Buffalo chicken is a popular American dish that has gained worldwide recognition for its spicy and savory flavors. The dish typically consists of chicken wings or tenders tossed in a spicy sauce made from hot sauce and butter, served with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing. However, the perfect side dish can elevate the overall dining experience and provide a delightful contrast to the spicy and rich flavors of the Buffalo chicken. In this article, we will explore various side dish options that pair well with Buffalo chicken, including classic choices, healthy alternatives, and creative twists.
Classic Sides for Buffalo Chicken
When it comes to traditional side dishes for Buffalo chicken, there are a few options that stand out for their simplicity and flavor complementarity.
Celery Sticks with Blue Cheese Dressing
Celery sticks with blue cheese dressing are a classic combination that pairs perfectly with Buffalo chicken. The crunchy texture and mild flavor of celery provide a refreshing contrast to the spicy and savory flavors of the chicken. Blue cheese dressing adds a tangy and creamy element that complements the richness of the dish.
French Fries
French fries are another popular side dish that pairs well with Buffalo chicken. The crispy texture and salty flavor of French fries provide a satisfying contrast to the soft and spicy chicken. You can also top your French fries with cheese, bacon, or chili for added flavor.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a creamy and crunchy side dish that helps balance the spiciness of Buffalo chicken. A traditional coleslaw recipe made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and vinegar provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Healthy Alternatives to Traditional Sides
If you’re looking for healthier side dish options to pair with your Buffalo chicken, there are several alternatives to traditional choices.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts provide a nutritious and flavorful side dish option. Simply toss your favorite vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until tender and caramelized.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables such as asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini offer a light and refreshing side dish option. Brush your favorite vegetables with olive oil and grill them until tender and slightly charred.
Salads
A simple green salad or a more substantial grain salad can provide a healthy and filling side dish option. Choose your favorite greens, vegetables, and toppings, and add a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of Buffalo chicken.
Creative Twists on Traditional Sides
If you’re looking to add some creativity to your side dishes, there are several twists on traditional options that you can try.
Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries offer a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional French fries. Simply slice sweet potatoes into thin strips, toss with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, and bake until crispy.
Buffalo Cauliflower
Buffalo cauliflower is a creative twist on traditional Buffalo chicken. Simply toss cauliflower florets with hot sauce and butter, and serve as a side dish or appetizer.
Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with Buffalo chicken. A classic macaroni and cheese recipe made with pasta, cheese, and cream provides a rich and satisfying contrast to the spicy flavors of the dish.
Other Delicious Side Dish Options
In addition to the side dish options mentioned above, there are several other delicious choices that pair well with Buffalo chicken.
Baked Beans
Baked beans are a classic side dish that pairs well with Buffalo chicken. A traditional baked bean recipe made with beans, tomato sauce, and spices provides a sweet and smoky contrast to the spicy flavors of the dish.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a simple but delicious side dish option that pairs well with Buffalo chicken. Simply butter slices of bread, sprinkle with minced garlic, and bake until crispy.
Onion Rings
Onion rings are a crispy and flavorful side dish option that pairs well with Buffalo chicken. Simply slice onions into thin rings, separate into individual rings, and fry until crispy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many delicious side dish options that pair well with Buffalo chicken. From classic choices like celery sticks and blue cheese dressing to healthy alternatives like roasted vegetables and creative twists like sweet potato fries, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a traditional side dish or a more adventurous option, we hope this guide has provided you with some inspiration for your next meal.
What are some classic side dishes that pair well with Buffalo chicken?
When it comes to classic side dishes that pair well with Buffalo chicken, there are several options to consider. One popular choice is celery sticks with blue cheese dressing. The crunchy texture of the celery and the creamy, tangy flavor of the blue cheese dressing provide a nice contrast to the spicy, savory flavor of the Buffalo chicken. Another classic side dish that pairs well with Buffalo chicken is French fries. The crispy, salty flavor of the fries complements the spicy flavor of the chicken, and the two make for a satisfying combination.
Other classic side dishes that pair well with Buffalo chicken include coleslaw, baked beans, and potato salad. These sides offer a refreshing contrast to the spicy flavor of the chicken and can help to round out the meal. Additionally, they can be made in advance, making them a convenient option for parties or gatherings.
What are some healthier side dish options that can complement Buffalo chicken?
For those looking for healthier side dish options to complement Buffalo chicken, there are several choices available. One option is a mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing. The fresh, crunchy texture of the greens and the tangy flavor of the dressing provide a nice contrast to the spicy flavor of the chicken. Another healthy option is roasted vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, or cauliflower. These vegetables are low in calories and rich in nutrients, making them a nutritious choice to pair with Buffalo chicken.
Other healthy side dish options that can complement Buffalo chicken include grilled or sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. These vegetables are low in calories and rich in nutrients, and can be seasoned with herbs and spices to add flavor. Additionally, quinoa or brown rice can be a nutritious side dish option, providing a good source of fiber and protein.
Can I make my own blue cheese dressing from scratch to pair with Buffalo chicken?
Yes, making your own blue cheese dressing from scratch is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients. The basic ingredients include mayonnaise, sour cream, blue cheese crumbles, and spices. Simply combine the ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. You can adjust the amount of blue cheese to your taste, and add other ingredients such as garlic or onion powder to enhance the flavor.
One of the benefits of making your own blue cheese dressing from scratch is that you can control the amount of blue cheese and other ingredients that go into it. This allows you to customize the flavor to your taste, and avoid any preservatives or additives that may be found in store-bought dressing. Additionally, homemade blue cheese dressing can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to a week, making it a convenient option for parties or gatherings.
What are some creative side dish ideas that can add a unique twist to Buffalo chicken?
For those looking to add a unique twist to Buffalo chicken, there are several creative side dish ideas to consider. One option is a spicy corn salad, made with grilled corn, diced tomatoes, and a spicy pepper. This side dish adds a sweet and spicy flavor to the meal, and can be made in advance. Another creative option is a Buffalo chicken mac and cheese, made with macaroni, cheese, and shredded Buffalo chicken.
Other creative side dish ideas that can add a unique twist to Buffalo chicken include a roasted sweet potato salad, made with roasted sweet potatoes, mixed greens, and a tangy dressing. This side dish adds a sweet and savory flavor to the meal, and can be made in advance. Additionally, a grilled or sautéed vegetable skewer, made with vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and bell peppers, can add a colorful and flavorful twist to the meal.
Can I use different types of cheese in my side dishes to complement Buffalo chicken?
Yes, there are several types of cheese that can be used in side dishes to complement Buffalo chicken. One option is cheddar cheese, which can be used in a mac and cheese or a cheesy potato casserole. Another option is mozzarella cheese, which can be used in a caprese salad or a cheesy breadstick. Additionally, feta cheese can be used in a Greek salad or a spinach and artichoke dip.
Other types of cheese that can be used in side dishes to complement Buffalo chicken include parmesan cheese, which can be used in a Caesar salad or a cheesy garlic bread. Gorgonzola cheese can also be used in a salad or as a topping for a baked potato. The key is to choose a cheese that complements the spicy flavor of the Buffalo chicken, and adds a creamy or tangy element to the meal.
How can I make my side dishes more flavorful to complement Buffalo chicken?
There are several ways to make side dishes more flavorful to complement Buffalo chicken. One option is to add herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika. These can be added to the side dish while it is cooking, or sprinkled on top as a garnish. Another option is to use a flavorful oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil, to add a rich and savory flavor to the side dish.
Other ways to make side dishes more flavorful include adding a tangy ingredient, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to add a bright and citrusy flavor. Additionally, using a flavorful broth or stock can add a rich and savory flavor to the side dish. The key is to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to find the one that works best for you.
Can I make my side dishes in advance to save time when serving Buffalo chicken?
Yes, many side dishes can be made in advance to save time when serving Buffalo chicken. One option is to make a cold side dish, such as a salad or a slaw, which can be refrigerated for up to a day in advance. Another option is to make a hot side dish, such as a casserole or a roasted vegetable, which can be cooked in advance and reheated when needed.
Other side dishes that can be made in advance include dips and spreads, such as hummus or guacamole, which can be refrigerated for up to a week. Additionally, many side dishes can be frozen, such as mac and cheese or a cheesy bread, which can be thawed and reheated when needed. The key is to plan ahead and make the side dishes that can be made in advance, to save time and reduce stress when serving Buffalo chicken.