Peri peri chicken, a popular dish with origins in Africa and Portugal, is known for its unique blend of spices, fiery heat, and tangy flavors. The combination of smoky, spicy, and zesty notes makes this dish a true delight for the taste buds.

To create a balanced and satisfying meal, pairing it with the perfect side dishes is key.

Here are 20 tasty side dish ideas that complement peri peri chicken beautifully.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with Peri Peri chicken are coconut rice, cucumber salad, corn on the cob, roasted vegetables, coleslaw, Spanish rice, patatas bravas, chickpea salad, garlic bread, fried plantains, couscous, corn salsa, sautéed spinach, sweet potato fries, carrot mash, and butternut squash.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Coconut Rice

Coconut Rice is an exquisite match with Peri Peri Chicken. The fragrant and creamy taste of the rice mellows the spice of the chicken, creating a balanced meal. Prepared with coconut milk, it's a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. It's more than just a side - it's an experience that elevates the entire meal.

2. Cucumber Salad

Cucumber Salad offers a crisp, cool complement to Peri Peri Chicken. Its fresh and hydrating taste is a soothing counterpart to the heat of the chicken. Mixed with herbs and a light dressing, it's a refreshing side that adds a touch of brightness to the dish, providing an invigorating flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.

3. Corn on the Cob

Corn on the Cob is a classic side that brings a touch of sweetness to Peri Peri Chicken. Whether grilled to smoky perfection or boiled and buttered, its juicy kernels provide a delightful contrast. It's a fun, hands-on side dish that adds a hint of summer to any meal and pairs wonderfully with the robust flavors of Peri Peri.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted Vegetables, seasoned and cooked to perfection, are a nutritious and satisfying accompaniment to Peri Peri Chicken. Their earthy flavors and caramelized goodness provide a delightful textural contrast. Choose your favorites, from carrots to bell peppers, and enjoy how their natural sweetness complements the spiciness of the chicken.

5. Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a classic pairing with Peri Peri Chicken, offering a tangy and crunchy contrast. The mix of cabbage, carrots, and creamy dressing creates a side that's both refreshing and satisfying. Its cool, crisp texture balances the heat of Peri Peri, making it a must-try addition to this flavorful chicken dish.

6. Spanish Rice

Spanish Rice, simmered with tomatoes, onions, and spices, enhances the vibrant flavors of Peri Peri Chicken. Its savory, rich taste, combined with a pleasing texture, makes it a wonderful side. The rice absorbs the juices from the chicken, resulting in a harmonious dish that turns dinner into a fiesta.

7. Patatas Bravas

Patatas Bravas, a favorite Spanish tapa, are a perfect companion to Peri Peri Chicken. These crispy fried potatoes, topped with spicy tomato sauce and sometimes aioli, provide both texture and flavor. The bold sauce pairs beautifully with the spicy chicken, creating a side dish that's as exciting and robust as the main course itself.

8. Chickpea Salad

Chickpea Salad is a hearty and nutritious side that pairs wonderfully with Peri Peri Chicken. Loaded with protein, fresh vegetables, and herbs, its robust flavor and satisfying texture make it a wholesome addition to the meal. It complements the spiciness of the chicken with a freshness that's both invigorating and delicious.

9. Garlic Bread

Garlic Bread adds a comforting touch to Peri Peri Chicken. Its buttery, garlicky goodness provides a delightful contrast to the spicy chicken. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, this beloved side dish elevates the meal, satisfying both the taste buds and the soul.

10. Fried Plantains

Fried Plantains bring a tropical twist to Peri Peri Chicken. Their natural sweetness balances the spicy chicken, while their crispy texture adds a pleasing crunch. Whether served as a simple side or drizzled with a tangy sauce, they provide a unique flavor combination that's sure to delight.

11. Couscous

Couscous offers a light and fluffy accompaniment to Peri Peri Chicken. It's a versatile grain that can be flavored with herbs, spices, or a touch of lemon zest to complement the bold flavors of the chicken. Quick to prepare and pleasing to the palate, it's an excellent choice for a well-rounded meal.

12. Corn Salsa

Corn Salsa adds a refreshing burst of flavor to Peri Peri Chicken. Combining sweet corn with tangy lime, spicy jalapenos, and fresh herbs, it creates a lively side that dances on the tongue. It's a colorful addition that enhances the meal with its vibrant flavors and attractive appearance.

13. Sauteed Spinach

Sauteed Spinach is a simple yet satisfying side that's rich in nutrients and flavor. Cooked with a touch of garlic and olive oil, its earthy taste and tender texture complement Peri Peri Chicken beautifully. It adds a touch of elegance and healthfulness to the meal, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.

14. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet Potato Fries provide a tasty and colorful side for Peri Peri Chicken. Their natural sweetness and crispy texture balance the heat of the chicken, while their rich nutritional profile adds value to the meal. Whether baked or fried, they're a fun and flavorful side that's sure to be a hit with diners of all ages.

15. Carrot Mash

Carrot Mash is a vibrant and delicious side that pairs beautifully with Peri Peri Chicken. Its sweet, earthy flavor and smooth texture provide a comforting contrast to the spicy chicken. A sprinkle of herbs or a dash of butter can elevate this simple dish, making it a colorful and tasty addition to your meal.

16. Butternut Squash

Butternut Squash, whether roasted or puréed, offers a sweet and nutty companion to Peri Peri Chicken. Its rich flavor and velvety texture create a satisfying side that complements the bold chicken flavors. Its warm, golden hue adds visual appeal, making it a seasonal favorite that delights both the eyes and the palate.

17. Eggplant Caponata

Eggplant Caponata is a Sicilian dish that provides a complex and tangy pairing with Peri Peri Chicken. Made with eggplant, capers, olives, and tomatoes, it's a rich and flavorful side that adds depth to the meal. Its blend of sweet and sour flavors creates a unique experience, turning a simple chicken dish into a gourmet feast.

18. Arugula Salad

An arugula salad is a fresh and peppery choice that works well with the spicy Peri Peri chicken. The sharpness of the arugula contrasts beautifully with the heat of the chicken. Add some cherry tomatoes, shaved Parmesan, and a light vinaigrette for a simple yet flavorful salad. This side dish is not only quick to prepare but also adds a refreshing element to your spicy meal.

19. Cauliflower Steaks

Cauliflower steaks are a hearty and healthy option that pair wonderfully with Peri Peri chicken. Slice the cauliflower into thick steaks, season them with spices, and roast or grill until tender and slightly charred. Their mild flavor and meaty texture make them a great canvas for absorbing the flavors of the chicken, offering a satisfying and nutritious side.

20. Potato Skins

Potato skins, filled with cheese, sour cream, and chives, are a comforting and indulgent side. Their crispy texture and rich filling provide a nice contrast to the spicy chicken. You can also add some bacon bits for extra flavor. This side dish is perfect for those who love a bit of decadence with their spicy meals.

More Recipes

What To Serve With Chicken Thighs

What To Serve With Pesto Chicken

What To Serve With Marry Me Chicken

What To Serve With Peruvian Chicken