What To Serve With Smoked Chicken: 16 Delicious Side Dishes

Smoked chicken is the perfect centerpiece for any meal, offering a rich, savory flavor that's hard to beat. To complement its taste, finding the right side dishes is key.

Here you can find tasty sides that not only match the smokiness of the chicken but also bring their own delightful flavors and textures to the table, making your meal a memorable one.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with smoked chicken are mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, mac and cheese, cornbread, coleslaw, crispy green beans, baked beans, brown rice and vegetables, cucumber salad, sweet potato fries, blooming onion, quinoa, zucchini slices, and roasted cauliflower.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are like a warm hug for your taste buds, especially next to smoked chicken. Their creamy, buttery goodness makes them irresistible. For an extra layer of flavor, consider mixing in some roasted garlic or a handful of sharp cheddar cheese. The key is getting them perfectly smooth and fluffy, making them the ultimate comfort food that effortlessly complements the smoky flavor of the chicken.

2. Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is a game-changer when it comes to side dishes. Its smoky edges and tender heart offer a light, refreshing contrast to smoked chicken. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt before grilling brings out its natural flavors. It's not just about the taste; the vibrant green spears also add a pop of color to your plate.

3. Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese, with its gooey, cheesy sauce and tender pasta, is a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with smoked chicken. Elevate it by using a mix of cheeses, like sharp cheddar and Gruyère, and topping it with a crispy breadcrumb crust for texture. This dish brings a comforting, creamy element to the meal, balancing the smoky notes of the chicken.

4. Cornbread

Cornbread, slightly sweet and wonderfully moist, is a southern classic that complements smoked chicken beautifully. Adding jalapeños or corn kernels can give it an extra kick or sweetness. Its golden crust and tender crumb make it ideal for sopping up sauces or enjoying on its own, adding a comforting, homey touch to your meal.

5. Coleslaw

Coleslaw introduces a crunchy, tangy contrast to the meal with its mix of shredded cabbage and carrots in a light, creamy dressing. Adding a dash of apple cider vinegar or a spoonful of Dijon mustard can enhance its flavors, making it a refreshing side that cuts through the richness of the smoked chicken, adding balance and brightness.

6. Crispy Green Beans

Crispy green beans, roasted with a touch of olive oil and seasoned with garlic, offer a crisp, flavorful side that stands up to the boldness of smoked chicken. Tossing them with slivered almonds or lemon zest before serving can add a delightful crunch and zesty lift. This side is not only tasty but also adds a healthy, vibrant element to your spread.

7. Baked Beans

Baked beans are a hearty, comforting side that melds sweet and savory flavors, complementing the smokiness of the chicken. Slow-cooked with molasses, mustard, and bacon, they become a rich, deeply flavored dish that's both satisfying and delicious. Their saucy goodness makes them a hit, adding a warm, comforting layer to your meal.

8. Brown Rice and Vegetables

Brown rice and vegetables is a wholesome, nutritious side dish that pairs beautifully with smoked chicken. The nutty flavor of the rice complements the smokiness of the chicken, while a mix of sautéed veggies like bell peppers, peas, and carrots add color and crunch. This dish is not just tasty but also packs a healthy punch, balancing out the richness of the meal.

9. Cucumber Salad

Cucumber salad is a light, refreshing option that adds a crisp, clean flavor to your meal. Thinly sliced cucumbers mixed with dill, vinegar, and a touch of sugar create a delightful side that cuts through the smokiness of the chicken. It's simple to make and adds a burst of freshness to any plate, making it a perfect summer side.

10. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a sweet and savory treat that's hard to resist. Baked or fried until crispy and seasoned with a touch of salt, they offer a delightful contrast to smoked chicken. Their natural sweetness and crispy texture make them an addictive side dish that brings a bit of fun to the meal.

11. Blooming Onion

A blooming onion is a show-stopping side that's as delicious as it is dramatic. Sliced to resemble a flower and battered and fried until golden and crispy, it's served with a spicy or tangy dipping sauce. This indulgent, crunchy treat is a perfect match for the bold flavors of smoked chicken, adding a wow factor to your spread.

12. Quinoa

Quinoa is a versatile, healthy grain that's packed with protein and fiber, making it an excellent side for smoked chicken. Its subtle, nutty flavor works well with a variety of seasonings, from fresh herbs to lemon zest. Quinoa can be mixed with roasted vegetables or feta cheese for an extra flavor boost, offering a lighter alternative to heavier sides.

13. Zucchini Slices

Zucchini slices, grilled or roasted with a touch of olive oil and seasoning, are a simple yet delicious side. Their mild, slightly sweet flavor complements the smokiness of the chicken, and their versatility allows for a range of seasonings, from Parmesan to basil. They're a great way to add a healthy, flavorful vegetable to your meal.

14. Roasted Cauliflower

Roasted cauliflower transforms this humble vegetable into a flavorful, caramelized treat. Tossed with olive oil, garlic, and spices, and roasted until it's golden and crispy, it's a side dish that offers a complex mix of flavors and textures. Its hearty, satisfying nature makes it a great companion to smoked chicken.

15. Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey glazed carrots are a sweet and savory treat that can light up any meal with smoked chicken. Slowly cooked in a mix of honey, butter, and a dash of cinnamon, they become tender and flavorful. This dish not only brings a bright splash of color to your table but also offers a delightful contrast with its natural sweetness and slight spice. It's a simple side that's easy to love, adding a hint of elegance to your casual dining.

16. Caesar Salad

Caesar salad is a classic that never disappoints. Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese creates a mix of textures and flavors that's hard to beat. It's light yet satisfying, offering a fresh counterpoint to the rich, smoky flavors of the chicken. Plus, it's a breeze to whip up, making it an ideal choice for a quick yet delicious side.

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