We all know shredded BBQ chicken is a classic; it’s like a warm hug on a plate. But let’s be real, on its own, it can feel a bit lonely.
So, what can we toss on the side to give it some company?
We’re talking about the ultimate sidekicks that make those BBQ flavors pop even more.
From crispy coleslaw to buttery cornbread, there’s a whole lineup ready to join the party.
And trust us, they won’t overshadow the star of the show—they’ll complement it perfectly.
Remember those backyard cookouts when we piled our plates high with all the fixings?
Get ready to recreate that vibe with these tasty, easy-to-make sides.
Top 13 Side Dishes for Shredded BBQ Chicken
Here are our top picks for the best side dishes to serve with shredded BBQ chicken:
1 – Southern-Style Cornbread
Cornbread is like that friend who shows up unannounced and somehow makes everything better.
Moist and slightly sweet, it pairs great with shredded BBQ chicken. We should be generous with the butter on top.
Mmm, it gets all melty and delicious. This dish has a crisp crust and a soft heart.
It adds a nice texture contrast to that saucy chicken. Use stone-ground cornmeal for a bit of grit.
Trust that grandma’s recipe is likely the best. We’ve all been surprised by how easy it is to whip up.
2 – Grilled Corn Salad
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Ever wonder how corn can wow us twice? Grilled corn salad does just that. It’s fresh and smoky. We toss in some peppers and onions for crunch. Throw in some lime juice for zing.
Adding feta cheese gives it a creamy kick. We know it sounds fancy, but prep is simple. Just char the corn on the grill and chop things up. Serve it cold for a refreshing side. It’s quick and looks colorful on the plate.
3 – Sweet Potato Casserole
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Who decided sweet potatoes need to be dressed up? We find this casserole to be a cozy option.
It’s creamy, sweet, and holds that marshmallow topping. A crunchy pecan layer brings texture too.
Bake it until it bubbles. The flavors unite well. A hint of cinnamon adds warmth. Gluten-free folks can enjoy this.
Mix it up with a bit of maple syrup for extra sweetness. We’re all about those easy swaps. This dish makes a hit at any family gathering.
4 – Coleslaw with Tangy BBQ Dressing
Coleslaw can be a crunchy side that surprises us. Creamy dressing adds a splash of tang. We can mix in a bit of vinegar for zing that cuts through the richness.
Adding chopped apples or raisins brings sweetness too. It’s a fun way to get some fruit in our meal.
Use a mix of green and purple cabbage for colour. It’s all about that vibrant plate appeal.
Batch prep makes it great for group gatherings. It stays crisp even after sitting for a while.
5 – Jalapeño Cheddar Biscuits
Ever had a biscuit that brings the heat? These just might do the trick. They blend cheesy goodness with a spicy kick.
Each bite is flaky and buttery. Combine flour, cheese, and jalapeños; roll them into dough.
Pop them in the oven until golden brown.
They’re great fresh out of the oven, but they hold up well for snacks later.
Try pairing these with BBQ chicken for a spicy twist.
6 – Creamy Macaroni Salad
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What’s up with mac salad? It’s cold and creamy. It pairs well with everything.
We add a crunchy twist with celery and bell pepper. It gives texture.
Don’t forget the dressing; it should be tangy and slightly sweet.
We find it’s an easy make-ahead dish. It stays fresh.
This salad brings back potluck memories. It’s always a hit.
Serve it with barbecue or fried food. They balance out nicely.
7 – Baked Beans with Bacon
Who knew baked beans could steal the show? We’re not just talking about canned stuff.
Homemade baked beans can bring layers of flavour. They can be smoky and sweet from molasses and bacon.
Using navy beans? They cook up just right. Cooking them low and slow makes all the difference.
Add some mustard for tang. Onions and bell peppers give a bit of crunch.
We can make them ahead of time. They reheat like a champ.
8 – Grilled Zucchini Spears
Grilled zucchini is like the coolest kid at the BBQ.
It’s smoky and tender, ready to soak up all that grill vibe. We slice it into spears or rounds, sprinkle on some seasoning, and toss it right on the grill.
This side can take on flavors like garlic and lemon.
We toss some parmesan on top for a cheesy finish. It cooks quick, so we never have to wait long to dig in.
Use it fresh off the grill for the best experience.
9 – Potato Salad with Mustard Dressing
Potato salad with mustard dressing is a classic side that’s always a hit. It’s creamy and tangy, offering a fun twist on the usual vibe.
We can mix in some celery or pickles for extra crunch. A splash of vinegar gives it a zing.
Prep in advance to let the flavors meld. It stays fresh and is easy to serve at any gathering.
Toss in fresh herbs for a little flair. The dressing option keeps things interesting. Every bite feels like a picnic on the plate.
10 – Fried Pickles
Who put pickles in the fryer? Genius! Fried pickles offer a crunchy, tangy twist. They bring a salty crunch that no one sees coming.
We dip them in ranch or comeback sauce. It adds a creamy contrast. The spice level can range from mild to spicy.
Pickles keep their crunch even after frying. They’re super easy to prep ahead.
No one can resist a platter of these. They disappear fast at gatherings.
11 – Smoky BBQ Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs with a BBQ twist? Count us in. These eggs are creamy with a smoky bite.
We mix mayo and BBQ sauce for that extra zing. Bacon crumbles on top give a salty crunch.
Not only are they easy to make, they’re also a crowd pleaser.
Keep them chilled until serving; nobody likes a warm egg. Can make ahead for less stress at parties.
This side is all about the classic with a fun twist. Simple and tasty.
12 – Honey Butter Corn on the Cob
Who thought corn on the cob could get an upgrade? This dish drips with honey butter goodness.
It brings a sweet and salty balance to any meal. The corn stays tender and juicy.
We grill or boil the corn just right. Then we slather on that honey butter mix.
A sprinkle of salt can make it sing. Try serving it alongside barbecue dishes.
We find it works great as a fun side for gatherings. Everyone wants a bite once they see it.
13 – Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Why did the pasta salad flirt with the pickles? It’s tangy and fresh! Dill pickles give it a crunchy bite we enjoy.
The dressing blends creamy ranch with a splash of pickle juice. Mixing pasta with veggies adds some heartiness.
We can make it ahead of time, which is a bonus. It holds up well for gatherings, ensuring flavors meld.
This dish offers a nice twist to standard sides. Perfect alongside any grilled meats or burgers. A tasty option for potlucks.
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.