7 Delicious Sides That Perfectly Complement Your Popcorn Chicken

Are you staring at a plate of crispy popcorn chicken wondering what else to add to make it a complete meal? You’re not alone! I’ve been there many times – those bite-sized pieces of breaded goodness sitting all lonely on the plate, just begging for some tasty companions.

Popcorn chicken is one of those versatile comfort foods that’s perfect for game nights, casual get-togethers, or just a lazy dinner. But serving it alone is kinda like going to a party with no friends – it works, but it’s not nearly as fun!

Today I’m gonna share my favorite sides that’ll transform your popcorn chicken from a simple snack into a memorable meal. These pairings are easy to prepare and will definitely make your taste buds do a happy dance!

Why Popcorn Chicken Deserves Great Sides

Before we dive into the side dishes, let’s take a quick moment to appreciate popcorn chicken. Those premium breaded chicken pops made from 100% chicken breast meat are already delicious on their own. They’re crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside and perfectly poppable!

But even the best popcorn chicken needs friends. The right sides can:

• Balance the meal with different textures and flavors
• Add nutritional value to your plate
• Turn a simple snack into a satisfying meal
• Give your taste buds more to explore

Now let’s get to the good stuff – what to serve with your popcorn chicken!

1. Dipping Sauces – The Classic Companion

If there’s one thing that should always accompany popcorn chicken, it’s a good dipping sauce. Especially when the chicken hasn’t been cooked in sauces already, dips add that extra burst of flavor that takes each bite to the next level.

Some popular options include:

• Ketchup (the kiddo’s favorite!)
• Mayo (try mixing with sriracha for a spicy kick)
• BBQ sauce (sweet and smoky goodness)
• Mustard (for a tangy contrast)
• Blue cheese dip (perfect if you like it creamy)
• Buffalo sauce (for those who like it hot!)

I personally love offering at least 2-3 different sauces when serving popcorn chicken. It’s fun to mix and match, and everyone can customize their experience.

2. Coleslaw – Fresh and Crunchy

Coleslaw is my go-to side when I want to keep things a bit healthier while still complementing the flavors of popcorn chicken. The cool crisp texture of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm crunchy chicken.

The creamy dressing in traditional coleslaw also helps cut through the richness of fried foods, creating a balanced bite. Plus, it adds some veggies to your meal, which makes me feel slightly less guilty about indulging in fried chicken!

For a twist, try making a vinegar-based slaw instead of the mayo-heavy version. It’s lighter and tangier, which pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken.

3. Mac and Cheese – The Ultimate Comfort Combo

If we’re talking about comfort food heaven, then we HAVE to mention mac and cheese with popcorn chicken. This combo is what food dreams are made of!

The gooey, cheesy pasta creates the perfect base for those crunchy chicken pieces. For an extra flavor explosion, try adding jalapeños or buffalo sauce to your mac and cheese. The spicy kick works amazingly well with both the creamy pasta and the chicken.

Yes, this combo is definitely high in calories and fat, but sometimes you just gotta treat yourself! It’s worth every single calorie, trust me.

4. Celery and Carrot Sticks – The Light Option

For a refreshing summer starter or side dish, celery and carrot sticks are perfect alongside popcorn chicken. They add a satisfying crunch and freshness that balances the heavier, fried elements.

These veggie sticks work particularly well in:

• Casual dining settings
• Pop-up restaurants
• Weekend street food dining clubs
• Summer picnics

Pair them with blue cheese dip, buffalo sauce, or sriracha mayo for a flavor combo that’ll make everyone happy. It’s also a great way to sneak some veggies onto the plate without much complaint!

5. French Fries – The Crowd-Pleaser

Is there any more iconic pairing than fried chicken and french fries? This classic combo works for a reason – the crispy, salty fries complement the breaded chicken perfectly.

For a twist on this traditional side, consider these variations:

• Sweet potato fries (for a boost of beta carotene and slower carb release)
• Air-fried fries (a “skinny” option with less oil)
• Seasoned fries (try garlic, cajun, or ranch seasonings)
• Waffle fries (for a fun shape and more surface area for dipping!)

I find that thinner, crispier fries work best with popcorn chicken since they have a similar texture and are easy to eat alongside those little chicken bites.

6. Cornbread – The Southern Classic

If you want something more filling and satisfying, cornbread is an excellent choice. This American tradition pairs surprisingly well with popcorn chicken.

The slightly sweet, corny flavor and soft texture create a wonderful contrast to the savory, crispy chicken. Plus, cornbread is relatively inexpensive and easy to make, making it perfect for feeding a crowd.

I like to serve warm cornbread with a touch of honey butter on the side. The sweetness really complements the savory chicken in a way that might surprise you if you’ve never tried this combo before!

7. Colorful Salad – The Fresh Alternative

Don’t make the mistake of thinking salads are boring! A colorful, well-constructed salad can be the perfect partner for popcorn chicken.

The key is to create a vibrant mix that includes:

• Yellow bell peppers
• Red onions
• Green leafy vegetables
• Cherry tomatoes
• Cucumber

This rainbow of colors not only looks beautiful on the plate but also provides a fresh, crisp base for your chicken pops. The vegetables’ natural sweetness and crunch complement the savory, breaded chicken beautifully.

For dressing, something light like a vinaigrette works best – nothing too heavy that might compete with the chicken’s flavors.

Mixing and Matching for Different Occasions

One of the best things about popcorn chicken is how versatile it is. You can tailor your sides depending on the occasion:

For Game Night:

• French fries
• Multiple dipping sauces
• Celery and carrot sticks

For a Casual Family Dinner:

• Mac and cheese
• Coleslaw
• Cornbread

For a Healthier Option:

• Colorful salad
• Veggie sticks
• Sweet potato fries

For a Party Platter:

• A variety of dipping sauces
• Small portions of several sides
• Both veggie options and indulgent sides

Tips for Serving Popcorn Chicken

No matter which sides you choose, here are some tips to make your popcorn chicken meal even better:

1. Serve fresh and hot – Popcorn chicken is at its crispiest right after cooking
2. Provide plenty of napkins – These are finger foods after all!
3. Consider portion sizes – A little popcorn chicken goes a long way
4. Balance your plate – Try to include something fresh alongside the fried elements
5. Have fun with presentation – Use small individual baskets or colorful plates

Final Thoughts

Popcorn chicken doesn’t have to be just a quick snack or appetizer. With the right sides, it transforms into a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re going for ultimate comfort food with mac and cheese, keeping it light with a salad, or sticking with the classic fries, there’s a perfect pairing for every occasion.

My personal favorite combo is popcorn chicken with sweet potato fries, a small side of coleslaw, and at least two dipping sauces (usually ranch and buffalo). What’s yours?

Remember, food is meant to be enjoyed, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations until you find your perfect popcorn chicken plate!

Now if you’ll excuse me, all this talk about popcorn chicken has made me hungry. I think I know what I’m having for dinner tonight!

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