What to Serve with Bourbon Chicken? 13 Best Side Dishes

So, who doesn't love bourbon chicken? It's that sticky, sweet, savory dish that goes well with just about anything (a dish of bite-sized chicken glazed in a sweet soy- and bourbon-based sauce).

We remember those evenings when it was the star of the table. Picture this: sizzling chicken drizzled with a rich sauce that coats every bite like a warm hug.

Now, what do we serve with it? We've got some killer side dishes up our sleeves that'll complement bourbon chicken like a champ.

From classic rice to zesty green veggies, there's no shortage of options. So, let's talk about what to whip up and keep the dinner vibes soaring high!

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Top 13 Side Dishes for Bourbon Chicken

Here are 13 side dishes that will make your bourbon chicken even more tempting:

1 - Coconut Rice

Coconut rice is our go-to for adding a tropical twist to any meal. The creamy coconuts (made with coconut milk) infuse each grain with a subtle sweetness.

It works beautifully with spicy dishes. The flavor balances heat, making it a refreshing counterpart.

Compared to plain rice, it offers a richer, more interesting profile, similar to wild rice side ideas for hearty meals.

2 - Steamed Broccoli

Next, let's talk about steamed broccoli. This green powerhouse (a cruciferous vegetable in the Brassica family) is a must-have on our dinner plates.

It brings a subtle earthy flavor that pairs well with almost anything.

When we compare it with other veggies, broccoli stands out, much like broccoli casserole side options for cheesy dinners.

The slight bitterness of broccoli balances rich dishes perfectly. Plus, it adds a fresh touch that brightens the entire meal.

Don't forget it's loaded with nutrients too!

3 - Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are our go-to when we want something a little more exciting than regular fries. They're sweet, crispy, and oh-so-satisfying (with caramelized, earthy-sweet notes).

Compared to classic potato fries, they have a natural sweetness that gives them a different vibe. The caramelization on the outside adds a depth that regular fries simply can't achieve.

Plus, they pair well with dips like aioli or spicy ketchup and other sweet potato soup-friendly sides for comforting meals.

4 - Asian Slaw

Asian slaw is a colorful crunch fest. We find the bright mix of cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers refreshing.

The salad gets a zesty kick from a tangy sesame or peanut dressing (often made with rice vinegar and lime) that sets it apart from regular coleslaw.

It's light yet packs flavor. The sweetness of the veggies contrasts perfectly with the dressing's tang.

It's a great side for protein-heavy dishes, adding balance with every bite, and pairs particularly well with Asian salmon side ideas for flaky fish.

5 - Garlic Sesame Green Beans

Green beans get a serious upgrade with garlic and sesame. We love how the crispiness of green beans shines with caramelized garlic.

The nuttiness from sesame oil (toasted sesame oil) adds an extra layer we crave. The combination gives these beans a satisfying crunch and a savory finish that outshines steamed zip.

They complement bourbon chicken perfectly, improving its sweet richness and matching well with garlic butter shrimp side ideas.

6 - Stir-Fried Bok Choy

Stir-fried bok choy is a crisp green addition to our plates. The vegetable brings a mild, slightly sweet flavor (bok choy, a member of the Brassica genus) that lightens up heavier dishes.

Its crunchy texture stands out, making every bite refreshing.

We love how it cooks quickly, keeping its bright colour. In a side-by-side with steamed broccoli, bok choy feels lighter while still adding a satisfying crunch.

The subtle sweetness of bok choy can balance rich sauces nicely too.

7 - Mango Salsa

Mango salsa is our go-to for adding a splash of sunshine to any plate. This bright side offers a mix of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy notes.

Mango brings a juicy sweetness (often from Ataulfo or Tommy Atkins varieties) that plays well against the zesty lime. The fresh cilantro and onion add a refreshing crunch.

We've found it goes well with grilled meats, complementing their savory richness.

Compared to regular salsa, mango salsa is lighter and more fruity. It's perfect for summer dishes or whenever we need a pop of colour.

8 - Crispy Egg Rolls

Crispy egg rolls are those crunchy delights that add fun to any meal. They're filled with savory goodness-think seasoned meat (commonly pork or chicken) and fresh vegetables.

When compared to traditional spring rolls, egg rolls have a thicker, crunchier shell. This gives them a heartier bite that we can't resist.

The crispy exterior perfectly contrasts with the warm, flavorful filling, making every bite exciting.

These rolls also pair nicely with dipping sauces, improving their flavor with every dip.

9 - Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey glazed carrots bring a sweet twist to your plate. The natural sweetness of carrots goes well with honey, creating a sticky, delicious coating (use about a 1:1 honey-to-butter ratio).

We find they contrast nicely with savory dishes, providing a bright, bright look.

Compared to plain steamed carrots, this

10 - Pineapple Fried Rice

Pineapple fried rice is a sweet and savory bowl of goodness. It combines juicy pineapple with fragrant rice (often jasmine rice) and crunchy veggies.

The balance of sweet and salty makes every bite interesting.

When we compare it to regular fried rice, the pineapple adds a refreshing twist. It's not just a side dish; it's a party in your mouth.

This dish brings sunshine to our plates and complements rich flavors beautifully.

11 - Thai Cucumber Salad

Thai cucumber salad is a refreshing crunch bomb. We love the crisp cucumbers (thinly sliced Persian or English varieties), which soak up the tangy dressing perfectly.

The sweetness from the sugar balances well with the acidity of the vinegar.

Compared to regular salads, this one gives a zesty kick that brightens the palate. The added peanuts bring a nice crunch, while the herbs improve the flavor.

It's a light side that goes great with heavier dishes, keeping things interesting on our plates.

12 - Ginger Garlic Noodles

Ginger garlic noodles are a simple yet flavorful side that we can't get enough of. They boast a strong blend of ginger and garlic (using fresh grated ginger) that adds warmth and depth without being overpowering.

When we compare these noodles to plain pasta, the ginger gives them a zesty kick that refreshes every bite. The garlic brings an aromatic touch, making it a perfect pairing with lighter dishes.

They're quick to whip up, making them a go-to whenever we want something tasty!

13 - Teriyaki Mushrooms

Teriyaki mushrooms are where umami meets sweet, sticky goodness. These little gems bring a rich, savory depth to any meal (packed with umami from soy and mirin).

They stand out compared to plain sautéed mushrooms, thanks to the glossy teriyaki glaze that adds a nice sweetness.

This dish transforms mushrooms from ordinary to extra, making them a hit with grilled meats and veggies. The smoky flavors play nicely with the sweet notes, creating a perfect balance.