What Goes with Chicken Drumsticks? 15 Delicious Side Dish Ideas

Chicken drumsticks are a classic dinner staple loved by kids and adults alike, Their juicy meat and crispy skin make them a hit at any meal, But coming up with creative sides to serve alongside drumsticks can be tricky You want options that complement the savory drumsticks instead of competing with them

In this article, I’ll share 15 delicious side dish ideas that pair perfectly with chicken drumsticks. From hearty potatoes to fresh salads, these sides will round out your drumstick dinner and have everyone going back for seconds!

Classic Pairings That Never Disappoint

Some classic side dishes have stood the test of time for good reason – they just work! When in doubt you can always rely on these options

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy buttery mashed potatoes are an ideal match for juicy drumsticks. They provide a comforting base to soak up any gravy or drippings from the chicken. For extra flavor try loaded mashed potatoes with cheese, bacon, and scallions stirred in.

Coleslaw

The crunchy texture and tangy flavor of coleslaw balances nicely with the richness of chicken drumsticks. It adds a refreshing lift to the meal. Opt for coleslaw with a vinegar-based dressing rather than heavy mayo.

Mac and Cheese

You really can’t go wrong with mac and cheese, especially the ooey-gooey baked kind. The cheesy pasta pairs perfectly with chicken. Mix in veggies like broccoli or spinach for a more balanced meal.

Corn on the Cob

What screams summer more than grilled drumsticks and corn on the cob? The natural sweetness of corn complements the savory chicken. Just be sure to slather everything in butter for maximum enjoyment!

Lighter Sides for Fresh Flavor

While heavy comfort foods are great, sometimes you want something lighter alongside drumsticks. Here are some fresh options:

Garden Salad

A simple green salad tossed with vinaigrette is a foolproof choice. Load it up with your favorite veggies and cheese for a filling accompaniment. Top with crunchy croutons or nuts for extra texture.

Fruit Salad

Fruits like berries, melon and stone fruits add a sweet, refreshing counterpoint to savory drumsticks. Whip up a colorful medley and enjoy the contrast of flavors and textures.

Cucumber Salad

Chilled cucumber salad with a bit of dill and vinegar provides a bright, palate-cleansing side for rich chicken. Bonus points for using crisp English cucumbers.

Cold Bean Salad

Protein-packed bean salads made with chickpeas, black beans or edamame make a hearty veggie side. Toss with a bold vinaigrette and let the flavors marinate before serving.

More Substantial Filler-Upper Sides

If you’re looking for sides with even more heft to fill up hungry appetites, go for one of these satisfying recipes:

Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf adds bulk alongside drumsticks for a hearty, complete meal. Build in even more flavor by sautéing the rice with aromatics before cooking. Stir in peas, carrots or other veggies too.

Baked Potatoes

Baked russet or sweet potatoes are a comforting, rib-sticking accompaniment for chicken. Top with butter, cheese, bacon and green onions for a fully loaded spud.

Pasta Salad

Chill out with a pasta salad! Fun shapes like rotini or bowties work well. Toss with shredded chicken, veggies and Italian dressing for a filling choice the whole family will love.

Quinoa Salad

Get your grains on with a protein-rich quinoa salad. Quinoa holds its shape and offers a nice chew. Mix in corn, black beans, peppers and dressing for Southwestern flavor.

Globally-Inspired Sides

Add an international twist to your drumstick dinner with globally inspired sides:

Cilantro Lime Rice

Fresh lime juice and cilantro give this Mexican rice huge flavor. It’s the perfect pairing for spicy drumsticks with a chipotle rub. Add black beans for a complete meal.

Roasted Vegetables

A Mediterranean mix of roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, peppers and onions adds big flavor as well as nutrition. Toss them with olive oil, garlic and herbs.

Saag Paneer

Cut the richness of your drumsticks with Indian-spiced saag paneer. The creamy spinach and soft cheese provide a cooling complement. Serve over rice or with naan.

Mujaddara

This Middle Eastern dish of lentils, rice and caramelized onions is protein-packed and full of deep flavor. It stands up well next to boldly-spiced drumsticks.

Ideas for Sides in a Snap

Some nights call for easy drumstick pairings you can make in a flash. Keep things simple with these fast sides:

Garlic Bread

Whip up quick garlic bread to soak up any tasty drippings from the drumsticks. Brush bread with garlic butter or olive oil and broil until crisp.

Roasted Veggies

Toss veggie chunks with oil, salt, and pepper and roast them in a hot oven while the chicken cooks. Squash, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and broccoli all work well.

Instant Rice or Couscous

Look to heat-and-eat sides like instant rice, couscous or quinoa to round out the meal with little effort. Season them with olive oil or garlic powder.

Green Beans

Quick-cooking green beans needing nothing more than a drizzle of olive oil and pinch of salt and pepper for flavor. Roast or sauté until crisp-tender for an easy veggie.

Satisfying Starch and Veggie Combos

For a satisfying meal, pair your drumsticks with a combo of starchy and vegetable sides:

• Mashed potatoes and roasted green beans
• Rice and steamed broccoli
• Pasta and sautéed zucchini
• Baked sweet potato and roasted carrots
• Quinoa and grilled asparagus
• Corn bread and coleslaw

Mix and match your favorite starches and veggies for a well-rounded drumstick dinner.

Complementary Sauces and Dips

Don’t forget sauces and dips! They add extra flavor and moisture to balance out the chicken:

• Honey mustard
• BBQ sauce
• Ranch dressing
• Blue cheese dressing
• Hummus
• Guacamole
• Salsa
• Gravy
• Cranberry sauce

With so many options for amazing sides to serve with chicken drumsticks, you’ll never have a boring dinner again. From tried and true classics to fresh new flavor combinations, you’re sure to find the perfect match. So go forth and whip up some delicious accompaniments for those yummy drumsticks tonight!

Good side dishes for chicken drumsticks include a variety of options like classic potato salad, creamy coleslaw, baked beans, and mac and cheese. For a lighter touch, consider grilled corn on the cob, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

A great side dish for chicken can be mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or green beans, or even a classic like coleslaw. For a more substantial side, consider pasta salad, macaroni and cheese, or a hearty baked bean.