What Goes with a Chicken Salad? Here Are 12 Great Options

Chicken salad recipe is a versatile and satisfying dish, often enjoyed as a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or even a party staple. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a favorite for many. But if you’ve ever wondered what sides to serve with chicken salad to round out the meal, you’re not alone. The right pairings can elevate your chicken salad experience by adding complementary flavors, textures, and even nutritional benefits. In this guide, you’ll find 12 delicious options that go perfectly with chicken salad, whether you’re planning a casual meal or a more elaborate gathering.

Light and Refreshing Sides for Chicken Salad recipe

When you want to keep things light and refreshing, pairing chicken salad with fresh, crisp sides is an excellent choice. These options enhance the meal without overwhelming the star of the show.

1. Fresh Green Salad

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed greens (romaine, spinach, arugula, or any favorite leafy greens)
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup fresh herbs, chopped (parsley, basil, or cilantro)
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup toasted nuts or seeds (almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds)

Dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice or balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Serve immediately: Enjoy the salad as a light meal or a refreshing side dish., and keep the dressing light to avoid overpowering the chicken salad.

Prepare the greens: Wash and thoroughly dry the mixed greens.

Chop the vegetables: Slice the cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and carrots.

Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, toss the greens with the chopped vegetables and fresh herbs.

Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice or vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Combine: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Garnish: Sprinkle with crumbled cheese and toasted nuts or seeds if using.

2. Fruit Salad

Adding a fruit salad alongside your chicken salad is a great way to introduce a pop of color and a hint of sweetness. The combination of savory and sweet flavors is always a crowd-pleaser.

Suggested Fruits:

• Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Melons (watermelon, cantaloupe)
• Citrus fruits (orange slices, grapefruit)

Simple Fruit Salad Recipe:

Combine all fruits in a large bowl, drizzle with honey-lemon dressing, and gently toss.

Hearty and Filling Sides for Chicken Salad recipe

If you’re looking for something more substantial, hearty sides can make your chicken salad meal more satisfying.

3. Whole Grain Bread

Whole grain bread is a perfect companion to chicken salad recipe . You can serve it as slices on the side or use it to create a sandwich.

Why It Works:

• The nutty flavor and dense texture of whole grain bread complement the creamy chicken salad.
• Toasted bread adds a delightful crunch.

Serving Tip: For added flavor, lightly butter the bread and toast it until golden brown.

4. Quinoa Salad

Quinoa is a protein-packed grain that pairs wonderfully with chicken salad. It’s light yet filling, making it a healthy addition to your meal.

Ingredients for Quinoa Salad:

• Cooked quinoa
• Diced bell peppers, cucumbers, and red onions
• Lemon vinaigrette

Mix the quinoa with the vegetables and drizzle with a zesty lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing, hearty side.

Savory Snacks That Pair Well with Chicken Salad recipe

Sometimes, a few savory snacks on the side can make your chicken salad meal more fun and varied. Here are a couple of snack options that pair perfectly.

5. Crackers and Cheese

Crackers and cheese add a crunchy, salty element to your meal. They’re great for scooping up chicken salad or enjoying on their own.

Recommended Crackers:

• Whole-grain crackers
• Seeded crackers for added texture

Cheese Pairing Suggestions:

• Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese
• Hard cheeses like cheddar or gouda

6. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness and add a savory, earthy flavor to your plate.

Best Vegetables for Roasting:

• Carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus

Roasting Tip: Lightly coat the vegetables in olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.

Sides for a Gourmet Touch

Elevate your chicken salad meal with sides that add a gourmet twist. These options are perfect for when you want to impress your guests or treat yourself to something special.

7. Soup

A bowl of soup is a comforting side that pairs beautifully with chicken salad, especially on colder days.

Best Soup Pairings:

• Tomato bisque
• Butternut squash soup
• Gazpacho for a chilled option

8. Stuffed Avocado

Halve an avocado, remove the pit, and stuff it with a scoop of chicken salad. This gourmet presentation not only looks impressive but also adds a creamy, rich flavor.

Garnish Idea: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro and a pinch of paprika for color.

Sides for Special Occasions

When you’re hosting a special occasion, these sides can elevate your chicken salad to a show-stopping meal.

9. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is always a hit, whether served at a casual lunch or a formal dinner. The buttery, garlicky flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy chicken salad.

Quick Recipe:

• Slice a baguette, spread with garlic butter, and toast in the oven until golden brown.

10. Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs add a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor to your plate. Their creamy filling pairs well with the chicken salad, creating a cohesive meal.

Classic Deviled Egg Recipe:

• Hard-boiled eggs
• Mayonnaise, mustard, and a dash of paprika

Sweet Endings That Pair Well with Chicken Salad recipe

Don’t forget to end your meal on a sweet note! These light desserts complement chicken salad without being too heavy.

11. Lemon Tart

The tangy flavor of lemon tart cuts through the richness of chicken salad, making it a refreshing dessert choice.

12. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Simple yet elegant, chocolate-dipped strawberries add a touch of sweetness to your meal. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

FAQ Section

What are the best bread options for chicken salad sandwiches?

The best bread options for chicken salad sandwiches include whole grain bread, sourdough, and ciabatta. These types of bread are sturdy enough to hold the chicken salad without becoming soggy.

Can I serve chicken salad warm or cold?

Chicken salad is typically served cold, but some variations, such as grilled chicken salad, can be served warm. It ultimately depends on personal preference.

What drinks pair well with chicken salad?

Light and refreshing drinks like iced tea, sparkling water with lemon, or a crisp white wine pair well with chicken salad.

Conclusion

With so many delicious options to choose from, you’ll never run out of ideas for what goes with chicken salad. Whether you prefer light and refreshing sides, hearty grains, or gourmet pairings, there’s something here for every occasion. Next time you whip up a bowl of chicken salad, consider adding one (or more!) of these sides to create a well-rounded, satisfying meal.

Feel free to experiment and find your perfect combination. And if you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to share it with your friends or leave a comment with your favorite chicken salad pairing!