What to Serve with Balsamic Chicken? The 15 Best Side Dishes to Enhance Your Meal

Balsamic chicken is a flavorful dish that combines tangy balsamic vinegar with savory chicken for a mouthwatering meal. However, the perfect side dish can take this recipe from great to extraordinary The right accompaniment can provide contrasting flavors and textures that complement the chicken After cooking many balsamic chicken meals, I’ve discovered the 15 best side dishes that truly enhance this entrée.

Overview of Balsamic Chicken

Before discussing pairing options, let’s first examine the components of balsamic chicken This recipe features chicken thighs or breasts baked or roasted in the oven after being coated in a marinade The marinade contains olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs like rosemary or thyme. As the chicken bakes, the vinegar glazes the meat, creating a sweet yet tangy flavor. The result is chicken with a crispy browned exterior and a tender, juicy interior infused with delicious flavor.

Balsamic chicken emerges from the oven boasting a complex medley of tastes. The vinegar provides a bold tartness, while the oil lends a rich, savory quality. Garlic and herbs offer background notes of pungency and earthiness. This dynamic flavor profile calls for sides that can both accentuate and contrast the components.

The 15 Best Side Dishes for Balsamic Chicken

After enjoying balsamic chicken for years, these sides have emerged as my top pairings. I’ve categorized them into starchy sides, veggies, and fresh salads for easy reference.

Perfect Starchy Side Dishes

These options provide a comforting base for the chicken.

• Rice Pilaf – Fluffy pilaf soaks up the chicken juices while offering a mild, nutty flavor.

• Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative with a subtle taste that lets the balsamic chicken shine.

• Polenta – Creamy, smooth polenta is a sophisticated Italian classic.

• Mashed Potatoes – Comforting potatoes balance the tart chicken with their mild creaminess.

• Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted spuds are both hearty and playful.

Delectable Veggies

Veggie sides add color and freshness.

• Green Beans – A traditional pairing, green beans offer crispness and earthy flavors.

• Brussels Sprouts – Roasted sprouts caramelize beautifully for sweet nuttiness.

• Asparagus – Grilled asparagus contributes a lovely smoky essence.

• Broccoli – Steamed broccoli is a healthy accompaniment with bright green vibrancy.

• Carrots – Glazed carrots echoed the sweetness of the balsamic chicken.

Refreshing Salads

Cool, fresh salads balance the warmth of the chicken.

• Pasta Salad – Tangled noodles tossed in a lemony dressing offer a tangy crunch.

• Quinoa Salad – Protein-packed quinoa blends perfectly with chopped veggies.

• Greek Salad – Feta, olives, tomatoes and crunchy greens are a Mediterranean delight.

• Spinach Salad – Leafy spinach with bacon, eggs, and onions is a classic choice.

• Waldorf Salad – Sweet apple, celery, and walnuts mingle in this fruited salad.

Key Tips for Pairing Sides with Balsamic Chicken

When selecting the perfect side for balsamic chicken, keep these tips in mind:

• Consider textures – Include a mix of tender, crisp, and creamy textures.

• Complement flavors – Choose sides that accentuate, contrast, or balance the chicken’s flavor profile.

• Add color – Vibrant veggies and salads incorporate appealing colors.

• Satisfy cravings – Hearty starches can satisfy comfort food cravings.

• Account for nutrition – Round out the meal with healthy veggies and lean proteins.

Sample Meals for Serving Inspiration

Here are a few full meal ideas to get you started:

• Balsamic chicken thighs, lemon quinoa salad, roasted broccoli

• Balsamic chicken breasts, pasta salad with feta, sautéed green beans

• Balsamic chicken, cauliflower rice pilaf, Greek salad

• Balsamic chicken, spinach salad with bacon and egg, roasted new potatoes

With so many wonderful options, you can enjoy balsamic chicken multiple times without repeating sides. Varying the accompaniments keeps the meals exciting while allowing the star ingredient to shine. Next time you make this flavorful dish, try one of these 15 side pairings for a perfect meal.