What to Serve with Chicken Thighs ( 20+ Delicious Sides You’ll Love )

There are endless possibilities when it comes to what you can serve with chicken thighs. To help you get started, we have compiled a list of some of our favorite side dishes that will complement this delicious protein perfectly!

Whether you are looking for something savory or sweet, we have got you covered. Keep reading for some great ideas that will take your meal to the next level.

What to Serve with Chicken Thighs:

1. Loaded baked potatoes
2. Tabbouleh
3. Baked tater tots
4. Cucumber quinoa salad
5. Spinach artichoke dip
6. Smoked gouda mac & cheese
7. Spinach and asparagus salad
8. Stuffed bell peppers
9. Crispy smashed potatoes with sea salt
10. Zucchini ribbons
11. Waffle fries with Chipotle mayo

Loaded baked potatoes

Loaded baked potatoes are a classic side dish that goes well with almost any main course. They’re a staple in many households, and for good reason – they’re delicious, filling, and easy to make.

But why stop at the classic toppings of sour cream, cheese, and bacon? There are endless possibilities for loaded baked potatoes, so get creative and experiment with different flavors. Sweet potatoes, chili, tuna salad, and even leftover chicken or steak are all great options.

And whether you bake them in the oven or cook them on the stove, loaded baked potatoes are always a hit.

Quick Recipe: Loaded Baked Potatoes

• Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup sour cream, 4 strips cooked bacon, chives, salt, pepper
• Average Cook Time: 1 hour
• Instructions:
  1. Bake potatoes at 400°F for 50 minutes.
  2. Cut open and fluff insides.
  3. Top with cheese, sour cream, bacon, and chives.

Tabbouleh

Tabbouleh is a Middle Eastern dish that is traditionally made with bulgur wheat, tomatoes, chopped parsley, and mint.

The dish is refreshing and light, making it the perfect accompaniment for grilled chicken thighs. The herby flavors of the tabbouleh help to offset the richness of the chicken, and the tomatoes add a burst of sweetness.

I like to serve tabbouleh as a side dish with hummus and toasted pita triangles. For an extra touch of flavor, I like to add a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of lemon juice. For a complete meal, you can also serve Tabbouleh with grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes.

Quick Recipe: Tabbouleh

• Ingredients: 1 cup bulgur wheat, 1 bunch parsley, 1/4 cup mint leaves, 2 tomatoes, 1 cucumber, lemon juice, olive oil, salt
• Average Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Instructions:
  1. Soak bulgur in hot water for 20 minutes.
  2. Chop parsley, mint, tomatoes, and cucumber.
  3. Mix all ingredients and dress with lemon juice and olive oil.

Baked tater tots

Baked tater tots are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish for chicken thighs. They require no prep and can be easily baked in the oven.

Baked tater tots are crispy on the outside and have a nice texture contrast with the chicken thighs. They are also a good source of nutrients and provide a nice balance of flavor.

Overall, they are an excellent choice for a side dish for chicken thighs.

Quick Recipe: Baked Tater Tots

• Ingredients: 2 cups grated potatoes, 1/4 cup grated onion, 1/4 cup flour, salt, pepper
• Average Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Instructions:
  1. Mix grated potatoes, onion, flour, salt, and pepper.
  2. Form into small cylinders.
  3. Bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Cucumber quinoa salad

Cucumber quinoa salad is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that goes well with barbecued chicken thighs. The cucumbers provide a crisp texture, while the quinoa and herbs add a touch of unexpected flavor.

This salad is also light and healthy, making it an ideal choice for a summer meal. Best of all, it can be made ahead of time, so you can relax and enjoy your guests.

Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply looking for a new side dish to try, cucumber quinoa salad is a delicious option that is sure to please.

Quick Recipe: Cucumber Quinoa Salad

• Ingredients: 1 cup cooked quinoa, 1 cucumber, 1/4 cup feta cheese, 1/4 cup olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper
• Average Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Instructions:
  1. Dice cucumber and mix with cooked quinoa.
  2. Add feta cheese.
  3. Dress with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Spinach artichoke dip

Spinach artichoke dip is a very popular appetizer that can also be a great side dish for chicken thighs. It is usually baked and is very tasty.

This dish goes well with chicken thighs because the flavors go well together. The creamy texture of the dip complements the crispy skin on the chicken. Meanwhile, the Greek yogurt in the recipe adds an extra boost of protein.

Spinach and artichokes are also good sources of vitamins and minerals.

All in all, the dip is a nutritious and delicious side dish that your family will love.

Quick Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

• Ingredients: 1 can artichoke hearts, 1 cup spinach, 1/2 cup cream cheese, 1/4 cup Parmesan, garlic, salt, pepper
• Average Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Instructions:
  1. Chop artichoke hearts and spinach.
  2. Mix with cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.

Smoked gouda mac & cheese

Smoked gouda mac & cheese makes an excellent side dish for chicken thighs. While the chicken provides a delicious source of protein, the mac & cheese is a hearty, no-meat option that is sure to please everyone at the table.

The rich flavor of the gouda pairs well with the crispy skin of the chicken, and the creamy cheese sauce is the perfect complement to the juicy thighs.

Whether you’re looking for classic comfort food or a flavorful new twist on an old favorite, smoked gouda mac & cheese is sure to hit the spot.

Quick Recipe: Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese

• Ingredients: 2 cups macaroni, 1 cup smoked Gouda, 1/2 cup milk, salt, pepper
• Average Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Instructions:
  1. Cook macaroni.
  2. Melt Gouda with milk, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix with cooked macaroni.

Spinach and asparagus salad

Spinach and asparagus salad is the perfect side dish for chicken thighs. The bacon adds a smoky flavor, while the blue cheese and sweet pecans add creaminess and crunch. The tangy sauce brings it all together.

The flavors complement each other perfectly and the result is a delicious, healthy salad that will leave you feeling satisfied.

Spinach and asparagus salad is a wonderfully versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. It’s perfect for a springtime lunch or dinner, but also makes a great side dish for a holiday meal.

So next time you’re looking for a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy chicken thighs, look no further than Spinach and asparagus salad.

Quick Recipe: Spinach and Asparagus Salad

• Ingredients: 1 bunch asparagus, 2 cups spinach, 1/4 cup almonds, lemon vinaigrette
• Average Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Instructions:
  1. Blanch asparagus.
  2. Toss with spinach and almonds.
  3. Dress with lemon vinaigrette.

Stuffed bell peppers

Stuffed bell peppers make for a complete and satisfying meal, whether you’re serving them as a side dish or as the main event.

They’re filled with filling ingredients like rice, ground beef, shredded cheese, sour cream, and onions, and they’re usually roasted in the oven until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Plus, they look impressive when served on a platter with roasted chicken thighs. So if you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish that will elevate your weeknight dinner, look no further than stuffed bell peppers.

Quick Recipe: Stuffed Bell Peppers

• Ingredients: 4 bell peppers, 1 cup cooked rice, 1/2 cup black beans, 1/4 cup corn, 1/4 cup cheese, salt, pepper
• Average Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Instructions:
  1. Hollow out bell peppers.
  2. Mix rice, beans, corn, and cheese.
  3. Stuff peppers and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.

Crispy smashed potatoes with sea salt

Crispy smashed potatoes with sea salt is an excellent side dish for chicken thighs. The potatoes are boiled until they are soft, then smashed and fried until they are crispy.

These potatoes go well as a side dish for chicken thighs because they have a strong flavor that can stand up to the richness of the dark meat. They are also hearty enough to soak up any juices from the chicken, making them the perfect accompaniment to a delicious meal.

To add even more flavor to the dish, try sprinkling on some horse radish, herbs, lemon zest, or Parmesan cheese. No matter how you serve it, this side dish is sure to please.

Quick Recipe: Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Sea Salt

• Ingredients: 8 small potatoes, olive oil, sea salt, rosemary
• Average Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Instructions:
  1. Boil potatoes until tender.
  2. Smash and drizzle with olive oil.
  3. Sprinkle with sea salt and rosemary.
  4. Bake at 425°F for 20 minutes.

Zucchini ribbons

Zucchini ribbons are a great side dish for chicken thighs. Zucchinis have a very light flavor and they cook quickly.

Zucchini ribbons also look fancy, but they’re actually very easy to make. You just need a vegetable peeler and some cooking oil.

First, cut the ends off the zucchini. Then, use the vegetable peeler to shave long strips off the zucchini, making sure to stop before you get to the seeds. Heat some oil in a pan over medium heat. Finally, add the zucchini strips to the pan and cook for a few minutes until they’re tender. That’s it!

Zucchini ribbons are a healthy, flavorful side dish that pairs well with chicken thighs.

Quick Recipe: Zucchini Ribbons

• Ingredients: 2 zucchinis, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, pepper
• Average Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Instructions:
  1. Use a peeler to create zucchini ribbons.
  2. Sauté in olive oil with lemon zest, salt, and pepper.

Waffle fries with Chipotle mayo

Waffle fries with Chipotle mayo are the perfect side dish for chicken thighs. The big chunky fries are crispy on the outside and easy to dress up with a delicious sauce.

The chipotle mayo adds a spicy kick that goes well with the succulent chicken. Plus, it helps to keep the fries moist and prevents them from drying out.

The dish is also hearty enough to stand up to the chicken thighs, which can sometimes be dry.

Quick Recipe: Waffle Fries with Chipotle Mayo

• Ingredients: Frozen waffle fries, 1/2 cup mayo, 1 tbsp chipotle in adobo, lime juice
• Average Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Instructions:
  1. Bake waffle fries according to package instructions.
  2. Mix mayo, chipotle, and lime juice.
  3. Serve fries with chipotle mayo.

Roasted Citrus And Beet Salad

Roasted citrus and beet salad is a versatile, flavorful side dish that pairs well with chicken thighs. Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, while beets are a good source of fiber and minerals.

Moreover, the sweetness of the fruits complements the earthiness of the beets, and the contrasting colors make for a beautiful presentation. Plus, this salad can be served warm or cold, making it ideal for any season.

When pairing it with chicken thighs, I recommend using a simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and herbs. The salad will add flavor and nutrients to the dish without overpowering the delicate flavor of the chicken.

Quick Recipe: Roasted Citrus and Beet Salad

• Ingredients: 4 beets, 2 oranges, 1 grapefruit, olive oil, salt, pepper, mint leaves
• Average Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Instructions:
  1. Roast beets at 400°F for 30 minutes.
  2. Segment oranges and grapefruit.
  3. Toss beets and citrus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Garnish with mint leaves.

Leek And Mushroom Bread Pudding

Leek and Mushroom Bread Pudding makes an excellent side dish for chicken thighs. Here are some reasons why:

• The leeks add a lovely oniony flavor to the dish that enhances the taste of the chicken.
• The mushrooms add a lovely depth of flavor and a lovely texture to the dish.
• The bread pudding soaks up all the delicious juices from the chicken thighs, making every bite even more flavorful.
• This side dish is very healthy! It’s packed with veggies and fiber, and it’s low in calories.
  

Quick Recipe: Leek and Mushroom Bread Pudding

• • Ingredients: 2 cups cubed bread, 1 leek, 1 cup mushrooms, 2 eggs, 1 cup milk, salt, pepper, thyme
  • Average Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Instructions:
    1. Sauté leek and mushrooms.
    2. Whisk eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and thyme.
    3. Combine with bread and sautéed vegetables.
    4. Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes.

Tomato, Watermelon, And Feta Farro Salad

This Tomato, Watermelon, and Feta Farro Salad is the perfect side dish for chicken thighs. The sweetness of the watermelon pairs perfectly with the grilled chicken, and the farro provides a hearty dose of fiber and protein.

This salad is also versatile and can be used as a main dish or served as a side. And, it’s packed with nutrients like lycopene, beta-carotene, and potassium. So, not only is this salad delicious, it’s healthy too!

Quick Recipe: Tomato, Watermelon, and Feta Farro Salad

• Ingredients: 1 cup cooked farro, 1 cup diced watermelon, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, 1/4 cup feta, mint leaves, olive oil
• Average Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Instructions:
  1. Combine farro, watermelon, and tomatoes.
  2. Crumble feta and add mint leaves.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and toss.

Cauliflower Tots

Cauliflower tots make an excellent side dish for chicken thighs. Here are a few reasons why:

• They’re packed with nutrients. Cauliflower is a good source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and folate. It’s also low in calories, making it a great option if you’re watching your weight.
• They’re versatile. You can season cauliflower tots any way you like, making them a great way to add flavor to your chicken dish. Plus, they can be served hot or cold, so they’re perfect for any occasion.
• They’re easy to make. Just shred some cauliflower, mix in some egg and bread crumbs, and bake! No-fuss, no mess.

Quick Recipe: Cauliflower Tots

• Ingredients: 1 head cauliflower, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup Parmesan, 1 egg, salt, pepper
• Average Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Instructions:
  1. Steam cauliflower and mash.
  2. Mix with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper.
  3. Form into tots and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.

Zucchini Salad With Marinated Feta

A zucchini salad with marinated feta makes an excellent side dish for chicken thighs. The feta helps to cut through the richness of the chicken, and the zucchini provides a crunchy contrast to the softness of the meat.

This dish is also packed with nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and iron. Additionally, it’s low in calories and fat, making it a healthy option for any meal.

If you’re looking for a new side dish to try with chicken thighs, this zucchini salad is a great choice. It’s easy to make and can be tailored to your taste preferences. Plus, it’s a healthy option that will leave you feeling satisfied.

Quick Recipe: Zucchini Salad with Marinated Feta

• Ingredients: 2 zucchinis, 1/4 cup feta, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper
• Average Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Instructions:
  1. Slice zucchinis thinly.
  2. Marinate feta in olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. Toss zucchini with marinated feta.

Coconut Creamed Spinach

Coconut creamed spinach is an excellent side dish for chicken thighs. It is full of healthy ingredients that help to boost the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.

The spinach provides a range of vitamins and minerals, while the coconut milk adds a creamy texture and rich flavor. The dish is also easy to prepare and can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for later use.

To ensure that the chicken thighs are cooked through, it is important to cook them on high heat for a short period. This will help to seal the juices and prevent them from drying out.

Quick Recipe: Coconut Creamed Spinach

• Ingredients: 4 cups spinach, 1 can coconut milk, garlic, salt, pepper
• Average Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Instructions:
  1. Sauté garlic in a pan.
  2. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
  3. Pour in coconut milk and simmer.
  4. Season with salt and pepper.

Greek Wedge Salad

A Greek Wedge Salad can be used as a side dish for chicken thighs. The benefits of using the side dish include the following: it is healthy, flavorful, and low in calories.

Additionally, the Greek Wedge Salad pairs well with other recipes, such as grilled chicken or fish. When used as a side dish, the Greek Wedge Salad provides a balance of flavors and textures that complement the main dish.

In terms of nutrition, the Greek Wedge Salad is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber and protein. Additionally, the salad is low in saturated fat and cholesterol.

Quick Recipe: Greek Wedge Salad

• Ingredients: 1 iceberg lettuce, 1/4 cup feta, 1/4 cup olives, 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, olive oil, lemon juice
• Average Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Instructions:
  1. Cut iceberg lettuce into wedges.
  2. Top with feta, olives, and cherry tomatoes.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.

More side dishes worth trying

• Zucchini salad
• Cauliflower tots
• Swiss chard
• Potato wedges or sweet potato fries
• Bacon-wrapped asparagus
• Avocado rice
• Noodle salad
• Roasted cauliflower
• Roasted carrots
• Kimchi fried rice
• Lemon zoodles or zoodle stir-fry

What are some tips when choosing sides for chicken thighs?

The best sides for chicken thighs are those that complement the flavors of the dish without overpowering it.

Sides that are rich in nutrients and antioxidants, but low in calories, are always a good choice. And, when in doubt, roasted vegetables are always a safe bet.

When pairing sides with chicken thighs, consider the following:

• The flavor of the chicken dish. If the chicken is grilled, you might want to consider a salad or sides that are light in flavor. If the chicken is roasted, you might want to choose sides that are rich and flavorful.
• The type of cooking method used. Chicken thighs can be baked, roasted, grilled, or sauteed. Each cooking method will impart different flavors to the dish. Choose sides that will complement the flavors of the chicken.
• The season. Seasonal produce is always a good choice when choosing sides for chicken thighs. In the winter, roasted vegetables are a great option. In the summer, light salads or sides are a better choice.
• Your personal preferences. Ultimately, you should choose sides that you know you will enjoy. If you’re not sure what to choose, ask your friends or family for their suggestions.

Conclusion

When it comes to chicken thighs, there are plenty of delicious side dishes to choose from.

Whether you’re looking for something classic and comforting or something new and exciting, we’ve got you covered.

So next time you’re wondering what to serve with chicken thighs, be sure to try one of these delicious side dishes. Your taste buds will thank you!