We all have comfort foods that remind us of a wonderful feeling, place, or person. One of my comfort foods has to be barbecue (BBQ) chicken, as its delicious flavor never disappoints!

Jump to:

• Appetizers
• Starchy Sides
• Veggies & Salads
• Pickles & Condiments
• Soups
• Drinks
• Desserts (if you have room!)
• 📖 Recipe
• 💬 Comments

My grandma has mastered BBQ chicken in my eyes, especially when it comes to creating a meal with it as the star. After all, it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with so many options whether you’re looking for sides, drinks, or desserts.

So, how might you recreate this comfort food for your family, guests, or even a solo evening?

I’d love to show you! If you’re looking around for what to serve with BBQ chicken, you’re in the right place.

Today, I’ll show you 39 sides that will surely bring out the sweet and savory flavors of BBQ chicken. With this list, I promise you’ll never have to wonder about what to eat with BBQ chicken ever again!

Appetizers

Appetizers are typically served before the main event. In this case, they’ll be eaten before the BBQ chicken. Here are four awesome appetizers to consider:

1.Bacon Wrapped Cheesy Stuffed Jalapeños

First up, we’ve got bacon-wrapped cheesy stuffed jalapeños. Yum! I find that spice really jazzes up BBQ chicken, especially with the mildly spicy kick these jalapeños bring.

All you need for this one are cheddar, cream cheese, and a blend of seasonings for the pepper’s stuffing. You’ll then wrap each pepper half with one strip of bacon before cooking them in an air fryer or oven.

The creamy, spicy medley goes extremely well with the smoky flavors of barbecue chicken, so it’s an entree that’s sure to impress!

2.Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs have got to be one of my favorite foods of all time. They’re so simple to make and are a real crowd-pleaser – especially when eaten with BBQ chicken!

This recipe calls for truffle deviled eggs, so after you’ve boiled and halved them, all you need to do is make a filling of mayonnaise, dijon mustard, crème fraîche, and a few more ingredients!

Deviled eggs are divinely light and fluffy, and the result of this pairing is a perfect contrast with the smokiness and slight tang that BBQ chicken brings to the table.

3.Spinach Artichoke Dip

Growing up, I always hoped that any restaurant we ate at had spinach dip. It’s such a classic and delicious appetizer! That’s why I love any excuse to sneak it into my meals, including with BBQ chicken.

This spinach dip recipe is a hearty combination of artichoke hearts, cheeses, spinach, and a little seasoning. Then, you simply bake this until it’s a little brown at the top.

For extra presentation points, serve it with tortilla chips or pretzel thins! This appetizer is extremely satisfying, especially if you dip the BBQ chicken into it. Be sure to try it out next time!

4.Burrata Bruschetta

If I want a light and refreshing side dish that’s great at playing second fiddle to my BBQ chicken, burrata bruschetta is my best bet.

And hey, what they say is true: burrata truly makes everything so much better!

For this recipe, get yourself some crostini from the Italian or local supermarket (or you can also whip one up right at home). While you’re there, pick up a burrata, tomatoes, onion, basil, and olive oil.

Burrata bruschetta works great as a spread, especially if your BBQ party has toasted bread on the side as well! The creamy and slightly tangy bruschetta is heavenly with perfectly seared BBQ chicken.

Starchy Sides

Next up on the BBQ chicken-inspired menu is starchy sides. All of these dishes complement BBQ chicken in a unique, carb-filled way:

1.Fried Potatoes and Onions

If you own a cast iron skillet, consider making these fried potatoes and onions as your starchy side to BBQ chicken!

Aside from the main stars of the show, this fried potatoes and onion recipe also incorporates a delectable mix of cayenne pepper and garlic salt spices.

The secret to getting the best version of this dish is pan-frying everything until extra crispy.

These fried potatoes are wonderful finger food with BBQ chicken due to how subtle their flavors are – they allow the chicken’s aroma to shine even brighter!

2.Pita Bread

Pita bread is what I like to call a “mop” for other foods. To soak up that dripping barbecue sauce from chicken fresh off the grill, let it rest atop a piece of pita bread!

If you’re short on time, you can always grab pita bread from the grocery store.

But trust me: this pita bread recipe isn’t just easy to follow — it tastes much, much better than anything you’ll find at the supermarket!

Pita bread’s simplicity means you can be very creative with what you do with it, such as making a spinach dip and combining it with the chicken to make a pita BBQ sandwich. The possibilities are endless!

3.Grandma’s Creamy Mac & Cheese

If I was headed to Mars and could only bring one food – hands down, it’d be the classic, creamy mac & cheese.

Space travel aside, mac & cheese brings out the “comfort” in comfort food with its cheesy, salty, and rich flavor – which is why it makes this list!

BBQ chicken has an overwhelming mix of flavors that are sweet, savory, slightly tangy, and spicy all at once.

On the other hand, mac & cheese is known for being a no-nonsense option at the dinner table. Combine them, and it tastes out of the world with each bite!

4.Old Fashioned Baked Beans

Baked beans remind me of family barbecues from my childhood. They’re delicious by themselves, but I particularly love to smother my BBQ chicken with them!

This dish is super easy to make and only takes about 15 minutes, including prep. However, make sure to cook them low and slow to bring out the flavor, and you’ll have incredible-tasting beans in no time at all!

These baked beans work perfectly with BBQ chicken because they’re both sweet and savory dishes. The similar flavors meld together seamlessly, making the entire combination irresistible.

5.Cornbread

What’s a barbecue without a little cornbread? Cornbread adds a delicious sweetness to any Southern-inspired meal.

If you’ve got the oven space, I would recommend getting a cast iron skillet and preparing/cooking your ingredients in that!

You can also easily whip up cornbread from scratch, but there are also many pre-made versions available that are sure to satisfy.

And when it comes to pairing it with BBQ chicken, I highly recommend slathering maple butter atop your cornbread.

The soft and slightly sweet cornbread is the best counterbalance to a smoky and rich BBQ chicken!

6.Grilled Corn with Herb Butter

Another corn-centric dish, grilled corn with herb butter is the perfect savory starch for your BBQ chicken lineup.

The best thing about this recipe is that it’s very easy to put together!

All you need to do is mix herbs with butter and brush your grilled corn with it.

And to balance out the heavy and savory BBQ chicken flavors even further, you can even add soft cheese (like feta) to the corn.

Trust me: the result is nothing short of breathtaking!

7.Parmesan Truffle Fries

Truffle fries are loved by most … and why wouldn’t they be? They’re a fantastically simple way to add carby goodness to your BBQ chicken feast!

The combination of parmesan and truffle on a potato is incomparable. And it’s even so easy to make as well; slice white potatoes, then fry them in oil (or pop them into an air fryer).

Parmesan truffle fries have truly exquisite flavors that you need to try with BBQ chicken. It’s a magical experience that’s just as popular with the kids as with adults — you really can’t go wrong with this one!

8.Arabic Rice

Arabic (or Lebanese) rice is a staple that includes Vermicelli pasta and a generous helping of butter.

The secret to this recipe is adding vermicelli noodles directly to the pan, creating a crispy texture that wonderfully complements rice!

Sure, the dish might be on the plainer side, but that’s exactly why it’s the perfect match with BBQ chicken.

Arabic rice features soft, subtle flavors that absorb the smoky essence of BBQ chicken – sure to make any dinner guest happy!

9.Potato Salad

Potato salad is a refreshing, cool side dish to serve during the warmer months.

And if you want to shine the spotlight on it, it’s a great option for the day after your BBQ chicken meal a swell!

This secret family recipe will absolutely knock your socks off. All you need are sweet onion, celery, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a few other ingredients – and then you’re all set!

Here’s a pro tip: use starchier potatoes. The starchier they are, the better the salad will be!

10.Mediterranean Couscous (w. Pistachio Nuts)

Did you know that couscous is actually a form of pasta? Couscous is usually made from wheat or barley, depending on the source. As a pasta lover myself, I just had to try it with BBQ chicken!

With this recipe, you’ll need pistachio nuts for that unique, incomparable richness.

And with the mint dressing coating the entire side dish with a fresh tang, the couscous will feel right at home beside your BBQ chicken. This side dish gets a solid 10 out of 10 from me!

11.Cheese Grits

Your BBQ chicken simply can’t get more Southern than cheese grits. This cozy comfort food is very easy to put together and only needs a few ingredients!

Simply boil milk and chicken broth together, adding seasonings as you go. Then, add the grits slowly to avoid clumping. Finish off with cheese and butter for a superb side that’ll wow everyone!

Cheese grits with BBQ chicken just makes sense. The smoky and tangy chicken adds a flavorful flair to the cheesy grits, creating a medley of flavors that’ll make your tastebuds sing!

Veggies & Salads

As tempting as carb overloading can be when eating BBQ chicken, let’s discuss some delicious veggies and salads that will help to balance out this meal:

1.Refreshing Cucumber Yogurt Salad

Up first is a refreshing cucumber yogurt salad that’s undeniably Mediterranean-inspired. This salad incorporates tzatziki or yogurt sauce and is jam-packed with flavors that are infused into the cucumber slices.

Ready in just five minutes, this cucumber yogurt salad is one of the best veggie sides to smoky and rich BBQ chicken.

The fresh tang means that your tongue won’t become be overwhelmed by the chicken’s flavor easily, so you can keep on eating!

2.Cucumber and Tomato Salad

Like the previous salad, cucumber and tomato salad is a simple yet foolproof option to pair with your BBQ chicken.

Don’t underestimate it, this salad packs so many light and delicious flavors that it’ll become your new favorite.

You can make cucumber and tomato salad with your favorite olive oil, along with a dash of salt and pepper. Add a little feta to the mix if you’re feeling fancy!

This salad works because of how well it contrasts with the BBQ chicken. If you ask me, this one’s the perfect choice for summer BBQ parties!

3.Coleslaw

Ah, the classic. I can’t create a list of what veggies go with BBQ chicken without talking about coleslaw!

Coleslaw is a super simple veggie side and a crowd favorite all by itself, but pair it with BBQ chicken and you’ll be in paradise with every bite!

Coleslaw features light, zesty flavors that are just wonderful with BBQ chicken. Again, the magic is in the contrast.

But you can’t serve just any old coleslaw. Instead, check out this recipe and get ready to whip up the best version out there!

4.Burrata Caprese

If you’ve already tried the burrata bruschetta as a side to your BBQ chicken and still have some left over, turn the rest into a little burrata caprese salad!

Sure, this salad is a little less traditional, but that doesn’t make it any less ideal with BBQ chicken.

The secret to creamy and refreshing burrata caprese lies in the herbs, so feel free to go crazy with the basil!

The basil melds nicely with tomato and cheese, creating an amazing flavor that balances out the strong barbecue aroma.

To me, there’s nothing more divine in the summer than eating a caprese salad with a little balsamic glaze drizzled over the top!

5.Garden Salad w. Homemade Ranch Dressing

If you don’t want anything too fancy and are just looking for good, dependable greens, this garden salad will be a welcome addition to your plate full of BBQ chicken!

What sets this garden salad apart is the homemade ranch dressing that kicks the flavors up a few notches.

You can also be as creative as you want with your ingredients! Feel free to add all the veggies and leafy greens you love.

However, make sure not to scrimp on the ranch dressing! This refreshing salad isn’t just healthy, but will also help make the BBQ chicken meal feel a lot lighter.

And if you end up making more ranch dressing than you need, turn it into a tasty dipping sauce for your barbecue!

6.Roasted Vegetable Medley (Ratatouille)

I have to admit: I’m always very eager to try Ratatouille whenever I get the chance! There’s something so magical about a simple roasted vegetable medley, so try not to knock it until you’ve tried it.

Ratatouille is loved for its gorgeous color profile and wonderful flavors. No wonder it’s right at home with BBQ chicken!

Feel free to add round vegetables like tomato, squash, zucchini, and eggplant. You can even throw in your favorite veggies for a welcome twist.

Here’s how I eat ratatouille: ladle up a spoonful and take a huge bite of your BBQ chicken. You’ll fall in love!

7.Crispy Parmesan Baked Green Bean Fries

Of all the vegetable fry recipes I’ve tried with BBQ chicken, these baked green bean fries have to be one of the best.

These beans are naturally a little snappy, but the crunch and saltiness of the parmesan are sure to win everyone over!

The best part? These green beans look just like ordinary potato fries — only much healthier.

They work just as well as potato fries on a plate of chicken, and I bet you can already imagine what they’d taste like.

This dish is very simple to prepare, too; all you have to do is coat your green beans in a dusting of parmesan cheese and spray some oil over the top for crispiness!

8.Southern Collard Greens with Bacon

Collard greens show up at every Southern cookout for a reason — they’re a sure hit with any crowd!

Although collard greens feel a little common, adding bacon to this trusty veggie recipe is sure to level things up!

Especially for BBQ chicken, adding red pepper flakes for that little extra kick creates a truly irresistible flavor combination.

These greens will offer a different experience for your tastebuds, making them an excellent option for barbecue!

9.Grilled Bell Peppers

I adore grilled bell peppers. My mom is famous for her stuffed peppers, but I often found myself just wanting to eat the pepper itself. So of course, I just had to try this dish with BBQ chicken!

Roasted peppers are so easy to prepare. Simply pop them into the oven with a drizzle of olive oil and a bit of salt, and you’re all set!

Aside from being super straightforward, these grilled bell peppers are also fantastic as finger food – making them perfect for BBQ chicken.

10.Fruit Salad

Fruit salad isn’t just for dessert. You might not have tried it yet, but it’s actually a terrific option to have during your meal too!

BBQ chicken has a slight hint of sweetness, and the natural and refreshing flavors of fruit salad just kick that quality up a notch.

You’re free to add whatever fruits strike your fancy, but if we’re talking about BBQ chicken, I prefer juicier fruits that remind me of summer. Think watermelon or orange!

Pickles & Condiments

Are you a fan of condiments? Me too! However, pairing condiments with BBQ chicken can sometimes be tricky because the main dish is already so flavorful.

Nevertheless, here are some personal favorites that you may want to try!

1.Sumac Onions

Wondering what to have with BBQ chicken when it comes to pickles? Sumac onions are an option I highly recommend you try!

Sumac onions involve a quick pickling recipe with the use of sumac and other spices.

You can pickle these onions by swishing them in an acidic liquid, such as white vinegar or lemon juice.

The result is a crazy medley of flavors that add so much tang to your savory BBQ chicken. Sumac onions effortlessly balance the stronger flavors of the barbecue, so you’re in for a wild, flavorful ride!

2.Pickled Red Onions

If sumac onions feel a little too far outside your comfort zone, you can go for another alternative: pickled red onions!

This pickled dish is incredibly quick to prepare, making it the best side for BBQ chicken if you’re out of time.

This recipe only requires four ingredients and has a minimum wait time of only 30 minutes. You can use this half hour to set the table, serve the chicken, or even make a quick dessert!

Like sumac onions, these pickled red onions perfectly balance the chicken’s flavors. So, if you can’t think of any other side to serve – this one’s got you covered!

3.Chimichurri (Argentinian)

Have you ever had chimichurri? If not – you’re missing out.

Chimichurri is possibly one of the most appealing (and underrated!) sides to BBQ chicken, and I highly recommend that you try it out at your next BBQ cookout.

Chimichurri comes from Argentina, and it’s a simple combination of herbs and oil that brightens the flavor of smoky chicken. You only need cilantro, parsley, garlic, pepper, and onion, and you’re ready to go!

Soups

Soup can really tie a meal together!

I know that the list of appetizers and sides above already provides you with more than enough variety, but here’s a soup that can bridge any remaining gaps in your BBQ chicken-inspired spread:

1.Roasted Tomato Soup

Roasted tomato soup is a warm, comforting dish that pairs seamlessly with BBQ chicken!

The soup packs an especially subtle flavor that allows the smoky meat to take center stage; it’s a combination you simply have to try.

And if your BBQ party has other side dishes, you can even dip them into the soup!

It’s super easy to make and only asks you to blend a few vegetables along with some seasonings.

A tip: if you’re feeling adventurous, I recommend making a BBQ chicken grilled cheese to dip into the tomato soup!

Drinks

Now that we’ve discussed the main food options, refreshments are up next! Your drink possibilities are endless with BBQ chicken, so here are a few to think about if you need some direction:

Soft Drinks

Fizzy drinks bring out the smoky flavors of BBQ chicken even more, and you have so many great options to choose from!

Pop open a can of Coke, root beer, or lemon-lime soda, and everyone’s sure to have a memorable party.

If you’re open to trying a new carbonated drink, you could even try mixing your favorite juice into club soda! I really like carbonated apple juice, but the choice is completely yours!

Iced Tea

If it’s a summer afternoon BBQ party, iced tea is what I’d consider to be the best option of all.

Drinking iced tea alongside BBQ chicken and sides just feels right! You can make the drink yourself (for more creativity) or be content with store-bought varieties.

In any case, I recommend sweetening the tea for an authentic Southern experience.

As for what iced tea to serve: well, it comes in so many flavors! Think peach, raspberry, or lemon; you could even add a slice of lemon or a few berries to every batch for the extra presentation points.

Lemonade

Zesty drinks and barbecue are a match made in heaven!

That’s why I love having lemonade at the ready when I’m cooking BBQ chicken. Lemonade is a favorite among kids as well, especially during a hot summer afternoon.

I personally really love strawberry lemonade and found a terrific recipe here for you to check out if you want to make your own!

All you need are lemons, strawberries, sugar, and water. I recommend using a food processor to blend your fruit into a puree.

Beer

If it’s a barbecue party for the adults, you’ll never go wrong with beer! Alcoholic beverages pair excellently with a BBQ chicken meal, and beer is the first drink that many will think of.

If you’ve got a favorite beer, stick with that – but know that a cold lager or amber ale will perfectly match the smoky flavor profile of BBQ chicken!

Wine

Not much of a beer person? No problem! You don’t need to have a sophisticated or fine meal to enjoy a glass of wine — BBQ chicken is just as ideal a match!

Two of my highly recommended wine types are a chilled rosé or a zesty zinfandel.

These options are both light in flavor, so they allow plenty of room for the more intense flavors of BBQ chicken to shine through!

Cocktails

And last but not least, I have to talk to you about cocktails! There are two types I believe you should try with your BBQ chicken: bourbon and mojito!

All bourbon-based drinks have a Southern feel to them, which is just perfect for BBQ chicken and other Southern-inspired sides.

Alternatively, mojitos are also highly refreshing cocktails that you can customize as you wish.

Desserts (if you have room!)

I always have room for dessert. If you’re like me, take a look through this list of dessert options that are excellent when eaten as a treat after BBQ chicken.

1.Pecan Pie

Okay, I’ll be honest – I love pecan pie, so this may be a little biased!

The dessert combines nutty and caramelized flavors that are a perfect way to end any meal, but especially BBQ chicken.

Pecan pie is great for larger parties and is best served with some vanilla or caramel ice cream.

2.Banana Pudding

I’m the only one in my family who likes bananas – so if your family loves them, please make this dessert! Banana pudding has become popular recently, especially in New York City with Magnolia Bakery’s debut.

Banana pudding is a super simple dessert that’s just magical after BBQ chicken.

The light and tropical flavor (as well as fluffy texture) makes it a great choice as a post-savory dish.

3.Peach Cobbler

If it’s summertime and you’re looking for desserts, look no further!

Peaches are in season, which means peach cobbler should be on the menu.

As with pecan pie, be sure to pair your cobbler with an ice cream. Butterscotch is a great classic choice, especially after a heavy and savory meal!

4.Salted Caramel Ice Cream

Speaking of ice cream, salted caramel ice cream can be incorporated into any of the above desserts.

If eating a pie feels impossible after a few servings of BBQ chicken, ice cream is a lighter dessert that’ll appeal to your sweet tooth and leave you feeling completely satisfied!

📖 Recipe