What to Serve with Chicken Waffles? 13 Best Side Dishes

We've all been there!

Chicken and waffles are amazing on their own, but a stellar side dish can really level up the experience (a classic soul food dish pairing fried chicken with waffles). Think crispy, think crunchy, think something that just feels right next to that sweet syrup.

We know the struggle of wanting something that complements that sweet and savory combo perfectly. From zesty salads to fried greens, there are plenty of options that can steal the show without overshadowing your main dish.

So, grab a fork! We're about to dish out some must-try sides that will make your chicken and waffles shine even brighter.

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Top 13 Side Dishes for Chicken Waffles

Here's our list of the top 13 side dishes to serve with chicken waffles. Warning: may cause tempting and intense cravings.

1 - Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Maple bacon Brussels sprouts are our jam (roasted Brussels sprouts glazed with maple syrup and crisp bacon). These sprout buddies bring smoky, sweet vibes to dinner.

Crispy bacon mingles with those caramelized sprouts, giving us a perfect bite every time.

We love the combo of crunch and tenderness. A drizzle of maple syrup ties it all together, adding a nice sweetness.

It's a flavor party we never want to miss out on.

Serve them hot for the ultimate treat!

2 - Buttermilk Coleslaw

We can't have chicken and waffles without a crunchy side, right? Buttermilk coleslaw brings a cool, creamy vibe we love.

The tangy buttermilk goes well with the crisp cabbage (buttermilk has a tangy, slightly lactic flavor). Every bite is a crunch that cuts through that sweetness.

Adding a hint of sugar balances the flavors. We also toss in some shredded carrots for extra colour and texture.

This is one side that always completes our meal.

3 - Cheddar Grits

Cheddar grits are a beloved comfort food (a Southern staple made from ground cornmeal). They bring a creamy, cheesy goodness that goes well with chicken and waffles.

We love the rich cheese flavor combined with the smooth texture. It's like a warm hug in a bowl.

Adding a pinch of salt enhances the flavor blast. We often throw in some green onions for a fresh kick.

Serve these right next to your chicken and waffles for that extra magic at the table; for biscuit-friendly ideas try Cheddar biscuit side ideas.

4 - Sweet Potato Hash

Sweet potato hash is our go-to for a filling side. It's an easy way to sneak in some extra vitamins.

We dice those sweet potatoes and roast them until crispy (use ½-inch cubes for even browning). The natural sweetness shines through.

Adding bell peppers and onions boosts flavor. A dash of paprika gives it some kick.

Serve warm for best results. This dish not only complements meals, it steals the spotlight.

Perfect with chicken and waffles or on its own; find complementary sweet potato pairings at sweet potato side options.

5 - Hot Honey Drizzle

Hot honey drizzle is our secret weapon. It adds a sweet and spicy twist to any dish.

This condiment combines honey's natural sweetness with a kick of heat (usually made by infusing chili flakes into honey). We love it on chicken waffles for that perfect blend.

It makes everything taste better. Use it sparingly. A little goes a long way.

Try it on grilled veggies or even as a dip for fried food - for hot dog-friendly sides see hot dog side pairings.

6 - Pickled Okra

We're all about that pickled okra life.

This side dish is tangy and crunchy, with a touch of heat that keeps things interesting (preserved in a vinegar brine with dill and garlic).

The brine adds a zesty enough kick, balancing out richer dishes like chicken and waffles.

We love using it as a bright addition to charcuterie boards, too.

Slice 'em up or just grab one straight from the jar. Perfect for snacking anytime!

7 - Apple Cider Slaw

It's like coleslaw had a tangy party with a splash of seasonal flair. We bring together crisp cabbage, fresh apples, and a sweet-tart apple cider vinaigrette.

The crunch is on point and adds a refreshing bite (from the cabbage and thinly sliced apples). It's the perfect side to balance rich meats.

Use it as a topping on sandwiches, too. It adds a bright twist that makes every bite pop.

We love having it cool and crisp-bring on the crunch!

8 - Pimento Mac and Cheese

Pimento mac and cheese is a classic with a twist (featuring pimiento peppers, a mild Capsicum annuum variety). It combines creamy cheese with a hint of spicy pimento peppers.

We love the richness and kick it brings. This dish has a comfort factor that's hard to beat.

The balance of creaminess and little bursts of heat makes each bite interesting.

Serving it warm keeps it gooey and melty-definitely a crowd-pleaser.

Pair it with fried chicken or spicy dishes for a winning combo; for creamy vegetable pairings see creamy cauliflower side ideas.

9 - Cornbread Muffins

Ah, cornbread muffins! The fluffy bites of joy we can't resist.

They're sweet, buttery, and slightly crumbly (made with yellow cornmeal for a toasty corn flavor). Perfect for soaking up syrup or gravy.

We love them warm and fresh. Sweetness makes them fun to pair with savory dishes.

A hint of corn flavor shines through. They're great with fried chicken or just as a snack.

For a twist, try mixing in jalapeños for a spicy kick. These muffins can turn any meal into a feast.

10 - Sautéed Collard Greens

Sautéed collard greens are a simple, tasty side we love. They have a mild, slightly earthy flavor that complements richer dishes.

We cook them with garlic and a splash of vinegar for a bright kick (typically apple cider vinegar for acidity). The greens get tender without losing their bite.

A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice warmth. Serve them warm as a delicious contrast to fried food.

Pair these greens with your chicken and waffles for a wholesome balance.

11 - Cranberry Orange Relish

Cranberry orange relish is a must-have. It brings a tangy-sweet flavor that cuts through heaviness.

The bright citrus and tart cranberries work wonders together (orange zest adds aromatic oils that boost the citrus note).

We whip it up quickly with fresh cranberries and orange zest. It adds a refreshing crunch.

Perfect for topping off chicken and waffles. This relish isn't just for Turkey day; we love it anytime.

Enjoy it chilled for best flavor.

Sprinkle some nuts in for an extra twist!

12 - Spicy Watermelon Salad

Spicy watermelon salad is one of our new favorites. It's juicy watermelon mixed with zingy lime juice and a kick of chili powder (lime adds acidity while chili powder brings smoky heat).

The sweetness of the watermelon balances the heat really well. We toss in some fresh mint for a refreshing twist.

This salad is light and bright, making it great on a hot day; see watermelon salad refreshing sides.

Perfect as a side or a light snack!

13 - Bourbon-Glazed Peaches

Bourbon-glazed peaches are just heavenly. They're sweet and slightly smoky, a combo that's hard to resist (the bourbon caramelizes sugars and adds vanilla-like notes).

We grill those juicy peaches until they get some nice char.

Then, we drizzle them with a sweet bourbon glaze for extra flavor. Serve warm to really bring out those caramel notes.

They shine alongside savory dishes or just as a dessert.

These peaches make everything feel a bit more fancy, without the fuss. Enjoy them on their own, or over vanilla ice cream.