Smoked chicken is a delightful meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are having a family gathering, a weekend barbecue, or a simple dinner, smoked chicken is an excellent choice.
However, one question that always comes up when preparing a meal is what to serve with smoked chicken?
Fortunately, there are endless options when it comes to side dishes that go well with smoked chicken.
In this article, we have compiled a list of amazing side dishes that will take your smoked chicken dish to the next level.
Whether you are hosting for a friend or for your own, these sides, along with smoked salmon, will sure to please everyone. So, Let’s dig in.
What is smoked chicken? What does smoked chicken taste like?
Smoked chicken is a variety of chicken that has been cooked in a smoker, usually with the addition of wood-smoke flavoring.
The result is tender and juicy meat that has an intense smoky flavor. Smoked chicken tastes slightly sweet, salty, savory and smoky—it’s like no other kind of chicken!
The smoke enhances the natural flavor of the bird, and many people enjoy adding extra spices to enhance the flavor even further.
Best Sides to serve with smoked chicken
1. Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is an ideal side dish for smoked chicken. This tender and flavorful vegetable pairs well with the smoky flavor of the chicken.
Simply sprinkle some olive oil, salt, and pepper on asparagus, and grill them until they are tender yet slightly crispy.
2. Corn On The Cob
Corn on the cob is always a perfect crowd-pleaser. Grilled corn on the cob is even better.
This sweet and buttery side dish pairs perfectly with smoked chicken. Brush them with some olive oil and garlic, and grill them for a deliciously sweet and smoky taste.
Discover More: Best Side Dishes to Serve with Corn on the Cob
3. Baked Sweet Potatoes
Baked sweet potatoes are an appetizing and healthy side dish. They are easy to prepare and complement the savory flavor of smoked chicken well.
Bake the sweet potatoes in the oven until they are tender, and add some cinnamon and brown sugar for a sweeter taste.
4. Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey-glazed carrots are a flavorful and healthy side dish that pairs well with smoked chicken.
These carrots are roasted to perfection and have a sticky, sweet glaze that complements the smoked chicken nicely.
5. Caesar Salad
Lettuce and homemade Caesar dressing are classic and delicious side dish options for smoked chicken.
The crisp greens, salty cheese, and tangy dressing are a perfect complement to the smoky flavor of the chicken.
6. Red Beans and Rice
Red beans and rice are a staple side dish in many households, and they are a perfect match for smoked chicken.
The beans provide a savory and smoky flavor that will add depth to the smoked chicken’s flavor. Serve the red beans and rice alongside the smoked chicken for a wholesome and tasty meal.
7. Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese with smoked chicken is the ultimate comfort food. The creamy and cheesy pasta pairs well with the smoky, savory flavor of the chicken. Prepare macaroni and cheese as usual and serve it alongside the smoked chicken.
8. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is an ideal classic side dish that goes perfectly with smoked chicken.
This creamy and tangy side dish balances the richness of the smoked chicken. Add apple cider vinegar, honey, and mayonnaise for a flavorful coleslaw.
9. Grilled Corn Salad
Grilled corn salad is a unique side dish that pairs well with smoked chicken.
The combination of the corn’s smoky flavor, crunchy veggies, and tangy dressing is a perfect complement to the smoked chicken.
10. Caprese Salad
Caprese salad is a simple yet delicious side dish that can elevate any meal. The fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil complement the smoky flavor of the chicken perfectly.
Explore More: Complementary Dishes to Serve with Caprese Salad
11. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a flavorful and healthy side dish. The crispy texture and savory flavor of the veggies provide a nice balance to the smoked chicken.
Roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a delicious and nutritious side dish.
12. Grilled Zucchini
Grilled zucchini is an easy and delicious option for a side dish. This healthy vegetable pairs perfectly with smoked chicken.
Cut the zucchini lengthwise and grill them until they are tender and slightly charred.
13. Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
This cheesy broccoli casserole is a comforting and flavorful side dish that pairs well with smoked chicken.
The creamy and cheesy broccoli casserole is the perfect complement to the smoky flavor of the chicken.
14. Wedge Salad
Wedge salad with blue cheese dressing is a classic and delicious side dish. The crisp lettuce, creamy dressing, and tangy blue cheese provide a nice balance to the smoked chicken.
15. Creamed Spinach
Creamed Spinach is a rich and creamy side dish that goes perfectly with smoked chicken.
The creamy and cheesy Spinach brings out the smoky flavor of the chicken. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner.
16. Smoked Chicken Alfredo
A creamy alfredo sauce served over cooked fettuccine pasta is the perfect base for shredded smoked chicken. (Recipe)
Sprinkle on some Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor.
17. Smoked Chicken Enchiladas
Layer corn tortillas with a mixture of smoked chicken, cheese, black beans and green chiles before baking until golden brown in an enchilada sauce bath.
Top off your deliciously cheesy creation with dollops of sour cream and more freshly shredded cheese.
18. BBQ Smoked Chicken Pizza
BBQ Smoked Chicken Pizza is excellent to serve with smoked chicken.
Start by rolling out your favorite pizza dough and top it off with a rich barbecue sauce followed by chunks of smoked chicken, red onions and some mozzarella cheese for a truly delicious pizza pie you won’t forget anytime soon!
19. Smoked Chicken Salad
Create a light yet flavorful salad by combining cubed smoked chicken, diced tomatoes, black olives, red onions and feta cheese over a bed of romaine lettuce or spinach leaves.
Dress it up with some olive oil, balsamic vinegar, pesto or your favorite vinaigrette dressing for extra flavor.
20. Smoked Chicken Quesadillas
For an easy yet satisfying meal, fill two large flour tortillas with plenty of shredded mozzarella cheese along with diced tomatoes and chunks of smoked chicken before grilling until golden brown in a skillet or quesadilla presser for the perfect quesadilla experience!
21. Smoked Chicken Wraps
Make your own wraps at home by layering some parchment paper or foil with leafy greens such as Spinach or romaine lettuce; slices of tomato; strips of bell peppers; cubes of avocado; cooked bacon strips; and lastly, thin slices of smoked chicken for added protein! Roll up and enjoy!
22. Grilled Smoked Chicken Sandwich
Toast thick slices of French bread before piling them high with tender slices of smoked chicken breast, fresh lettuce leaves, thick slices of tomato, melted Swiss cheese and any other fixings you’d like to customize this mouth-watering sandwich just the way you like it!
Learn More: Delicious Sides to Serve with Fried Chicken Sandwich with sauce
23. Smoked Chicken Pasta Bake
Cook up your favorite variety of tubular pasta before tossing it together in a bowl with diced tomatoes, roasted garlic cloves, chunks of mozzarella cheese, plus lots of shredded smoked chicken before baking until bubbly hot in the oven – simply divine!
24. Thai Peanut Noodles
Simmer rice noodles in salty water until al dente; drain, then mix them together with cooked broccoli florets plus chopped green onions before adding generous spoonfuls of peanut butter sauce then topped off with julienne strips of smoky flavored meat – yum!
25. Smokey Spinach Dip
Combine softened cream cheese plus mayonnaise together in a food processor both smooth consistencies, then fold into a mixture of finely chopped canned Spinach plus lots of diced smoky flavored meat – serve chilled which crispy crackers, chips, veggies dipping pleasure all around!
26. Caribbean Jerk Rice Bowls
Cook white long grain rice according to instructions on the package, then stir together sautéed sliced onion plus bell peppers; sweet pineapple chunks plus plenty of spicy jerk seasoning powder (try using homemade rub basis).
Top each portion with steaming grains of smoky flavored meat cubes big time flavor bang every bite!
27. Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon &Smokey Flavored Meat
Cook peeled potatoes in a stockpot with the garlic, bay leaves, and thyme until they are tender.
Potatoes are mashed, then heavy cream, cayenne pepper, and crumbled bacon are added. Enjoy meaty, smoky flavors in creamy potato soup.
28. Grilled Peach Salad with Candied Pecans & Smokey Flavored Meat Slivers
Top crisp bed spring mix greens freshly grilled peach halves candied pecan halves generous sprinkle crumbled goat cheese big slivers tasty smoky flavored meat goodness.
Drizzle honey mustard vinaigrette dressing perfect refreshing summertime salad great way to get your daily dose of fresh vegetable protein yumminess!
29. Smoked Chicken & Quinoa Burrito Bowls
Balance out delicious burrito bowls of quinoa cooked according to instructions package mix together black beans, fresh corn kernels generous scoop of smoky flavored meat.
Top shredded lettuce, favorite salsa, crunchy tortilla chips, spoonful sour cream guacamole, creamy delight sure please any hungry stomach anytime, day or night!
What are the best flavors to go with smoked chicken?
Smoked chicken is incredibly versatile and can be enhanced by a variety of flavors. For the most authentic flavor, it is best to stick with robust spices and seasonings.
Some classic favorites that pair well with smoked chicken are cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and rosemary.
Sweet flavors also work well with smoked chicken; consider adding a hint of brown sugar to the seasoning blend for an extra layer of flavor.
For an extra kick of heat, try some cayenne pepper or jalapeno peppers. If you’re looking for a sweeter option, try adding some maple syrup or honey to the mix.
No matter what flavors you choose to combine with your smoked chicken dish, make sure, they are all balanced in order to get the most out of each ingredient’s individual flavor profile.
How do you jazz up smoked chicken?
To jazz up smoked chicken, you can add a variety of herbs and spices to give it an extra kick.
Adding garlic powder or onion powder, as well as chili powder, cumin, paprika and oregano, will give your smoked chicken a smoky and zesty flavor.
You can also top it with salsa or barbeque sauce to add even more flavor. For added crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts or breadcrumbs for texture. Enjoy!
How do you display smoked chicken on a platter?
Smoked chicken can be displayed on a platter in an aesthetically pleasing and inviting way.
Begin by arranging the chicken pieces around the edges of the platter, alternating between dark and light meat pieces.
If desired, sprinkle fresh herbs or citrus zest over the top for added flavor. Additionally, you can place vegetables such as carrots, celery, cherry tomatoes or bell peppers on the plate to add color and texture.
For extra elegance, arrange edible flowers or sprigs of rosemary in between the chicken pieces.
Once everything is arranged to your liking, drizzle olive oil over all of the ingredients to tie them together and give them a glossy look.
Finally, garnish with freshly cracked black pepper or grated Parmesan cheese for an eye-catching finish.
Find Out More: Perfect Side Dishes to Complement Orange Chicken
5 Best Sauces for Smoked Chicken
Smoked chicken is a delicious meal that can be combined with any number of sauces to enhance the flavor. Here are the top 5 best sauces to pair with your smoked chicken:
1. Barbecue sauce
Barbecue sauce is a classic sauce that adds a smoky-sweet flavor to smoked chicken and is a great way to liven up your dish.
It goes well with many side dishes, so you can mix and match flavors as desired.
2. Teriyaki sauce
Teriyaki sauce is a Japanese-style sauce that has a sweet and salty flavor that provides a punch of umami to the dish.
It pairs well with steamed vegetables, grilled pineapple, or even mashed potatoes for an Asian-inspired dinner.
3. Honey mustard
Who doesn’t love classic honey mustard? The combination of tart mustard and sweet honey makes for an excellent accompaniment to smoked chicken, especially when served over a bed of greens or roasted vegetables.
4. Hot sauce
Spicy food lovers rejoice! Hot sauce is perfect for adding heat to your meal without overpowering the natural smoky flavor of the chicken. Try combining it with avocado slices, sour cream, or cilantro for extra zestiness!
5. Pesto
If you’re looking for something more on the herbaceous side, then try pesto on your smoked chicken!
The combination of basil, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan creates an indulgent experience all on its own; you won’t want to share it!
Explore More: The Perfect Side Dishes To Serve With BBQ Shrimp
7 best recipes using smoked chicken
Smoked chicken is a delicious way to add flavor and texture to your favorite recipes. Whether it’s used as the main ingredient or as an accent, smoked chicken is sure to make any dish more enjoyable. Here are seven of the best recipes that use this versatile protein:
1. Smoked Chicken Mac and Cheese
All the creamy comfort of macaroni and cheese with the added smokiness of smoked chicken. This dish is sure to become a family favorite!
2. Smoked Chicken Quesadillas
For a quick and easy weeknight dinner, look no further than these delectable quesadillas made with smoked chicken, melted cheese, and fresh vegetables.
3. Smoked Chicken Salad
Perfect for summertime lunches, this salad combines smoked chicken, crisp lettuce, diced tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet corn kernels, and crumbled feta cheese in a flavorful dressing.
4. Smoky Chicken Enchiladas
Spice up your next taco night with enchiladas filled with smoked chicken and drizzled with tangy enchilada sauce.
5. Barbecue Smoked Chicken Pizza
Take pizza night up a notch by topping your favorite crust with barbecue sauce, smoked chicken pieces, caramelized red onions, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Smoked Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
This rich and creamy casserole is packed with tender pasta shells smothered in Alfredo sauce and topped with layers of smoked chicken slices for added flavor and texture.
7. Coconut-Curry Soup With Smoked Chicken
Add some depth to regular soup night by making this aromatic coconut-curry soup infused with flavors like garlic, ginger, turmeric, curry powder, cilantro leaves, lime juice and spicy Thai chilies – all finished off nicely with tender chunks of smoked chicken breast for extra protein! (recipe)
Wrap Up on what to serve with smoked chicken
Smoked chicken is a versatile and delicious dish that pairs well with an endless variety of side dishes.
Whether you choose vegetables or a classic mac and cheese, the right side dishes will elevate the smoked chicken dish to the next level.
From sweet potatoes to grilled asparagus, there’s something on this list for everyone. Start planning your next meal and try some of these delicious sides to make your smoked chicken meal unforgettable.
FAQs
How much smoked chicken per person?
Smoked chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in many different ways.
Depending on the size of your gathering, you may need to calculate how much smoked chicken per person you should provide.
Generally speaking, it is recommended to allow for about 4-6 ounces of smoked chicken per person.
If your guests are larger eaters or if the meal will be a main course, you may want to plan for 8-12 ounces per person.
Consider the other dishes you are serving – if there are additional proteins, such as ham or turkey, then you may be able to get away with slightly less smoked chicken per person.
Additionally, if you are serving several side dishes such as salads and vegetables that provide more filling than a typical meat dish would, then again, you could potentially use slightly less smoked chicken per person.
In any case, it is important to make sure there is enough smoked chicken so that no one goes away hungry!
How do you keep smoked chicken moist?
To keep the smoked chicken moist, use a moisture-rich marinade and smoke the chicken at low temperatures. The longer it is cooked, the drier it will be.
Before smoking, you can also rub oil or butter over the surface of the chicken to help lock in moisture during cooking.
You can also add some extra liquid to your smoker for additional humidity, which helps keep smoked meat moist.
Finally, when serving smoked chicken, make sure to slice against its grain for extra tenderness and juicy bites!