Unleash the Ultimate Flavor Combo: Discover the Perfect Sides for Honey BBQ Chicken!

AvatarByErick Benitez BBQ Info And Recipe

Barbecue season is in full swing, and there’s no denying that the heavenly aroma of honey BBQ chicken on the grill is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. But as much as we all love indulging in this crowd-pleasing dish, the real question is: what sides should we pair with it? After all, complementing this sweet and tangy chicken with the perfect sides can take your BBQ feast from good to unforgettable. Join us as we explore some delicious and unexpected options to add to your next honey BBQ chicken meal – because let’s be honest, there’s no such thing as too many sides when it comes to a backyard barbecue. So, let’s fire up the grill and delve into the world of mouthwatering honey BBQ chicken and its perfect pairings.

When it comes to BBQ chicken, there are endless options for side dishes to complement the sweet and smoky flavors. However, pairing the perfect side dish with honey BBQ chicken can take your meal to a whole new level. In this article, we will discuss some delicious and unique side dishes that pair well with honey BBQ chicken. Whether you are hosting a backyard BBQ or simply looking for a tasty weeknight dinner idea, these sides will not disappoint.

Baked Beans

One of the classics when it comes to BBQ side dishes is baked beans. This sweet and savory side dish pairs perfectly with honey BBQ chicken. The sweetness from the baked beans compliments the smoky flavor of the chicken, creating a well-balanced flavor profile. You can either make your own homemade baked beans or opt for a store-bought version, whichever you prefer.

To take your baked beans to the next level, add some diced bacon or sausage before baking. This will add an extra layer of flavor and texture that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is another must-have side dish for any BBQ meal. The sweetness of corn pairs perfectly with honey BBQ chicken. To keep things simple, you can brush the corn with some melted butter and sprinkle it with salt and pepper before grilling it alongside your chicken.

But if you really want to impress your guests, try adding some chili lime seasoning or brushing on a mixture of melted butter and honey before grilling. This will give your corn on the cob a deliciously sweet and tangy kick that pairs perfectly with honey BBQ chicken.

Macaroni Salad

For a cold side dish option, macaroni salad is always a hit at any BBQ gathering. The creamy pasta salad goes well with honey BBQ chicken by providing a refreshing contrast to the rich and smoky flavors of the chicken. Plus, the crunchy vegetables in the salad add a nice texture to balance out the softness of the chicken.

While there are countless variations of macaroni salad, one that pairs particularly well with honey BBQ chicken is a classic version with diced celery, onions, and bell peppers. You can also add some diced cheese or hard-boiled eggs for added protein and flavor.

Grilled Pineapple

For a tropical twist on your BBQ meal, grilled pineapple is a flavorful and unique side dish to pair with honey BBQ chicken. The sweetness from the pineapple complements the smokiness of the chicken while adding a touch of tanginess.

To make grilled pineapple, simply slice fresh pineapple into rings and grill them until they are slightly caramelized. You can also brush them with a mixture of honey and lime juice before grilling for an extra layer of sweetness and tanginess.

Coleslaw

Another cold side dish that pairs well with honey BBQ chicken is coleslaw. The creamy, crunchy texture of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors of the chicken. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for large gatherings.

For a classic coleslaw recipe, mix shredded cabbage, carrots, and red onion with some mayo, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. For added sweetness, you can also add some diced apples or raisins to your coleslaw.

Sweet Potato Fries

Switch up your traditional french fries with some sweet potato fries as a side dish for your honey BBQ chicken. Sweet potatoes have natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of BBQ chicken. Plus, they are packed with nutrients making them a healthier alternative to regular french fries.

To make sweet potato fries at home, simply cut sweet potatoes into thin strips and coat them with some oil, salt, and any desired seasonings. Bake them in the oven until they are crispy, and you have a delicious and nutritious side dish to go with your honey BBQ chicken.

Cornbread

Cornbread is another staple side dish that pairs well with honey BBQ chicken. The slightly sweet cornbread goes well with the smoky flavors of BBQ chicken while also providing a texture contrast to balance out the meal.

You can make your own cornbread from scratch or use a store-bought mix. For added sweetness and depth of flavor, try adding some crumbled bacon or shredded cheese to your cornbread batter before baking.

Honey BBQ chicken is a delicious and crowd-pleasing dish on its own, but when paired with the right side dishes, it becomes even better. From classics like baked beans to unique options like grilled pineapple, there are endless ways to complement the sweet and smoky flavors of honey BBQ chicken. Try out these suggested sides at your next BBQ gathering, and we guarantee your guests will be impressed.

When it comes to cooking, pairing the right side dishes with your main dish can make all the difference. This is especially true for dishes like honey BBQ chicken – a delicious and flavorful meal that deserves to be accompanied by equally delicious sides. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose which sides would go best with honey BBQ chicken. In this guide, we will explore some of the top sides that complement this dish perfectly and enhance its flavors. So let’s dive in and find out what sides go well with honey BBQ chicken!

Roasted Vegetables

One of the best ways to balance out the sweetness of honey BBQ chicken is to pair it with some roasted vegetables. The slight char from roasting brings out their natural flavors and makes them a great accompaniment to this dish. You can choose from seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, or even root vegetables like potatoes or sweet potatoes. Toss them in some olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast them in the oven while your chicken cooks in its sticky sauce. The result is a colorful and nutrient-packed side dish that complements the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Another classic side that goes perfectly with honey BBQ chicken is grilled corn on the cob. This summer staple is not only easy to make but also adds a lovely smoky flavor to your meal. Simply coat your corn with some butter, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika before grilling it alongside your chicken. The buttery sweetness of the corn pairs well with the tangy flavors of BBQ sauce, making it a popular choice for backyard barbecues.

Coleslaw

Coleslaw is an essential side dish for any BBQ meal, and it’s no different when it comes to honey BBQ chicken. The crunchiness of cabbage, the creaminess of mayonnaise, and the tanginess of vinegar come together to create a refreshing side that complements the sweetness of BBQ sauce. You can opt for a classic coleslaw or experiment with different variations such as apple coleslaw or Asian-style coleslaw for some added flavors.

Baked Beans

Baked beans are another favorite side dish for BBQ meals, and they are a perfect match for honey BBQ chicken. These beans are slow-cooked with bacon, onions, and a rich tomato sauce which adds depth to their flavor. The smokiness from the bacon perfectly complements the sweetness of BBQ sauce, creating a delectable combination. You can use canned beans for convenience or make them from scratch for an extra homemade touch.

Mac and Cheese

Who doesn’t love mac and cheese? This gooey and comforting side dish is often overlooked when it comes to pairing it with BBQ dishes. But when it comes to honey BBQ chicken, it’s an unexpected but delightful combination. The cheesy goodness adds richness to the meal and balances out the sweetness from the honey BBQ sauce. You can use any mac and cheese recipe you prefer, but don’t be afraid to add a twist with some jalapenos or bacon for a spicy kick.

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are another great option when it comes to sides that go well with honey BBQ chicken. Mashed sweet potatoes provide a creamy texture that contrasts well with the smoky flavors of BBQ sauce. They also add some sweetness which enhances the flavor profile of this dish. For an added twist, try mixing in some cinnamon or nutmeg into your mashed sweet potatoes.

In conclusion, choosing the right sides can elevate your honey BBQ chicken dish to new levels of deliciousness. Whether you prefer something crunchy, creamy, or smoky, there is a side dish out there that will complement and enhance the flavors of this sweet and tangy chicken. So next time you cook up some honey BBQ chicken, be sure to pair it with one (or more) of these tasty sides. Your taste buds will thank you!

Q: What sides would pair well with honey BBQ chicken?
A: Some popular options include mac and cheese, corn on the cob, coleslaw, and sweet potato fries.

Q: Can I serve honey BBQ chicken with a salad?
A: Yes, a light salad with a vinaigrette dressing would complement the sweetness of the honey BBQ chicken nicely.

Q: Are there any vegetarian side dishes that go well with honey BBQ chicken?
A: Grilled vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms) or a quinoa salad would be great options for vegetarians.

Q: What sides should I avoid serving with honey BBQ chicken to avoid flavor clash?
A: It’s best to avoid side dishes with overpowering flavors such as curry or spicy dishes. Stick to milder options that won’t compete with the sweetness of the sauce.

Q: Can I serve honey BBQ chicken with white rice?
A: Absolutely! The sweetness of the BBQ sauce pairs well with white rice. You can also add some diced bell peppers or carrots to give it an extra crunch.

Q: Are there any traditional sides that are typically served with honey BBQ chicken?
A: Some classic choices include baked beans, potato salad, and cornbread. However, don’t be afraid to get creative and choose sides that you personally enjoy!

In summary, honey BBQ chicken is a popular and delicious dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. When choosing sides to go with honey BBQ chicken, it is important to consider balancing flavors, textures, and nutrition. Some great side dishes include grilled or roasted vegetables, rice or quinoa, and fresh salads. The sweetness and tanginess of the honey BBQ sauce can also pair well with the smokiness of baked beans or the creaminess of mac and cheese. Additionally, incorporating fruits like pineapple or mango can add a refreshing contrast to the dish. However, it is also important to remember to include healthier options such as whole grains and leafy greens in a meal centered around honey BBQ chicken.

Some key takeaways regarding what sides go with honey BBQ chicken are:

1. Balance flavors and textures when choosing sides for honey BBQ chicken.
2. Experiment with incorporating sweet or tangy flavors to complement the dish.
3. Include healthier options like vegetables and whole grains in a meal centered around honey BBQ chicken.
4. Don’t be afraid to try out unexpected pairings – they may surprise you!
5. Remember to keep an eye on portion sizes and nutritional value when creating a balanced meal.

By following these tips, one can elevate their honey BBQ chicken experience by creating

Author Profile

Erick Benitez
Erick Benitez
In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.