What Should I Serve With Chicken Thighs? 15 Delicious Side Dish Ideas

Chicken thighs are a delicious and versatile staple that can be prepared in endless ways Their rich, savory flavor and tender texture make them a favorite for many home cooks However, choosing the right side dishes to serve alongside chicken thighs is key to creating a mouthwatering meal. The sides should ideally complement and enhance the flavor of the chicken without overpowering it.

After cooking many chicken thigh dishes I’ve discovered some spectacular sides that not only taste amazing but also pair wonderfully with chicken thighs. Here are 15 of my top recommendations for complementary sides to serve with succulent juicy chicken thighs

1. Mashed Potatoes

Smooth, creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with chicken thighs. The creamy texture and mild flavor of the potatoes perfectly balance the richness of chicken thighs. For extra flair, mix in roasted garlic, chives, or shredded cheese into the potatoes. Baked potatoes with melted butter and sour cream are also an excellent choice.

2. Roasted Vegetables

A medley of roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, and butternut squash adds freshness, color, and sweetness to complement chicken thighs. Roasting caramelizes the vegetables, intensifying their natural sweetness. They add a satisfying crunch and plenty of fiber.

3. Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf or risotto, infused with flavors like saffron or lemon makes a fabulous pairing with chicken thighs. The pleasant aroma and fluffy texture of rice pilaf soaks up the delicious juices from the chicken. Mushroom risotto also complements chicken thighs wonderfully.

4. Pasta Salad

A light and refreshing pasta salad with veggies like bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives adds a bright, tangy crunch next to juicy chicken thighs. The pasta absorbs any sauces or marinades used for the chicken, lending even more flavor.

5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes caramelize and turn deliciously sweet when paired with chicken thighs. Their natural sugars nicely balance the savory flavors of the chicken. Roasted sweet potato wedges or baked sweet potatoes work perfectly.

6. Garlic Bread

Warm, crusty garlic bread is a quintessential accompaniment for chicken. The garlic and herb flavors marry wonderfully with chicken thighs. Serve sliced baguette brushed with garlic butter or pull apart cheesy garlic bread for hearty flavor.

7. Coleslaw

Creamy, tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity to contrast rich chicken thighs. The cool crispness of the cabbage also balances the warmth of freshly cooked chicken. Try easy homemade coleslaw or pick up prepared coleslaw from your grocery store’s deli.

8. Dinner Rolls

Warm, soft dinner rolls are great for sopping up any juices from chicken thighs. You can’t go wrong with classics like buttery Parker House rolls, sweet Hawaiian rolls, or rustic Italian bread. Serve them on the side with soft butter.

9. Grilled Corn on the Cob

In summer, chargrilled corn on the cob slathered with butter makes an awesome side for grilled or baked chicken thighs. The corn’s slight smoky char and natural sweetness pair perfectly with savory chicken.

10. Mac and Cheese

Comforting, cheesy macaroni and cheese is a foolproof pairing with chicken thighs. The creaminess of the mac and cheese balances the chicken’s richness. Try fun add-ins like bacon bits, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms.

11. Green Beans

Quick sautéed green beans with olive oil, garlic, and herbs offer freshness and crunch next to chicken thighs. Green beans also absorb any sauce from the chicken. Roast them for deeper flavor.

12. Potato Salad

Creamy potato salad with hard boiled eggs, celery, onion, and tons of flavorful mayo makes an easy, tasty side for chicken thighs. The creaminess contrasts the chicken while the potatoes soak up extra sauce and juices.

13. Dinner Salad

A fresh dinner salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing adds brightness and acidity to balance chicken’s richness. Top with avocados, nuts, or baked croutons for extra texture.

14. Cornbread

Warm, buttery cornbread is a classic Southern side for chicken. Cornbread’s hint of natural sweetness pairs well with savory chicken thighs. Bake up a skillet of cast iron cornbread studded with corn kernels.

15. Baked Beans

Sweet, smoky baked beans lend bold flavor next to chicken thighs. Opt for homemade baked beans cooked low and slow with bacon, onion, brown sugar, and spices. Or heat up a couple cans of Bush’s beans for an effortless side.

Chicken thighs deserve flavorful, complementary side dishes that enhance their succulent flavor. Next time you cook up chicken thighs, try pairing them with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, rice, pasta salad, or any of these 15 delicious sides for a mouthwatering meal. With the right sides, chicken thighs shine even brighter.

Chicken thighs pair well with a wide variety of sides, offering a versatile base for many cuisines. Popular choices include roasted vegetables like potatoes, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts, as well as rice, quinoa, or pasta dishes like orzo. Salads, particularly those with a light vinaigrette or a creamy coleslaw, also complement the richness of the chicken.