Let’s talk about chicken and dumplings. This comforting dish holds a special place in our hearts. Remember those cozy family dinners when grandma would whip up her secret recipe? The aroma filled the house and made us all a little antsy at the table.
Now, what do we serve with chicken and dumplings? This is where it gets fun! We can spice things up or keep it classic. From scrumptious sides that complement that silky broth to zippy salads that add crunch, the options are endless.
Let’s find the perfect pairings for our beloved chicken and dumplings. Get ready to turn an ordinary meal into something special!
Top 13 Side Dishes for Chicken and Dumplings
Here are some of our favorite side dishes to serve with chicken and dumplings:
1 – Buttered Cornbread
Buttered cornbread is a classic companion for chicken and dumplings. It’s soft, slightly sweet, and fluffy. The golden exterior gives way to a tender middle that soaks up broth like a champ.
The buttery finish adds richness, making every bite a treat. We’ve loved using it to scoop up those savory dumplings, turning a simple meal into a cozy feast. Pair it with honey for an even sweeter twist.
2 – Garlic Green Beans
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Garlic green beans are a must-have side. They bring a crunchy, fresh vibe to our dinners. The garlic gives a zesty kick that enhances the beans without overpowering them.
We love how easy they are to whip up. Toss them in some olive oil, add minced garlic, and sauté until they’re vibrant and bright. The result? A side dish that’s both simple and mouthwatering. Perfect alongside chicken and dumplings!
3 – Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Bacon-wrapped asparagus is everything we didn’t know we needed. Each bite combines the smoky crunch of bacon with the fresh snap of asparagus.
The saltiness of the bacon complements the green veggie beautifully, making it hard to resist.
We love how the smoky flavor enhances the mild taste of asparagus. These little bundles deliver satisfaction at every meal. They’re perfect for impressing guests or just treating ourselves!
4 – Cranberry Walnut Salad
Cranberry walnut salad brings a crunchy twist to our meals. The tartness of cranberries clashes deliciously with the earthy flavor of walnuts.
We love the refreshing bite of fresh greens, which perfectly balances the sweetness from a light vinaigrette.
It’s a colorful addition that brightens our plates. Every bite offers a mix of textures that keeps us coming back for more. This salad is a great side for any dish, especially chicken and dumplings.
5 – Honey-Glazed Carrots
Honey-glazed carrots bring a sweet and earthy flavor to your plate. They’re tender and juicy, coated in a luscious glaze that balances sweetness with a hint of buttery richness.
We simply toss baby carrots with honey, a splash of butter, and a sprinkle of salt. The result? Bright, vibrant veggies that have a golden finish. These carrots are a perfect foil to heartier dishes like chicken and dumplings.
6 – Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin
Cheesy cauliflower gratin is like a hug from the oven. It combines creamy cheese sauce with tender cauliflower for a comforting side.
The blend of sharp cheddar and subtle garlic elevates this dish.
We love how the crispy topping adds texture. Every bite is a satisfying mix of gooey and crunchy, perfect alongside chicken and dumplings.
This dish brings simple ingredients together for a memorable meal.
7 – Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasted root vegetables are our cozy, easy side that we can’t resist. They bring a sweet, earthy flavor that complements heartier meals perfectly.
We usually toss carrots, potatoes, and parsnips with olive oil, salt, and some herbs. The result? A caramelized, crispy exterior that contrasts with tender insides. We love how they soak up spices and enhance any dish. Plus, they’re a colorful addition to our plates!
8 – Southern Collard Greens
Collard greens are a classic if we’re going for that Southern comfort vibe. These leafy greens bring a hearty, slightly bitter taste that balances beautifully with smoky flavors.
When cooked down, they become tender and soak up the seasoning like a champ.
We love how a splash of vinegar brightens them up, adding a tangy kick. Perfect pairing with any soul food dish, collard greens are our go-to side for extra comfort on the plate.
9 – Sautéed Zucchini and Squash
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Sautéed zucchini and squash are like our quick fix for a tasty side. They have a light, fresh flavour that’s perfect for balancing heavier dishes.
When we cook these veggies, they get just tender enough while keeping that nice crunch. Toss in a bit of garlic and olive oil, and you’ve got a dish that’s simple yet satisfying. These vibrant greens add colour and health to any meal.
10 – Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Baked sweet potato fries are our go-to for a healthier snack option. They offer a sweet, subtly nutty flavor that feels indulgent without the guilt.
We slice sweet potatoes into wedges and toss them with a bit of oil and seasoning.
Roasting them gives a satisfying crispiness while keeping the insides fluffy.
These fries pair nicely with almost any meal, especially chicken and dumplings, adding a fun twist to our plates.
11 – Spinach Strawberry Salad
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We love this salad for its refreshing crunch and sweetness. The mix of fresh spinach with juicy strawberries gives a bright, vibrant vibe.
Adding crispy walnuts gives a nice texture and a nutty flavor that rounds out the dish.
A drizzle of balsamic dressing brings an irresistible balance of tang and sweetness. This combination makes it a perfect, light side that pairs wonderfully with heartier meals.
12 – Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad
We absolutely love this salad for its crispness and refreshing flavour. The cool cucumbers pair perfectly with a tangy dressing that has just the right amount of tartness.
Dill brings a fresh kick, making it an excellent side for those heavier dishes.
Every bite gives a nice crunch and a burst of flavour that complements anything on our plate. This salad is a simple, tasty addition to our meals.
13 – Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
Parmesan roasted broccoli is our go-to side that packs a real flavor punch. The broccoli gets all crispy and tender while developing a lovely roasted taste.
Tossing it with grated Parmesan adds a cheesy, salty kick that tempts our taste buds. It’s perfect straight from the oven or chilled in a salad.
Garlic or lemon juice can take it to another level. It brings a fresh zing that keeps us coming back for more!
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.