra flavor. Add green onions, sour cream, and mayonnaise to create a rich, tangy dressing.

Season your potato salad with salt and pepper to taste. This cool, refreshing side offers a nice contrast to hot BBQ chicken.

You can prepare it ahead of time and chill it in the fridge, making it ideal for busy cookouts.

For a healthier twist, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also add diced celery or chopped herbs for extra crunch and freshness.

5. Garlic Knots

Garlic knots are a tasty side dish that pairs well with BBQ chicken. These soft, buttery rolls are brushed with garlic-infused butter and baked until golden brown.

You can make garlic knots from scratch or use store-bought pizza dough for a quicker option. To prepare them, tie strips of dough into knots and brush with melted butter mixed with garlic powder.

Bake the knots in a preheated oven until they’re lightly golden on top. After baking, brush them again with garlic butter for extra flavor.

Serve these warm, garlicky bites alongside your BBQ chicken for a delicious complement to your meal.

6. Jalapeño Cornbread

Jalapeño cornbread adds a spicy kick to your BBQ chicken meal. This tasty side dish combines the classic cornbread texture with a hint of heat.

You can make it easily at home by adding diced jalapeños to your favorite cornbread recipe. For extra flavor, try mixing in some shredded cheddar cheese.

Serve the cornbread warm, cut into squares. It’s perfect for soaking up BBQ sauce or enjoying on its own. The mix of sweet corn and spicy peppers pairs wonderfully with the smoky flavors of BBQ chicken.

7. Baked Beans

Baked beans are a classic BBQ side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken. You can make them from scratch or use canned beans for convenience.

For homemade baked beans, start with navy beans. Add bacon, onions, and molasses for rich flavor. A touch of BBQ sauce or mustard can enhance the taste.

If using canned beans, heat them up and stir in some extras. Try adding brown sugar, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce for depth.

Baked beans offer a sweet and savory contrast to tangy BBQ chicken. Their soft texture complements the crispy chicken skin nicely.

8. Smoked Gouda Pasta Salad

Smoked Gouda pasta salad adds a tasty twist to your BBQ chicken meal. This dish combines pasta with the rich, smoky flavor of Gouda cheese.

To make it, cook pasta until tender and let it cool. Mix in cubed smoked Gouda, cherry tomatoes, and your choice of veggies.

For the dressing, blend mayonnaise, milk, and a touch of vinegar. Add some spice with adobo sauce or chipotle peppers.

Toss everything together and chill before serving. The cool, creamy pasta complements hot BBQ chicken perfectly. Your guests will love this unique side dish at your next cookout.

9. Cucumber and Tomato Salad

Cucumber and tomato salad is a refreshing side dish for BBQ chicken. You can make it quickly with just a few ingredients.

Slice cucumbers and tomatoes, then mix them in a bowl. Add some thinly sliced red onions for extra flavor and crunch.

For the dressing, combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour it over the vegetables and toss gently. You can add herbs like fresh basil or dill for more taste.

This light salad balances the rich flavors of BBQ chicken. It’s cool and crisp, perfect for warm weather meals.

10. Creamy Avocado Dip

Creamy avocado dip is a perfect match for BBQ chicken. You can make it by mashing ripe avocados with Greek yogurt, lime juice, and cilantro. Add salt and pepper to taste.

This dip is smooth, tangy, and refreshing. It balances the smoky flavors of BBQ chicken nicely.

You can serve it as a side or use it as a sauce on chicken wraps.

For extra flavor, try adding minced garlic or a dash of cumin to your dip. Make it just before serving to keep it fresh and green.

Pair it with tortilla chips or veggie sticks for a crunchy contrast.

11. Deviled Eggs with Paprika

Deviled eggs make a tasty side for BBQ chicken. To make them, boil eggs for about 10 minutes. Cool them in ice water, then peel and cut in half.

Scoop out the yolks and mash them in a bowl. Mix in mayo, mustard, salt, and pepper. Spoon or pipe the filling back into the egg whites.

Sprinkle paprika on top for a pop of color and mild, sweet flavor.

You can prepare deviled eggs ahead of time and chill until serving. They’re perfect for picnics or backyard BBQs with chicken.

12. Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread

Honey butter skillet cornbread is a tasty side dish for BBQ chicken. You can make it easily in a cast iron skillet.

Start by preheating your oven and skillet. Mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, combine milk, eggs, and honey.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ones and stir. Add melted butter and corn kernels if you like. Pour the batter into the hot skillet.

Bake until golden brown. Serve warm with extra honey butter on top. The sweet and savory flavors go great with BBQ chicken.

13. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a tasty twist on regular fries that go great with BBQ chicken. They’re crispy on the outside and soft inside, with a sweet flavor that balances the savory chicken.

You can make them at home by cutting sweet potatoes into strips and baking or frying them. Season them with salt, pepper, and paprika for extra flavor.

Serve your sweet potato fries with a dipping sauce like ranch or spicy mayo. They’re a healthier option than regular fries, with more vitamins and fiber.

14. Roasted Vegetable Medley

A roasted vegetable medley is a tasty and colorful side dish for BBQ chicken. You can mix and match your favorite veggies for this dish.

Popular choices include bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and red onions. Cut them into bite-sized pieces and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Spread the veggies on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes. Stir halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting.

The result is a flavorful mix of tender, caramelized vegetables that pair perfectly with your BBQ chicken.

15. Classic Caesar Salad

Caesar salad is a tasty side dish for BBQ chicken. It brings a fresh, crisp contrast to the smoky meat. The cool lettuce and tangy dressing balance the chicken’s flavors nicely.

You can make a classic Caesar or try some variations. Add grilled corn for extra sweetness and crunch. The garlic and cheese flavors in the salad blend well with the BBQ taste.

This salad is easy to prepare and serves as a light, refreshing complement to your BBQ chicken. Its crisp texture and zesty dressing can help cut through the richness of the meat.

16. Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

Dill pickle pasta salad is a tasty side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken. This unique salad combines pasta, diced dill pickles, and a creamy dressing.

The tangy flavor of pickles adds a zesty kick to the dish. You can mix in shredded chicken, cheese, and ranch dressing for extra flavor and protein.

This cold salad is ideal for summer barbecues. It’s easy to make ahead and store in the fridge until serving time.

For the best results, use a short pasta shape like rotini or farfalle. This allows the dressing to coat every bite. Add some fresh dill for an extra burst of flavor.

17. Watermelon Feta Salad

Watermelon feta salad is a refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken. You’ll love the mix of sweet watermelon cubes and tangy feta cheese.

Add some fresh basil leaves for an extra pop of flavor. Drizzle olive oil and lime juice over the salad to bring all the tastes together.

This light and juicy salad balances out the richness of BBQ chicken. The cool watermelon also helps beat the summer heat when you’re grilling outdoors.

For added crunch, toss in some pistachios or sliced red onions. You can even spice it up with a sprinkle of chili flakes if you want a kick.

18. Caprese Salad Skewers

Caprese salad skewers are a tasty and easy side for BBQ chicken. You can make them by threading cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves onto small skewers.

Marinate the mozzarella in olive oil and Italian herbs for extra flavor. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving for a tangy finish.

These skewers are quick to assemble and look great on a platter. They offer a fresh, light contrast to rich BBQ chicken. Plus, they’re easy for guests to grab and eat.

Pairing Flavors with BBQ Chicken

BBQ chicken has a rich taste that pairs well with many sides. The right combinations can make your meal even better.

Understanding Flavor Profiles

BBQ chicken often has a mix of sweet, tangy, and smoky notes. You can match these flavors or go for contrast.

Sweet sides like corn or baked beans go well with tangy BBQ sauce. Creamy dishes like mac and cheese balance spicy chicken.

For a fresh touch, try crisp salads or slaws. They cut through the richness of the chicken.

Grilled veggies add a smoky flavor that matches the BBQ taste. Pickles or pickled veggies offer a tangy crunch that works great with chicken.

Balancing Sweet and Savory Notes

Your BBQ chicken meal needs a good mix of sweet and savory. Too much of one can make the meal feel off.

Add sweet potato fries or corn on the cob for sweetness. They match well with savory BBQ flavors.

For savory options, try garlic bread or roasted potatoes. These hearty sides complement the chicken without being too sweet.

A mix of both sweet and savory sides gives your meal depth.

Don’t forget about sauces and dips. A honey mustard sauce can add both sweet and tangy notes. Ranch dressing offers a cool, savory touch that balances spicy chicken well.

Nutritional Considerations

BBQ chicken sides can be both tasty and healthy. Pick options that add nutrients and balance to your meal. Watch portion sizes to keep calories in check.

Serving Size Recommendations

Aim for a palm-sized piece of BBQ chicken. Fill half your plate with veggies. Add a quarter plate of whole grains or starchy sides. This helps you get a mix of protein, carbs, and fiber.

Keep an eye on high-calorie sides like mac and cheese or potato salad. Stick to 1/2 cup servings of these. For green salads, you can have 1-2 cups.

Dressings and sauces can add lots of calories. Use just 1-2 tablespoons. Try to pick lighter options when you can.

Incorporating Healthy Ingredients

Add color to your plate with veggie sides.

Grilled or roasted veggies are great choices. They’re low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals.

Try a mix of raw and cooked veggies.

Salads with dark leafy greens give you lots of nutrients. Cooked veggies like grilled corn or roasted sweet potatoes are tasty and filling.

Whole grains are good for fiber.

Brown rice, quinoa, or whole wheat pasta make great BBQ sides. They help you feel full and give you energy.

For creamy sides, use Greek yogurt instead of mayo.

It cuts calories and adds protein. You can also try avocado for healthy fats.