What To Serve With Chicken Thighs? 16 BEST Side Dishes - Corrie Cooks (2024)

Chicken thighs, those succulent, flavorful pieces of poultry, are an absolute favorite in my kitchen. Their rich taste and tender texture make them a versatile star of many a dinner plate.

Yet, the right side dish can elevate them to new heights, enhancing their innate deliciousness.

Let's explore 16 delicious dishes that pair exquisitely with chicken thighs.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with chicken thighs are green beans, French fries, Spanish rice, carrots and potatoes, mashed sweet potatoes, onion rings, cannellini beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, couscous salad, buttermilk biscuits, creamed spinach, quinoa, roasted beet salad, cornbread, and grilled zucchini.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Green Beans

Green beans, when lightly sautéed with a hint of garlic and a drizzle of olive oil, make an exceptional side for chicken thighs. Their verdant freshness, crisp texture, and subtle sweetness provide a welcome contrast to the succulent, savory nature of the chicken. Adding toasted slivered almonds or a dusting of finely grated parmesan can further enhance their appeal, giving an added depth of flavor and a pleasing crunch.

2. French Fries

You can never go wrong with a side of perfectly cooked French fries. Their golden, crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior make them an irresistible accompaniment to chicken thighs. The salty, savory flavor of the fries perfectly complements the richness of the chicken, providing a simple yet delicious combination. For an extra twist, consider serving them with a side of spicy mayo or a tangy barbecue sauce.

3. Spanish Rice

Spanish rice is a hearty, robust side dish that pairs beautifully with chicken thighs. Its vibrant blend of flavors, deriving from tomatoes, bell peppers, and a mix of spices, offers a colorful and appetizing contrast to the succulent chicken. Spanish rice absorbs the chicken juices wonderfully, making every bite a delightful explosion of flavors.

4. Carrots and Potatoes

A mix of roasted carrots and potatoes is a fantastic choice to serve with chicken thighs. The sweetness of the carrots, intensified by roasting, pairs splendidly with the earthy, comforting flavor of the potatoes. Both of these elements work together to balance the savory nature of the chicken, creating a harmonious and filling meal.

5. Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Mashed sweet potatoes, with their creamy texture and inherent sweetness, make a great side dish for chicken thighs. Their sweet notes offer an exciting contrast to the savory chicken, while the creamy texture mirrors the chicken's tenderness. A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can further enhance the sweet potatoes, adding a subtle warmth and complexity.

6. Onion Rings

Crispy, golden onion rings make a fantastic partner for chicken thighs. Their crunchy exterior encases a sweet, tender interior, providing a delightful contrast to the juicy chicken. Onion rings add a fun element to the meal and can be even more enjoyable when served with a side of tangy ketchup or a creamy aioli.

7. Cannellini Beans

Cannellini beans, when gently simmered with herbs and garlic, make a flavorful and nutritious side dish that goes well with chicken thighs. The beans' creamy texture and mild, nutty flavor complement the juicy, savory chicken perfectly. This combo is not only satisfying but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a wholesome choice.

8. Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus makes a lovely, elegant companion to chicken thighs. The asparagus stalks, when grilled, develop a smoky flavor and a slightly crisp exterior that contrasts well with their tender interior. Lightly seasoned with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon, they offer a delightful freshness that cuts through the richness of the chicken. To turn up the flavor notch, you could finish them off with a sprinkle of parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic reduction.

9. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a delightful accompaniment to chicken thighs. When roasted, these little gems caramelize and sweeten, offering a wonderful contrast to the savory chicken. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can add a tangy note that elevates this pairing to a whole new level.

10. Couscous Salad

A bright and fresh couscous salad is a wonderful partner for chicken thighs. With an assortment of vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing, it brings a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, tender chicken. Plus, it's a great way to add some colorful veggies to your plate.

11. Buttermilk Biscuits

Buttermilk biscuits, with their flaky layers and buttery goodness, are a perfect match for chicken thighs. They can soak up the chicken's delicious juices, enhancing their already wonderful flavor. And who could resist the comfort of a warm biscuit on the side?

12. Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach, with its silky texture and rich, cheesy flavor, makes a luxurious companion to chicken thighs. The spinach's creaminess complements the succulent chicken, adding a layer of comfort to the meal that's hard to resist.

13. Quinoa

Quinoa, cooked in chicken broth and tossed with a medley of herbs, provides a healthy and delicious side for chicken thighs. This protein-packed grain has a slightly nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken, making for a balanced, nutritious meal.

14. Roasted Beet Salad

A roasted beet salad is a vibrant side dish that goes well with chicken thighs. The earthy sweetness of the beets, combined with peppery arugula and tangy goat cheese, offers a great contrast to the savory chicken. A drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette ties it all together.

15. Cornbread

A slice of warm cornbread makes a homey and delicious partner for chicken thighs. The cornbread's slight sweetness and moist texture pair perfectly with the savory chicken, creating a comforting, soul-satisfying meal.

16. Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini, with its slightly smoky flavor and tender-crisp texture, adds a wonderful touch to a plate of chicken thighs. The zucchini's mild flavor and appealing grill marks make it a versatile and tasty accompaniment to the rich chicken.

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