60 Best Side Dishes for Fried Chicken 🍗

You love fried chicken, right? Who doesn’t? It’s crispy, juicy, and delicious. But sometimes, you want to spice things up a bit and add some variety to your meal. That’s where side dishes come in handy. These are perfect with golden-brown chicken, as they can balance out the richness, add some freshness, or provide some extra flavor.

It doesn't matter if you prefer something savory, sweet, or spicy. There’s a side dish for you. Here are some of the best sides for fried chicken that you can try at home or order from your favorite restaurant.

Jump to:

• Best Side Dishes For Fried Chicken
• 1. Mashed Potatoes
• 2. Crunchy Green Bean Salad
• 3. Fried Green Tomatoes
• 4. Hush Puppies
• 5. Baked Beans
• 6. Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew
• 7. Mac and Cheese
• 8. Fried Okra
• 9. Spicy Lima Beans
• 10. Potato Salad
• 11. Cornbread
• 12. Red Beans and Rice
• 13. Baked Jalapeno Poppers
• 14. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
• 15. Herbed Rice Pilaf
• 16. Cabbage Slaw
• 17. Roasted Beetroot
• 18. Buttermilk Biscuits
• 19. Parmesan Zucchini Fries
• 20. Curried Couscous
• 21. Onion Rings
• 22. Collard Greens
• 23. Baked Potato Wedges
• 24. Pineapple Fried Rice
• 25. Sourdough Stuffing
• 26. Garlic Butter Noodles
• 27. Cranberry Walnut Quinoa
• 28. Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad
• 29. Corn on the Cob
• 30. Caprese Salad
• 31. Cabbage Rolls
• 32. Corn Pudding
• 33. Fried Pickles
• 34. Avocado Salsa
• 35. Southern-Style Grits
• 36. Loaded Potato Skins
• 37. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
• 38. Roasted Carrots with Honey Glaze
• 39. Broccoli Almondine
• 40. Grilled Vegetables with Balsamic Marinade
• 41. Tomato and Cucumber Gazpacho
• 42. Garlic Sautéed Swiss Chard
• 43. Grilled Baby Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan
• 44. Roasted Tomato Bruschetta
• 45. Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes with Goat Cheese
• 46. Coleslaw
• 47. Baked Artichokes
• 48. Roasted Red Pepper and Walnut Dip
• 49. Creamed Leeks
• 50. Greek Orzo Salad
• 51. Grilled Peach and Prosciutto Salad
• 52. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
• 53. Chunky Guacamole
• 54. Pulled Pork Sandwich
• 55. Baked Polenta Fries
• 56. Bulgur Salad
• 57. Garlic Bread
• 58. Egg Roll Soup
• 59. Grilled Watermelon with Lime and Mint
• 60. Succotash
• 📖 Recipe
• 👩🏻‍🍳 Sarah Mock
• Comments

Best Side Dishes For Fried Chicken

The best side dishes to serve with fried chicken are more than mashed potatoes! Pick your perfect side dish from this list of side dishes for fried chicken.

1. Mashed Potatoes

This mashed potato recipe is a delicious side to go with your fried chicken: creamy mashed potatoes with heavy cream.  It is easy to prepare and has a smooth and rich texture that melts in your mouth.

2. Crunchy Green Bean Salad

A refreshing and crunchy side dish that pairs well with crispy chicken is this green bean salad recipe. The crispy texture of the green beans and almonds contrasts with the juicy and tender and crispy fried chicken. 

3. Fried Green Tomatoes

These golden-brown slices of unripe tomatoes offer a perfect balance of crunchiness and tartness, making them an ideal companion to fried chicken. When served together, the zesty flavors of the fried green tomatoes complement the rich and savory taste of the fried chicken, creating a harmonious and satisfying meal.

4. Hush Puppies

In this recipe, you'll find delightful hush puppies - golden, crispy bites with a tender inside. These savory cornmeal fritters, often enjoyed alongside a fried chicken meal, are bursting with flavor and have a satisfyingly crunchy texture.

5. Baked Beans

Southern baked beans are a classic side. It's a sweet and savory blend of navy beans, bacon, and a rich molasses sauce that perfectly complements the goodness of a Southern meal with fried chicken.

6. Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew

This hearty lentil and sweet potato stew is a delightful blend of earthy lentils, tender sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices. The stew's warmth and depth make it an excellent accompaniment to your fried chicken feast.

7. Mac and Cheese

Creamy and cheesy, this pasta is easy to make and satisfying to eat. It has a rich flavor and a smooth texture that melts in your mouth. It is the perfect side dish for fried chicken because it balances the crispy and juicy meat with the soft and gooey cheese. 

8. Fried Okra

Discover the delightful crunch of perfect fried okra. Just like biting into your fried chicken, this dish offers a satisfyingly crisp exterior while revealing the tender and flavorful interior of okra.

9. Spicy Lima Beans

This smoky spicy lima beans dish is a hearty and flavorful side dish that will complement your fried chicken dinner.  The beans are tender and creamy, and the sauce is thick and savory.

10. Potato Salad

A tangy vinaigrette dressing, boiled potatoes, and fresh herbs make up a classic Southern side dish. It is light and refreshing, unlike the creamy version of potato salad, and it complements the chicken well.

11. Cornbread

This cornbread has a crisp crust and a tender crumb, with a savory flavor that complements the fried chicken. Southern cornbread is the perfect side dish for any meal, especially when served with butter and honey. 

12. Red Beans and Rice

Nothing goes better with fried chicken than red beans and rice, one of the ultimate fried chicken sides. The beans are soft and flavorful, while the rice is fluffy and aromatic. The combination of these two ingredients creates a cozy dish.

13. Baked Jalapeno Poppers

Jalapeno poppers are cheesy and packed with flavor. They make a great side dish for fried chicken because they add some heat and contrast to the juicy and tender meat. 

14. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

This side dish recipe is a refreshing chickpea salad with vibrant flavors. It complements fried chicken perfectly with its zesty lemon dressing, crisp veggies, and the satisfying texture of chickpeas.

15. Herbed Rice Pilaf

Enhance your fried chicken experience with a tasty side of herbed rice pilaf. The combination of the chicken and the savory notes of the herbed rice pilaf is a match made in culinary heaven.

16. Cabbage Slaw

If you are looking for a yummy side to go with your fried chicken, you have found the perfect recipe: easy Mexican coleslaw with corn. You will love how this coleslaw complements the juicy fried chicken, adding some freshness and flavor to your meal. 

17. Roasted Beetroot

Fried chicken goes well with this honey-roasted beetroot dish, which has a delicious contrast of flavors and textures. The honey glaze makes the roasted beetroot slices soft and sweet, while the fried chicken is crunchy and savory. 

18. Buttermilk Biscuits

Biscuits are soft, fluffy, and buttery pastries that are easy to make with just three ingredients: self-rising flour, butter, and buttermilk. They are a staple of Southern cuisine and can be enjoyed with honey, jam, gravy, or just plain. But the taste of warm homemade buttermilk biscuits with fried chicken elevates it to a whole new level.

19. Parmesan Zucchini Fries

Enjoy fried chicken with a side of Parmesan zucchini fries, a crunchy and savory dish that is easy to make. The zucchini fries are coated with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, giving them a satisfying texture. 

20. Curried Couscous

In this delightful dish, fragrant curried couscous takes center stage, adorned with a medley of vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices. The light, fluffy couscous is infused with a harmonious blend of flavors, creating a perfect companion for crunchy chicken tenders.

21. Onion Rings

Fried onion rings are a Southern side that goes well with breaded chicken. They have a golden-brown, crunchy texture that contrasts with the tasty chicken. These are made in the air fryer!

22. Collard Greens

You will love the tender greens cooked with garlic, onion, red pepper flakes, and apple cider vinegar in this delicious side dish. Sautéed collard greens are a great way to enjoy this nutritious leafy vegetable that is high in fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and calcium with Southern chicken.

23. Baked Potato Wedges

These oven-baked potato wedges are crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and coated with a savory blend of spices and herbs. You can enjoy them as a snack or as a side dish with your favorite fried chicken.

24. Pineapple Fried Rice

With fluffy rice, tangy pineapple, colorful veggies, and savory soy sauce, pineapple fried rice is a tropical delight. It goes well with fried chicken, adding crunch and sweetness to your meal. This dish is a great side dish that makes eating more enjoyable.

25. Sourdough Stuffing

Sourdough bread stuffing is a classic comfort food with breaded chicken that will make you feel cozy and satisfied. The sourdough bread adds a tangy flavor and a crunchy texture to the stuffing, while the herbs and broth make it moist and aromatic.

26. Garlic Butter Noodles

A delectable blend of linguine soaked in a rich garlic butter sauce awaits in this dish. Its creamy texture and aromatic flavor perfectly complement the finger-licking chicken. This pasta serves as a simple side that adds a comforting balance to the bold and savory notes of the chicken.

27. Cranberry Walnut Quinoa

Quinoa with cranberries and candied walnuts makes a delicious base for fried chicken. The tart and sweet flavors of the quinoa contrast with the savory chicken. 

28. Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad

The creamy cucumber dill salad offers a refreshing and tangy contrast to the rich flavors of Southern-style chicken. Its cool crunch and zesty dill dressing make the fried chicken even more delightful.

29. Corn on the Cob

Enjoy your perfect fried chicken with a side of Caribbean-style corn on the cob. This dish combines the Southern-style chicken’s savory goodness with a burst of vibrant flavors from spices and lime.

30. Caprese Salad

Caprese salad is a simple but flavorful salad made with fresh mozzarella cheese, ripe tomatoes, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction. The creamy cheese, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil complement the tender chicken fritters perfectly. 

31. Cabbage Rolls

This dish features tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful mixture of ground beef and rice, simmered in a rich tomato sauce. The hearty and comforting flavors of these cabbage rolls complement the chicken perfectly.

32. Corn Pudding

Why not try this creamy corn pudding for a perfect side dish to go with your savory chicken? The custard-like pudding complements the flavor and texture of the chicken very well.

33. Fried Pickles

If you're looking for a crunchy and tangy snack to pair with your southern fried chicken, you'll love these southern fried pickles. They are sliced dill pickles coated in a seasoned cornmeal batter and deep-fried until golden and crisp.

34. Avocado Salsa

For a simple side dish to pair with your crunchy chicken, you have found the perfect recipe: avocado salsa. You can enjoy it as a dip with tortilla chips, or spoon it over your chicken for a burst of color and taste. 

35. Southern-Style Grits

Southern shrimp and grits is a dish that pairs creamy grits with succulent shrimp for a cozy and delicious meal. The grits have a buttery smoothness that goes well with the crunchy chicken, giving each bite a satisfying contrast.

36. Loaded Potato Skins

Potato skins filled with cheese, bacon, and other toppings are a delicious treat that goes well with breaded chicken. The potato skins are baked or fried until golden and crisp, and then stuffed with a creamy and savory mixture of cheese, bacon, sour cream, chives, and salsa.

37. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

You are looking at a delicious and hearty side dish of pesto zucchini noodles. This dish is perfect for a low-carb and gluten-free meal with golden-brown chicken that is easy to make and full of flavor.

38. Roasted Carrots with Honey Glaze

Roasted carrots with an orange-honey glaze offer a delightful contrast to the savory crunch of fried chicken. This sweet side is easy to make and full of flavor. The carrots are roasted until tender and caramelized, then tossed with a tangy and sticky glaze made from orange juice, honey, butter, and spices. 

39. Broccoli Almondine

A simple and tasty Southern side dish to pair with your breaded chicken is broccoli almondine. The sauce gives the broccoli a rich and tangy flavor, while the almonds add some crunch and nuttiness.

40. Grilled Vegetables with Balsamic Marinade

Grilled vegetables with zesty balsamic marinade is a delicious and easy side dish that complements breaded chicken. The marinade adds a tangy flavor and a caramelized crust to the vegetables, while the grilling brings out their natural sweetness.

41. Tomato and Cucumber Gazpacho

Tomato gazpacho pairs well with delicious fried chicken because the tangy and savory flavors of the soup complement the crispy and juicy texture of the chicken. You can dip the chicken in the soup or eat them separately for a satisfying and balanced dish.

42. Garlic Sautéed Swiss Chard

Sauteed Swiss chard is a simple recipe that complements chicken fritters very well. The Swiss chard has a mild and slightly bitter taste that balances the richness of the chicken fritters.

43. Grilled Baby Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan

Imagine a medley of tender potatoes grilled to perfection, coated in a blend of Parmesan cheese and garlic that exudes a delightful aroma. The crispy, golden exterior of the breaded chicken matches the savory richness of the potatoes.

44. Roasted Tomato Bruschetta

Roasted tomato bruschetta is a delicious appetizer that features fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil on toasted bread. It’s great with crunchy chicken because the tanginess of the tomatoes goes well with the chicken. 

45. Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes with Goat Cheese

Fresh flavors from the juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy whipped goat cheese, and fragrant basil fill these stuffed cherry tomatoes. They go well with crunchy chicken, adding a touch of sophistication and freshness to your meal. 

46. Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a perfect veggie side for golden-brown chicken because it adds some freshness and crunch to contrast the rich and juicy meat. It’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices.

47. Baked Artichokes

As you savor the golden-brown chicken alongside these baked artichoke hearts, you'll relish the perfect interplay of textures and flavors. The chicken's tender succulence contrasts beautifully with the crunchy artichoke hearts, while the earthy undertones of the artichokes enhance the taste of the chicken.

48. Roasted Red Pepper and Walnut Dip

This roasted red pepper and walnut dip has a rich and complex flavor that is spicy, sweet, tangy, and nutty. There are many side dishes for breaded chicken, but trust me, this is the perfect accompaniment as it adds moisture and contrast to the meat. 

49. Creamed Leeks

Creamed leeks are made by cooking sliced leeks in butter until soft, then adding cream, cheese, and seasonings. The result is a creamy and flavorsome mixture that complements breaded chicken. 

50. Greek Orzo Salad

This dish is a Greek orzo salad, a refreshing and colorful salad that is perfect for summer. This salad is great with golden-brown chicken thanks to its light and fresh ingredients. 

51. Grilled Peach and Prosciutto Salad

Grilled peach burrata salad with prosciutto is drizzled with a simple balsamic glaze that adds a tangy and rich flavor. This salad is perfect for a summer day, especially when paired with golden-brown chicken that has a crunchy skin and tender meat. 

52. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Buffalo cauliflower bites are a delicious and healthy alternative to chicken wings. You can enjoy them with chicken fritters for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Chicken fritters are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, and they complement the tangy and spicy taste of the buffalo cauliflower bites.

53. Chunky Guacamole

Chunky guacamole is a healthy side dish that goes well with crunchy chicken because it adds a creamy and tangy flavor to the crispy and juicy meat. It is also rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants from the avocados, tomatoes, onions, and lime juice.

54. Pulled Pork Sandwich

A pulled pork sandwich is a delicious and easy recipe that you can make with your slow cooker or oven. This sandwich is great with golden-brown chicken since it adds more protein and flavor to your meal.

55. Baked Polenta Fries

Baked polenta fries with spicy marinara sauce are a delicious dish that will make you forget about regular fries. The moist and crisp chicken is leveled up by this dish's soft and cheesy texture and zesty and hot taste.

56. Bulgur Salad

Bulgur salad combines cooked bulgur wheat with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy lemon dressing. Serving this light and crunchy salad with breaded chicken perfectly balances your meal.

57. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread serves as the ultimate companion to crunchy chicken by providing a delectable symphony of buttery richness and aromatic garlic notes. Each bite of the tender chicken, coated in its crisp shell, harmonizes effortlessly with the flavorful and garlicky bread.

58. Egg Roll Soup

This recipe is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of a classic Chinese appetizer in a warm and comforting bowl. To make it even more satisfying, you can serve it with breaded chicken, which provides extra protein and complements the slightly spicy soup.

59. Grilled Watermelon with Lime and Mint

Juicy watermelon takes a surprising turn on the grill. Slices of watermelon are gently seared, which enhances their natural sweetness and creates a unique smoky flavor. So if you're feeling adventurous, why not serve fried chicken with it?

60. Succotash

Succotash is a hearty dish that combines fresh corn, beans, tomatoes, and herbs in a creamy sauce. It’s the ideal side dish for golden-brown chicken, as the juicy meat complements the tender vegetables and the rich flavor. 

📖 Recipe