What To Serve With BBQ Chicken: 30+ Best Side Dishes

There’s nothing quite like the smoky, tangy flavor of BBQ chicken. No wonder this dish is a staple at summer BBQs and family gatherings.

But, no barbecue chicken meal is complete without some delicious side dishes to go with it.

That’s why I’ve put together a list of the best side dishes to serve with BBQ chicken. From classic options like coleslaw and cornbread to more unique dishes like grilled zucchini and peach salad, these sides will complement the flavors of BBQ chicken and take your meal to the next level.

So, fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy the ultimate chicken BBQ experience with these mouthwatering side dishes.

1. Coleslaw

Grilled BBQ chicken is a summer staple, and it’s no surprise why. The smoky and tender chicken breasts, coated in tangy and sweet BBQ sauce, are a match made in heaven. But to make it a complete meal, you’ll need some coleslaw.

Coleslaw is not only a refreshing and crunchy side dish, but it also complements the flavors of BBQ chicken perfectly. The creamy and tangy dressing helps to balance out the bold spices of the chicken.

For a well-rounded BBQ meal, serve your grilled chicken with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, and a light green salad.

We love: Best Coleslaw Recipe (by Salt & Lavender)

2. Cornbread

When it comes to any summer barbecue, cornbread is a classic and delicious side dish that always delivers. And, the sweet and savory flavors of the BBQ chicken and cornbread complement each other perfectly.

Serve the cornbread with a dab of honey butter and grated cheddar cheese.

We love: Cornbread Recipe (by Spaceships and Laser Beams)

3. Creamy cucumber salad

Creamy cucumber salad is the ideal accompaniment to your barbecue chicken.

Not only does this salad provide a refreshing and cool contrast to the smoky and tangy flavors of BBQ chicken, but it is also an easy recipe that can be whipped up in no time.

Plus, it’s gluten-free with dairy-free options (use a plant-based yogurt) making this creamy cucumber salad a fantastic side dish for those with dietary restrictions.

We love: Creamy cucumber salad (by Lemon Tree Dwelling)

4. Bean salad

Bean salad is another fantastic side dish to serve with BBQ chicken. The combination of the smoky flavor from the grill and the tangy flavors from the salad create a delicious balance of flavors.

This super easy side dish is packed with protein and fiber from the beans, making it a healthy and satisfying addition to your BBQ meal. Plus, it’s super easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for summer cookouts.

We love: White Bean Salad (Easy 5-Minute Recipe) (by Fifteen Spatulas)

5. Heirloom tomato salad

Heirloom tomato salad is a great choice for a fresh and light summer side dish that goes with any main meal.

The juicy and ripe tomatoes, combined with tangy balsamic vinegar and fresh herbs, create a delicious and refreshing side dish that is a perfect match for BBQ chicken.

Plus, this heirloom tomato salad recipe is super easy to make.

We love: Heirloom Tomato Salad (by Diethood®)

6. Pasta salad

BBQ chicken is a classic comfort food that is perfect for any outdoor gathering or weeknight meal. And when you’re on the hunt for the best side dishes for BBQ chicken, pasta salad is a top contender.

Pasta salad or macaroni salad is a refreshing and light side dish that pairs well with the rich and smoky flavors of BBQ chicken. It can be made ahead of time and easily customized with different vegetables, dressings, and mix-ins. Plus, it can be served cold, making it a great option for hot summer days.

Try more pasta salad side dishes to complete your meal.

We love: Easy Parmesan Bow Tie Italian Pasta Salad Recipe (by No Plate Like Home)

7. Grilled corn

The sweetness of the corn balances out the tanginess of the BBQ sauce in the most delicious way.

Brush the corn with melted butter, or try garlic butter for a twist, and sprinkle it with chili powder and parmesan cheese before grilling. It’s a super simple and delicious way to elevate your backyard BBQ chicken meal.

We love: Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil Recipe (by Savory Nothings)

8. Potato salad

One simple side dish that always pairs perfectly with BBQ is this all-time favorite potato salad. It is one of my favorite BBQ sides!

Not only is potato salad a classic barbecue side dish, but it also complements the flavors of barbecue chicken perfectly. The creamy and tangy dressing of the potato salad balances out the smoky and savory flavors of the chicken.

For a twist on the classic potato salad, add some chopped bell peppers or corn kernels for a fresh and colorful touch.

We love: How to Make THE BEST Potato Salad Recipe (by FoodieCrush)

9. Caprese salad

Is there a better side dish than a refreshing Caprese salad?

The juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil provide a perfect balance to the rich and savory BBQ chicken. Plus, this dish is a great way to incorporate some colorful veggies into your meal.

For a complete BBQ feast, pair your Caprese salad with other delicious sides like roasted corn, grilled vegetables, or focaccia bread.

We love: Caprese Salad Recipe (by Natasha’s Kitchen)

10. Oven-baked sweet potato fries

You can’t go wrong with a classic side dish like oven-baked sweet potato fries.

The sweetness of the fries pairs perfectly with the smoky and tangy flavors of BBQ chicken. Plus, they are a healthier alternative to traditional fried potatoes.

Simply season your fries with some garlic powder or your favorite seasoning blend. And, serve with a sour cream dipping sauce.

We love: The BEST Sweet Potato Fries Recipe! (by Gimme Some Oven)

11. Fried okra

This classic Southern vegetable is a great side dish for BBQ chicken because of its crispy texture and savory flavor.

It’s a delicious and unique chicken side dish that will be a family favorite.

And if you’re looking for more side dish recipes, serve fried okra alongside other classic sides like mac and cheese, grilled potatoes, or a refreshing cold side like a creamy coleslaw or chopped salad with feta cheese and black pepper.

We love: Fried Okra Recipe (by CopyKat Recipes)

12. Roasted tomatoes

Roasted tomatoes may be an unusual barbecue side dish. But, it’s a delicious and healthy side dish to serve with BBQ chicken.

The natural sweetness of the tomatoes pairs perfectly with the smoky and tangy flavors of the BBQ chicken. And the softened tomatoes turn into a delicious sauce on your plate.

This dish is super easy to make – simply toss the tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper, and roast them in the oven until they are tender and caramelized.

We love: Oven Roasted Tomatoes (by A Cedar Spoon)

13. Peach salad

When it comes to barbecue chicken, the sides are just as important as the main dish. And one of the best side dishes to serve with BBQ chicken is this refreshing peach salad.

The combination of sweet and juicy peaches with tangy vinaigrette and salty feta cheese is the perfect accompaniment to the smoky and savory flavors of BBQ chicken. Plus, it adds a pop of color to your plate and helps balance out the richness of the chicken.

We love: Blueberry Peach Feta Salad (by Recipe Runner)

14. Quinoa salad

Quinoa salad is a healthy and flavorful side salad that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken.

It’s also very customizable. Add your favorite green veggies like peas or chopped kale, or toss in some leftover roasted cauliflower.

And even better, you can make it well ahead of time! Just leave the perishable salad ingredients (like avocado) and the salad dressing until just before serving.

We love: The BEST Healthy Quinoa Salad (by FoodieCrush)

15. Caesar salad

It’s no secret that BBQ chicken is a crowd-pleasing dish, and it’s often the star of any summer cookout. A classic Caesar salad is all you need to turn it into a feast.

The crisp lettuce and creamy dressing provide a nice contrast to the flavorful chicken. Plus, it’s an easy side dish that can be made quickly while the chicken is grilling.

For those with dietary restrictions, this Caesar salad can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free croutons. It’s a versatile and delicious option for everyone to enjoy.

We love: Caesar Salad Recipe (by Spend With Pennies)

16. Smashed cucumber salad

BBQ chicken is a classic summer dish that is loved by many. And what better way to enjoy it than with a side of refreshing smashed cucumber salad?

This easy side dish is a perfect match, with its delicious sweet and tangy flavors. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate some fresh vegetables into your meal.

We love: Smashed Cucumber Salad (by Healthy Nibbles)

17. Mexican street corn salad

When it comes to BBQ chicken, having a side dish that pairs well with the bold flavors of the chicken is key. That’s where a Mexican street corn salad comes in.

This side dish is a refreshing and flavorful addition to any BBQ chicken meal. The creamy avocado, sweet corn, tangy lime juice, and spicy jalapeño peppers perfectly complement the tender, smoky chicken.

Grill the corn outside before you start with the chicken, but have the rest of the salad prepped and ready to go.

We love: Mexican Street Corn Salad (by Eatwell101)

18. Baked beans

Sweet baked beans are a classic and popular side dish for BBQ chicken. This soul food pairing is a favorite among families and a must-have for any BBQ or picnic.

Not only are baked beans easy to make and a great side for BBQ chicken, but they also add a touch of sweetness. Plus, you can enjoy them hot or at room temperature, making them perfect for a picnic without worrying about keeping them cold.

We love: Homemade Baked Beans (From Dried Beans) (by Seasons and Suppers)

19. Green beans

Green beans are another classic side dish that goes perfectly with BBQ chicken. They add a touch of freshness and balance out the smoky and rich flavors of the chicken.

Not only are green beans an easy side dish to make, but they are very versatile too. Whether you prefer them steamed, sautéed, or grilled, green beans are a tasty and versatile side dish that will come together with your BBQ chicken for a delicious and satisfying meal.

We love: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Green Beans (by Eatwell101)

20. Grilled zucchini

Grilled zucchini is the perfect addition to all chicken recipes.

Not only does it pair perfectly with BBQ chicken, but it also adds a fresh and healthy element to your meal.

For a complete and well-rounded meal, serve grilled chicken breasts with a side of grilled zucchini, baked sweet potato, and a crisp green salad. Or, mix the zucchini strips into your green salad for an elevated zucchini salad.

We love: Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan (by Wholefully)

21. Brussels sprouts

These crispy and flavorful roasted Brussels sprouts pair perfectly with the tangy and smoky flavors of BBQ chicken.

Plus, they are easy to make in the oven or air fryer and can be seasoned with ingredients like garlic, lemon, or a tangy vinaigrette for added depth of flavor.

My favorite is to roast them with a honey balsamic dressing for sweet, caramelized edges! Add hot honey if you want to spice things up.

We love: Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts (by Kroll’s Korner)

22. Baked potato wedges

Baked potato wedges are the perfect complement to BBQ chicken. This easy side dish requires little effort and only a few simple ingredients.

For a refreshing touch, serve your crispy potato wedges with a cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon juice and a dollop of sour cream.

We love: Truly Crispy Garlic Parmesan Baked Potato Wedges Recipe (by CurryTrail)

23. Blt pasta salad

There’s no doubt that BBQ chicken is a summertime favorite. And when it comes to finding the perfect side dish, look no further than a BLT pasta salad.

This easy and flavorful side dish is a combination of crispy homemade bacon, fresh lettuce and juicy tomatoes, all tossed in a tangy mayo-based dressing.

The smoky chicken from the BBQ pairs perfectly with the classic BLT flavors in every bite. And for a healthier option, you can even substitute the pasta for quinoa or brown rice.

For more ideas see my full post about what to serve with pasta salad.

We love: BLT Pasta Salad (by Chef Savvy)

24. Broccoli salad

Broccoli salad is a refreshing and healthy summer side dish that is the perfect match for BBQ chicken.

The crunch of the broccoli, along with the tangy dressing, creates a delicious contrast to the smoky and flavorful grilled BBQ chicken. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in more greens with your meal.

It’s a classic low-carb salad option that pairs well with more easy side dishes like grilled asparagus and creamy coleslaw.

We love: Classic Broccoli Salad (by Chelsea’s Messy Apron)

25. Mexican rice

This classic side dish pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of BBQ chicken and comes together quickly.

Smoky paprika, crisp red bell peppers, and fresh lime juice add loads of flavor to otherwise ordinary rice. For a low-carb option, you can swap the rice for quinoa.

Mexican rice is delicious alongside a fresh tomato salsa and a sweet corn salad with black beans.

We love: Easy Mexican Rice (by Downshiftology)

26. Collard greens

When it comes to BBQ chicken, there are a few classic side dishes that always seem to make an appearance – mac and cheese, potato salad, and coleslaw to name a few. But have you ever considered adding collard greens to the mix?

Collard greens are a perfect side dish for BBQ chicken because they pair wonderfully with the smoky and tangy flavors of the dish. Plus, they are a nutritious and healthy option to balance out the indulgent BBQ sauce.

We love: Collard Greens Recipe (by Chili Pepper Madness)

27. Couscous salad

Couscous salad is a perfect side dish to serve with BBQ chicken. Not only does it pair well with the smoky flavors of the barbeque sauce, but it is also a healthy and refreshing option.

This veggie side dish is easy to make and comes together quickly, making it perfect for a family cookout or a last-minute addition to a potluck. The combination of fresh mint, grilled vegetables, and a light vinaigrette dressing makes it a delicious and unique choice for your summer barbecue.

We love: Couscous Salad Recipe – Cooking Classy (by Cooking Classy)

28. Fried green tomatoes

When it comes to BBQ chicken, there are endless options for side dishes. But one that definitely stands out is fried green tomatoes.

The tangy and crispy fried green tomatoes pair wonderfully with the smoky flavors of the chicken. Plus, it’s an easy side dish to add some Southern flair to your next backyard BBQ.

We love: Fried Green Tomatoes {with Remoulade sauce} (by Belly Full)

29. Mac and cheese

When it comes to barbecue chicken, there are plenty of delicious side dishes to choose from. But one of the most popular and arguably the best BBQ chicken side dishes has to be mac and cheese.

This creamy and cheesy dish is the perfect addition to a BBQ chicken meal. It pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tart flavors of the chicken and adds a touch of extra sweetness to the meal.

BBQ chicken with mac and cheese is a comfort food combo that leaves everyone happy and satisfied!

We love: The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese (by Mom On Timeout)

30. Watermelon salad

A summer BBQ isn’t complete without some refreshing and light side dishes to go along with the star of the show – grilled BBQ chicken. And what could be better than a watermelon salad?

This colorful and crunchy salad pairs beautifully with the smoky and sweet flavors of barbecue chicken. Plus, it’s a healthy side dish that will balance out indulgent dishes like mac and cheese and sweet potato fries.

We love: Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta (by Recipe Runner)

31. Arugula salad

BBQ chicken is a staple at any barbecue party, and it pairs wonderfully with a fresh and crunchy arugula salad. The spicy and peppery flavor of the arugula complements the sweet and smoky flavors of the grilled BBQ chicken.

This salad is a great side dish for any outdoor gathering, and it is also a perfect side for almost anything that comes off the grill. So, fire up the barbecue, throw on some BBQ chicken skewers, and don’t forget to serve it with a mouth-watering arugula salad.

We love: Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette (by Julie Blanner)

32. Deviled eggs

One of my personal best side dishes to serve with BBQ chicken is deviled eggs.

These finger-licking eggs are a crowd-pleaser and add a flavorful and creamy element to your meal. Plus, they are a great way to use up any extra eggs you may have lying around.

For a twist on the classic deviled egg, add some lemon zest and grated parmesan to the filling, or sprinkle them with chili powder for a spicy twist.

We love: BEST Deviled Eggs Recipe (by Downshiftology)

Frequently asked questions

Summertime means BBQ time, and what better way to enjoy it than with some mouthwatering side dishes to go with your BBQ chicken!

From traditional Southern food like mac and cheese and collard greens to more unique options like roasted tomatoes and BLT pasta salad, there’s a side dish for everyone, no matter your dietary restrictions.

So fire up the grill and get ready to indulge in some delicious BBQ chicken and its perfect side dishes. Don’t forget to let me know in the comments which one of these sides you’ll be serving!