Let’s face it – a chicken sandwich by itself is good but pair it with the right side dish and suddenly you’ve got a meal that’ll make your taste buds dance! Whether you’re serving up a crispy fried chicken sandwich a spicy Nashville hot chicken creation, or a simple grilled chicken on a bun, I’ve gathered all the best sides that’ll take your sandwich game to the next level.
As someone who’s experimented with countless chicken sandwich combos (and eaten way too many in the process!), I’m excited to share these killer pairings that’ll make your next chicken sandwich meal absolutely unforgettable.
Classic Side Dishes for Chicken Sandwiches
Some combinations are classics for a reason – they just work! Here are the tried-and-true sides that never disappoint:
French Fries: The Ultimate Companion
Is there anything more perfect than crispy, golden french fries alongside a juicy chicken sandwich? I think not! Whether you prefer them thin and crispy or thick-cut and fluffy inside, fries provide that satisfying salty crunch that complements a chicken sandwich perfectly.
For an extra twist, try these variations:
- Seasoned fries with cajun spices
- Truffle fries with parmesan
- Crispy waffle fries (perfect for dipping!)
Coleslaw: The Refreshing Classic
A good coleslaw brings refreshing crunch and tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of a chicken sandwich. You can go with:
- Creamy traditional coleslaw
- Vinegar-based slaw for lighter flavor
- Southern vinegar-based coleslaw for extra tang
My personal fave? A creamy keto coleslaw that brings all the flavor without the carbs – it’s especially amazing on top of the sandwich itself!
Potato Sides Beyond Fries
Potatoes in all forms make excellent chicken sandwich sides:
Potato Wedges: Those KFC copycat potato wedges are crispy outside, fluffy inside, and seasoned to perfection. They’re like fries’ chunkier, more substantial cousin.
Smashed Potatoes: When you want something more interesting than regular mashed potatoes, these crispy-edged smashed potatoes are the way to go. The air fryer version is particularly amazing!
Twice-Baked Potato Casserole: For something truly indulgent, this casserole combines all the goodness of twice-baked potatoes in an easy-to-serve format.
Fresh and Healthy Sides
Looking to balance out your meal with something lighter? These fresh sides provide the perfect contrast:
Vibrant Salads
A bright, fresh salad provides welcome contrast to a rich chicken sandwich:
- Cucumber and Tomato Salad: Light, refreshing and ready in just 15 minutes
- Watermelon, Cucumber, and Feta Salad: Sweet, salty, and perfect for summer
- Harvest Salad: With apples, squash and fall produce for a hearty option
- Black-Eyed Pea Salad: Colorful and protein-packed
Roasted Vegetables
Roasting brings out natural sweetness in veggies and creates satisfying texture
- Roasted Broccoli: Simple but delicious with just olive oil, salt and pepper
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Try them with a maple-bacon twist for extra flavor
- Balsamic Grilled Vegetables: Marinated veggies with deep, complex flavor
Southern Comfort Sides
When serving Southern-style chicken sandwiches (especially fried ones), these regional favorites shine:
Hushpuppies
These crispy cornmeal fritters are a Southern staple for good reason! The slightly sweet, corn-forward flavor pairs beautifully with savory chicken.
Mac and Cheese
Is there anything more comforting than creamy mac and cheese? It’s rich, indulgent, and the perfect counterpart to a spicy chicken sandwich. Try these variations:
- Classic baked mac and cheese
- Roasted broccoli mac and cheese for added veggies
- Keto cauliflower mac and cheese for a lower-carb option
Other Southern Classics
- Southern Fried Okra: Crispy, delicious and a true Southern tradition
- Collard Green Soup with Black-Eyed Peas: Hearty and nutritious
- Sweet Potato Sides: From candied sweet potatoes to casseroles
Unexpected Pairings That Work Wonderfully
Sometimes it’s the surprising combinations that really make a meal special
Grilled Pineapple
The caramelized sweetness of grilled pineapple creates an amazing sweet-savory contrast with chicken sandwiches, especially spicy ones! The slight char from grilling adds wonderful complexity.
Fruit-Based Sides
- Mango Fruit Salad: Bright, colorful, and ready in minutes
- Carrot Raisin Salad: Sweet, crunchy, and surprisingly complementary
International-Inspired Sides
Take your taste buds on a global journey with these internationally-inspired sides:
Asian-Inspired Options
- Kimchi Coleslaw: Spicy, fermented, and full of probiotics
- Asian-style cucumber salad: Light, refreshing and perfect with spicy chicken
Mediterranean Flavors
- Tzatziki: Cool, creamy yogurt sauce with cucumber and dill
- Greek salad: Crisp vegetables, briny olives, and tangy feta
Soup Pairings
Soup and sandwich is a classic combo for a reason! These soups pair beautifully with chicken sandwiches:
- Creamy Keto Tomato Soup: Ready in 20 minutes using canned tomatoes
- Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup: Vegan-friendly and deeply flavored
- Creamy Crab Bisque: For a special occasion pairing
Crispy Sides Beyond Potatoes
If you’re craving crunch but want to mix it up from standard fries:
- Homemade Tortilla Chips: Just 3 ingredients and 15 minutes
- Southern Fried Cauliflower: Crispy, delicious and lower in carbs
- Fried Pickles: Crunchy outside, tangy inside, and ready in 30 minutes
Perfect Sides for Different Chicken Sandwich Types
Different styles of chicken sandwiches call for different sides. Here’s what works best with each:
For Fried Chicken Sandwiches
The rich, crispy coating of fried chicken pairs well with:
- Creamy coleslaw (for contrast)
- Mac and cheese (for comfort food heaven)
- Fresh salads (to balance the richness)
For BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
The sweet-smoky flavor of BBQ chicken works great with:
- Southern potato salad
- Fried green tomatoes
- Southern fried okra
For Chicken Salad Sandwiches
The creamy, often mayo-based chicken salad pairs nicely with:
- Tomato soup
- Fresh green salads
- Fruit salads for contrast
For Grilled Chicken Sandwiches
The lighter profile of grilled chicken goes well with:
- Grilled vegetables
- Mediterranean-inspired sides
- Lighter grain-based salads
Easy Make-Ahead Options
When planning ahead, these sides can be prepared in advance:
- Coleslaw (actually gets better after a few hours!)
- Potato salad
- Pasta salads
- Roasted vegetables (can be served at room temp)
My Personal Favorite Combos
After trying countless combinations, these are my absolute favorite pairings:
- Spicy fried chicken sandwich + creamy coleslaw + crispy air fryer potato wedges
- Grilled chicken sandwich + watermelon feta salad (perfect for summer!)
- BBQ chicken sandwich + southern potato salad + collard greens
- Chicken salad sandwich + tomato soup + fresh fruit
Quick Reference Table: Chicken Sandwich Side Pairings
| Sandwich Type | Hot Sides | Cold Sides | Veggie Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fried Chicken | French fries, Mac & cheese, Potato wedges | Coleslaw, Potato salad | Roasted broccoli, Green beans |
| BBQ Chicken | Baked beans, Corn on the cob, Hushpuppies | Potato salad, Coleslaw | Collard greens, Fried okra |
| Chicken Salad | Tomato soup, Pumpkin soup | Fruit salad, Pasta salad | Cucumber salad, Side salad |
| Grilled Chicken | Grilled vegetables, Rice pilaf | Mediterranean salad, Bean salad | Asparagus, Roasted vegetables |
Tips for Creating the Perfect Chicken Sandwich Meal
When planning your chicken sandwich sides, keep these tips in mind:
- Consider contrast – If your sandwich is rich and heavy, choose lighter sides
- Think about temperature – Hot sandwich? Maybe add a cold side for balance
- Add color – Bright veggies make the meal more appetizing
- Mind the spice levels – Spicy sandwich might need cooling sides
- Consider the occasion – Casual backyard bbq vs. dinner party might call for different sides
Wrapping Up
With these 37 delicious side options, you’ll never wonder what goes good with chicken sandwiches again! From classic fries and coleslaw to unexpected pairings like grilled pineapple, there’s something for every taste preference and occasion.
My final advice? Don’t be afraid to mix it up! The perfect chicken sandwich meal is about balancing flavors, textures, and even temperatures. A hot, crispy sandwich with a cool, crunchy side creates that magical eating experience we all crave.
What’s your favorite side to pair with a chicken sandwich? I’m always looking to try new combinations, so drop your suggestions in the comments below!
Sides for Fried Chicken Sandwiches
Whether you make a fried chicken sandwich using my Nashville hot chicken tenders, air fryer frozen chicken patties, or your favorite southern fried chicken recipe, these tasty sides are the best options to make a meal. Many of these include homemade copycat side dish recipes from your favorite fast food restaurant menus like KFC or Chick-fil-A.
Looking for easy copycat sides for fried chicken sandwich? These air fryer KFC potato wedges win any day. They’re crispy and delicious without the deep frying mess. Plus, they are the perfect alternative to French fries.
Tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, baked potato wedges are a perfect side dish for a fried chicken sandwich.
This holiday-worthy Southern side dish uses a handful of ingredients and is mainly hands-off. It’s easy to make and packed with classic flavors.
This great side dish is full of sweet and tangy flavor. The creamy dressing comes together in minutes. Plus, it includes simple ingredients like shredded cabbage, garlic powder, apple cider vinegar, and mayo. For best results, I make this one ahead and use it as a topping on my favorite shredded bbq chicken or crispy chicken sandwich recipe.
Green beans are healthy and naturally low-carb. These will be in the air fryer for less than 10 minutes and require just 4 ingredients.
Mashed potatoes with cheese perfectly complement fried chicken sandwich flavors. This combo is the ultimate family weeknight dinner.
Full of flavor and diverse textures, this bacon, corn, and creole combo will take your sandwich experience from basic to best.
This brown gravy is your go-to option for light chicken sandwich sides. It’s super tasty and easy to make with simple ingredients.
You need a creamy and delicious side dish like this to match the goodness in a fried chicken sandwich. It’s time to turn ordinary dinners into memorable family moments.
Labelle’s mac and cheese is the epitome of perfection. Made with 4 different kinds of cheese, this comfort dish is an effortless winner.
Whip up an easy and delicious sweet corn side dish with 3 simple ingredients in less than 30 minutes.
You are not ready for all the goodness in this dish. These homemade waffle fries are anything but basic—they’re crispy, light, perfectly seasoned, and ridiculously delicious.
Make a colorful and multi-flavored fruit salad to go with your fried chicken sandwich. This mango fruit salad is an easy side dish that comes together in minutes.
Satisfy your fried food cravings with these cauliflower bites. Even the pickiest eater will enjoy this crispy, delicious dish.
Why Share Sides for Chicken Sandwiches
A chicken sandwich is a popular comfort food dish.
My personal favorite is grilled or golden brown crispy chicken breasts on brioche buns with toppings like dill pickles, creamy coleslaw, lettuce, tomatoes, and red onion.
Though this classic dish doesn’t need much, in this post, I’m sharing tips to make a chicken sandwich a meal with delicious side dishes.
I compiled a list of hot and cold sides to have with a fried chicken sandwich, shredded chicken sandwich, bbq chicken sandwich, hot chicken sandwich, or chicken salad sandwich.
The perfect BUFFALO CHICKEN SANDWICH does exist! Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken NYC! #DEVOURPOWER
FAQ
What is a good side dish for chicken sandwiches?
A good side for a chicken sandwich can vary based on personal preference, but some popular choices include coleslaw, french fries, potato salad, pasta salad, and sweet potato fries.
What are good sides to go with sandwiches?
- Coleslaw : A tangy, crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwiches.
- Potato Chips : Classic and easy, potato chips provide a satisfying crunch.
- Pickles : Dill or bread-and-butter pickles can enhance the flavors of the sandwich with their tanginess.
- Fruit Salad
- Vegetable Sticks with Dip
What does chicken go with in a sandwich?
Look to fresh, crisp toppings like pickles, lettuce, and onions to compensate for chicken breast’s uni-textural experience. The shredded iceberg lettuce here is cool and fresh. The grilled chicken breast, glistening with the green sauce, is next.
What is a good side dish for pulled chicken sandwiches?
- Sweet Baked Beans. Baked beans are a backyard BBQ classic. …
- Rich and Creamy Coleslaw. …
- Smoked Mac and Cheese. …
- Buttery Cornbread. …
- Corn on the Cob. …
- Order Side Dishes from La Rosa Chicken and Grill.
What is a good side dish for a chicken sandwich?
One of my favorite chicken sandwich side dishes is crunchy slaw. I love the way the cabbage and carrots add a crunchy texture and fresh flavor to the sandwich. It’s the perfect contrast to the soft, juicy chicken. Another great option is coleslaw. I prefer a creamy coleslaw with a bit of a tang, but there are all kinds of variations out there.
What to eat if you have a chicken sandwich?
Coleslaw can easily be tailored to your own taste, and it’s a great way to use up leftovers. When it comes to side dishes for chicken sandwiches, potatoes are always a great option. Baked potatoes are crowd-pleasers, as well as sweet potatoes and yams.
What can you add to a chicken sandwich?
All you have to do is mix mayonnaise, adobo sauce, minced garlic, and lemon juice, and you’ll have a delicious side dish for your chicken sandwich. So if you’re looking to add some extra flavor to your sandwiches, try using spicy condiments. They’re sure to give your meal that extra kick!
What goes well with a fried chicken sandwich?
This sandwich pairs nicely with various dishes, from salads – veggies, coleslaw, fruit, corn and salsa, and macaroni – to dips, sauces, and spicy condiments, and baked potatoes, sweet potatoes and yams, honey-glazed carrots, roasted broccoli or mushrooms, baked beans, roasted beetroot, fruit kebabs or vegetable soups.
What to serve with sandwiches?
These delicious side dishes will give you tons of ideas for what to serve with sandwiches for lunch, dinner, or a party. Sandwiches come in so many forms – simple ones with deli meat, subs, wraps, grilled cheese, and other hot sandwiches in all shapes and sizes. You can dream up all sorts of combinations of ingredients and bread…
What sauce goes well with chicken sandwich?
Try ranch dressing. It’s creamy and tangy and pairs perfectly with the tender chicken. Or you can try a mayo-based sauce like the classic honey mustard or the zesty barbecue. Honey mustard is great for adding an additional layer of sweetness to your sandwich, and barbecue sauce gives it a smoky kick.