What Goes Good with BBQ Chicken Sandwiches?

A smoky, saucy BBQ chicken sandwich is already a crowd-pleaser, but the right sides and add-ons can turn it into a complete meal.

Whether you’re serving a backyard cookout, a game day spread, or a quick family dinner, knowing what goes good with BBQ chicken sandwiches makes all the difference.

Let’s break down the best pairings — simple, classic, and fresh — that balance out the rich flavors of barbecue.

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Classic Comfort Sides

Some dishes are timeless partners for BBQ sandwiches because they match the smoky sweetness with familiar flavors.

Coleslaw

Creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw adds crunch and tang that balances the tender chicken and sauce.

Pile it right on top of your sandwich for extra texture, or serve it on the side for a refreshing bite between mouthfuls.

Potato Salad

A cool, creamy potato salad helps mellow out the spice and tang of BBQ sauce.

Choose a mustard-style for extra zing or a mayo-based version for a smooth, rich side.

Mac and Cheese

Few things comfort like gooey mac and cheese.

The creamy, cheesy flavor pairs perfectly with barbecue, creating a balance of sweet, smoky, and savory.

If you want more inspiration on building the perfect sandwich itself, check out this guide on how to make barbecue chicken sandwiches.

Fresh and Lighter Options

Not every BBQ meal has to feel heavy.

Fresh sides bring brightness to your plate and make the sandwich flavors stand out.

Grilled Vegetables

Corn on the cob, zucchini, peppers, and asparagus are quick to grill and add a smoky flavor that matches your chicken sandwich.

To keep your grill clean after cooking veggies and chicken, a safe tool like the Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper is handy.

It helps remove stuck-on food without the risks of wire bristles.

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Garden Salad

A crisp salad with lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes lightens the meal.

A tangy vinaigrette works best to cut through the richness of BBQ chicken.

Fruit Salad

Watermelon, pineapple, and grapes offer natural sweetness that refreshes your taste buds.

Fruit also pairs surprisingly well with smoky barbecue flavors.

Savory Snacks and Sides

Sometimes you just need a salty crunch to go along with a sandwich.

French Fries

Classic fries, sweet potato fries, or even waffle fries are always a hit.

A little seasoned salt or smoked paprika ties them closer to the BBQ theme.

Onion Rings

Crispy onion rings bring a bold, savory crunch that pairs beautifully with BBQ sauce.

They can even be tucked inside the sandwich for extra indulgence.

Pickles

Tangy pickles cut through the richness of chicken and sauce.

Dill, bread-and-butter, or spicy pickles all work, depending on your flavor preference.

For more ideas beyond sandwiches, check out our guide on what goes good with baked BBQ chicken.

Drinks and Finishing Touches

The right drink makes your BBQ chicken sandwich meal feel complete.

• Sweet tea or lemonade offers a classic southern-style pairing.

• Craft beer with hoppy or light citrus notes balances smoky flavors.

• Iced water with lemon keeps things refreshing if you want to keep it light.

For extra flavor control, consider the doneness of your chicken before building sandwiches.

Using a quick guide like the Easy Function Meat Temperature Magnet ensures your chicken is juicy and cooked to the safe internal temperature every time.

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Final Thoughts

So, what goes good with BBQ chicken sandwiches?

From creamy mac and cheese to crisp salads, smoky grilled veggies, and crunchy onion rings, you’ve got plenty of tasty choices.

The key is balance — pair the sweet and smoky flavors of barbecue with something tangy, fresh, or savory.

And if you’re planning to grill your chicken fresh, don’t forget to keep your tools and cooking simple.

Click the image below to explore our full range of Easy Function BBQ products designed to make grilling safer, cleaner, and more enjoyable.