Chicken salad is a timeless dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways, but knowing what goes well with chicken salad can elevate it to a complete meal. Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or a special event, pairing it with the right sides and beverages can enhance its flavors and texture, making your meal more satisfying.
In this article, we’ll explore the best options for what goes well with chicken salad. From light, fresh pairings to hearty sides, you’ll find inspiration to create a complete meal.
Looking for more chicken recipes? Check out this delicious Chicken Broccoli Sauce!
Why Chicken Salad is a Versatile Dish
Chicken salad is not just a single dish but a flexible base that can be customized with different ingredients and dressings. Here’s why it’s such a popular choice:
- Versatile Base: Chicken salad can be made with basic ingredients like mayonnaise and chicken or enhanced with add-ins like grapes, nuts, and herbs.
- Ideal for Various Occasions: It’s light enough for a summer picnic yet satisfying enough for a lunch or light dinner.
- Customizable: You can create different versions like classic chicken salad, pesto chicken salad, or Greek yogurt-based salad.
- Simple to Prepare: Chicken salad is quick to make and stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping.
For a refreshing twist, try serving your chicken salad with complementary dishes from this guide on What Goes Well with Chicken Casserole.
Best Side Dishes that Go with Chicken Salad
The right side dish can take your chicken salad to the next level. Let’s explore what pairs well with chicken salad in terms of sides:
1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A Sweet Addition to Chicken Salad
A fresh fruit salad is one of the most refreshing options for what goes well with chicken salad. The sweetness of fruits like grapes, strawberries, and melons contrasts beautifully with the creamy and savory chicken salad.
Suggested Recipe: Try this Simple Summer Fruit Salad featuring a mix of berries, kiwi, and citrus for a vibrant side dish.
2. Green Salad: A Light and Crisp Companion to Chicken Salad
When thinking about what goes well with chicken salad, a green salad is always a top contender. Mixed greens or spinach with a light vinaigrette provide a crisp texture that pairs perfectly with the richness of chicken salad.
Topping Tip: Add sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and avocado for added texture. If you want to keep it light, skip the cheese and croutons.
3. Potato Chips or French Fries
For a classic, casual pairing, serve chicken salad with crispy potato chips or French fries. The salty crunch of chips or fries balances the creamy, soft texture of the salad, creating a satisfying bite.
For healthier options, try baked sweet potato fries. Find an easy recipe here: Baked Sweet Potato Fries.
Breads, Crackers, and Croissants for Chicken Salad
Bread options are essential when deciding what goes well with chicken salad. The right bread or cracker can complement the flavors and provide the perfect vehicle for enjoying the salad:
1.Croissants: A Buttery and Flaky Match for Chicken Salad
When considering what goes well with chicken salad, buttery croissants are a top choice. They add a rich, flaky texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy salad.
Pro Tip: To elevate the flavors, lightly toast the croissants before filling them with chicken salad. For more ideas, check out this Chicken Salad Croissant Recipe.
2. Whole Grain Crackers
For a lighter, healthier option, serve chicken salad with whole grain crackers. The crunchy texture of the crackers pairs well with the creamy salad, and whole grains provide additional fiber and nutrients.
Healthy Option: Check out Healthline’s guide on choosing the best whole grain crackers for a nutritious pairing.
3. Sourdough or French Bread
Sourdough and French bread are great options for serving chicken salad as an open-faced sandwich. The tartness of sourdough or the crusty texture of French bread adds depth to the meal.
Pro Tip: Lightly toast the bread before adding the chicken salad for added texture and crunch.
Vegetable Sides that Complement Chicken Salad
Vegetables are a great way to add color, crunch, and nutrition to your meal. Here are some vegetable sides that go well with chicken salad:
1. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus bring a smoky, earthy flavor to your meal. The slightly charred taste of the veggies complements the creaminess of the chicken salad.
Pro Tip: For the best flavor, toss your vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling. Need a quick tutorial? Check out this Grilled Vegetables Recipe from Bon Appétit.
2. Cucumber Slices
Cucumbers are a refreshing, light side dish that pairs well with chicken salad. You can slice cucumbers thinly and serve them as a crunchy base for scooping the salad, or chop them into a salad with a light lemon vinaigrette.
Health Tip: Cucumbers are high in water content, helping to keep your meal light and hydrating. Read more about their benefits here: Cucumber Nutrition Facts.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes add a warm, hearty element to your meal. Their natural sweetness balances the savory flavors of the chicken salad.
Seasoning Tip: Roast vegetables with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary for a flavorful side. Learn how to roast veggies perfectly with this Roasted Vegetable Guide from The Kitchn.
Beverages to Pair with Chicken Salad
No meal is complete without a refreshing drink to complement the food. Here are some beverage options that pair well with chicken salad:
1. Lemon Iced Tea
A refreshing lemon iced tea is a classic pairing with chicken salad. The tangy citrus notes of the tea cut through the richness of the salad, balancing the flavors.
DIY Recipe: Try making your own lemon iced tea at home with this simple recipe from Allrecipes.
2. Sparkling Water with Citrus
For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime adds a zesty touch to your meal. The bubbles in the water offer a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
3. Sauvignon Blanc
If you prefer wine, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with chicken salad. The acidity and citrus notes in the wine complement the creamy texture and rich flavors of the salad.
Wine Pairing Tip: For more ideas on wine pairings, check out this Wine and Food Pairing Guide from Wine Folly.
Creative Ways to Serve Chicken Salad
When you’re deciding what goes well with chicken salad, think outside the box with these creative serving ideas:
1. Stuffed Tomatoes: A Vibrant and Fresh Take on Chicken Salad
If you’re exploring what goes well with chicken salad in terms of creative presentation, try stuffing chicken salad into hollowed-out tomatoes for a colorful and healthy option.
Recipe Tip: Choose heirloom tomatoes for a pop of color and added sweetness.
2. Lettuce Wraps
For a gluten-free, low-carb alternative, serve chicken salad in lettuce wraps. Large lettuce leaves like romaine or butter lettuce are ideal because they’re sturdy and provide a refreshing crunch.
3. Avocado Halves
Another low-carb, keto-friendly option is to serve chicken salad inside avocado halves. The creamy avocado pairs well with the chicken salad and adds healthy fats to the meal.
Nutrition Tip: Avocados are packed with heart-healthy fats. Read more about their health benefits on Healthline.
Dressing Variations for Chicken Salad
The dressing you use in your chicken salad can significantly change the flavor profile. Here are a few dressing variations to try:
1. Greek Yogurt Dressing
For a lighter, healthier option, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt adds a tangy flavor and creamy texture while reducing fat and calories. Plus, it’s rich in protein and probiotics.
Health Benefits: Learn about the benefits of Greek yogurt in this detailed article by Healthline.
2. Pesto Dressing
For an herby, savory twist, mix in some pesto with your chicken salad. Pesto adds a burst of flavor from basil, garlic, and Parmesan, transforming the salad into something more vibrant and unique.
Recipe Tip: Make your own pesto at home or use a high-quality store-bought version for convenience. Find a simple homemade pesto recipe on Serious Eats.
3. Mustard Vinaigrette
For those who prefer a lighter, tangier dressing, mustard vinaigrette is an excellent option. It brings a zesty, acidic note that complements the savory elements of the salad.
DIY Vinaigrette: For a simple vinaigrette recipe, combine Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of honey. Adjust the ingredients to taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Chicken Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! Chicken salad can be made a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and stir it before serving to redistribute the dressing.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise in Chicken Salad?
Greek yogurt, sour cream, or mashed avocado are excellent alternatives to mayonnaise. These ingredients offer a similar creamy texture with a lighter or different flavor profile.
What Other Sides Go Well with Chicken Salad?
Fresh fruit, green salads, potato chips, grilled vegetables, or roasted vegetables are great side dishes that complement chicken salad.
How Long Does Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?
Properly stored, chicken salad will last 3-5 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container and stir it before serving.
Conclusion
Chicken salad is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides and served in creative ways. Whether you’re looking for light, refreshing sides like fruit salad or something heartier like roasted vegetables, there are endless options to choose from.
For more meal inspiration and delicious recipes, visit Davis Recipes to explore more creative pairings and cooking ideas!