Roast chicken is a classic dish that never goes out of style—whether it’s a simple weeknight meal or the centerpiece of a family gathering, it’s delicious, comforting flavors are universally loved. But while roast chicken can stand on its own, the right side dishes can take it to new heights, turning a good meal into a great meal. From hearty, comforting carbs to fresh, vibrant salads, the sides you choose can complement and enhance the flavors of the chicken, adding variety and balance to your plate.
Classic Comfort Sides
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite
Mashed potatoes are a classic, comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with roast chicken. Their creamy texture and rich flavor provide a perfect contrast to the savory, crispy skin and juicy meat of the chicken. To make the ideal mashed potatoes, start with starchy potatoes like russets or Yukon Golds, which give you that fluffy, light consistency.
After boiling the potatoes until they’re tender, mash them with generous amounts of butter, cream, or milk for that irresistible richness. For added depth of flavor, mix in fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme, which bring a subtle earthiness to the dish. A hint of garlic or a splash of olive oil can also elevate the taste without overpowering the potatoes’ natural goodness. Season with salt and pepper, and you’ll have a smooth, velvety side that soaks up the delicious juices from the roast chicken.
Light and Fresh Pairings
Herbed Quinoa Salad: A Light and Refreshing Pairing
To prepare this side, cook the quinoa until it’s light and fluffy. Once cooled, toss it with a medley of finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro and mint, which add brightness and earthiness to the dish. For added zing, squeeze fresh lemon juice and drizzle with olive oil to create a tangy and refreshing dressing that ties everything together. You can also add some thinly sliced cucumbers, tomatoes or avocados for added texture and flavor.
Hearty Carb Sides
Garlic Butter Garlic Butter Rice: Rich, Fluffy, and Full of Flavor
Garlic Butter Rice is a simple yet flavorful side that pairs perfectly with roast chicken, enhancing its savory, juicy qualities. The crunchy texture of the rice provides a comforting base, while the rich combination of garlic and butter gives the dish a deep, savory flavor that compliments the roast chicken beautifully.
To prepare, fry minced garlic in melted butter until fragrant and golden. Next, add the rice to the garlic butter and toast lightly to enhance its nutty flavor. Cooking the rice in a flavored broth instead of water adds an extra layer of flavor. As the rice absorbs the broth, it becomes fluffy, soft and full of all the delicious goodness. Once cooked, a final drizzle of melted butter ensures a rich, velvety finish, while a sprinkling of fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme adds brightness.
Sauces and Gravies
Classic Gravy: Rich and Flavorful, Straight from the Pan
Classic chicken gravy is the perfect finishing touch to a roast chicken meal, adding a rich, savory flavor that ties all the elements together. This simple yet flavorful gravy is made using the delicious pan drippings left over from roasting chicken, capturing the essence of chicken juices, herbs and spices. Harnessing the natural flavors from the roasting process, gravy enhances and complements roast chicken without overpowering it.
To make this classic gravy, start by collecting the pan drippings after roasting the chicken. These drippings are packed with the concentrated flavors of chicken fat, herbs and any herbs or vegetables roasted with it. After skimming off the fat, stir in a little flour over medium heat to make a roux, which will thicken the gravy. Gradually add chicken broth or stock while stirring, ensuring a smooth, lump-free consistency.
As the gravy thickens, it transforms into a velvety, rich sauce with deep, savory notes that reflect the flavors of the roast chicken. Season with salt, pepper and fresh herbs to bring out its full potential. Gravy can be poured over chicken, mashed potatoes, or even vegetables, adding moisture to the meal and a luxurious, comforting finish.
Healthy Vegetable Sides
Steamed Broccoli with Lemon Zest: Light, Fresh, and Nutritious
Steamed broccoli with lemon zest is a simple yet flavorful side that brings a fresh, vibrant balance to the richness of roast chicken. This dish offers a light and nutritious option, making it a great compliment to a heavy, hearty dish like roast chicken. The bright, tangy lemon enhances the natural flavor of the broccoli while giving the dish a healthy and refreshing finish.
To prepare this side, steam the broccoli until it is tender and crisp, retaining its bright green color and crunch. Overcooking can make broccoli soggy and bitter, so you want to keep it fresh and vibrant. After the broccoli is cooked, toss it with a little olive oil or melted butter. The key ingredient in this dish is fresh lemon zest, which is grated over the broccoli to give it a lively citrus flavor.
Grain and Pasta Pairings
Wild Rice Pilaf: A Nutty, Flavorful Side with a Twist
Wild rice pilaf is a unique and flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with roast chicken, offering a satisfying combination of textures and flavors. Unlike conventional rice, wild rice has a nutty, slightly chewy texture that adds depth to the meal. When combined with ingredients like dried cranberries, pecans and fresh herbs, this dish becomes a vibrant, deliciously sweet accompaniment to the rich, savory flavors of roast chicken.
To prepare this dish, start by cooking wild rice in a flavorful broth, such as chicken or vegetable stock, to add savory undertones. Wild rice takes longer to cook than regular rice, but the result is worth it – its distinct nutty flavor and hearty texture make it stand out. Once the rice is tender, mix in the dried cranberries for a burst of sweetness that contrasts with the earthiness of the rice. Cranberries also add a subtle tartness, balancing the savory elements of the meal.
For extra crunch, toss in toasted pecans, which complement the nutty flavor of the wild rice and bring a delightful texture to the dish. Finally, stir in fresh herbs like parsley, thyme or sage to brighten up the pilaf and add an aromatic layer of flavor.
Conclusion
Roast chicken is a beloved dish, and the right side can turn it into an extraordinary meal. Whether you prefer the creamy comfort of mashed potatoes, the light and refreshing richness of herbed quinoa salad, or the nutty complexity of wild rice pilaf, these sides offer something for every palate. From rich and hearty to light and nutritious, each pairing enhances the flavors and textures of roast chicken, making for a perfect and memorable dining experience.