Fried chicken is a tasty treat loved by many. Its crispy skin and juicy meat make it a popular choice for meals and gatherings. But fried chicken on its own can be a bit plain.
That’s where side dishes come in. The right sides can take your fried chicken dinner to the next level. They add variety, balance out flavors, and make the meal more filling. From classic comfort foods to lighter veggie options, there are many tasty sides that pair well with this crispy main dish.

1. Creamed Corn
Creamed corn is a tasty side dish that goes great with fried chicken. It’s smooth and rich, with a touch of sweetness. The creamy texture contrasts nicely with the crunchy chicken coating.
To make creamed corn, you’ll need fresh or frozen corn kernels, butter, cream, and some seasonings. Cook the corn until tender, then blend some of it to create a creamy base. Mix this with the whole kernels for a nice texture.
You can add extra flavor with garlic, herbs, or even some cheese. Creamed corn is easy to make and will be a hit at your next fried chicken dinner.

2. Collard Greens
Collard greens make a tasty side dish for fried chicken. This leafy green vegetable adds a nutritious touch to your meal. You can cook collard greens with bacon or ham for extra flavor.
To prepare them, wash the leaves and remove the tough stems. Chop the greens and simmer them in a pot with broth and seasonings. Cook until they’re tender, which usually takes about an hour.
Collard greens pair well with other Southern favorites like cornbread and black-eyed peas. Their slightly bitter taste balances the richness of fried chicken nicely.

3. Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic Southern side dish that pairs perfectly with fried chicken. Its slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture complement the savory crunch of the chicken.
You can make cornbread in a skillet or baking pan. For extra flavor, add corn kernels, cheese, or jalapeños to the batter.
Serve your cornbread warm with a pat of butter on top. It’s great for soaking up gravy or dipping into the juices from your fried chicken.
Cornbread is easy to make at home, but you can also find it at many restaurants that serve fried chicken. It’s a filling side that helps round out your meal.

4. Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with fried chicken. The creamy, cheesy pasta provides a delightful contrast to the crispy chicken.
You can make a simple stovetop version with just a few ingredients. Melt butter, add flour to create a roux, then whisk in milk and shredded cheese until smooth.
For extra flavor, try mixing in some crispy bacon bits or diced jalapeños. You can also top your mac and cheese with breadcrumbs and bake it for a crunchy crust.
This comfort food favorite is sure to be a hit at your next fried chicken dinner. Kids and adults alike will love the rich, gooey goodness alongside their crispy chicken.

5. Baked Beans
Baked beans are a tasty side dish for fried chicken. You can make them from scratch or use canned beans for convenience. Add bacon, onions, and brown sugar to give them extra flavor.
The sweet and savory taste of baked beans pairs well with crispy fried chicken. Their soft texture also contrasts nicely with the crunchy coating.
For a quick meal, heat up some canned baked beans while your chicken is frying. Or try making a homemade version ahead of time. Either way, baked beans are sure to round out your fried chicken dinner.

6. Buttermilk Biscuits
Buttermilk biscuits are a perfect match for fried chicken. These flaky, buttery treats soak up chicken juices wonderfully.
You’ll love the contrast between the crispy chicken and the soft, tender biscuits. Their mild flavor complements the seasoned chicken without overpowering it.
Biscuits are easy to make at home. You can serve them warm, split them open, and use them to make mini chicken sandwiches. For extra flavor, try adding herbs or cheese to your biscuit dough.

7. Potato Salad
Potato salad is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with fried chicken. This creamy and cool salad provides a nice contrast to the warm, crispy chicken.
You can make potato salad with diced boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, and chopped vegetables like celery and onions. Add some hard-boiled eggs for extra protein and flavor.
For a twist, try a German-style potato salad with a tangy vinegar dressing instead of mayo. Or make a lighter version using Greek yogurt as the base.
Potato salad can be served chilled or at room temperature. It’s easy to make ahead of time, making it great for picnics or barbecues with fried chicken.

8. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with fried chicken. You can make it easily by mixing shredded cabbage with carrots and a creamy dressing.
The cool, crisp texture of coleslaw contrasts nicely with hot, crispy chicken. Its tangy flavor helps cut through the richness of the fried food.
For a healthier version, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in your dressing. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or onions for more crunch and flavor.
Coleslaw is best served chilled, so prepare it ahead of time and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to eat.

9. Hush Puppies
Hush puppies are a tasty Southern side dish that goes great with fried chicken. These little cornmeal fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
To make hush puppies, mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add buttermilk and an egg to form the batter. Some recipes include onions or garlic for extra flavor.
Drop spoonfuls of the batter into hot oil and fry until golden brown. The oil should be around 365°F for best results.
Serve your hush puppies warm alongside your fried chicken. Their slightly sweet taste and crunchy texture make them a perfect match for the savory chicken.

10. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with fried chicken. They offer a creamy, smooth texture that balances the crispy exterior of the chicken.
To make great mashed potatoes, start with starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. Boil them until tender, then mash with butter, milk, and salt to taste.
For extra flavor, try adding roasted garlic, herbs, or cheese to your mashed potatoes. You can also leave some potato chunks for a more rustic texture.
Serve your mashed potatoes hot alongside your fried chicken for a comforting and satisfying meal. The combination of flavors and textures will please your taste buds.

11. Green Beans with Bacon
Green beans with bacon make a tasty side for fried chicken. The crisp beans contrast nicely with the crunchy chicken coating. Bacon adds a smoky flavor that complements the savory chicken.
To make this dish, cook bacon until crisp. Sauté green beans in the bacon fat until tender-crisp. Add minced garlic for extra flavor. Crumble the bacon and mix it with the beans.
This side brings color and nutrition to your plate. The beans provide fiber and vitamins, while the bacon adds protein. It’s a simple but delicious pairing for your fried chicken meal.

12. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a tasty twist on regular fries that pair well with fried chicken. Their natural sweetness complements the savory chicken perfectly.
You can season your sweet potato fries with spices like paprika, garlic powder, or cinnamon for extra flavor. Bake them until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
For dipping, try honey mustard sauce or garlic aioli. These sauces enhance the fries’ flavor without overpowering the chicken.
Sweet potato fries add color and nutrition to your plate. They’re a good source of vitamins and fiber, making your meal more balanced.

13. Fried Pickles
Fried pickles are a tasty side dish for fried chicken. You can make them at home with dill pickle slices, flour, cornflour, and baking powder.
Pat the pickle slices dry with paper towels. Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl. Dip each pickle in the mixture and fry them in hot oil until golden brown.
These crispy bites offer a tangy contrast to the savory chicken. The crunchy exterior and juicy interior create a satisfying texture. Serve fried pickles hot with a dipping sauce like ranch dressing for extra flavor.

14. Gravy
Gravy is a perfect partner for fried chicken. You can make it using the pan drippings from frying your chicken. Mix the drippings with flour to create a roux, then slowly whisk in milk or broth.
Season your gravy with salt and pepper to taste. Some people like to add herbs or spices for extra flavor. Pour the warm gravy over your fried chicken or serve it on the side for dipping.
Gravy adds moisture and richness to crispy fried chicken. It’s especially good with mashed potatoes or biscuits too. Making homemade gravy is easy and takes your fried chicken meal to the next level.

15. Southern-style Potato Wedges
Southern-style potato wedges are a tasty side dish for fried chicken. You can make them by cutting potatoes into thick wedges and coating them in seasoned flour.
Dip the floured wedges in egg, then back in the flour mixture. This creates a crispy coating similar to fried chicken.
Fry the wedges in hot oil for about 2 minutes per side until golden brown. The result is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
These potato wedges offer a fun twist on regular fries. They’re like a cross between steak fries and chicken tenders. Serve them hot alongside your fried chicken for a satisfying meal.

16. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts make a delicious side dish for fried chicken. To prepare them, trim the base and cut them in half. Toss the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread them on a baking sheet cut-side down. Roast at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until crispy and browned. For extra flavor, add minced garlic or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese before roasting.
The crispy exterior and tender interior of roasted Brussels sprouts pair perfectly with the crunchy coating of fried chicken. Their slight bitterness balances the rich, savory flavors of the main dish.
Nutritional Benefits of Side Dishes
Side dishes add important nutrients to your fried chicken meal. They provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber that help balance out the protein and fat from the chicken.
Vitamins and Minerals
Many side dishes are packed with essential nutrients. Vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and leafy greens give you vitamins A and C. These help boost your immune system and keep your eyes healthy.
Whole grains in dishes like brown rice or whole wheat rolls provide B vitamins. These help your body turn food into energy. Beans and lentils offer iron and folate, which are good for your blood.
Calcium from dairy sides like mac and cheese helps keep your bones strong. Potassium in potatoes and other veggies helps control blood pressure.
Balancing a Meal
Side dishes make your fried chicken meal more complete. They add fiber, which helps you feel full and aids digestion. Fiber is found in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
Adding veggie sides gives you antioxidants. These protect your cells from damage. Lean side dishes like salads or roasted veggies can lower the overall fat content of your meal.
Choosing sides with complex carbs, like sweet potatoes or quinoa, helps keep your blood sugar steady. This gives you longer-lasting energy than the simple carbs in fried foods.
How to Pair Sides with Fried Chicken
Pairing the right sides with fried chicken can make your meal more balanced and enjoyable. The key is to mix flavors and textures that work well together.
Complementary Flavors
When picking sides for fried chicken, think about flavors that balance out the richness. Tangy coleslaw cuts through the greasiness of fried chicken. Its cool crunch and zesty dressing refresh your palate between bites.
Sweet corn on the cob offers a nice contrast to savory chicken. You can grill it for a smoky taste or boil it for natural sweetness. Butter and salt on the corn match well with crispy, salty chicken skin.
Spicy dishes like jalapeno cornbread or hot sauce-drizzled mac and cheese add excitement. They wake up your taste buds and make each bite of chicken more interesting.
Texture and Consistency
Mix up textures to keep your meal fun and satisfying. Creamy mashed potatoes are soft and comforting next to crunchy chicken. Add garlic or herbs to the potatoes for extra flavor.
Crisp green salads provide a light, fresh contrast. Try mixed greens with cucumber, tomato, and a tangy vinaigrette. The cool vegetables and sharp dressing cut through fried chicken’s heaviness.
Baked beans offer a chewy texture and sweet-savory flavor. Their thick sauce complements chicken’s crispy exterior. Choose beans with bacon or molasses for depth that stands up to fried chicken’s bold taste.
Cooking Tips for Side Dishes
Good side dishes can make or break your fried chicken meal. Here are some tips to help you cook tasty sides.
Using Fresh Ingredients
Fresh ingredients are key for tasty side dishes. Pick ripe veggies at the store or farmers market. Look for bright colors and firm textures. Avoid bruised or wilted produce.
Store veggies properly at home. Keep most in the fridge crisper drawer. Leave tomatoes and potatoes out at room temp.
Wash all produce before cooking. A quick rinse removes dirt and germs. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Use fresh herbs when you can. They add bright flavors to dishes. Chop herbs right before using for the best taste.
Seasoning Techniques
Good seasoning brings out the best in side dishes. Start with salt and pepper as a base. Add them a little at a time and taste as you go.
Try herbs and spices to boost flavor. Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika work well with many sides. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add a nice touch.
Don’t forget acid! A splash of lemon juice or vinegar can brighten up flavors. Add it at the end of cooking.
For creamy sides, try adding cheese or butter. A bit of grated Parmesan or a pat of butter can make dishes extra tasty.
Remember to season hot foods while they’re still warm. This helps flavors blend better.