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What to Serve with Citrus Chicken? 12 BEST Side Dishes

We all know how zesty and vibrant citrus chicken can be. But what goes best with it?We’ve been on a mission to find the perfect sidekicks. Picture a spread that makes your taste buds do a happy dance.

One of us swears by roasted veggies. Another can’t get enough of garlic mashed potatoes. We’ve tried it all, and now, we’re spilling the beans.

Let’s share our faves for the ultimate citrus chicken feast. Get ready to drool!

Top 12 Side Dishes for Citrus Chicken

Here are our top picks for side dishes that perfectly complement the zesty flavors of citrus chicken:

Side DishMain IngredientsFlavor ProfileDifficultyTime
Coconut RiceRice, coconut milk, limeCreamy, tropicalEasy25 min
Mediterranean Chickpea SaladChickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, olivesFresh, tangyEasy20 min
Grilled PineapplePineapple, honey, limeSweet, tangyEasy15 min
Avocado SalsaAvocado, tomatoes, cilantro, limeCreamy, zestyEasy15 min
Roasted Carrots with Honey and ThymeCarrots, honey, thymeSweet, herbyEasy30 min
Cilantro Lime QuinoaQuinoa, cilantro, limeFresh, zestyEasy20 min
Mango SlawMango, cabbage, lime, cilantroSweet, tangyEasy15 min
Garlic Parmesan AsparagusAsparagus, garlic, ParmesanSavory, garlickyEasy20 min
Sweet Potato FriesSweet potatoes, olive oil, sea saltSweet, saltyEasy30 min
Spinach and Strawberry SaladSpinach, strawberries, balsamic glazeSweet, tangyEasy10 min
Lemon Herb CouscousCouscous, lemon, parsleyZesty, herbyEasy15 min
Roasted Beet SaladBeets, goat cheese, arugulaEarthy, tangyMedium40 min

1 – Coconut Rice

It’s a creamy, sweet, and slightly nutty side dish. Perfect contrast for our zesty citrus chicken. You need canned coconut milk, jasmine rice, water, and a pinch of salt.

Here’s the kicker: the rice absorbs the coconut milk, making each bite silky. We love how the aroma fills the room! Whenever we make this, it’s an instant hit.

2 – Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Oh boy, Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a tasty twist we can’t resist.

Chickpeas, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta, olives, and parsley. Simple and fresh.

The dressing? Olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.

We mix it all up and let it chill to soak in the flavors.

The feta adds a salty kick, the garlic brings warmth. We never have leftovers!

3 – Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple is our sweet and tangy sidekick. We love how it caramelizes on the grill, bringing a smoky sweetness that’s irresistible.

All you need are pineapple slices, a bit of brown sugar, and a brush of olive oil. The grill gives it a charred flavor.

We’ve served this at every BBQ, and it’s always a winner.

4 – Avocado Salsa

We’re glued to this avocado salsa. It’s like a fiesta in a bowl.

We chop avocados, tomatoes, red onions, cilantro, and lime. A sprinkle of salt and a dash of pepper.

The taste? Creamy, tangy, fresh. Remember that BBQ last summer? Everyone loved it!

It pairs with our citrus chicken like a dream.

5 – Roasted Carrots with Honey and Thyme

Roasted carrots with honey and thyme? Sign us up!

Carrots turn out sweet and slightly caramelized. The honey amps up the sweetness, while thyme adds an herbal twist.

Ingredients? Easy. Carrots, honey, olive oil, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Roast until tender and glistening.

Pro tip: For extra flavor, toss in some garlic cloves. We’ve had this at every family dinner, and it’s a hit every time.

6 – Cilantro Lime Quinoa

We’re hooked on cilantro lime quinoa. It’s light, zesty, and oh-so-tasty.

Cook quinoa, then mix with lime juice and zest, chopped cilantro, and a dash of salt. It’s that simple.

The quinoa drinks up the lime, and the cilantro adds a fresh snap.

We’ve had it at potlucks, and everyone loves it!

7 – Mango Slaw

Guys, mango slaw is our jam! It’s bright, tangy, and has a kick.

We mix shredded cabbage, carrots, and ripe mango. Toss in some lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of chili flakes for heat.

The result? A crunchy, refreshing side with a hint of sweetness and spice. Perfect with our citrus chicken.

8 – Garlic Parmesan Asparagus

Guys, Garlic Parmesan Asparagus is a game-changer. It’s crunchy, savory, and boasts a cheesy kick. We roast the asparagus until it’s tender with a slight char. A sprinkle of Parmesan makes it sing.

Ingredients are simple: asparagus, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan. The Parmesan melts into a golden crust. So easy, so good!

Pro tip: add a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty pop. We have this on repeat for BBQs and weeknight dinners alike. Super tasty and always a crowd-pleaser.

9 – Sweet Potato Fries

Guys, sweet potato fries are our crispy, sweet favorite. Crunchy outside, tender inside, they’re irresistible.

Cut sweet potatoes thin. Coat with olive oil, salt, and smoked paprika. Bake at a high temp until golden.

Our tip? Don’t skip the dipping sauce, preferably a tangy aioli. The balance of sweet and salty keeps us munching!

10 – Spinach and Strawberry Salad

Spinach and Strawberry Salad is a fun and fresh combo we can’t resist. Juicy strawberries add sweetness, while baby spinach brings a slight bitterness. Toss in some feta, walnuts, and a light balsamic vinaigrette for extra flavor.

The feta gives it a creamy, tangy kick. The walnuts add crunch. Perfect balance. Refreshing yet rich!

11 – Lemon Herb Couscous

Lemon Herb Couscous is a vibrant, zesty side that pairs great with citrus chicken. We blend fluffy couscous with fresh lemon, parsley, and a touch of olive oil. The lemon gives it a tangy kick, while the herbs add a fresh aroma.

Couscous, lemon, parsley, olive oil, salt. That’s it.

We love making this for a quick, light bite. So refreshing!

12 – Roasted Beet Salad

We’re nuts about this Roasted Beet Salad. It combines earthy beets with tangy goat cheese and crunchy pistachios.

Toss in some arugula and drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette. Ingredients? Beets, goat cheese, pistachios, arugula, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.

The beets’ sweetness blends perfectly with the tangy cheese. The pistachios give it a perfect crunch.

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