What To Serve With Chicken And Rice? 16 Best Side Dishes

Chicken and rice is a comfort food classic that everyone loves. But what can you serve on the side to make this meal even better? Don't worry, I've got you covered.

Here are 16 amazing side dishes that go great with chicken and rice. These dishes add different textures and flavors to your meal, making every bite fun and tasty.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with chicken and rice are brussels sprouts with bacon, caprese salad, blooming onion, potato wedges, quinoa salad, caramelized carrots, sautéed mushrooms, tater tots, cornbread, apple coleslaw, roasted beets, zucchini fries, cucumber salad, garlic knots, fried okra, and mac and cheese.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Brussels sprouts and bacon are a match made in food heaven. Roast the sprouts until they're crispy, and toss them with cooked bacon bits. The saltiness of the bacon complements the earthiness of the Brussels sprouts. It's a side dish that adds a pop of flavor and crunch to your chicken and rice casserole.

2. Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil make up this light and refreshing salad. Drizzle some balsamic glaze on top to add a bit of tanginess. It's a cool and crisp option that balances the warmth of the chicken and rice. Super easy to put together, too!

3. Blooming Onion

Who doesn't love a good blooming onion? Cut an onion into a flower shape, dip it in batter, and deep-fry it. The crispy and flavorful layers make for a great snack or side. Dip it in some spicy sauce, and you've got yourself a crowd-pleaser.

4. Potato Wedges

Potatoes are always a good idea. Cut them into wedges, season them well, and bake until golden. They're like fries but better. The soft inside and crispy outside add a nice contrast to the chicken and rice.

5. Quinoa Salad

Okay, so you're looking for something a bit healthier? Mix cooked quinoa with chopped veggies and a light vinaigrette. It's a high-protein side that gives you a break from the heaviness of the main dish.

6. Caramelized Carrots

Slice some carrots and cook them in a pan with a bit of sugar and butter. You'll end up with sweet and tender caramelized carrots that bring a pop of color to your plate. A great way to add some veggies to the meal.

7. Sautéed Mushrooms

Heat some oil in a pan, toss in sliced mushrooms, and sauté them until they're brown and juicy. Add a dash of garlic and herbs, and you've got a tasty and earthy side dish. The soft, juicy texture of the mushrooms pairs well with the fluffy rice.

8. Tater Tots

Last but not least, who can say no to tater tots? These mini potato bites are perfect for picking up with your fingers. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they're an all-around win.

9. Cornbread

Nothing says comfort like a piece of warm cornbread. Bake a batch of cornbread squares that are fluffy on the inside and a little crispy on the outside. You can even add in some jalapeños or cheese for extra flavor. The sweetness and slight crumble of the cornbread make it an ideal side to the savory chicken and rice.

10. Apple Coleslaw

Toss shredded cabbage, carrots, and thinly sliced apples in a bowl. Add a dressing made from mayo, vinegar, and a splash of lemon juice. The tangy and sweet apple coleslaw not only adds color to your meal but also provides a crispy, refreshing contrast to the soft and warm chicken and rice.

11. Roasted Beets

Peel and slice some beets, lay them out on a baking sheet, and drizzle with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt. Roast until they're tender and slightly caramelized. These roasted beets bring in an earthy sweetness and a pop of vibrant color, making your chicken and rice casserole even more appealing.

12. Zucchini Fries

Cut zucchini into long, thin strips. Coat them in breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan and herbs. Bake until they're golden and crispy. Serve these zucchini fries with a side of ranch or aioli. It's a fun and slightly healthier twist to the classic potato fry but delivers in flavor and crunch.

13. Cucumber Salad

Thinly slice cucumbers and red onions. Mix them in a bowl with a dressing of olive oil, vinegar, and a bit of salt and pepper. Let it chill for an hour to let the flavors meld. This cucumber salad is crisp, refreshing, and light, making it a great counterpoint to the more hearty chicken and rice casserole.

14. Garlic Knots

Take small portions of pizza dough, twist them into knots, and bake until golden brown. While still warm, brush them with melted butter mixed with minced garlic and parsley. These garlic knots are chewy, garlicky, and utterly delicious. They're perfect for nibbling between bites of chicken and rice.

15. Mac and Cheese

Who can resist the creamy allure of mac and cheese? Cook up some macaroni and mix it with a cheese sauce made from cheddar, milk, and a bit of butter. Bake until the top layer is bubbly and slightly browned. The creaminess of the mac and cheese is pure comfort and complements the simplicity of chicken and rice wonderfully.

16. Fried Okra

Cut fresh okra into bite-sized pieces and toss them in cornmeal seasoned with salt and pepper. Deep-fry until golden brown. These crispy fried okra bites are a Southern classic that adds texture and warmth, making them a great companion to your chicken and rice.