Mouthwatering Sides: What to Eat with Shredded BBQ Chicken

Have you ever pulled some delicious BBQ chicken out of your slow cooker and then thought “wait…what am I supposed to serve with this?” I’ve been there too! Shredded BBQ chicken is one of those versatile proteins that’s super easy to make but sometimes leaves us scratching our heads about what sides would complement it best.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, preparing a family dinner, or just meal prepping for the week, finding the perfect accompaniments for your shredded BBQ chicken can elevate your meal from good to absolutely amazing. Today I’m sharing my favorite sides, drinks, and even some creative ways to use up any leftovers you might have.

Classic Side Dishes for Shredded BBQ Chicken

Some side dishes are just made to go with BBQ chicken These tried-and-true options never disappoint

Coleslaw

Nothing complements the rich, smoky flavor of shredded BBQ chicken quite like a crisp, refreshing coleslaw. The tangy, creamy texture offers the perfect contrast to the bold flavors of the chicken. You can go with a traditional creamy version or try a vinegar-based one for a lighter option.

Mac and Cheese

Is there anything more comforting than mac and cheese? This creamy, cheesy delight pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of BBQ chicken Try using different cheese varieties like cheddar and gouda to enhance the richness even further

Potato Salad

A classic tangy potato salad provides a creamy contrast that enhances the smoky notes of your BBQ chicken. Experiment with different herbs like dill, parsley or chives to elevate the flavor. I personally love serving mine chilled for the best experience!

Cornbread

Sweet and slightly crumbly cornbread is a match made in heaven for shredded BBQ chicken. Try variations like jalapeño or honey cornbread for unique twists. Top with butter, honey, or a drizzle of maple syrup to take it to the next level.

Baked Beans

Rich and savory baked beans complement BBQ chicken perfectly. Whether slow-cooked or baked, they provide a tender, flavorful side that harmonizes with the bold taste of the chicken. Try adding sweet molasses, tangy mustard, or smoky bacon for extra flavor.

Fresh and Healthy Options

If you’re looking for lighter sides to balance out your meal, these fresh options are perfect:

Grilled Vegetables

Nutritious and flavorful grilled veggies make a wonderful side for shredded BBQ chicken. Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus are particularly delicious when charred on the grill. Season with garlic, herbs, and spices to enhance their natural flavors.

Garden Salad

A crisp garden salad provides a refreshing contrast to rich BBQ chicken. Make it special with homemade dressings and seasonal toppings like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers for vibrant colors and textures.

Corn on the Cob

Nothing says summer quite like corn on the cob! Grill it to achieve a delicious char that complements the smoky chicken, then brush with flavored butter for added richness.

Fruit Salad

For a surprising but delightful pairing, try serving a refreshing fruit salad alongside your BBQ chicken. The sweet and tangy flavors provide an excellent contrast to the smoky richness of the chicken. A light citrus dressing can enhance the overall flavor profile.

Carb-Loving Sides

If you’re looking for something hearty and filling, these carb-focused sides are the way to go:

Sweet Potato Fries

These savory-sweet fries offer a delicious contrast to shredded BBQ chicken. They’re loaded with vitamins and fiber, making them a somewhat healthier alternative to regular fries. Try them with dipping sauces like spicy aioli or honey mustard.

Garlic Bread

Aromatic garlic bread serves as a delightful accompaniment to BBQ chicken. The crispy texture and savory garlic flavor enhance the overall meal experience. Plus, it’s perfect for sopping up any extra BBQ sauce!

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes complement the bold flavors of BBQ chicken beautifully. Their smooth texture provides a nice contrast to the shredded meat. Experiment with different gravy options to find your perfect combination.

Pasta Salad

A zesty pasta salad made with cold pasta and tossed in Italian dressing adds an invigorating element to your BBQ chicken meal. The blend of crunchy vegetables and tangy dressing balances the rich, smoky taste.

Don’t Forget the Pickles!

Pickles deserve their own section because they’re such a perfect accompaniment to BBQ chicken! They introduce a tangy and refreshing element to the meal, cutting through the richness of the BBQ. Try different dill variations for a crisp, invigorating bite that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken.

What to Drink with Shredded BBQ Chicken

No meal is complete without the perfect beverage! Here are some drinks that pair wonderfully with BBQ chicken:

For the Adults

• Beer: An ice-cold beer is the classic choice for BBQ
• Margaritas: The citrusy flavor complements the smoky BBQ
• White Sangria: A refreshing fruity option for summer gatherings

Non-Alcoholic Options

• Homemade Lemonade: Tangy and refreshing
• Iced Tea: Sweet or unsweetened, it’s a BBQ classic
• Fruit Punch: Kid-friendly and festive

Creative Ways to Use Leftover BBQ Chicken

Made too much chicken? No problem! Here are some delicious ways to repurpose your leftovers:

BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Add your shredded chicken to a burger bun or sliced bread, maybe top with some bacon or coleslaw, and enjoy!

BBQ Chicken Nachos

Layer your chicken over nachos with cheese, avocado, jalapeños, onions, tomatoes, and any other toppings you like.

BBQ Chicken Pizza

Use your leftover chicken as a pizza topping for a unique and delicious twist on a classic.

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Fill tortillas with your leftover chicken, cheese, and maybe some grilled veggies for a quick and easy meal.

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

Top baked potatoes with your shredded BBQ chicken for a satisfying meal.

BBQ Pineapple Chicken

Mix in some chopped pineapples with your leftovers for a sweet and tangy combination. Serve over rice for a complete meal.

Family-Friendly Meal Ideas

If you’re feeding a family, these kid-approved options will please everyone:

BBQ Chicken Tostadas

Crispy tostadas topped with shredded BBQ chicken and your favorite toppings.

BBQ Chicken Fried Rice

A 15-20 minute meal that transforms leftover BBQ chicken into something new and exciting.

BBQ Chicken Tacos

Soft or hard shell tacos filled with BBQ chicken and topped with fresh veggies.

BBQ Chicken Casserole

Mix your chicken with cheese, beans, corn, and other add-ins for a hearty one-dish meal.

My Go-To Recipe for Shredded BBQ Chicken

If you need a simple recipe to start with, here’s my favorite 3-ingredient slow cooker BBQ chicken:

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast (or thighs)
• 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning (1 packet)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (I love Sweet Baby Ray’s)

Instructions:

1. Lay the chicken in the bottom of the crockpot
2. Cover chicken with ranch seasoning on both sides
3. Pour the BBQ sauce over the top
4. Cover and cook on high for 2.5-3 hours or low for 3.5-4 hours
5. Once cooked through, shred the chicken with forks and stir it into the sauce mixture

This makes the perfect base for any of the meal ideas I’ve shared!

Final Thoughts

When it comes to what to eat with shredded BBQ chicken, the possibilities are truly endless. From classic sides like coleslaw and mac and cheese to lighter options like garden salads and grilled veggies, there’s something for everyone.

The beauty of shredded BBQ chicken is its versatility – you can enjoy it as the star of your meal with complementary sides, or repurpose leftovers into completely new dishes. Either way, you’re in for a delicious treat!

What’s your favorite side to serve with shredded BBQ chicken? I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments below!

Remember, the best meals are the ones shared with friends and family, so don’t stress too much about getting everything perfect. The most important ingredient is always the company you keep!

Pulled BBQ chicken pairs well with a variety of classic BBQ sides. Common choices include coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, and corn on the cob. For a lighter option, consider a green salad, roasted vegetables, or a cucumber and tomato salad.