What Goes With BBQ Pulled Chicken

BBQ pulled chicken is a backyard favorite.

Tender, smoky, and full of flavor, it’s the kind of dish that can stand alone — but the right sides take it to the next level.

Whether you’re hosting a cookout, a weeknight dinner, or a game day spread, the question always comes up: what goes with BBQ pulled chicken?

Let’s walk through the best pairings, from classic sides to lighter options, so you can build the perfect plate.

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Classic Comfort Sides

When people think BBQ, they think comfort food.

These sides never disappoint and balance the smoky, sweet taste of pulled chicken.

Mashed potatoes are a go-to, especially with a little butter and garlic mixed in.

The creamy texture makes a perfect match with juicy shredded chicken.

Coleslaw is another must-have.

The crunch and tangy dressing cut through the richness of the BBQ sauce, making every bite more balanced.

Cornbread also belongs at the table.

Sweet or savory, it adds that southern BBQ touch.

If you want something hearty, baked beans simmered with brown sugar and bacon are the perfect sweet-savory side.

If you ever end up with extra chicken after a big cookout, you’ll want to know the best way to store it.

Here’s a helpful guide on can you freeze BBQ pulled chicken so nothing goes to waste.

Fresh and Lighter Options

Not every BBQ meal needs to be heavy.

Lighter sides can brighten the plate while still pairing well with pulled chicken.

A fresh green salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch.

Grilled vegetables like zucchini, peppers, and asparagus bring smoky flavor without weighing you down.

Roasted sweet potatoes are another option — their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with BBQ sauce.

Fruit salads also work well.

Watermelon, pineapple, or peaches bring a refreshing balance to the savory chicken.

Carbs That Complete the Meal

BBQ pulled chicken is great with bread and grains.

If you’re making sandwiches, soft brioche buns or Kaiser rolls hold up well.

For a Tex-Mex twist, try pulled chicken tacos or burritos.

Rice pilaf or buttered noodles can serve as a simple base if you want the chicken to stay in the spotlight.

Macaroni and cheese is another classic — rich, creamy, and comforting, it makes a plate of BBQ pulled chicken even more indulgent.

BBQ Cookout Essentials

Pulled chicken is often smoked or grilled, so having the right tools makes a difference.

Clean grates help prevent sticking and keep flavors pure.

A wood grill scraper like the Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper is 

a safe, bristle-free way to remove buildup and keep your grill 

ready for the next round of pulled chicken or sides.

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Drinks That Pair Well

Don’t forget the drinks.

Sweet tea, lemonade, and iced beer are all classic choices.

For something different, a light cider or even sparkling water with lime can help balance the smokiness of the meat.

Building the Perfect Plate

The best answer to “what goes with BBQ pulled chicken” depends on the setting.

For a cookout, you can’t go wrong with coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread.

For a lighter dinner, grilled veggies and a fresh salad keep things balanced.

And if you’re feeding a crowd, serving it on buns with mac and cheese on the side will have everyone coming back for seconds.

BBQ pulled chicken is versatile and works with almost anything — from rich comfort foods to crisp, refreshing sides.

Pair it with your favorites, and don’t forget to keep your grill in top shape for the next meal.

👉 Click the image below to check out our full range of Easy Function BBQ tools, built to make grilling easier and cleaner every time.