What is a Good Side Dish for Bacon Wrapped Chicken?

Bacon wrapped chicken is a culinary showstopper that deserves equally impressive side dishes to complete the meal. With the savory smoky bacon complementing the juicy chicken finding sides that enhance these flavors without overpowering them can seem daunting. However, with the right balance of flavors and textures, you can craft a symphony of sides that will make your bacon wrapped chicken shine. In this article, we will explore some of the best options for side dishes to serve with bacon wrapped chicken.

Complementary Flavors and Textures

When choosing side dishes for bacon wrapped chicken, you want to select options that complement the flavors without competing with them The smoky saltiness of the bacon calls for sides that have some natural sweetness as well as a little acidity to balance out the richness Crunchy, crispy sides pair well with the tender juiciness of the chicken.

Some ingredients that pair perfectly include:

• Sweet fruits like apples, berries, stone fruits
• Tangy citrus fruits like lemons, limes, oranges
• Sharp cheeses like goat, feta, blue
• Crunchy nuts like almonds, walnuts, pecans
• Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, dill
• Earthy mushrooms, roasted veggies, fresh greens

Combining a few of these complementary flavors and textures will give you a balanced side dish.

Salads for Freshness

Salads are a fantastic choice for serving with bacon wrapped chicken. They provide brightness and freshness to contrast the heavy richness of the chicken and bacon. Some excellent salad options include:

• Spinach salad – Baby spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta, and poppyseed dressing
• Waldorf salad – Chopped apples, celery, walnuts, craisins, lemon juice dressing
• Caprese salad – Sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, balsamic reduction
• Kale Caesar salad – Shredded kale, parmesan, homemade croutons, Caesar dressing

Salads made with fruits, nuts, and cheeses work particularly well. The sweetness and acidity help cut through the richness.

Roasted Veggies for Depth

Roasted vegetables caramelize and develop deep, sweet flavors that pair impeccably with bacon wrapped chicken. They also provide great textural contrast. Some excellent options include:

• Roasted Brussels sprouts – Halved Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil, S&P, roasted
• Honey glazed carrots – Carrots roasted with honey, butter, thyme, salt
• Balsamic parsnips – Parsnips roasted with balsamic vinegar and garlic
• Hasselback potatoes – Sliced potatoes baked with olive oil, rosemary, garlic

Aim for a variety of textures – some tender and others crispy from roasting. The natural sugars that develop add sweetness.

Grains for Heartiness

Hearty whole grains make satisfying side dishes for bacon wrapped chicken. They soak up any delicious pan drippings and provide filling fiber. Some wholesome options include:

• Quinoa pilaf – Quinoa cooked in chicken broth with sauteed onions, garlic
• Israeli couscous – Cooked couscous tossed with chopped tomato, basil, feta
• Brown rice – Steamed brown rice tossed with sautéed mushrooms and garlic
• Barley risotto – Barley simmered in broth and white wine, finished with Parmesan

Opt for whole grains like quinoa, farro, or barley over white rice or pasta. Their robust texture and flavor stands up well to the chicken and bacon.

Breads for Indulgence

Warm, buttery breads pair decadently with bacon wrapped chicken. They’re perfect for sopping up any pan drippings or sauces. Some absolutely delicious options include:

• Skillet corn bread – Moist, golden corn bread with kernels in the batter
• Rosemary focaccia – Soft, fluffy focaccia drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with rosemary
• Cheddar jalapeño biscuits – Flaky, savory biscuits loaded with cheese and jalapeños
• Monkey bread – Pull-apart bread made with rolled balls of dough and cinnamon sugar

The bacon wrapped chicken has plenty of richness on its own, so lighter breads allow the flavors to shine. Corn bread, biscuits, and focaccia absorb sauce beautifully.

Putting it All Together

When planning your menu, choose 1-2 side dishes that offer contrasting flavors, textures, and visual appeal. A fresh green salad paired with roasted veggies or grain side provides a balanced meal. Or consider a spinach salad alongside warm monkey bread or jalapeño biscuits. Get creative with combinations that suit your tastes.

Pro tip: Allow any roasted vegetable or grain sides to roast in the oven while the bacon wrapped chicken cooks. Simply pop them in when you put the chicken in and time the cooking so everything finishes together.

With the right supporting sides, your bacon wrapped chicken will steal the show. These flavorful, textured, and colorful side dishes elevate the entire meal to new heights. Surround that crispy, juicy chicken with sides that complement it perfectly for a spectacular dining experience.