What to Pair with BBQ Chicken?
When it comes to BBQ chicken, the possibilities for pairings are endless. But, what are the most popular and delicious options to complement this mouth-watering dish? In this article, we’ll explore the top pairings for BBQ chicken, from classic to creative, to help you elevate your next BBQ gathering or dinner party.
The Classics
Before we dive into the more adventurous pairings, let’s start with the tried-and-true classics.
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and vinegar is a timeless pairing for BBQ chicken. The crunch and coolness of the slaw provide a perfect contrast to the smoky, spicy chicken.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans are a staple at many BBQ joints. They complement the rich flavor of the chicken and add a touch of sweetness to the dish.
- Grilled Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered with butter, salt, and pepper is a simple yet delicious pairing for BBQ chicken. The natural sweetness of the corn balances out the savory flavor of the chicken.
Fresh and Fruity Options
For a lighter and more refreshing twist, consider these fresh and fruity pairings:
- Watermelon Salad: A simple watermelon salad made with diced watermelon, red onion, and feta cheese is a refreshing and flavorful pairing for BBQ chicken.
- Grilled Pineapple: Grilled pineapple rings brushed with brown sugar and cinnamon add a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.
- Avocado Salad: A creamy avocado salad with diced avocado, red bell pepper, and red onion provides a cool and creamy contrast to the spicy chicken.
Crunchy and Crispy Options
For a satisfying crunch, try these crispy and crunchy pairings:
- Crunchy Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a hint of vinegar adds a satisfying texture to the dish.
- Roasted Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet potato fries roasted with olive oil and seasoning provide a crispy and satisfying contrast to the tender chicken.
- Crispy Fried Okra: Crispy fried okra tossed with spices and herbs adds a satisfying crunch to the dish.
International Inspirations
Why not take a culinary journey around the world and try these international-inspired pairings?
- Kimchi: Spicy Korean kimchi made with fermented vegetables and chili flakes adds a bold and pungent flavor to the dish.
- Jamaican Jerk Rice: Flavorful Jamaican jerk rice with allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers adds a Caribbean twist to the dish.
- Middle Eastern Tabbouleh: A refreshing Middle Eastern tabbouleh salad made with bulgur, parsley, and lemon juice provides a light and crunchy contrast to the rich chicken.
The Ultimate Pairing Guide
Here’s a summary of the pairings we’ve discussed, organized by category:
| Category | Pairing Options |
|---|---|
| Classics | Coleslaw, Baked Beans, Grilled Corn |
| Fresh and Fruity | Watermelon Salad, Grilled Pineapple, Avocado Salad |
| Crunchy and Crispy | Crunchy Coleslaw, Roasted Sweet Potato Fries, Crispy Fried Okra |
| International Inspirations | Kimchi, Jamaican Jerk Rice, Middle Eastern Tabbouleh |
In conclusion, the possibilities for pairing with BBQ chicken are endless. Whether you opt for classic combinations or venture into international inspirations, there’s a perfect pairing for every taste and preference. Experiment with different options and find your new favorite combination!