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 combination that never seems to go out of style. The mild flavor of chicken pairs perfectly with the bright, verdant taste of broccoli. While delicious on its own, chicken and broccoli can benefit from some tasty side dishes that complement and round out the meal.
In this article, we’ll suggest 15 of the very best side dishes to serve alongside chicken and broccoli. These sides run the gamut from starchy to bright, creamy to crunchy. With so many options, you’ll be able to find the perfect accompaniment no matter the season or occasion.
Complementary Sides for Chicken and Broccoli
When selecting side dishes for chicken and broccoli you’ll want options that provide contrast in textures and flavors. Here are some elements that make for ideal pairings
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Starchy sides like rice, potatoes, or pasta help soak up any delicious pan juices and add comforting carbs.
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Bright vegetables like sautéed greens, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad balance the richness of the chicken.
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Crunchy breads like garlic bread or cornbread provide texture contrast and mop up extra sauce
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Mac and cheese or mashed potatoes are rich and creamy sides that don’t take away from the main dish.
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Fresh, tangy coleslaws cut through the heaviness of the chicken and broccoli with zesty flavor.
With those tips in mind, here are 15 of our favorite side dishes that go well with broccoli and chicken.
1. Buttery Rice Pilaf
Fluffy, butter-kissed rice pilaf soaks up pan juices beautifully. Rice pilaf is the perfect base for the flavors of chicken and broccoli. For extra richness, use chicken broth when cooking the rice. Adding herbs like parsley, turmeric, or garlic to the pilaf gives it more flavor.
2. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
For an indulgent pairing, rich, creamy scalloped potatoes can’t be beat. Thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy cheese sauce are comfort food at its finest. Cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère all pair nicely. Top with crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs for extra texture.
3. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Another spud option is delectably creamy mashed potatoes infused with mellow roasted garlic. Russet or Yukon gold potatoes will yield the creamiest, fluffiest mash to soak up pan sauces. For a fancier touch, pipe the mashed potatoes into fluffy mounds.
4. Cheesy Polenta
The southern Italian style of this dish comes from the creamy polenta that can be served hot and soft or crisped into wedges. Mix in shredded Parmesan, Gruyère, or fontina for next-level richness. Top baked polenta wedges with marinara for added flavor.
5. Green Beans Amandine
For a pop of color, try green beans amandine. Tender green beans are sautéed in butter and tossed with toasted sliced almonds for delightful crunch. The vibrant green pairs beautifully with chicken and broccoli.
6. Honey Glazed Carrots
Don’t forget about root veggies! Honey glazed carrots caramelize to a beautiful golden brown. Their natural sweetness offsets the other savory components. Toss in a touch of fresh dill or thyme to complement the honey glaze.
7. Classic Mac and Cheese
You really can’t go wrong with creamy, cheesy elbow macaroni baked to golden brown perfection. For adults, consider mixing in Gruyère, cheddar, Parmesan, or taleggio for complex flavor. Top with crispy panko breadcrumbs before baking.
8. Garlic Bread
Warm, crusty garlic bread completes the meal. The crunch of the bread contrasts the other soft components. Brush slices with melted butter, garlic, and parsley for insane garlicky goodness. Serve as thick Texas toast slices.
9. Rosemary Focaccia
Another great bread choice is fluffy homemade rosemary focaccia fresh from the oven. You can’t beat its hearty texture and woodsy rosemary notes. Drizzle with good olive oil and flaky sea salt before baking or serving.
10. Sauteed Spinach
Iron-rich spinach sautéed in olive oil with garlic and lemon gives this dinner a good dose of greens. Wilt baby spinach leaves just until softened but still vibrant green. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or pomegranate arils for sweet crunch.
11. Tomato, Cucumber, and Feta Salad
A Greek salad of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and creamy feta cheese makes a refreshing accompaniment. Toss with red onion, Kalamata olives, and a red wine vinaigrette. The briny olives enhance the chicken’s flavor.
12. Broccoli Slaw
For something lighter, try broccoli slaw tossed in a sweet poppyseed dressing. The shreds of raw broccoli stem provide a nice crunch. Toss in shredded carrots, cabbage, and raisins for more vibrant color and sweetness.
13. Creamy Coleslaw
Cool, creamy coleslaw is a tailgate favorite for good reason. Shredded cabbage and carrots are bathed in a creamy mayo-based dressing and accented with celery seed. The crisp, tangy slaw cuts through the richness beautifully.
14. Buttery Cauliflower Mash
For a lighter take on mashed potatoes, try mashed cauliflower. When blended with butter and cream, cauliflower transforms into a smooth, creamy mash. Boost flavor by mixing in roasted garlic or chives. Top with crispy fried leeks.
15. Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
And finally, don’t forget more broccoli! Roasted florets caramelized with olive oil, salt, and pepper are irresistible. Shower with shaved Parmesan before serving so the cheese melts slightly. The extra broccoli bulks up this meal.
With so many options, from crunchy breads to flavorful roasted veggies, you’re sure to find the perfect side to complement your chicken and broccoli. Varying textures and flavors prevents palette fatigue so you can enjoy this tasty combo to the fullest.
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 |
9 – Buttered Corn on the Cob
Who here loves corn on the cob? We sure do. Buttered corn on the cob is the epitome of summer.
Ingredients are simple: corn, butter, salt, and pepper. The flavor is sweet and buttery. We grill it for that perfect char.
Our top tip: roll the corn in a mix of melted butter and spices. It’s a straightforward treat that never gets old.
Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry | Chicken stir fry with vegetable
FAQ
What is a good side dish for chicken and broccoli?
Top 14 Side Dishes for Chicken and BroccoliSide DishMain IngredientsTimeRoasted Red PotatoesRed potatoes, rosemary, olive oil40 minSpinach and Feta Stuffed PeppersBell peppers, spinach, feta cheese35 minOrzo with Lemon and DillOrzo, lemon, dill20 minGrilled ZucchiniZucchini, olive oil, garlic15 min.
What to serve with chicken and broccoli bake for dinner?
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. You can also make a side dish of white rice, brown rice, quinoa, noodles, or anything else your family wants. I often do both to suit my whole household.
What sides go with chicken broccoli and rice casserole?
- Glazed Carrots.
- Easy Cooked Vegetables.
- Garlic Green Beans.
- Grilled Veggie Kabobs.
- Green Bean Salad.
What to serve with Broccoli & chicken pasta?
Broccoli and chicken pasta is best served as an entree for lunch or dinner. Here are some of my favorite side dishes to serve it with: Spicy chicken pasta: Add extra red pepper flakes, or diced fresh chili. You can also garnish the dish with red pepper flakes on top. High protein: Use high protein pasta, like chickpea pasta.
What side dishes go with chicken?
And boy are there are ton of options! Here, you’ll find the perfect sides to pair with chicken. Try one of our vegetable side dishes that include roasted carrots, asparagus, or potatoes in every form. Make hearty casseroles like the yellow squash casserole or try the healthy chicken dinner with sweet potato wedges.
What to serve with chicken & broccoli casserole?
This chicken and broccoli casserole is made in a skillet on the stove and then finished in the oven until it’s bubbling, browned, and full of cheese. Serve it with a crunchy green salad and crusty bread or a glass of Chianti.
What sauce goes well with chicken and broccoli?
The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the chicken and broccoli. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes brings out the natural umami flavors of the chicken broth. Make sure to add enough shredded cheese and cream cheese, as it will take the sauce to the next level.
What makes a good chicken dinner?
But a good chicken dinner is more than just the wings, thighs, or breasts alone. It’s also about the side dishes for chicken that help to make the meal complete. And boy are there are ton of options! Here, you’ll find the perfect sides to pair with chicken.
What to eat with broccoli florets?
Broccoli soup and cheesy toast From the florets to the stem, it’s easy to turn broccoli into a warming winter soup. If you like it smooth, head to our broccoli soups with Stilton, cheddar or Gorgonzola toasts.