15 Amazing Side Dishes That Perfectly Complement Chicken Salad Sandwiches

Are you stuck in a lunch rut? Got some chicken salad but not sure what to pair it with? Don’t worry – I’ve been there too! As someone who makes chicken salad sandwiches at least twice a month (my kids are obsessed!), I’ve experimented with countless side dishes to find the perfect companions

Chicken salad sandwiches are amazing on their own, but the right side dish can transform your meal from good to absolutely unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a picnic, prepping lunch, or hosting a casual get-together, I’ve got you covered with these delicious pairings.

Why Chicken Salad Sandwiches Need the Perfect Partner

Before diving into my favorite side dishes, let’s talk about why chicken salad sandwiches are so versatile A good chicken salad typically contains

• Protein (chicken, obviously!)
• Vegetables
• Some type of fat or oil (usually mayo)
• And when made into a sandwich, you’ve got your carbs too

This makes chicken salad sandwiches a complete meal on their own But just because they can stand alone doesn’t mean they should! The right side dish can

• Add contrasting textures
• Complement the creamy flavor
• Balance the meal nutritionally
• Make your plate look more appetizing

So without further ado, let’s explore the best sidekicks for your chicken salad sandwich!

Best Sides for Chicken Salad Sandwiches

1. Potato Chips

There’s something so satisfying about the crunch of potato chips alongside a soft, creamy sandwich. The saltiness perfectly balances the savory chicken salad.

Pro tip: Try different flavors like salt and vinegar or sour cream and onion to add another dimension to your meal.

2. Fresh Fruit

Light, refreshing, and healthy – fresh fruit is my go-to side when I want something nutritious. My favorites to pair with chicken salad include:

• Grapes
• Sliced apples
• Fresh berries
• Watermelon chunks

The sweetness of the fruit creates a wonderful contrast to the savory sandwich. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare!

3. Cucumber Soup

When summer hits and temperatures soar, nothing beats the combo of cold chicken salad sandwiches and chilled cucumber soup. It’s refreshing, light, and helps use up those extra cucumbers from your garden.

I make mine with:

• 2 peeled cucumbers
• 1 cup of Greek yogurt
• Fresh dill
• A splash of lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Blend it all together and chill for at least an hour before serving. Divine!

4. Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is one of those sides that can be customized endlessly. I like to make mine with:

• Rotini or bow-tie pasta
• Cherry tomatoes
• Diced bell peppers
• Black olives
• Italian dressing

The beauty of pasta salad is that you can make it ahead of time, and it actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a day as the flavors meld together.

5. French Fries or Potato Wedges

If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, homemade fries or potato wedges are the way to go. The crispy exterior and fluffy interior create a wonderful textural contrast to your sandwich.

I toss mine with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder before baking them until golden brown. They’re much healthier than deep-fried versions but still incredibly satisfying.

6. Caesar Salad

Caesar salad is a classic side that pairs beautifully with chicken salad sandwiches. The garlicky, tangy dressing and crunchy romaine provide a nice counterpoint to the creamy sandwich.

Quick Caesar dressing recipe:

• 1/2 cup mayo
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• Salt and pepper to taste

Whisk everything together and toss with romaine lettuce and croutons. So simple but so good!

7. Hot Potato Salad

Most people think of cold potato salad with mayo, but hot potato salad with a vinegar-based dressing is amazing with chicken salad sandwiches. The contrast between the hot, tangy potatoes and the cold, creamy sandwich is chef’s kiss.

8. Cheese Platter

A small cheese platter with 2-3 different types of cheese and some crackers makes for an elegant side option. I particularly love:

• Sharp cheddar
• Brie
• Gouda

The varied textures and flavors of the cheeses complement the chicken salad beautifully.

9. Raw Vegetables with Dip

For a healthy, crunchy side, you can’t go wrong with raw vegetables and a flavorful dip. My usual lineup includes:

• Carrot sticks
• Bell pepper strips
• Cucumber slices
• Cherry tomatoes
• Broccoli florets

Pair them with hummus, ranch dressing, or a yogurt-based dip for a nutritious addition to your meal.

10. Ambrosia Fruit Salad

If your kids prefer fruits to veggies (like mine do!), ambrosia fruit salad is a winner. This sweet treat includes:

• Mandarin oranges
• Pineapple chunks
• Miniature marshmallows
• Coconut flakes
• A light dressing of yogurt or whipped cream

It’s a bit indulgent but pairs surprisingly well with savory chicken salad.

11. Butternut Squash Soup

During colder months, a warm bowl of butternut squash soup alongside your chicken salad sandwich is pure comfort. The sweetness of the soup complements the savory sandwich perfectly.

I like to add a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg to my butternut squash soup for extra warmth and depth.

12. Green Salad

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is always a good choice. I usually toss together:

• Mixed greens
• Cherry tomatoes
• Cucumber
• Red onion
• Balsamic vinaigrette

It’s fresh, light, and adds nutritional balance to your meal.

13. Bacon Cheddar Soup

For a more indulgent side, bacon cheddar soup is absolutely delicious with chicken salad sandwiches. The rich, cheesy flavor with smoky bacon bits creates a wonderful contrast to the lighter sandwich.

My family literally fights over this soup whenever I make it – there are never any leftovers!

14. Berry Spritzer

Don’t forget about drinks! A berry spritzer made with seltzer water and a splash of berry juice is refreshing and complements chicken salad sandwiches beautifully.

I make mine with:

• Sparkling water
• Fresh berries (muddled)
• A splash of cranberry juice
• Ice cubes
• Mint leaves for garnish

It’s prettier than plain water and feels special without being too sweet.

15. Iced Tea or Lemonade

A cold glass of iced tea or homemade lemonade is the quintessential drink to serve with chicken salad sandwiches, especially during summer months.

My secret for perfect lemonade is to make a simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, heated until dissolved) rather than trying to mix sugar directly into cold lemonade. This ensures the sweetness is perfectly distributed!

Best Bread Choices for Your Chicken Salad Sandwich

While we’re focusing on side dishes, I should mention that the bread you choose for your chicken salad sandwich makes a huge difference too! Here are some options to consider:

• Croissants: The buttery, flaky texture is divine with creamy chicken salad
• Sourdough bread: The subtle tang complements the savory chicken
• Pita bread: Great for on-the-go eating with minimal mess
• Whole grain bread: Adds nutritional value and a hearty texture
• Lettuce wraps: A low-carb option that adds crunch
• Tortillas: For a fun chicken salad wrap variation

Make-Ahead Tips for Picnics and Gatherings

If you’re planning a picnic or gathering, here are some tips to make things easier:

1. Prepare components separately: Keep bread separate from the chicken salad until serving time to prevent sogginess
2. Pack side dishes in airtight containers: This keeps everything fresh and prevents spills
3. Freeze water bottles to use as ice packs: They’ll keep food cold and provide cold drinks as they thaw
4. Pre-portion sides: Individual containers make serving easier and more hygienic
5. Bring wet wipes and paper towels: Chicken salad can be messy!

My Favorite Chicken Salad Recipe

I can’t talk about chicken salad sandwiches without sharing my favorite recipe! Here’s how I make mine:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Mix everything together and chill for at least an hour before serving. The combination of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory elements makes this chicken salad absolutely irresistible!

Final Thoughts

Chicken salad sandwiches are incredibly versatile, and the side dish you choose can completely transform your meal experience. Whether you prefer something light and healthy like fresh fruit or a more indulgent option like French fries, there’s a perfect pairing for every occasion.

My personal favorite combo is a chicken salad sandwich on a croissant with a side of pasta salad and some fresh berries. What’s yours going to be?

Remember, the best meals are about balance – textures, flavors, temperatures, and nutrition. So mix and match these sides to create your perfect chicken salad sandwich meal!

What side dishes do you like to serve with your chicken salad sandwiches? I’d love to hear your favorites too!