What To Serve With A Chicken Salad

Chicken salad is one of those classic dishes that never goes out of style.

Whether you’re serving it for lunch or dinner, there are so many sides that pair perfectly with this simple meal.

From roasted potatoes to grilled vegetables, we’ve put together 15 delicious side dishes to go along with your favorite chicken salad recipe.

You’ll find something for everyone here, and each dish is sure to make your meal complete.

So grab a plate and dig in!

Why These Side Dishes Goes Well With Chicken Salad– By Chef Natalie

To save you time, and to make your decision easy, I have built a nice chart on why these side dishes go well with Chicken Salad!

Side Dish	Why it Goes Well with Chicken Salad
Roasted Potatoes	Roasted potatoes offer a comforting and hearty side that complements the freshness of the Chicken Salad. The crispy exterior and tender interior of the potatoes add texture and a savory element to the meal.
Grilled Vegetables	Grilled vegetables provide a smoky and flavorful side that pairs well with the Chicken Salad. The charred and caramelized vegetables add a depth of flavor and create a delightful contrast to the light and refreshing salad.
Mashed Potatoes	Mashed potatoes offer a creamy and comforting side that complements the Chicken Salad. The velvety texture and buttery flavor of the mashed potatoes create a satisfying combination with the refreshing salad.
Baked Sweet Potatoes	Baked sweet potatoes provide a sweet and nutritious side that pairs well with the Chicken Salad. The soft and caramelized flesh of the sweet potatoes adds a touch of natural sweetness and a velvety texture to the meal.
Wild Rice Pilaf	Wild rice pilaf offers a nutty and flavorful side that complements the Chicken Salad. The chewy texture and earthy taste of the wild rice add depth and complexity to the meal, enhancing its overall profile.
Quinoa Salad	Quinoa salad provides a light and protein-rich side that pairs well with the Chicken Salad. The fluffy quinoa, fresh vegetables, and tangy dressing create a refreshing and nutritious combination that complements the salad.
Roasted Cauliflower	Roasted cauliflower offers a slightly nutty and caramelized side that complements the Chicken Salad. The crispy and tender cauliflower florets add texture and a savory flavor that enhances the overall dining experience.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts	Roasted Brussels sprouts provide a crispy and flavorful side that pairs well with the Chicken Salad. The slightly bitter and caramelized sprouts create a nice contrast to the salad and add a depth of flavor to the meal.
Baked Butternut Squash	Baked butternut squash offers a sweet and velvety side that complements the Chicken Salad. The tender and caramelized squash adds a touch of natural sweetness and a creamy texture to the meal, balancing the flavors of the salad.
Sauteed Spinach	Sauteed spinach provides a nutritious and versatile side that pairs well with the Chicken Salad. The tender and wilted spinach adds a vibrant color and a subtle earthy taste that complements the freshness of the salad.
Corn on the Cob	Corn on the cob offers a sweet and juicy side that pairs well with the Chicken Salad. The plump and charred kernels of corn add a burst of freshness and a hint of summer flavors to the meal, creating a delightful combination.
Roasted Garlic Broccoli	Roasted garlic broccoli provides a flavorful and nutrient-rich side that complements the Chicken Salad. The roasted broccoli florets with garlic create a savory taste and a pleasing texture that enhances the overall dining experience.
Baked Zucchini Chips	Baked zucchini chips offer a light and crispy side that pairs well with the Chicken Salad. The thinly sliced and seasoned zucchini slices provide a satisfying crunch and a fresh taste that complements the salad.
Grilled Asparagus	Grilled asparagus provides a tender and smoky side that pairs well with the Chicken Salad. The charred and slightly crisp asparagus spears add a depth of flavor and a visually appealing element to the meal, enhancing its overall appeal.
Roasted Eggplant	Roasted eggplant offers a meaty and flavorful side that complements the Chicken Salad. The tender and caramelized eggplant slices add richness and a satisfying texture to the meal, creating a delightful combination with the salad.

1. Roasted Potatoes

Roasted potatoes make an excellent side dish to accompany a delicious chicken salad.

The key to achieving the perfect roasted potato is to start with the right type of potato.

Yukon golds, russets, and red potatoes all work well, each providing their own unique flavor profile that pairs perfectly with a light and flavorful chicken salad.

When it comes down to preparation techniques, there are many routes you could take.

A classic approach calls for combining diced potatoes with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and parmesan cheese.

This combination offers a savory and slightly crunchy bite that will leave your taste buds in food heaven.

For something a bit more unique, try adding smoky paprika or herbes de Provence for an earthy flavor profile.

Experimenting with different spices can be fun and allows you to personalize your roasted potato dish – the possibilities are endless!

No matter which route you decide to take, the result will be tasty potatoes that bring balance and texture to your meal.

2. Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables are the perfect accompaniment to chicken salad.

The smoky flavor of the grilled vegetables perfectly complements the creamy texture of the chicken.

Juicy bell peppers, sweet onions, and earthy mushrooms are all delicious when cooked on a hot grill.

When prepping your vegetables for grilling, be sure to choose firm and fresh produce.

Cut your vegetables into large chunks that will hold up nicely on the grill without burning or breaking apart.

An easy marinade of olive oil, garlic, oregano, and a sprinkle of salt adds an extra layer of flavor that really makes grilled veggies pop.

Once you’ve assembled all your ingredients, fire up the grill and get cooking!

Serve your grilled vegetables with a generous helping of chicken salad alongside some crusty bread.

Enjoy!

3. Mashed Potatoes

Grilled vegetables are a delicious and healthy addition to any meal, but they don’t have to be the only side dish.

Mashed potatoes are another classic favorite that pairs perfectly with chicken salad.

Creamy and rich, mashed potatoes provide a comforting accompaniment to the crunchy texture of the chicken salad.

Mashed potatoes can be prepared in a variety of ways, making them incredibly versatile.

Here are just a few ideas for preparing this classic dish:

• Use butter and cream for an indulgent version that’s perfect for special occasions
• Add herbs and spices such as chives or garlic powder to give the potatoes some extra flavor
• Substitute yogurt or sour cream for some of the traditional ingredients for a lighter alternative

No matter how you decide to prepare your mashed potatoes, one thing is certain – they’ll make a great pairing with your chicken salad.

The creamy smoothness of the potatoes will complement the crunchy texture of the chicken salad in an irresistible way.

So go ahead and get creative – your guests will thank you!

4. Baked Sweet Potatoes

Baked sweet potatoes are a great accompaniment to chicken salad.

Whether juicy and tender or crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they offer a wealth of flavor and texture that will perfectly complement any salad.

Plus, they’re super easy to prepare! Here’s a quick guide to making your own perfect baked sweet potatoes:

Ingredients	Instructions	Time
1 large sweet potato per person	Preheat oven to 425°F. Scrub each potato well with a vegetable brush under cold running water. Pat dry with paper towels. Pierce each potato several times with a fork, then wrap in aluminum foil. Place directly on oven rack and bake for 45 minutes.	45 minutes
Olive oil (optional)	Remove from oven, unwrap foil, cut into halves or quarters and drizzle with olive oil if desired. Serve alongside your favorite chicken salad recipe!	5 minutes

With just three ingredients and simple instructions, you can enjoy deliciously flavorful sweet potatoes in no time at all! Sweet potatoes boast plenty of health benefits: They’re packed with vitamins A, C, E, and B6; minerals such as iron and calcium; plus dietary fiber that helps promote good digestion.

Not only are they incredibly tasty, but they can also help keep you feeling full longer due to their high content of complex carbohydrates.

So go ahead and give this easy side dish a try – you won’t regret it!

5. Wild Rice Pilaf

Wild Rice Pilaf is a classic accompaniment to chicken salad.

This dish packs in plenty of flavor and texture, making it the perfect partner for a light salad.

The nutty flavor of wild rice is enhanced with the addition of onion, celery, and mushrooms.

A hit of garlic adds depth and aroma to the pilaf.

To make this tasty side dish, begin by sautéing the vegetables until they’re tender and fragrant.

Then add in the wild rice blend and toast until lightly golden.

Pour over enough stock or water to cover, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Simmer covered for 30 minutes or until just cooked through.

This Wild Rice Pilaf adds extra oomph to any chicken salad meal! The chewy grains are complemented by earthy vegetables, making each bite more interesting than the last.

Serve alongside your favorite chicken salad for an easy but delicious dinner – no one will be disappointed!

6. Quinoa Salad

A vibrant quinoa salad is the perfect complement to a classic chicken salad.

Loaded with crunchy vegetables, creamy avocado, and a tangy lemon dressing, this salad adds an exciting kick of flavor to your plate.

Start by cooking the quinoa according to package instructions and allowing it to cool.

Next, chop up cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and bell peppers and mix them into the quinoa in a large bowl.

Top with diced avocado and a generous drizzle of lemon juice and olive oil dressing.

For an extra boost of flavor, add some freshly chopped parsley or cilantro.

This bright salad is sure to be a hit among family and friends alike; its light yet flavorful taste will leave everyone asking for seconds!

7. Roasted Cauliflower

After the delicious quinoa salad, it’s time to move on to a unique and flavorful side dish: roasted cauliflower.

This cruciferous veggie is surprisingly versatile, taking on the flavors of whatever seasonings you choose.

Plus, the roasting process brings out a subtle sweetness that complements other ingredients in your meal.

If you’re looking for a simple side dish to accompany your chicken salad, roasted cauliflower is an excellent option.

Here are five easy ways to make this classic veggie side dish:

• Start with a fresh head of cauliflower and cut it into florets. Then toss them in olive oil, salt and pepper and any other spices you like – garlic powder or smoked paprika would be great choices!

• Spread the florets out on a baking sheet and roast at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30 minutes until they’re golden brown and tender.

• For a more complex flavor profile, try adding some freshly grated Parmesan cheese or lemon zest before roasting.

• If you want to add some sweetness, drizzle honey over the florets before roasting.

• And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some capers or olives for an unexpected punch of briny flavor.

Roasted cauliflower is an easy yet sophisticated way to round out your meal – its savory flavor pairs perfectly with chicken salad for a balanced plate of goodness!

8. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are an excellent accompaniment to a chicken salad.

The nutty flavor of the sprouts stands out against the delicate flavor of the chicken, creating a satisfying contrast.

Roasting them brings out their sweetness and gives them a delightful crunch.

To make roasted Brussels sprouts, preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Trim off the ends of the sprouts, then halve them so they cook evenly.

Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss until fully coated.

Spread them on the prepared baking sheet in an even layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through cooking time.

When finished roasting, remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving alongside your chicken salad.

Enjoy!

9. Baked Butternut Squash

Brussels sprouts are a delicious and nutritious side dish, but if you’re looking for something with a bit more flavor to pair with your chicken salad, why not try some baked butternut squash?

This sweet and savory vegetable is an excellent accompaniment to any meal.

Baked butternut squash is easy to make and requires minimal effort.

All you need is a few simple ingredients: butternut squash, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

Cut the squash into cubes, toss them in the olive oil and seasonings, spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20 minutes until they are golden brown and tender.

The flavors of this simple side dish will bring out the best in your chicken salad.

The sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with the herbs and spices in the dressing while adding texture to each bite.

Plus, it’s full of vitamins A and C which are essential for good health! Here are just a few of the benefits of adding baked butternut squash to your plate:

• Rich source of dietary fiber
• High in potassium
• Contains vitamin B6 which helps reduce fatigue
• Packed with antioxidants

Plus, it’s great for vegan or vegetarian diets too! Preparing this side dish is sure to add some delightful flavor to your chicken salad that everyone can enjoy.

10. Sauteed Spinach

The sautéed spinach offers a delightful accompaniment to the chicken salad.

The dark green leaves are cooked ever-so-lightly in olive oil until they’re just wilted, and seasoned with garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt for added flavor.

This combination gives the dish a hint of heat that complements the creamy texture of the salad perfectly.

To top it off, drizzle a bit of fresh lemon juice over the spinach to add brightness to each bite.

It’s an easy way to take an already delicious meal up a notch and impress your guests with something special.

11. Corn On The Cob

Munching on a corn cob is one of the summer’s real joys.

It’s an easy side dish that adds a delightful burst of sunshine to any meal, and pairs perfectly with a chicken salad.

Here are some delicious ways to make sure your corn cobs really stand out:

• Try adding a sprinkling of herbs to the boiling water before you add the cobs – chives, oregano and basil all work nicely.

• To add some sweetness, sprinkle a teaspoon or two of sugar into the boiling water before you add the corn cobs.

• For added crunch, why not coat the cooked cobs in melted butter or olive oil and roll them in breadcrumbs?

• For something truly special, try wrapping each cob in bacon before grilling until it’s crisp!

Corn on the cob is an incredibly versatile side dish that will bring any meal – especially a chicken salad – to life.

With just a few simple touches you can create flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave your guests wanting more.

12. Roasted Garlic Broccoli

The perfect pairing for a classic chicken salad is roasted garlic broccoli.

This savory side dish adds a hint of smoky flavor to the creamy and crunchy flavors of the salad, making it an ideal accompaniment.

Plus, it adds a nice boost of nutrition with its high levels of vitamin C and dietary fiber.

Let’s take a look at the ingredients and instructions needed to make this delicious side dish:

Ingredients	Amount
Broccoli florets	2 cups
Extra-virgin olive oil	1/4 cup
Garlic cloves, minced	5 cloves

Instructions:
1) Preheat oven to 375°F.
2) Line the baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread broccoli florets on the baking sheet in an even layer. Drizzle olive oil over florets, then sprinkle with minced garlic.
3) Roast for 15 minutes or until desired tenderness is reached. Enjoy!

With just five minutes of prep time and fifteen minutes in the oven, you can have this delicious side dish ready to accompany your chicken salad or any other entrée. Serve hot or cold–no matter which way you enjoy it, one thing’s for sure – you can’t go wrong with roasted garlic broccoli!

13. Baked Zucchini Chips

Baked Zucchini Chips are a great accompaniment to a chicken salad.

These crispy and flavorful chips can elevate the meal in both taste and presentation.

If you’re looking for a delicious way to make your chicken salad stand out, try baking up some zucchini chips! This easy and healthy side dish is sure to be a hit with friends and family alike:

• The crispy texture adds crunch to any meal
• A light and flavorful taste that pairs perfectly with a light chicken salad
• A healthier option than many other fried chips
• A colorful side dish that can add visual appeal to your plate
• Minimal effort is needed, so you can focus on other parts of the meal

Take your chicken salad up a notch with these tasty Baked Zucchini Chips.

They’re sure to add depth of flavor and texture, while also adding some extra oomph to the presentation.

Whether you’re serving this dish for dinner or just as an afternoon snack, it’s sure to be a big hit!

14. Grilled Asparagus

Grilled Asparagus is a perfect accompaniment to chicken salad.

It provides an earthy, smoky flavor that pairs nicely with the crispness of the greens and the richness of the chicken.

This simple side can be prepared in minutes, yet looks elegant enough to serve at a dinner party.

To prepare Grilled Asparagus, begin by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

Then, cut off the woody ends of each asparagus spear and toss them with a light coating of olive oil and salt.

Grill the asparagus spears for 3-5 minutes until they are slightly charred and tender but still have some crunch.

Serve them warm alongside your chicken salad for an easy yet delicious meal.

This combination of flavors will be sure to please even picky eaters!

The smoky grilled asparagus pairs perfectly with the creamy chicken dressing in the salad, creating a delightful meal that’s both healthy and flavorful.

So next time you make a chicken salad, why not give Grilled Asparagus a try? You won’t be disappointed!

15. Roasted Eggplant

Grilled asparagus and roasted eggplant are an unexpected but delicious pairing with a fresh chicken salad.

The crunchy texture of roasted eggplant complements the tenderness of grilled asparagus while adding an earthy, smokey flavor to the plate.

Preparing these vegetables is easy, too.

To roast eggplant, first slice it into disks no more than 1/4′ thick and brush each side with olive oil.

Place them on a baking sheet and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika for extra flavor.

Bake for 15-20 minutes at 375°F or until the edges turn golden brown.

To grill asparagus, coat it in olive oil and season with salt and pepper before placing it over a medium-high heat grill.

Grill each side for 3-5 minutes or until you see beautiful char marks form on the spears.

These two vegetables make any meal special—and when served alongside a hearty chicken salad they elevate the dish to something extraordinary.

Try experimenting with different spices and herbs to create unique flavor combinations for your next dinner party!

Conclusion

I love serving a chicken salad with tasty side dishes.

Roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, and baked sweet potatoes are all great accompaniments to a classic chicken salad.

For some variety, try wild rice pilaf or roasted garlic broccoli.

To add some crunch to the meal, bake zucchini chips or grill some asparagus.

Finally, top it all off with a delicious roasted eggplant dish.

With so many amazing sides to choose from, you can’t go wrong!

It’s easy to create a full meal that will please everyone at the table.