30 Delicious Sides to Serve with Chicken Salad Sandwiches

Are you wondering what to pair with your chicken salad sandwich for the perfect meal? You’re not alone! Whether you’re hosting a luncheon, planning a picnic, or just making lunch at home, finding the right side dishes can take your chicken salad sandwich from good to absolutely amazing.

Chicken salad sandwiches are incredibly versatile – creamy, flavorful, and satisfying on their own, but when paired with the right sides, they become a complete and balanced meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

I’ve collected 30 fantastic side dish ideas that complement chicken salad sandwiches perfectly. From crunchy chips to refreshing salads and everything in between, there’s something here for every taste preference and occasion!

Classic Sides for Chicken Salad Sandwiches

Some side dishes are timeless classics that just work perfectly with chicken salad sandwiches. These tried-and-true options never disappoint:

1. Potato Chips

Nothing beats the satisfying crunch of potato chips alongside a creamy chicken salad sandwich! The contrast in textures makes each bite more enjoyable. Whether you prefer classic salted, salt and vinegar, or barbecue flavored chips, they all work beautifully.

I like to put out a variety of flavors when hosting so everyone can choose their favorite. Plus they’re super convenient – just open the bag and serve!

2. Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a refreshing side that pairs wonderfully with chicken salad sandwiches. The crisp vegetables and tangy dressing provide a nice contrast to the creamy chicken salad. You can go with a traditional mayo-based coleslaw or try a vinaigrette version for something lighter.

3. Dill Pickles

The tangy crunch of dill pickles cuts through the richness of chicken salad perfectly. They act as a palate cleanser between bites, making the sandwich taste even better. Plus, they add a pop of color to your plate!

4. Potato Salad

Another classic pairing is potato salad The creamy texture complements chicken salad sandwiches nicely If you’re worried about having two mayo-based dishes, try a vinaigrette-based potato salad instead.

5. Fresh Fruit

Fresh fruit provides a sweet contrast to savory chicken salad. Options like grapes, apple slices, berries, or a mixed fruit salad add color and nutritional balance to your meal.

Soup Pairings for Chicken Salad Sandwiches

There’s something comforting about the classic soup and sandwich combo. These soups pair beautifully with chicken salad sandwiches:

6. Tomato Basil Soup

A warm bowl of tomato basil soup creates a comforting contrast to a cold chicken salad sandwich. The acidity of the tomatoes complements the creamy chicken salad beautifully. This combo feels like a gourmet café lunch!

7. Vegetable Soup

Light vegetable soup provides nutrition and balance without overpowering your sandwich. The vegetables add different textures and flavors that enhance the overall meal.

8. Butternut Squash Soup

During fall and winter, creamy butternut squash soup makes a cozy companion to chicken salad sandwiches. The subtle sweetness of the soup balances the savory sandwich.

9. Gazpacho

For summer months, chilled gazpacho is refreshing and light – perfect for hot days when you want something cool and rejuvenating with your sandwich.

Veggie Sides That Complement Chicken Salad Sandwiches

Vegetables add nutrition, color, and freshness to your meal:

10. Cucumber Salad

A light cucumber salad with a simple vinaigrette dressing is incredibly refreshing. The crisp texture and cool flavor profile make it a perfect match for chicken salad sandwiches, especially in warm weather.

11. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables like carrots, brussels sprouts, or bell peppers add a warm, caramelized flavor that contrasts nicely with cold chicken salad. They’re particularly good for serving chicken salad sandwiches at dinner time.

12. Green Bean Salad

Blanched green beans tossed with a light dressing make a nutritious and colorful side dish. They provide a satisfying crunch and freshness that complements the sandwich perfectly.

13. Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic make an elegant side that feels special but is super easy to prepare. The bright flavors enhance your meal without competing with the chicken salad.

14. Mixed Greens

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a fresh and healthy side option. The varied textures of the greens add interest to each bite.

Starchy Sides for Heartier Meals

If you’re looking for more filling options to serve with your chicken salad sandwiches:

15. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries offer a healthier alternative to regular fries with a touch of natural sweetness. Their crispy exterior and soft interior make them irresistible alongside chicken salad sandwiches.

16. Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is versatile and can be customized with different veggies, cheeses, and dressings. It’s substantial enough to make your chicken salad sandwich meal quite filling.

17. Macaroni Salad

The creamy texture of macaroni salad complements chicken salad sandwiches beautifully. It’s a hearty side that’s always a crowd-pleaser at picnics and potlucks.

18. Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread might seem like carb overload with a sandwich, but trust me – it works! The aromatic flavors and crunchy texture make it a delicious indulgence alongside chicken salad.

19. Corn on the Cob

Sweet corn on the cob is a summer favorite that pairs well with chicken salad sandwiches. Whether grilled, boiled, or roasted, it adds natural sweetness and satisfying texture to your meal.

Fun and Creative Sides

For something a little different:

20. Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs might seem like an unusual pairing, but they work surprisingly well with chicken salad sandwiches. They add a protein boost and their creamy filling complements the sandwich perfectly.

21. Cheese Straws

Crunchy, savory cheese straws are an unexpected side that everyone loves. They’re more sophisticated than chips but just as satisfying to munch on between bites of sandwich.

22. Potato Pancakes

Crispy potato pancakes (or latkes) make a delicious side for chicken salad sandwiches. They can be served warm or at room temperature, making them practical for various settings.

23. Asian Slaw

For a twist on traditional coleslaw, try an Asian-inspired version with sesame oil, rice vinegar, and a hint of ginger. The unique flavor profile creates an interesting contrast to classic chicken salad.

24. Cheese and Cracker Platter

A selection of cheeses and crackers allows guests to customize their meal. This works especially well for casual gatherings or when serving chicken salad as part of a larger spread.

Lighter Options for Health-Conscious Meals

If you’re watching calories or looking for nutritious options:

25. Broccoli Salad

Crunchy broccoli salad with a light dressing is packed with nutrients and adds great texture contrast to your chicken salad sandwich meal.

26. Fresh Veggies with Dip

Raw vegetables like carrot sticks, bell pepper slices, and celery with a light dip make a healthy, crunchy side that balances the richness of chicken salad.

27. Wild Rice Salad

Wild rice salad with cranberries, nuts, and a light dressing adds interesting texture and nutrition to your meal. The nutty flavor of wild rice pairs surprisingly well with chicken salad.

28. Quinoa Salad

For a protein-packed side, try a quinoa salad with diced vegetables and a light dressing. It’s nutritious and has a pleasant texture that complements chicken salad sandwiches.

Complete Your Meal with Refreshing Drinks

Don’t forget beverages! These drinks round out your chicken salad sandwich meal perfectly:

29. Iced Tea

Whether sweetened or unsweetened, iced tea is the perfect refreshing beverage to serve with chicken salad sandwiches. Add lemon slices or fresh mint for an extra touch.

30. Lemonade

Homemade or store-bought lemonade provides a sweet-tart flavor that cuts through the richness of chicken salad. It’s especially perfect for summer gatherings.

Tips for Serving Chicken Salad Sandwiches

Before we wrap up, here are some quick tips for making your chicken salad sandwich meal even better:

• Bread choices matter: Croissants, multi-grain bread, ciabatta rolls, and pita pockets all work great with chicken salad.
• Set out toppings: Offer lettuce, tomato slices, and red onion so people can customize their sandwiches.
• Temperature balance: If serving chicken salad cold, consider including at least one warm side dish for contrast.
• Consider the occasion: For casual lunches, simple sides like chips work great. For more formal gatherings, elevated sides like caprese salad might be more appropriate.

Final Thoughts

With so many delicious options to serve alongside chicken salad sandwiches, you can create endless meal combinations! The best pairings often include something crunchy, something fresh, and maybe something a little indulgent.

Remember that chicken salad itself can be customized with additions like grapes, apples, walnuts, or curry powder, which might influence which sides you choose to complement those flavors.

What’s your favorite side to serve with chicken salad sandwiches? I’d love to hear about your go-to combinations in the comments!

Chicken salad can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It’s commonly eaten as a sandwich filling, paired with crackers, or served over lettuce as a salad.

A classic chicken sandwich pairs well with a variety of sides, depending on personal preference. Popular choices include french fries, coleslaw, pickles, and potato salad. For a twist, consider green salad, macaroni salad, or even fried sweet potatoes.