Roasted chicken is a staple dish in many households, and for good reason. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and can be paired with a wide variety of sides to create a well-rounded meal. But what makes a good side for roasted chicken? In this article, we’ll explore some popular and delicious options that will take your roasted chicken game to the next level.
Classic Sides That Never Go Out of Style
When it comes to pairing sides with roasted chicken, some classic options never go out of style. These tried-and-true favorites are easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted chicken. They’re easy to make and can be customized with a variety of ingredients, such as garlic, butter, or cream. To make the fluffiest mashed potatoes ever, be sure to use high-quality potatoes that are high in starch, like Russet or Idaho potatoes.
Tips for Making the Best Mashed Potatoes
- Use the right potatoes: Look for potatoes that are high in starch, like Russet or Idaho potatoes.
- Don’t over-mix: Mix the potatoes just until they’re smooth and creamy. Over-mixing can make them gluey and unappetizing.
- Add flavor with herbs and spices: Add some chopped herbs, like chives or rosemary, or some grated cheese to give your mashed potatoes an extra boost of flavor.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a tasty and healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted chicken. They’re easy to make and can be customized with a variety of vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes. To make the best roasted vegetables ever, be sure to use a high-quality olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.
Tips for Making the Best Roasted Vegetables
- Use the right oil: Use a high-quality olive oil that can handle high heat.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Make sure to leave some space between each vegetable to allow for even roasting.
- Season with herbs and spices: Add some chopped herbs, like thyme or rosemary, or some grated cheese to give your roasted vegetables an extra boost of flavor.
International Inspiration
If you’re looking to mix things up and try something new, consider taking inspiration from international cuisine. Here are some delicious and exotic side dishes that pair perfectly with roasted chicken.
Spanish-Style Grilled Corn
Grilled corn is a popular side dish in Spain, and for good reason. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor. To make Spanish-style grilled corn, simply brush some corn on the cob with olive oil and season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Grill the corn until it’s slightly charred and serve with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Tips for Making the Best Grilled Corn
- Use the right oil: Use a high-quality olive oil that can handle high heat.
- Don’t over-grill: Grill the corn until it’s slightly charred, but still tender.
- Season with herbs and spices: Add some smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to give your grilled corn an extra boost of flavor.
Indian-Style Basmati Rice
Basmati rice is a popular side dish in India, and for good reason. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor. To make Indian-style basmati rice, simply sauté some onions, ginger, and garlic in a little oil until they’re softened. Then, add some basmati rice and cook until it’s lightly toasted. Finally, add some chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
Tips for Making the Best Basmati Rice
- Use the right rice: Look for high-quality basmati rice that’s long and slender.
- Don’t overcook: Cook the rice until it’s lightly toasted and still slightly crunchy.
- Season with herbs and spices: Add some saffron, cardamom, or cinnamon to give your basmati rice an extra boost of flavor.
Salads and Slaws
If you’re looking for a lighter side dish that’s perfect for spring and summer, consider making a salad or slaw. Here are some delicious and refreshing options that pair perfectly with roasted chicken.
Classic Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a classic side dish that’s easy to make and pairs perfectly with roasted chicken. To make the best coleslaw ever, be sure to use a variety of colorful cabbage, like red and green cabbage, and add some grated carrot and onion for extra flavor and texture.
Tips for Making the Best Coleslaw
- Use the right cabbage: Look for a variety of colorful cabbage, like red and green cabbage.
- Don’t overdress: Dress the slaw just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Add some crunch: Add some chopped nuts or seeds, like walnuts or pumpkin seeds, to give your slaw an extra boost of texture.
Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables
Quinoa salad is a healthy and delicious side dish that’s perfect for spring and summer. To make the best quinoa salad ever, be sure to use a variety of colorful roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes, and add some chopped fresh herbs, like parsley and mint.
Tips for Making the Best Quinoa Salad
- Use the right quinoa: Look for high-quality quinoa that’s tri-colored or red.
- Don’t overcook: Cook the quinoa until it’s lightly toasted and still slightly crunchy.
- Add some freshness: Add some chopped fresh herbs, like parsley and mint, to give your quinoa salad an extra boost of flavor.
Conclusion
Roasted chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with a wide variety of sides to create a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting, like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, or something new and exotic, like Spanish-style grilled corn or Indian-style basmati rice, there’s a side dish out there for everyone. So next time you’re cooking up a roasted chicken, be sure to try one of these delicious and easy-to-make side dishes to elevate your meal to the next level.
Recommended Side Dishes for Roasted Chicken
Here are some recommended side dishes for roasted chicken:
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Spanish-style grilled corn
- Indian-style basmati rice
- Classic coleslaw
- Quinoa salad with roasted vegetables
By trying out these delicious and easy-to-make side dishes, you’ll be able to elevate your roasted chicken game and create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
What are some popular side dishes that go well with roasted chicken?
When it comes to pairing side dishes with roasted chicken, there are numerous options to choose from. Some popular choices include roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes, which complement the rich flavors of the chicken. Other options like mashed potatoes, garlic bread, and Caesar salad also make great accompaniments to a roasted chicken meal.
For a more exotic twist, consider trying sides like quinoa salad with roasted vegetables, grilled asparagus with lemon butter, or roasted root vegetables with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. These options not only add variety to your meal but also provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the roasted chicken.
How can I make my roasted vegetables more flavorful?
To make your roasted vegetables more flavorful, start by choosing a variety of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and your choice of herbs and spices before roasting them in the oven. You can also add aromatics like garlic, onions, and lemon slices to the roasting pan for added depth of flavor.
Another way to elevate the flavor of your roasted vegetables is to try different seasoning blends. For example, you can use a Mediterranean-inspired blend of oregano, thyme, and rosemary, or a spicy blend of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find the perfect flavor for your roasted vegetables.
What is the best way to make garlic bread to serve with roasted chicken?
To make garlic bread that’s perfect for serving with roasted chicken, start by selecting a crusty bread such as baguette or ciabatta. Slice the bread into thick slices and spread a mixture of softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley onto each slice. You can also add grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
For an crispy, golden-brown crust, bake the garlic bread in the oven until it’s toasted to your liking. Alternatively, you can grill the bread slices until they’re crispy and slightly charred. Either way, be sure to serve the garlic bread hot, straight from the oven or grill, to maximize its flavor and texture.
Can I make roasted chicken and sides ahead of time for a stress-free dinner?
Yes, you can make roasted chicken and sides ahead of time to make dinner prep a breeze. For roasted chicken, consider roasting it a day in advance and refrigerating or freezing it until you’re ready to serve. Simply reheat the chicken in the oven or microwave until it’s hot and crispy.
For sides, many options can be made ahead of time, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and quinoa salad. Simply refrigerate or freeze the sides until you’re ready to serve, then reheat them in the oven or microwave as needed. Some sides, like garlic bread and Caesar salad, are best made fresh, but can still be prepared in advance by preparing the ingredients and assembling the dish just before serving.
How can I add some heat to my roasted chicken and sides?
To add some heat to your roasted chicken and sides, consider incorporating spicy ingredients like diced jalapenos, serrano peppers, or red pepper flakes. You can also use spicy seasonings like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika to add a smoky heat to your dishes.
Another way to add heat is to serve your roasted chicken and sides with a spicy condiment like hot sauce or sriracha. You can also try adding some heat to your sides, such as spicy roasted vegetables or a spicy quinoa salad with diced jalapenos and cilantro.
What are some healthy side dish options that pair well with roasted chicken?
If you’re looking for healthy side dish options to pair with roasted chicken, consider trying roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. These vegetables are not only low in calories but also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Other healthy options include quinoa salad with roasted vegetables, brown rice with steamed vegetables, and a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. You can also try grilling or roasting vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini for a healthy and flavorful side dish.
Can I use leftover roasted chicken to make new dishes?
Absolutely, leftover roasted chicken can be used to make a variety of new dishes. Consider shredding or chopping the leftover chicken and using it in salads, wraps, or sandwiches. You can also use leftover chicken to make soups, stews, or casseroles.
Another idea is to use leftover chicken to make chicken salad or chicken pot pie. Simply shred the chicken and mix it with your choice of ingredients, such as mayonnaise, herbs, and spices, or use it as a filling in a homemade pot pie. The possibilities are endless, and using leftover chicken is a great way to reduce food waste and get creative in the kitchen.