Pineapple chicken is a classic sweet and savory dish that combines juicy, tender chicken with a delicious pineapple sauce. The sweet, tangy and slightly spicy flavors make it a crowd-pleasing favorite. But what should you serve alongside this tasty main?
The ideal side dishes will complement the tropical flavors of the chicken or provide a contrasting taste and texture. After analyzing over 20 popular recommendations from top food sites and chefs, I’ve compiled this definitive list of the 12 best options to consider
Understanding the Flavor Profile
Before diving into the sides it’s important to understand the core elements of pineapple chicken that make it so appealing
- Sweetness – From the pineapple and often added sugar or honey
- Sour tang – From pineapple juice, vinegar or soy sauce
- Salty – Usually from soy sauce
- Spicy – Optional kick from ginger, garlic or chilli
Successful sides will find ways to enhance these flavors or balance them with contrasting tastes and textures,
Top 12 Side Dish Recommendations
Based on popularity, taste synergies and ease of preparation, here are 12 excellent contenders for your next pineapple chicken dinner:
1. Coconut Rice
Infused with the tropical flavors of coconut milk, this fragrant rice is a perfect complement to pineapple chicken. Its subtle sweetness enhances the fruit flavors in the dish beautifully.
2. Roasted Sweet Potato
The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potato wedges or fries makes them an ideal side. They hold up well to the sauce and provide great textural contrast.
3. Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple slices lend even more caramelized, smoky sweetness to the meal. Quick and simple to prepare.
4. Steamed Broccoli
A light, refreshing option, steamed broccoli florets provide a nice bitter counterpoint to balance the sweetness.
5. Fried Rice
The savory umami flavor of soy sauce-seasoned fried rice pairs perfectly with the Asian-inspired flavors of the chicken.
6. Garlic Green Beans
Blanched green beans sautéed with garlic offer a tasty, crisp vegetable accompaniment. Soy sauce gives an extra savory boost.
7. Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Cool, creamy pasta salad with a tangy dressing provides delicious contrast in texture and flavor. Pineapple chunks tie it to the chicken.
8. Fresh Fruit Salad
A light fruit salad with tropical flavors like mango, papaya or kiwi makes a vibrant, fruity side. Great in warmer months.
9. Coleslaw
Crunchy coleslaw with a creamed cabbage base gives a refreshing, tangy crunch. Chili or pineapple add extra character.
10. Hawaiian Rolls
Sweet, fluffy Hawaiian rolls pick up the sauce beautifully. Great for splitting open to make sliders with the chicken.
11. Cilantro Lime Rice
Rice infused with bright cilantro and lime zest provides a simple, flavorful base for the chicken.
12. Grilled Zucchini
Grilled zucchini planks offer a smoky depth to complement the sweetness. Healthy and easy to prepare.
Tips for Serving Success
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Mix up textures – Include sides with contrasting textures like creamy pasta salads, crunchy slaws and fluffy rice.
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Vary flavors – Balance out the sweetness with bitter veggies, spicy slaws and bright, acidic fruits.
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Keep it light – Avoid heavy carbs and cheeses that may overpower the chicken.
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Prep ahead – Sides like fruit salads, slaws and roasted veggies can be made in advance.
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Watch portions – Rich, coconut rice and mac salad are best enjoyed in moderation.
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Get creative – Don’t be afraid to try less traditional pairings like quinoa or seaweed salad.
Tropical Fruit Salad
A vibrant, refreshing tropical fruit salad, made with fruits like mango, papaya, and kiwi, adds a burst of fruity flavor to your meal. The sweet, juicy fruits create a delicious contrast to the savory Hawaiian Chicken.
Sautéed green beans with garlic and a touch of soy sauce are a tasty and nutritious side dish that pairs well with Hawaiian Chicken. The tender, slightly crisp green beans add a wonderful contrast in texture to the meal.
Crispy, golden sweet potato fries, seasoned with a touch of salt and served with a side of aioli, are a delicious side dish option. The sweet, earthy flavor of the sweet potatoes complements the tropical taste of the Hawaiian Chicken.
Soft, fluffy Hawaiian rolls, with their slightly sweet taste, are a perfect accompaniment to Hawaiian Chicken. These delicious rolls can be used to make sliders or simply enjoyed on their own.
Grilled zucchini, seasoned with garlic and herbs, adds a light, smoky flavor to your meal. The tender, slightly charred zucchini offers a refreshing contrast to the sweet and tangy Hawaiian Chicken.
Fragrant and slightly sticky, jasmine rice is a simple yet delightful side dish that pairs well with Hawaiian Chicken. The aromatic rice offers a perfect base to soak up the delicious pineapple sauce, creating a satisfying combination.
Light and healthy, zucchini noodles (also known as zoodles) are a great alternative to traditional pasta. The tender, slightly crunchy noodles complement the sweet and tangy flavors of the Hawaiian Chicken while keeping the meal light and refreshing.
This bright and tangy pineapple salsa adds a tropical twist to Hawaiian Chicken. Fresh pineapple chunks, mixed with onion, cilantro, and a splash of lime, offer a refreshing contrast that enhances the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken. Its a delightful side that invites a taste of the islands to your plate.
A strawberry walnut salad is a delightful blend of sweet strawberries, crunchy walnuts, and fresh greens. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, it provides a balanced, nutritious side that complements the rich taste of Hawaiian Chicken. The mixture of textures and flavors makes it an appealing and healthy addition to the meal.
Corn on the Cob, whether grilled or boiled, adds a sweet and juicy touch to Hawaiian Chicken. Its natural sweetness and chewy texture are a perfect match for the tropical flavors of the main dish. Whether buttered or seasoned with a touch of salt, its a comforting and enjoyable side that everyone loves.
Edamame, lightly salted and steamed, offers a simple yet satisfying side for Hawaiian Chicken. These young soybeans provide a tasty, protein-rich nibble thats both healthy and flavorful. Their mildly salty taste and pleasing texture provide a delightful contrast to the sweet and savory chicken, making them a unique and enjoyable addition to the meal.
Honey glazed carrots bring a touch of sweetness and elegance to the table with Hawaiian Chicken. The gentle honey glaze enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots, while a hint of butter adds richness. Their bright orange color and tender texture make them not only a visually appealing side but a delicious one that pairs wonderfully with the tropical flavors of the chicken.
EASY DINNER RECIPES | PINEAPPLE CHICKEN TERIYAKI | FEEDING THE BYRDS
FAQ
What side goes with pineapple chicken?
Pineapple chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, including rice (especially coconut rice or cilantro-lime rice), Hawaiian macaroni salad, grilled pineapple spears, or a fresh salad like papaya avocado salad.
What are the best sides to serve with chicken?
- Roasted Fennel. …
- Butternut Squash Risotto. …
- Crash Hot Potatoes. …
- Easy Sautéed Mushrooms. …
- Twice Baked Southwestern Sweet Potatoes. …
- Easy Spanish Rice. …
- Stir Fried Japanese Eggplant With Ginger and Miso. …
- Perfect Mashed Potatoes.
What flavors go with pineapple chicken?
How To Serve Pineapple Chicken. Over a base like coconut rice, cilantro-lime rice, or quinoa. In a bowl with black beans, avocado, grilled corn, and cilantro-lime sauce.
What to serve with chicken and pineapple kebabs?
- Almond Rice Pilaf is my absolute favorite thing to serve with these chicken kabobs. …
- Coconut Rice with Cilantro and Lime has a yummy, coconut flavor that would complement the tropical flavors really well.
- Orzo with Peas and Parmesan is a fresh, yummy choice.