Baked chicken and rice is one of those classic comfort food combos that never gets old in my house. It’s filling, it’s delicious, and it’s super easy to make on busy weeknights. But sometimes, I’m staring at my chicken and rice casserole wondering… what else should I serve with this?
If you’ve ever been in the same boat, I’ve got you covered! I’ve rounded up 25 amazing side dishes that will take your baked chicken and rice from “pretty good” to “OMG amazing” with minimal effort.
Vegetable Sides That Steal the Show
When it comes to rounding out your chicken and rice meal, veggies are your best friend. They add color, nutrition, and contrasting textures to balance out the hearty main dish.
1. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
There’s something magical that happens when you combine Brussels sprouts and bacon. The saltiness of the bacon perfectly complements the earthy flavor of the sprouts. Just roast them until they’re crispy on the outside and tender inside. My kids who claimed to hate Brussels sprouts suddenly can’t get enough when I make them this way!
2. Caramelized Carrots
Slice up some carrots, toss them with a bit of butter and brown sugar, and cook until they’re tender and slightly sticky. The sweetness of caramelized carrots brings a lovely contrast to savory chicken and rice. Plus, they add that gorgeous pop of orange to your plate!
3. Sautéed Mushrooms
Heat some oil in a pan, toss in sliced mushrooms with garlic and herbs, and sauté until they’re brown and juicy. The earthy, umami goodness of mushrooms pairs wonderfully with chicken and rice. I like to finish mine with a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra tang.
4. Garlic Sesame Green Beans
Green beans are always a winner, and when they’re flavored with garlic, soy sauce, and toasted sesame seeds? Even better! These take just minutes to prepare but add so much flavor to your meal.
5. Roasted Beets
Don’t sleep on beets! Peel and slice them, drizzle with olive oil and salt, then roast until tender. Their earthy sweetness and gorgeous ruby color make your chicken and rice dinner look and taste like something from a fancy restaurant.
6. Harissa Tahini Cauliflower
Roasted cauliflower topped with a spicy harissa tahini sauce and finished with nuts and fresh herbs is a game-changer. The creamy, spicy sauce complements the mild flavors of chicken and rice perfectly.
Fresh and Crisp Salads
A good salad adds freshness and crunch that balances the warm, soft textures of baked chicken and rice.
7. Caprese Salad
Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a light and refreshing side. It’s super easy to throw together and adds a touch of elegance to your dinner table.
8. Cucumber Salad
Thinly sliced cucumbers and red onions tossed in a simple vinaigrette is the definition of refreshing. It’s crisp, light, and provides a nice contrast to the warm chicken and rice. I sometimes add a bit of dill to mine for extra flavor.
9. Apple Coleslaw
Coleslaw gets an upgrade with the addition of thinly sliced apples. The sweet-tart crunch of apples alongside cabbage and carrots makes for a delightful side dish that cuts through the richness of your main.
10. Quinoa Salad
For something a bit heartier but still fresh, try a quinoa salad with chopped veggies and a light vinaigrette. It’s packed with protein and nutrients while adding interesting texture to your meal.
11. Shaved Brussels Sprouts and Parmesan Salad
Raw Brussels sprouts are completely different from their roasted counterparts! Thinly shaved and tossed with Parmesan and a light dressing, they make a deliciously crunchy salad that even brussels sprout skeptics will enjoy.
Carb-Loaded Sides (Because Why Not?)
Sometimes you just need more carbs to round out your meal, and that’s totally okay!
12. Cornbread
Nothing says comfort food like a piece of warm cornbread alongside your chicken and rice. Whether you make it in a skillet or as muffins, its slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture are the perfect complement.
13. Garlic Knots
Take small portions of pizza dough, twist into knots, bake until golden, and brush with garlic butter. These chewy, garlicky bites are perfect for sopping up any sauce from your chicken and rice.
14. Mac and Cheese
Who says you can’t pair rice with pasta? Creamy mac and cheese alongside chicken and rice is the ultimate comfort food duo. It might be carb overload, but sometimes that’s exactly what we need!
15. Potato Wedges
Cut potatoes into wedges, season well, and bake until crispy outside and fluffy inside. They’re like french fries but better, and they add a nice contrasting texture to your meal.
16. Tater Tots
These crispy potato nuggets aren’t just for kids! They add a fun, nostalgic element to your dinner and are perfect for dipping into any sauce from your chicken and rice dish.
Quick and Easy Veggie Sides
When you need something super simple that doesn’t require a lot of extra effort:
17. Air Fryer Broccolini
Broccolini gets crispy and tender in the air fryer in under 10 minutes. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and some Parmesan for a quick and delicious side.
18. Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions
This simple side dish is salty, smoky, tangy, and sweet all at once. Cabbage gets transformed when it’s fried with bacon and onions, turning into a dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
19. Hot Honey Roasted Carrots
Roast carrots with a drizzle of honey mixed with a bit of hot sauce for sweet heat that perfectly balances your chicken and rice. The air fryer makes this especially quick and easy!
20. Hasselback Carrots
These fancy-looking carrots are actually super simple to make. Just slice them partway through multiple times, brush with honey and rosemary, and roast until tender. They look impressive but take minimal effort.
21. Zucchini Fries
Cut zucchini into strips, coat in breadcrumbs and Parmesan, and bake until crispy. These veggie “fries” are a lighter alternative to potato sides but still give you that satisfying crunch.
Bread Sides to Soak Up All That Goodness
There’s something about fresh bread that makes any meal better. These options are perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from your chicken and rice.
22. Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Muffins
Made with prepared pizza dough, these mini focaccias are herby, crispy on the outside, and soft inside. They’re incredibly simple but taste like they took hours to make.
23. Garlic Cheese Rolls
Warm rolls loaded with garlic and gooey cheese? Yes, please! These are irresistible and guaranteed to disappear quickly from your dinner table.
24. Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread
Regular cornbread gets a flavor upgrade with the addition of jalapeños and cheddar cheese. The spicy kick and cheesy goodness take your chicken and rice meal to a whole new level.
25. Homemade French Bread
There’s nothing like the smell of fresh-baked bread to make your house feel like home. A crusty French bread is perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce from your chicken and rice.
Final Thoughts
The beauty of baked chicken and rice is its versatility – it pairs well with so many different sides! Whether you’re in the mood for something fresh and light like a salad, or something more indulgent like mac and cheese, there’s an option that’ll make your meal complete.
I’ve tried most of these combos in my own kitchen, and my family has their favorites (the Brussels sprouts with bacon and the garlic cheese rolls are always a hit). But I’d love to hear which ones you try and love!
Remember, cooking should be fun and flexible. Don’t be afraid to mix and match these sides based on what you have in your fridge or what your family enjoys. Happy cooking!
Bread and Muffin Sides
Garlic bread, oh where to start? The buttery, garlicky goodness melded with the crispy edges of the bread is pure magic. Just think of it: slices of rustic French baguette or Italian ciabatta slathered with a garlic-infused butter, then toasted to golden perfection. It’s a side that’s hard to resist, offering a delightful crunch and a rich, savory flavor that pairs effortlessly with chicken and rice.
Buttermilk biscuits are the epitome of comfort food. Flaky, tender layers of dough with just the right amount of buttermilk tang. Picture them fresh out of the oven, warm and inviting. They’re perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your chicken, creating a satisfying contrast to the rice.
Cornbread muffins add a touch of sweetness and a crumbly texture to your meal. With bits of sweet corn and a hint of honey, they bring a delightful burst of flavor to the table. Pair these with chicken and rice, and you’ve got a comforting side that brings both warmth and a touch of nostalgia to your plate.
Cheddar chive muffins are a savory twist on traditional muffins. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and fresh chives creates a flavor-packed bite that’s moist and fluffy. These muffins add a cheesy, herbaceous flair to any meal, making them a fantastic complement to chicken and rice.
Herb focaccia is like a warm, herby blanket for your taste buds. This Italian bread, topped with rosemary, thyme, and a drizzle of olive oil, offers a soft, airy interior with a golden, crispy crust. It’s perfect for dipping into sauces or simply enjoying alongside your chicken and rice.
If you’re looking for a kick, jalapeño cornbread is your answer. The spicy heat from the jalapeños mixed with the sweet, crumbly cornbread creates an irresistible side. It’s a bold choice that adds both flavor and excitement to your meal.
Parmesan garlic rolls are little bundles of joy. Each roll is coated in a buttery garlic mixture and topped with grated Parmesan. Baked until golden and slightly crisp, these rolls are perfect for mopping up any extra sauce on your plate, making them a savory side that perfectly complements chicken and rice.
Sweet potato biscuits bring a unique, slightly sweet twist to your bread basket. The addition of mashed sweet potatoes gives these biscuits a rich, tender texture with a hint of sweetness. They’re a wonderful, comforting side that pairs beautifully with chicken and rice.
Onion rolls are a flavorful addition to any meal. The sweet and savory caramelized onions mixed into a soft, yeasty dough create a delicious, aromatic bread roll. They’re perfect for adding a bit of extra flavor to your plate and soaking up any juices from the chicken and rice.
Multigrain bread is a hearty, nutritious option that complements chicken and rice. The mix of whole grains, seeds, and nuts adds a delightful texture and a nutty flavor to each slice. It’s a great choice for those looking to add a bit more substance and health benefits to their meal.
Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls
Whole wheat dinner rolls offer a nutty, wholesome flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken and rice. The whole wheat flour gives them a denser, more filling texture, making them a satisfying side. Add a touch of honey or butter for a bit of extra richness.
Pita bread is wonderfully versatile and great for dipping. Its soft, pocket-like texture is perfect for scooping up any sauces or side dishes you have alongside chicken and rice. Toast it lightly for added crunch, or use it as a base for a small sandwich or wrap.
Best Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole
FAQ
What would go well with chicken and rice?
What else could I serve with One-pan Chicken and Garlic Rice. I think simple greens go best with this hearty dish, so try steamed green beans, snow peas (mangetout), zucchini (courgette), cauliflower, broccoli, baby spinach or other greens of your choice.
What is a good side dish for chicken & rice?
When you make a creamy chicken and rice casserole, simple roasted asparagus really does the trick as one of the best side dishes. Another trick – make sure it’s fresh, and the flavors will speak for themselves! It’s true that there are different ways of making mushrooms; cooking them with butter and thyme just lets them shine.
What side dishes go well with baked chicken?
Thankfully, there are plenty of easy and tasty side dishes that complement baked chicken perfectly! From vegetables to starches, salads, and more, these dishes will take your baked chicken to the next level! 1. Greek Pasta Salad 2. Cucumber Vinegar Salad 3. Instant Pot Cauliflower 4. Sauteed Sweet Potatoes 5. Canned Potatoes 6. Turmeric Rice 7.
What to eat with chicken & rice casserole?
Add more cheesy indulgence to the meal with loaded cheesy tater tots. Gooey cheese, sour cream, and ranch make for an amazing topping on that crispy outside and tender inside tater tots. Colorful salads are another way to make a complete meal with chicken and rice casserole. Crispy, crunchy, and fresh, everyone will want to eat their veggies.
What side dishes go with chicken & noodles?
Yes, the best side dishes for chicken and noodles can also be served with chicken and rice. Classic options like steamed vegetables, green salad, or garlic bread complement both dishes. The versatility of these side dishes makes them great choices to pair with various main courses.
Is chicken and rice casserole healthy?
Chicken and rice casserole can be served alone or with a side of vegetables. For those looking for sweeter dishes, cranberry sauce can make an excellent accompaniment. Although chicken and rice casserole is a healthy dish, it can be unhealthy when prepared with high bad fats and sugars.
What to eat with baked chicken?
From vegetables to starches, salads, and more, these dishes will take your baked chicken to the next level! 1. Greek Pasta Salad 2. Cucumber Vinegar Salad 3. Instant Pot Cauliflower 4. Sauteed Sweet Potatoes 5. Canned Potatoes 6. Turmeric Rice 7. Creamed Corn 8. Maple Candied Yams 9. Butternut Squash Risotto 10. Baked Buttercup Squash 11.