Alright, so we’ve got chicken and broccoli. Classic combo, right? But sometimes we need to jazz things up. We’ve all been there, staring at those plain plates, thinking, “What else can we add?”.
We’re here to save the day with some side dish magic. Let’s get right to it. We’ll mix things up with a few favorites and some you might not have tried yet.
Simple, quick, and no-fuss ideas that’ll make dinner way more interesting. Ready to get those taste buds excited? Let’s get to it!.
Chicken and broccoli is a classic combo that makes for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner. But while chicken and broccoli on their own are tasty, pairing them with the right side dishes can take the meal to the next level. The key is picking sides that complement the flavors and textures of the chicken and broccoli. After making this pairing numerous times, I’ve discovered 15 of the best side dishes that truly make this meal sing.
Complementary Flavors and Textures
When searching for the perfect sides for chicken and broccoli I looked for options that would provide contrasting flavors and textures to the dish. Chicken tends to be neutral in flavor while broccoli is fresh and green-tasting. This allows you to get creative with side pairings – embracing sweet savory, crunchy, creamy, and more. Sides that incorporate garlic, cheese, rice, potatoes, or breads make excellent complements. They soak up sauces and provide a satisfying mouthfeel.
15 Winning Chicken and Broccoli Sides
Here are the 15 best side dishes I found to go with chicken and broccoli, after a lot of research.
1. Buttery Rice Pilaf
With its fluffy texture and ability to soak up flavors, rice pilaf goes well with just about anything. Adding butter to the rice gives it a rich flavor that goes well with the chicken and broccoli, which are lighter. Opt for long grain rice varieties like basmati or jasmine. Cook in chicken broth for extra flavor.
2. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
For an indulgent, creamy side, cheesy scalloped potatoes can’t be beat. Thinly sliced russet potatoes baked in a creamy cheese sauce offer irresistible comfort food appeal. The potatoes provide a hearty base for the chicken and broccoli.
3. Garlic Bread
Warm, crusty garlic bread fresh from the oven makes a crowd-pleasing accompaniment. The crunch of the bread with melty garlic butter is so satisfying. Garlic complements chicken and broccoli beautifully. Serve slices or pull-apart rolls.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
For a veggie side, roasted Brussels sprouts caramelize to sweet, nutty flavor. Toss sprout halves with olive oil, salt, and pepper then roast. They add a pop of green and lovely texture contrast.
5. Quinoa Salad
Protein-packed quinoa salad provides a light, fresh-tasting side. Quinoa, chopped veggies, and a lemony dressing balance the chicken and broccoli wonderfully. It’s also easy to make ahead.
6. Parmesan Polenta
Chicken and broccoli go well with polenta, which is creamy and cheesy. For extra richness, stir Parmesan cheese into the cooked polenta. Roasted veggies also pair nicely.
7. Dinner Rolls
Dinner rolls that are warm and soft are an easy and quick side dish. Soak up any tasty pan sauces and juices from the chicken and broccoli with these noodles. Butter or brush rolls with olive oil or garlic butter.
8. Lemon Orzo
Beyond rice, orzo pasta makes for a fun, lighter side. Cook orzo until al dente then toss with fresh lemon juice, zest, olive oil, salt and pepper. The bright, citrusy flavors complement the chicken and broccoli perfectly.
9. Sauteed Green Beans
For bonus veggies, quickly sauté green beans in olive oil and garlic. They add color and texture. Serve green beans crispy-tender with a light seasoning of salt and pepper. A healthy side dish.
10. Sweet Potato Fries
Baked sweet potato fries offer flavorful variation from regular fries. Cut sweet potatoes into wedges, toss with oil, and bake until crispy. Sweet potato fries pair especially well with any sweet and savory chicken glazes or sauces.
11. Seasoned Rice Medley
For more interest, make a seasoned rice medley. Cook a combo of white and brown rices, wild rice, etc. Toss with fresh herbs like parsley or dill and lemon juice for bright flavor. The medley complements chicken and broccoli wonderfully.
12. Caesar Salad
A fresh Caesar salad is a go-to green side. Crisp romaine, Parmesan cheese, and an easy homemade dressing make this salad sing. It provides texture contrast and balances the chicken and broccoli plate.
13. Rosemary Focaccia
Warm, fluffy focaccia bread can be baked ahead then warmed before serving. Top with extra virgin olive oil and fresh rosemary. Focaccia is fabulous for dipping in any pan sauces or juices. So hearty and delicious.
14. Loaded Baked Potatoes
Big baked russet potatoes are perfect for stuffing with all your favorite toppings like bacon, cheddar cheese, broccoli, and more. Enjoy your chicken and broccoli atop these loaded spuds for an easy one-plate meal.
15. Sauteed Zucchini
Lastly, quickly sautéed zucchini is an easy veggie side. Slice zucchini into half-moons then sauté in olive oil with minced garlic and a squeeze of lemon. The zucchini adds freshness and beautiful green color to fill out the plate.
Balanced, Satisfying Meals
Chicken and broccoli need the right supporting sides to really make them shine. I recommend rounding out the plate with a starchy carb like rice, bread, or potatoes plus a bright vegetable or salad. The options are endless, so get creative and have fun pairing! Aim for a mix of flavors, textures, and colors on the plate. With tasty sides like these, chicken and broccoli transforms into a fabulous, well-rounded meal.
Top 14 Side Dishes for Chicken and Broccoli
Here are some delicious and easy side dishes that will elevate your chicken and broccoli dinner to a whole new level:
| Side Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Difficulty | Time |
| Lemon Herb Quinoa | Quinoa, lemon, parsley | Fresh, citrusy | Easy | 20 min |
| Honey Glazed Carrots | Carrots, honey, butter | Sweet, savory | Easy | 25 min |
| Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower | Cauliflower, garlic, Parmesan cheese | Savory, garlicky | Medium | 30 min |
| Tomato Basil Salad | Tomatoes, basil, balsamic vinaigrette | Fresh, tangy | Easy | 10 min |
| Roasted Red Potatoes | Red potatoes, rosemary, olive oil | Savory, herby | Easy | 40 min |
| Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers | Bell peppers, spinach, feta cheese | Savory, tangy | Medium | 35 min |
| Orzo with Lemon and Dill | Orzo, lemon, dill | Light, zesty | Medium | 20 min |
| Grilled Zucchini | Zucchini, olive oil, garlic | Smoky, garlicky | Easy | 15 min |
| Buttered Corn on the Cob | Corn, butter, salt | Sweet, buttery | Easy | 15 min |
| Avocado and Mango Salad | Avocado, mango, lime | Sweet, tangy | Easy | 10 min |
| Parmesan Crusted Asparagus | Asparagus, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs | Savory, crunchy | Medium | 20 min |
| Couscous with Dried Fruits | Couscous, dried apricots, almonds | Sweet, nutty | Easy | 15 min |
| Pesto Pasta Salad | Pasta, basil pesto, cherry tomatoes | Fresh, herby | Medium | 25 min |
| Sautéed Swiss Chard | Swiss chard, garlic, olive oil | Earthy, garlicky | Easy | 15 min |
2 – Honey Glazed Carrots
They’re sweet and savory at the same time, making them a perfect side dish. Carrots, honey, butter, and a pinch of salt.
We love how the honey caramelizes, giving a crispy edge.
The butter adds richness that’s hard to beat.
These carrots are not just tasty, they’re super easy to whip up.
The Quickest Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe!
FAQ
What is a good side dish for chicken and broccoli?
Here are the top 14 side dishes that go well with chicken and broccoli. Ingredients: Side Dish Main Ingredients Time: Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers, spinach, feta cheese35 minutes; orzo with Lemon and Dill: orzo, lemon, dill 20 minutes; grilled zucchini, olive oil, garlic 15 minutes
What do you eat with chicken and broccoli bake?
Serving suggestions Serve your chicken and broccoli bake with freshly steamed carrots or baby potatoes. Be sure to read up on how to cook vegetables safely. Nutritional Information: All our recipes are nutritionally analysed by our team of experts.
What can I put with chicken and broccoli?
I make it in a frying pan; you can use a skillet or a wok. You can serve chicken and broccoli stir-fry as is or with cauliflower rice for a low-carb, keto meal. Or, you can make a side of regular rice, brown rice, quinoa, or noodles – whatever your family desires. I often do both to suit my whole household.
What side dishes go well with chicken?
16 Delicious Side Dishes for Your Chicken DinnerCrispy Parmesan Potatoes. Simply Recipes / Mark Beahm. Creamy Polenta. Elise Bauer. Stir-Fried Mushrooms with Garlic and Chile Oil. Coconut Lime Rice. Baked Acorn Squash with Butter and Brown Sugar. 5-Minute Yamitsuki Cabbage. Garlic Fried Rice. Lyonnaise Potatoes.