What to Eat BBQ Chicken With: Perfect Pairings for Every Meal

BBQ chicken is a backyard favorite.

It’s smoky, juicy, and full of flavor.

But one question always comes up: what to eat BBQ chicken with?

The answer depends on your taste and the occasion.

Some sides add freshness, others bring comfort, and a few give your plate a little extra kick.

Let’s walk through some of the best pairings that make BBQ chicken shine.

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Classic Sides That Never Fail

When you think of BBQ chicken, the first partners that come to mind are comfort foods.

Mashed potatoes with a touch of butter or gravy give you creamy balance.

Coleslaw adds crunch and tang, cutting through the smoky chicken.

And of course, you can’t go wrong with cornbread.

Its slight sweetness is the perfect contrast to BBQ’s savory notes.

Another staple is baked beans.

Their deep, smoky flavor blends well with BBQ sauce and makes every bite feel hearty.

These sides are classics for a reason — they round out the meal without stealing the spotlight.

Fresh Pairings for a Lighter Touch

Sometimes, you want your BBQ chicken to feel less heavy.

Fresh sides are the way to go.

A simple green salad with vinaigrette works well.

Grilled vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, echo the charred flavors of the chicken.

Even a fruit salad with watermelon or pineapple can brighten up the plate.

Fresh corn on the cob, brushed with a little butter, is another great choice.

It’s light, sweet, and keeps that summer cookout vibe alive.

These sides balance BBQ chicken without overpowering it.

If you want to experiment with smoke and flavor, you might enjoy this guide on how to use a smoker for BBQ grill.

Comfort Foods for Bigger Appetites

If you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something filling, heavier sides are the answer.

Mac and cheese is a favorite — its creamy, cheesy richness is the perfect partner to smoky chicken.

Potato salad is another big hit, especially at picnics.

It’s cool, hearty, and easy to make ahead.

Biscuits or dinner rolls also work well.

They help soak up extra BBQ sauce, making sure no flavor goes to waste.

If you like a little crunch, onion rings or fries bring texture and fun to the table.

Unique Pairings to Try

Want something different?

Try pairing BBQ chicken with Mexican street corn.

The smoky spice of chili powder and cotija cheese makes the chicken pop.

Another option is grilled pineapple.

Its caramelized sweetness pairs beautifully with BBQ’s smoky bite.

You can also try couscous or quinoa salad for a more modern side.

They’re light, nutty, and soak up flavors from dressings or marinades.

For a bold twist, kimchi adds spice and tang that surprise your taste buds in the best way.

Pro Tip: Clean Your Grill for Better Flavor

No matter what you serve with BBQ chicken, keeping your grill clean makes a big difference.

A dirty grate can leave old flavors and even affect how evenly your chicken cooks.

Using a safe tool like the Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper helps you prep your cooking surface without worrying about metal bristles.

A clean grill means better flavor and safer meals.

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Drinks and Extras

Food is just part of the pairing game — drinks matter too. 

Lemonade or iced tea gives a refreshing balance

 For adults, a cold beer or glass of chilled white wine pairs nicely with smoky chicken.

If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lime keeps things crisp and light.

Don’t forget sauces and dips.

Ranch, honey mustard, or even a spicy hot sauce let guests mix flavors their way.

Final Thoughts

So, what to eat BBQ chicken with?

The beauty is that you have options.

Classic sides like mashed potatoes and coleslaw, fresh choices like salad and fruit, or unique twists like grilled pineapple all work. 

It just depends on the mood of your meal.

And while planning sides is fun, don’t overlook your grill prep.

A clean grill gives you the best BBQ chicken every time.

Click the image below to check out our full range of Easy Function BBQ tools designed to make grilling easier and tastier.