Chicken salad is a versatile and beloved dish known for its refreshing flavors and light, protein-packed nature. Whether you’re enjoying it as a sandwich filling, atop greens, or on its own, knowing what goes well with chicken salad can elevate your meal to new heights. This guide explores a variety of sides, breads, and beverages that pair beautifully with chicken salad. From classic accompaniments to creative twists, find the perfect combination to enhance your next chicken salad experience.
What Goes Well with Chicken Salad?
Classic Side Dishes
Fresh Fruit Salad
A fresh fruit salad provides a sweet and refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of chicken salad.
Best Ways to Serve Fresh Fruit Salad with Chicken Salad:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Fruit Salad | Assorted fruits (berries, melons, etc.) | Colorful and refreshing |
| Tropical Fruit Salad | Pineapple, mango, kiwi, coconut flakes | Exotic and tangy |
| Citrus Fruit Salad | Oranges, grapefruits, lime zest | Bright and zesty |
Coleslaw
Coleslaw adds a crunchy and creamy texture that complements the lightness of chicken salad.
Best Ways to Serve Coleslaw with Chicken Salad:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Coleslaw | Cabbage, carrots, mayo, vinegar | Creamy and tangy |
| Apple Walnut Coleslaw | Cabbage, apples, walnuts, mayo | Sweet and nutty |
| Asian Slaw | Cabbage, carrots, soy sauce, sesame oil | Savory and crunchy |
Bread and Rolls
Croissants
Croissants are a buttery and flaky option that adds richness to chicken salad sandwiches.
Best Ways to Serve Croissants with Chicken Salad:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Croissant | Flour, butter, yeast | Buttery and flaky |
| Chicken Salad Croissant | Croissant, chicken salad | Simple and satisfying |
| Almond Croissant | Croissant, almond paste | Nutty and indulgent |
Whole Grain Bread
Whole grain bread offers a hearty and nutritious base for chicken salad sandwiches.
Best Ways to Serve Whole Grain Bread with Chicken Salad:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Multigrain Bread | Whole wheat flour, oats, seeds | Nutritious and filling |
| Seeded Whole Grain Bread | Whole wheat flour, sunflower seeds | Crunchy and wholesome |
| Honey Wheat Bread | Whole wheat flour, honey, butter | Sweet and wholesome |
Vegetable Sides
Caprese Salad
Caprese salad provides a fresh and herbaceous complement to chicken salad.
Best Ways to Serve Caprese Salad with Chicken Salad:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Caprese Salad | Tomatoes, mozzarella, basil | Simple and flavorful |
| Avocado Caprese Salad | Avocado, tomatoes, mozzarella, basil | Creamy and satisfying |
| Balsamic Caprese Salad | Tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, balsamic | Tangy and aromatic |
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables add a depth of flavor and warmth that pairs well with the lightness of chicken salad.
Best Ways to Serve Roasted Vegetables with Chicken Salad:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Balsamic Roasted Vegetables | Bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant | Sweet and savory |
| Garlic Herb Roasted Vegetables | Carrots, potatoes, herbs | Aromatic and hearty |
| Mediterranean Roasted Vegetables | Tomatoes, onions, olives, herbs | Mediterranean flavors |
Starchy Sides
Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad is a protein-rich and nutrient-dense side dish that complements chicken salad.
Best Ways to Serve Quinoa Salad with Chicken Salad:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Greek Quinoa Salad | Quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, feta | Fresh and tangy |
| Southwest Quinoa Salad | Quinoa, black beans, corn, cilantro | Spicy and flavorful |
| Citrus Quinoa Salad | Quinoa, oranges, almonds, citrus vinaigrette | Zesty and refreshing |
Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries add a sweet and crispy element that pairs well with the light flavors of chicken salad.
Best Ways to Serve Sweet Potato Fries with Chicken Salad:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Sweet Potato Fries | Sweet potatoes, olive oil, salt | Crispy and satisfying |
| Cajun Sweet Potato Fries | Sweet potatoes, Cajun seasoning | Spicy and flavorful |
| Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Fries | Sweet potatoes, garlic, Parmesan | Savory and indulgent |
Beverage Pairings
Iced Tea
Iced tea offers a refreshing and lightly sweetened beverage option that complements the flavors of chicken salad.
Best Iced Tea Pairings with Chicken Salad:
| Beverage Type | Notes | Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Black Iced Tea | Refreshing and slightly sweet | Lipton, Snapple |
| Peach Iced Tea | Sweet and fruity | Arizona, Pure Leaf |
| Green Iced Tea | Light and refreshing | Tazo, Honest Tea |
Lemonade
Lemonade provides a tangy and citrusy drink option that refreshes the palate alongside chicken salad.
Best Lemonade Pairings with Chicken Salad:
| Beverage Type | Notes | Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Lemonade | Tart and refreshing | Simply Lemonade, Minute Maid |
| Strawberry Lemonade | Sweet and fruity | Country Time, Newman’s Own |
| Sparkling Lemonade | Effervescent and zesty | San Pellegrino, Schweppes |
Conclusion
Pairing chicken salad with the right sides and beverages can transform a simple dish into a delightful and satisfying meal. Whether you prefer classic pairings like fresh fruit salad and croissants or more innovative choices like quinoa salad and roasted vegetables, the key is to balance flavors and textures. Experiment with these delicious combinations to enhance your next chicken salad experience and enjoy a meal that is both nutritious and delicious.
FAQs
What are the best sides to serve with chicken salad?
Classic sides like fresh fruit salad, coleslaw, and Caprese salad complement the light and refreshing flavors of chicken salad perfectly.
Can I serve chicken salad on different types of bread?
Yes, chicken salad can be served on a variety of breads including croissants, whole grain bread, and even wraps for a satisfying sandwich or wrap.
What beverages pair well with chicken salad?
Iced tea, lemonade, and even sparkling water are refreshing beverage options that complement the flavors of chicken salad, offering a cool and satisfying drink alongside your meal.
Are there any vegetarian sides that go well with chicken salad?
Yes, dishes like quinoa salad, roasted vegetables, and sweet potato fries are hearty and flavorful vegetarian options that pair well with chicken salad.
Can I make a meal out of chicken salad alone?
Absolutely! Chicken salad can be enjoyed on its own as a light and protein-packed meal, or you can pair it with sides and beverages to create a more substantial dining experience.