When it comes to chicken kebabs, everyone loves the juicy, flavorful bites fresh off the grill. But let’s face it, a good kebab is only as good as its sides and sauces. Wondering what goes well with chicken kebabs? You’re in the right place! We’re about to explore the tastiest sides, salads, and sauces that’ll elevate your kebab game to the next level.
What Goes Well with Chicken Kebabs?
What Side Dishes Go Well with Chicken Kebabs?
A great chicken kebab deserves an equally great side dish. The sides you choose can either complement the flavors of the kebab or add a contrasting texture and taste that makes every bite exciting.
1. Grilled Vegetables: A Colorful Companion
Grilled vegetables are a classic side dish that pairs beautifully with chicken kebabs. The smokiness from the grill adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the juicy chicken.
| Vegetable | Grilling Time (Minutes) | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Zucchini | 4-5 | Light and fresh |
| Bell Peppers | 6-7 | Sweet and smoky |
| Mushrooms | 3-4 | Earthy and savory |
| Onions | 5-6 | Sweet and tangy |
Whether you go for zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions, grilled veggies bring a burst of color and a delightful crunch to your meal.
2. Rice Pilaf: A Flavorful Foundation
Rice pilaf is another excellent choice. The fluffy grains soak up the juices from the kebabs, making each bite more satisfying.
| Type of Rice | Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Basmati | Saffron, almonds, raisins | Aromatic and nutty |
| Jasmine | Garlic, onion, and herbs | Fragrant and fresh |
| Brown Rice | Mixed with vegetables | Nutty and wholesome |
You can make it as simple or as complex as you like, depending on the ingredients you mix in.
3. Pita Bread: A Handy Helper
Pita bread is a staple for any kebab meal. It’s perfect for wrapping up your chicken kebabs along with some fresh veggies and a dollop of sauce.
| Type of Pita | Texture | Pairing Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Whole Wheat | Chewy and dense | Hummus, tzatziki |
| Garlic Pita | Soft with a garlicky bite | Tomato and cucumber salad |
| Plain Pita | Soft and pliable | Anything! A versatile choice |
Nothing beats the satisfaction of biting into a warm pita filled with all your favorite kebab accompaniments.
What Salads Are Perfect for Chicken Kebabs?
Salads add a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavors of chicken kebabs. The crispness and acidity of a good salad can really make the meal pop.
1. Greek Salad: A Mediterranean Match
Greek salad is a refreshing and tangy side that perfectly complements the savory flavors of chicken kebabs. It’s light, crunchy, and full of bold flavors.
| Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Cucumbers | Crisp and refreshing | Crunchy |
| Tomatoes | Juicy and slightly sweet | Soft and juicy |
| Feta Cheese | Salty and tangy | Creamy |
| Olives | Briny and rich | Firm and chewy |
Toss it all together with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon, and you’ve got a salad that’s as delicious as it is easy to make.
2. Tabbouleh: A Herbaceous Hit
Tabbouleh is a Middle Eastern salad made with bulgur wheat, fresh herbs, and lemon juice. It’s bright, zesty, and pairs wonderfully with chicken kebabs.
| Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Parsley | Fresh and slightly bitter | Leafy and crisp |
| Mint | Cool and refreshing | Soft |
| Bulgur Wheat | Nutty and wholesome | Chewy and tender |
| Lemon Juice | Tart and tangy | Liquid |
The freshness of the parsley and mint, combined with the hearty bulgur, makes tabbouleh a standout side dish.
3. Cucumber Yogurt Salad: Cool and Creamy
A cucumber yogurt salad is a light and cooling accompaniment that balances out the spices in chicken kebabs.
| Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Cucumbers | Crisp and watery | Crunchy |
| Greek Yogurt | Tangy and rich | Creamy |
| Garlic | Pungent and spicy | Slightly crunchy |
| Dill | Fresh and slightly bitter | Soft and leafy |
This salad is not only refreshing but also adds a creamy element to the meal that pairs beautifully with grilled meats.
What Sauces Make Chicken Kebabs Even Tastier?
The right sauce can take your chicken kebabs to new heights. Whether you like it spicy, creamy, or tangy, there’s a sauce out there that’ll make your taste buds dance.
1. Tzatziki: A Creamy Classic
Tzatziki is a creamy, tangy sauce made with yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and dill. It’s a classic pairing with chicken kebabs and adds a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors.
| Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Greek Yogurt | Tangy and rich | Creamy |
| Cucumbers | Crisp and refreshing | Slightly chunky |
| Garlic | Pungent and spicy | Slightly crunchy |
| Dill | Fresh and slightly bitter | Soft and leafy |
Spread it over your kebabs, dip your pita in it, or even drizzle it over a salad – tzatziki is versatile and delicious.
2. Harissa: For a Spicy Kick
Harissa is a North African chili paste that brings heat and depth of flavor to any dish. If you like your chicken kebabs with a bit of spice, this is the sauce for you.
| Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Heat Level |
|---|---|---|
| Chili Peppers | Spicy and smoky | High |
| Garlic | Pungent and spicy | Medium |
| Coriander | Earthy and citrusy | Mild |
| Caraway Seeds | Warm and nutty | Mild |
A little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and add more if you dare!
3. Hummus: A Smooth and Savory Spread
Hummus is a creamy, smooth spread made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. It’s a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and pairs perfectly with chicken kebabs.
| Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Chickpeas | Earthy and nutty | Smooth and creamy |
| Tahini | Rich and slightly bitter | Creamy |
| Lemon Juice | Tart and tangy | Liquid |
| Garlic | Pungent and spicy | Slightly crunchy |
Spread it on pita, use it as a dip for your kebabs, or even as a base for other toppings.
What Drinks Should You Serve with Chicken Kebabs?
No meal is complete without the right drink to wash it all down. Whether you’re hosting a casual BBQ or a fancy dinner, here are some drink pairings that work well with chicken kebabs.
1. Mint Lemonade: Refreshing and Zesty
Mint lemonade is a refreshing and tangy drink that pairs perfectly with the smoky and savory flavors of chicken kebabs. The mint adds a cool, refreshing twist that balances out the richness of the meat.
| Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Lemon Juice | Tart and tangy | Liquid |
| Fresh Mint | Cool and slightly sweet | Soft |
| Sugar | Sweet | Dissolves easily |
| Water | Neutral | Liquid |
This drink is perfect for hot summer days when you’re grilling outdoors.
2. Red Wine: A Bold Choice
If you’re looking for something a bit more sophisticated, a glass of red wine can elevate your chicken kebabs to a gourmet level. A medium-bodied red, like a Merlot or Zinfandel, works well.
| Wine Type | Flavor Profile | Pairing Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Merlot | Soft, with hints of berry | Grilled vegetables, rice pilaf |
| Zinfandel | Bold and spicy | Harissa, grilled meats |
The wine’s tannins cut through the richness of the chicken, creating a balanced and satisfying pairing.
3. Iced Tea: A Classic Cooler
Iced tea is a classic choice that pairs well with almost any meal, and chicken kebabs are no exception. Whether you prefer it sweet or unsweetened, iced tea offers a refreshing contrast to the savory kebabs.
| Type of Tea | Flavor Profile | Pairing Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Black Tea | Bold and robust | Grilled meats, spicy sauces |
| Green Tea | Light and grassy | Cucumber salad, lighter sides |
| Herbal Tea | Floral and aromatic | Mint lemonade, Greek salad |
Add a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint to your tea for an extra burst of flavor.
What Desserts Go Well with Chicken Kebabs?
After a satisfying meal of chicken kebabs, you might crave something sweet to finish off the experience. Here are a few dessert options that won’t overpower the meal but will leave you feeling satisfied.
1. Baklava: A Sweet and Nutty Delight
Baklava is a rich, sweet pastry made from layers of filo dough, chopped nuts, and honey. It’s a traditional Middle Eastern dessert that pairs wonderfully with chicken kebabs.
| Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Filo Dough | Light and flaky | Crisp and delicate |
| Chopped Nuts | Earthy and nutty | Crunchy |
| Honey | Sweet and floral | Sticky |
The sweetness of the baklava provides a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the kebabs.
2. Fruit Salad: A Light and Fresh Finish
If you’re looking for something lighter, a fresh fruit salad is a perfect choice. It’s refreshing, hydrating, and adds a pop of color to your meal.
| Fruits | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Watermelon | Sweet and juicy | Crisp and watery |
| Berries | Tart and sweet | Soft and juicy |
| Pineapple | Tangy and sweet | Fibrous and juicy |
A drizzle of honey or a squeeze of lime can elevate your fruit salad to new heights.
3. Rice Pudding: Creamy and Comforting
Rice pudding is a creamy, comforting dessert that’s subtly sweet and satisfying. It’s a great way to end a meal without feeling too full.
| Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Rice | Nutty and earthy | Soft and creamy |
| Milk | Rich and sweet | Smooth |
| Cinnamon | Warm and spicy | Fine and powdery |
You can serve it warm or cold, and add raisins or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Chicken kebabs are a versatile and delicious dish that pairs well with a variety of sides, salads, sauces, and drinks. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing like a Greek salad, or something bold and spicy like harissa sauce, there’s no shortage of options to complement your meal. Don’t forget the perfect drink to wash it all down and a sweet dessert to finish it off. With these pairings, your chicken kebab feast is sure to be a hit!
FAQs
What are some healthy side dishes for chicken kebabs?
Grilled vegetables, quinoa salad, and cucumber yogurt salad are healthy side dishes that pair well with chicken kebabs.
Can I serve chicken kebabs with pasta?
Yes, pasta salads like a light lemon herb pasta or a cold orzo salad can be a great pairing with chicken kebabs.
What is the best sauce to serve with chicken kebabs?
Tzatziki, hummus, and harissa are popular sauces that complement the flavors of chicken kebabs.
What drinks go well with chicken kebabs?
Mint lemonade, red wine, and iced tea are excellent drink choices to pair with chicken kebabs.
What desserts can I serve with chicken kebabs?
Baklava, fruit salad, and rice pudding are great dessert options to serve after chicken kebabs.