Grilled chicken is a popular and versatile main dish. It’s tasty and healthy, but it can get boring on its own. That’s where side dishes come in.

The right sides can turn a simple grilled chicken meal into something special.

There are many great side dishes that pair well with grilled chicken. From fresh salads to grilled veggies to hearty grains, you have lots of options.

This article will show you 25 delicious sides to try with your next grilled chicken dinner. You’ll find ideas for every taste and occasion.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are a tasty side dish for grilled chicken. You can make them by boiling potatoes until soft, then mashing them with butter and milk.

Add roasted garlic cloves to give the potatoes a rich, savory flavor. The garlic pairs well with the smoky taste of grilled chicken.

For extra flavor, mix in some herbs like chives or parsley. You can also add a sprinkle of white pepper for a subtle kick.

These creamy potatoes offer a nice contrast to the crispy exterior of grilled chicken. They’re filling and comforting, making your meal more satisfying.

2. Caesar Salad

Caesar salad is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken. Its crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing complement the smoky flavors of the chicken.

To make a Caesar salad, toss fresh romaine with a creamy dressing made from egg yolks, lemon juice, garlic, and anchovy paste. Add crunchy croutons and grated Parmesan cheese for extra texture and flavor.

For a twist, try grilling the romaine hearts before adding the dressing. This adds a smoky taste that enhances the overall flavor profile of your meal.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts make a tasty side dish for grilled chicken. These little green veggies get crispy and caramelized when roasted in the oven.

To prepare them, trim the ends and cut them in half. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes.

You can add extra flavor by sprinkling garlic powder, balsamic vinegar, or grated Parmesan cheese over the sprouts before roasting. The slightly bitter taste of Brussels sprouts pairs well with the savory grilled chicken.

4. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries make a tasty side for grilled chicken. They offer a nice balance of sweet and savory flavors.

To make them, cut sweet potatoes into wedges. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika.

You can grill the fries on a grill pan for about 10-15 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking.

Let the fries cool for 5-10 minutes after grilling. This helps them get crispier. Serve them right away for the best taste and texture.

Try dipping your sweet potato fries in honey mustard sauce. The sweetness goes well with the grilled chicken.

5. Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is a tasty side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken. You can easily prepare it on the same grill as your main course.

Choose thick asparagus spears for grilling. They hold up better to the heat and won’t turn mushy. Trim the tough ends off before cooking.

Brush the spears with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill them over medium heat for 4-5 minutes, turning once.

The asparagus is done when it’s tender-crisp and lightly charred. For extra flavor, try drizzling it with balsamic vinegar or lemon juice before serving.

6. Caprese Salad

Caprese salad is a perfect side for grilled chicken. It’s light, refreshing, and easy to make.

You’ll need fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil leaves. Slice the cheese and tomatoes, then layer them with basil.

Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the top. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.

This classic Italian salad adds color to your plate. Its flavors complement the chicken without overpowering it.

For a twist, try using cherry tomatoes or adding avocado slices. You can also serve it on skewers for a fun presentation.

7. Quinoa Tabouli

Quinoa tabouli is a fresh twist on the classic Mediterranean side dish. It’s perfect with grilled chicken and adds a healthy boost to your meal.

Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool. Chop fresh parsley, mint, tomatoes, and scallions.

Mix the cooled quinoa with the chopped herbs and vegetables. Add lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper for flavor.

This dish is light, refreshing, and packed with nutrients. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy meal prep.

8. Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken. Its sweet flavor and crunchy texture complement the savory chicken beautifully.

You can prepare corn on the cob in various ways. Grill it for a smoky taste, or boil it for a quick and easy option. Brush it with butter and sprinkle with salt for a simple yet delicious treat.

For extra flavor, try adding herbs or spices. Sprinkle some paprika, garlic powder, or fresh cilantro on your corn. You can also wrap it in foil with butter and seasonings before grilling for a mouthwatering result.

9. Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Balsamic glazed carrots offer a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors to complement your grilled chicken. You can easily prepare this side dish while your chicken cooks.

Start by peeling and slicing carrots into uniform pieces. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast the carrots in the oven until they’re tender and lightly caramelized.

In a small pan, mix balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey or brown sugar. Simmer this mixture until it thickens slightly. Pour the glaze over your roasted carrots and toss to coat evenly.

The result is a colorful and flavorful side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken. The carrots’ natural sweetness and the balsamic glaze’s tanginess create a delicious contrast.

10. Avocado Salad

Avocado salad is a tasty and nutritious side for grilled chicken. You can make a simple version by mixing diced avocados with cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.

Dress the salad with lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper for a zesty flavor. For added protein, you can include grilled corn or black beans.

To prevent browning, toss the avocados in lime juice before adding other ingredients. Serve the salad chilled for a refreshing contrast to your hot grilled chicken.

For a twist, try grilling avocado halves for 2-4 minutes before adding them to your salad. This adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with grilled chicken.

11. Parmesan Polenta

Parmesan polenta is a creamy, comforting side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken. You can make it easily by cooking cornmeal in chicken broth until thick and tender.

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, butter, and a splash of milk for extra richness. The result is a smooth, flavorful base that complements the smoky flavors of grilled chicken.

For added convenience, you can grill pre-cooked polenta rounds alongside your chicken. Brush them with pesto before grilling for an extra burst of flavor.

Parmesan polenta soaks up juices and sauces beautifully, making it perfect for serving with saucy grilled chicken dishes.

12. Greek Yogurt Coleslaw

Greek yogurt coleslaw is a tasty and healthier twist on the classic side dish. You can make it easily by mixing shredded cabbage and carrots with a creamy dressing.

For the dressing, combine Greek yogurt with a splash of vinegar, lemon juice, and a touch of honey. Add salt, pepper, and celery seed for extra flavor.

This lighter version of coleslaw pairs perfectly with grilled chicken. It adds a cool, crunchy contrast to the warm, juicy meat. The tanginess of the yogurt complements the smoky flavors from the grill.

13. Cilantro Lime Rice

Cilantro lime rice makes a tasty side for grilled chicken. You can easily make it at home with a few simple ingredients.

Cook white rice, then mix in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.

This rice has a fresh, zesty flavor that complements grilled chicken well. The lime adds a tangy kick, while cilantro brings a bright, herbal note. It’s light enough not to overpower the chicken but flavorful enough to stand on its own.

You can customize this side dish to your liking. Add some minced garlic or a dash of cumin for extra flavor. For a heartier option, mix in some black beans or corn.

14. Panzanella Salad

Panzanella salad is a tasty Italian dish that pairs well with grilled chicken. It’s made with crusty bread cubes, juicy tomatoes, and other fresh veggies.

To make it, toast bread cubes in the oven until golden brown. Combine them with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and basil.

Toss everything in a tangy dressing made from olive oil, red wine vinegar, and balsamic vinegar. The bread soaks up the flavors, creating a delicious mix of textures.

You can add grilled peppers or olives for extra flavor. This refreshing salad is perfect for summer meals alongside your grilled chicken.

15. Hasselback Potatoes

Hasselback potatoes are a fancy yet easy side dish for grilled chicken. You slice potatoes thinly but not all the way through, creating a fan-like appearance.

Brush the potatoes with melted butter or olive oil. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and herbs like rosemary or thyme between the slices.

Bake the potatoes until they’re crispy on the outside and tender inside. The slices will fan out during cooking, creating a beautiful presentation.

These potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled chicken. Their crispy edges and creamy centers complement the smoky flavors of the meat.

16. Roasted Beet Salad

Roasted beet salad is a tasty and colorful side for grilled chicken. You can make it by roasting beets in the oven until tender, then peeling and slicing them.

Mix the beets with fresh greens like spinach or arugula. Add some crumbled goat cheese for a creamy contrast. Throw in some crunchy nuts like pecans or walnuts.

Dress the salad with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey. This brings out the sweet earthiness of the beets.

For extra flavor, try adding sliced avocado or dried cherries to your roasted beet salad. The combination of textures and flavors pairs perfectly with grilled chicken.

17. Herb Butter Green Beans

Herb butter green beans make a tasty side for grilled chicken. You can easily prepare this dish on the grill or stovetop.

Start by melting butter with minced garlic and your favorite herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley.

Toss trimmed green beans in the herb butter mixture. If grilling, place them in a foil packet or grill basket. Cook until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.

For stovetop, sauté the beans in a pan with the herb butter. Cook until bright green and slightly charred. The butter will coat the beans, giving them a rich flavor that pairs well with grilled chicken.

18. Mediterranean Orzo Salad

Mediterranean orzo salad is a tasty side for grilled chicken. This pasta dish combines orzo with fresh veggies and herbs.

You can mix in cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and olives. Add some feta cheese for extra flavor. Toss everything with a light dressing made from olive oil and lemon juice.

This salad is easy to make ahead of time. It tastes great cold or at room temperature. The flavors get even better if you let it sit for a bit before serving.

Pair this refreshing salad with your grilled chicken for a complete meal. It’s perfect for summer cookouts or quick weeknight dinners.

19. Apple Fennel Slaw

Apple fennel slaw is a fresh and crunchy side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken. It combines julienned apples and thinly sliced fennel for a crisp texture.

The slaw is often dressed with a tangy vinaigrette made from white balsamic vinegar. This adds a bright, zesty flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples.

You can add extras like dried cranberries or candied pecans for more flavor and texture. Some recipes include shallots for a mild onion taste.

This slaw is versatile and easy to make. You can serve it as a side or use it as a topping for chicken sandwiches. It’s a great way to add a light, refreshing element to your grilled chicken meal.

20. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Zucchini noodles with pesto make a light and tasty side for grilled chicken. Use a spiralizer to create zucchini noodles.

Sauté the noodles in olive oil for 2-3 minutes until just tender. Be careful not to overcook them.

Toss the warm zucchini noodles with homemade or store-bought basil pesto. The pesto adds rich flavor without weighing down the dish.

You can customize this side by adding cherry tomatoes or pine nuts. For extra protein, mix in some grated Parmesan cheese.

This low-carb alternative to pasta pairs perfectly with juicy grilled chicken for a healthy and satisfying meal.

21. Spinach and Strawberry Salad

Spinach and strawberry salad is a tasty side for grilled chicken. Mix fresh spinach leaves with sliced strawberries in a large bowl.

Add some crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts for extra flavor and crunch. You can also include thinly sliced red onions if you like.

For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey. Pour it over the salad just before serving.

This bright and refreshing salad goes well with both hot and cold grilled chicken. The sweet strawberries balance nicely with the savory chicken flavors.

22. Fried Plantains

Fried plantains offer a sweet and savory side dish for your grilled chicken.

You can easily make them at home by slicing ripe plantains and frying them in oil until golden brown.

The crispy exterior and soft interior of fried plantains provide a nice contrast to grilled chicken. Their slightly sweet flavor balances out the savory notes of the meat.

You can season fried plantains with a sprinkle of salt or cinnamon for extra flavor.

They work well with both spicy and mild chicken recipes, adding a tropical flair to your meal.

Fried plantains are filling and nutritious. They contain fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and C.

This side dish brings a unique twist to your grilled chicken dinner.

23. Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a tasty vegetable dish that goes well with grilled chicken. It’s made with eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and bell peppers.

The veggies are cooked slowly until they’re soft and full of flavor. Herbs like basil and thyme add extra taste.

You can serve ratatouille hot or cold.

It’s a great way to get more veggies with your meal.

This French dish is healthy and colorful. It adds a nice contrast to the grilled chicken on your plate.

Try making a big batch of ratatouille. You can use leftovers in other meals during the week.

24. Cucumber Dill Salad

Cucumber dill salad is a cool, crisp side that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken.

To make it, slice cucumbers thinly and mix with chopped fresh dill.

Add some thinly sliced red onion for extra flavor and crunch. For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, and a touch of maple syrup.

Season with salt to taste.

Toss the cucumbers, dill, and onions with the dressing. Let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving.

This refreshing salad adds a light, tangy contrast to your juicy grilled chicken.

It’s quick to make and great for hot summer days.

25. Rosemary Focaccia Bread

Rosemary focaccia bread makes a tasty side for grilled chicken. You can bake this Italian flatbread at home with simple ingredients.

Mix flour, yeast, salt, olive oil, and water to form the dough. Add chopped fresh rosemary and red pepper flakes for flavor. Let the dough rise, then flatten it onto a baking sheet.

Dimple the surface with your fingers and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle more rosemary and coarse salt on top before baking until golden brown.

The result is a soft, chewy bread with a crisp crust.

Its herby aroma pairs perfectly with juicy grilled chicken. Slice and serve warm alongside your main dish.

Nutritional Benefits of Grilled Chicken Sides

Grilled chicken sides can pack a powerful nutritional punch. The right choices boost your meal’s health value while adding flavor and variety.

Why Pair with Vegetables

Veggies are great partners for grilled chicken. They’re low in calories but high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Leafy greens like spinach give you iron and folate. Colorful veggies such as bell peppers and carrots offer vitamin C and beta-carotene.

Roasted or grilled vegetables keep more nutrients than boiled ones. They also taste better with chicken.

Try zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus on the grill. These veggies add bulk to your meal without many calories.

Salads are another smart choice. Mix different lettuces with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light dressing.

You’ll get lots of nutrients and feel full longer.

Importance of Balanced Meals

A balanced meal gives your body what it needs to work well. Grilled chicken is a lean protein source. Adding sides creates a complete meal.

Whole grains like brown rice or quinoa give you energy and fiber. They help you feel full and keep your blood sugar steady. Beans or lentils add more protein and fiber.

Healthy fats are key too. Use olive oil to dress salads or cook veggies. Add some nuts or seeds to your sides.

These fats help your body absorb vitamins from the veggies.

Mix up your sides to get different nutrients. This keeps meals fun and makes sure you’re not missing any important vitamins or minerals.

Flavor Profiles to Complement Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken pairs well with many flavors. The right combinations can boost its taste and make your meal more exciting.

Choosing Savory Elements

Herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage add earthy notes to grilled chicken. You can rub them on the meat before cooking or sprinkle them on after.

Garlic and onion powders give a punch of flavor without overpowering the chicken.

Try adding some umami with soy sauce or miso paste in your marinades. These deep flavors blend nicely with the smoky taste of grilled chicken.

Lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the dish. The acid cuts through the richness and adds a fresh touch.

Balancing Spicy and Sweet

A touch of heat can make grilled chicken more interesting. Try using chili powder, cayenne, or red pepper flakes in your rubs. Start with a small amount and add more to suit your taste.

Sweet flavors can balance out the spice and complement the chicken’s natural taste. Honey, brown sugar, or maple syrup work well in marinades. They help create a nice caramelized crust on the grill.

Fruit-based sauces like mango salsa or pineapple chutney add both sweetness and acidity. These can freshen up your grilled chicken dish and give it a tropical twist.