What to Serve with Chicken Salad Sandwiches?
Chicken salad sandwiches are a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you’re planning a quick lunch or a picnic in the park, the right sides can elevate this classic dish to a whole new level. In this article, we’ll explore the top options for what to serve with chicken salad sandwiches, from classic combinations to unexpected pairings.
Classic Combinations
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A simple and refreshing option, a fruit salad made with seasonal fruits such as grapes, strawberries, and pineapple is the perfect accompaniment to chicken salad sandwiches.
- Chips or Crackers: Crispy, crunchy snacks like potato chips or saltines provide a satisfying textural contrast to the creamy chicken salad.
- Pickles: Thinly sliced dill or sweet pickles add a tangy, salty flavor that complements the chicken salad nicely.
- Carrot Sticks with Hummus: A healthier option, carrot sticks with a side of creamy hummus provide a crunchy and savory snack.
- Green Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken salad.
Unexpected Pairings
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes add a new dimension of flavor and texture to the dish.
- Quinoa or Brown Rice: Whole grains like quinoa or brown rice provide a nutritious and filling base for the chicken salad sandwiches.
- Avocado: Sliced or mashed avocado adds a creamy, rich flavor that pairs well with the chicken salad.
- Tomato Soup: A warm, comforting bowl of tomato soup is the perfect accompaniment to chicken salad sandwiches on a chilly day.
- Fried Okra: Crispy fried okra adds a satisfying crunch and a Southern twist to the dish.
Dipping Options
- Chives or Scallions: Chopped chives or scallions add a fresh, oniony flavor that complements the chicken salad nicely.
- Lemon Wedges: Squeeze a slice of lemon over the chicken salad for a burst of citrus flavor.
- Hot Sauce: For those who like a little heat, a side of hot sauce such as sriracha or hot sauce can add an extra kick.
- Tzatziki Sauce: A creamy, yogurt-based sauce like tzatziki can add a refreshing, tangy flavor.
- Bread and Butter Pickles: Thinly sliced bread and butter pickles provide a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory chicken salad.
Conclusion
Chicken salad sandwiches are a versatile and delicious meal that can be elevated with a variety of sides and accompaniments. From classic combinations like fresh fruit salad and chips to unexpected pairings like roasted vegetables and quinoa, there are many options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a more substantial meal, the right sides can make all the difference.