When it comes to serving up a plate of crispy, flavorful chicken wings, the real challenge often lies in choosing the perfect side dish to complement them.
What side dish goes with chicken wings isn’t just a casual question—it’s a culinary dilemma that can make or break your meal.
Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a summer barbecue, or just indulging in a cozy night in, the sides you choose are just as crucial as the wings themselves.
Each bite should offer a balance, a harmony that enhances the wings rather than competing with them.
In this article, we’re diving deep into the art of side dishes, from the classic to the unexpected, to ensure that your wings are always served with the perfect accompaniments.
By the end, you’ll have a repertoire of side dish ideas that will elevate your wing game to the next level, leaving everyone at the table satisfied and craving more.
What Side Dish Goes with Chicken Wings
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Texture | Best Paired With | Serving Suggestion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| French Fries | Salty, Savory | Crispy | BBQ Wings | Serve hot with ketchup |
| Coleslaw | Tangy, Creamy | Crunchy | Spicy Wings | Chill before serving |
| Macaroni and Cheese | Rich, Cheesy | Creamy | Classic Wings | Add breadcrumbs for crunch |
| Garlic Bread | Buttery, Garlicky | Soft, Crispy edges | Hot Wings | Serve warm with butter |
| Green Salad | Fresh, Light | Crisp | Any Wing Flavor | Drizzle with vinaigrette |
Exploring Classic Dipping Sauces
Ah, dipping sauces. They are the unsung heroes of the chicken wing experience. You can have the crispiest, most flavorful wings, but without the right sauce, something crucial is missing. And when you’re trying to figure out what side dish goes with chicken wings, the dipping sauce is a natural part of that conversation. Let’s dive into some classic sauces that take wings from ordinary to extraordinary.
Ranch Dressing: The Creamy Dream
Ranch dressing is like that reliable friend who’s always there when you need them. It’s creamy, cool, and it balances out the heat of spicy wings like nothing else. The tangy notes of buttermilk and herbs just dance on your tongue. When that wing is too hot to handle, a dip in ranch dressing soothes the burn and makes the next bite even more satisfying.
And let’s not forget, ranch isn’t just for dipping. Drizzle it on a Caesar salad or use it as a dipping sauce for French fries. Heck, it’s even perfect with onion rings or potato wedges. It’s versatile, comforting, and a must-have on the wing platter.
Blue Cheese Dressing: The Bold and the Beautiful
Blue cheese dressing is for the adventurous. It’s bold, it’s strong, and it pairs beautifully with the robust flavors of Buffalo wings. The sharp, pungent taste of blue cheese might not be for everyone, but if you’re a fan, there’s no going back. It’s the kind of dressing that clings to the wing, delivering a punch of flavor with every bite.
Serve it with celery sticks and carrot sticks to add a crisp, fresh contrast. The crunch of the vegetables combined with the richness of blue cheese creates a symphony of textures that elevate the entire wing experience.
BBQ Sauce: Sweet, Tangy, and Everything in Between
BBQ sauce is the wild card. Whether you like it sweet, smoky, tangy, or a combination of all three, it’s a classic companion to wings. Especially when you’re dealing with BBQ chicken wings, the sauce becomes an integral part of the flavor profile. Slather it on, dip your wings in it, or drizzle it over corn on the cob—BBQ sauce never disappoints.
Pair your wings with macaroni and cheese or baked beans for that down-home comfort food vibe. The sweetness of the sauce complements the creamy, cheesy goodness, making each bite a rich and indulgent experience.
Hot Sauce: For the Heat Seekers
For those who live on the edge, hot sauce is the go-to. It’s fiery, it’s fierce, and it’s not for the faint-hearted. Whether you’re using it as a dip or dousing your wings in it, hot sauce delivers an intense kick that can only be matched by an ice-cold drink.
Hot sauce is best served with something that can cool you down—think sweet potato fries or a simple green salad. The sweetness from the fries or the refreshing crunch of the salad helps to temper the heat, giving you a balanced bite every time.
Garlic Butter: The Indulgent Delight
When you want something rich and decadent, garlic butter is the answer. It’s smooth, it’s buttery, and it’s infused with the aromatic essence of garlic. Dip your wings in, and suddenly, it’s a whole new experience. The garlic butter clings to the wings, adding a layer of savory goodness that’s simply irresistible.
This sauce pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or even mashed potatoes. It’s indulgence on a plate, perfect for when you’re in the mood to treat yourself.
Honey Mustard: The Sweet and Tangy Twist
Honey mustard brings together the sweetness of honey and the tang of mustard in a way that’s just magic. It’s a lighter, more playful dipping sauce, perfect for those who prefer their wings with a bit of zing but without the intense heat.
This sauce shines when paired with cornbread or a pasta salad. The sweet and tangy notes of honey mustard bring out the best in these sides, creating a meal that’s as harmonious as it is delicious.
Pitfalls to Avoid: Overpowering Flavors
While classic dipping sauces can elevate your wings, it’s essential to avoid overpowering flavors. Sometimes, a sauce can steal the show when it should complement the wings instead. For example, if you’re serving spicy wings, pairing them with a super-spicy sauce like extra-hot hot sauce might overwhelm the palate. Instead, balance it out with something cool and refreshing like ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing.
It’s all about harmony on the plate. Each sauce should enhance, not overshadow, the flavors of the wings and the sides.
Bread-Based Sides for Chicken Wings
Ah, bread. It’s the backbone of comfort food, the unsung hero that soaks up all those delicious juices and sauces from your chicken wings. When you’re deciding what side dish goes with chicken wings, you can’t overlook the power of a well-chosen bread-based side. Let’s dig into the options that not only complement but elevate the wing experience.
Garlic Bread: The Flavored Foundation
Garlic bread. It’s a classic, isn’t it? The way the buttery, garlicky goodness seeps into the crevices of the bread, giving each bite a burst of flavor that perfectly balances out the spiciness of the wings. It’s indulgent, sure, but that’s exactly why it works. You’ve got the crispy wings on one side, and on the other, this warm, soft bread that practically melts in your mouth.
Garlic bread is especially perfect when you’ve got a more saucy wing, like those slathered in BBQ sauce or dripping with hot sauce. It catches all those stray bits of sauce, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Cornbread: Sweet Meets Savory
Then there’s cornbread. Sweet, crumbly, and just a little bit buttery, it’s the ideal contrast to the bold flavors of your wings. Cornbread is that side dish that brings a bit of Southern charm to the table, making everything feel just a bit more special.
Cornbread has a slight sweetness that plays beautifully against the heat of Buffalo wings or the smoky richness of BBQ chicken wings. You can serve it warm, with a pat of butter melting on top, or even go wild with a drizzle of honey to enhance the sweetness.
Biscuits: Fluffy Perfection
Biscuits, oh those fluffy, flaky wonders. Whether you go for a classic buttermilk biscuit or something a little more adventurous, like a cheddar biscuit, these little guys bring the comfort in comfort food. They’re soft, buttery, and they soak up every last drop of whatever sauce you’ve got going.
Biscuits are like the all-purpose sidekick. They work with anything—spicy wings, crispy wings, even deep-fried ones. They don’t overshadow the main event; they complement it, making sure every bite is just as satisfying as the last.
Pitfalls to Avoid: Soggy Bread
But here’s the thing—bread-based sides can be tricky. The last thing you want is soggy bread. Whether it’s garlic bread, cornbread, or biscuits, keep them warm and serve them fresh. Letting bread sit out too long, especially when there’s moisture in the air from the wings or sauces, can lead to a sad, mushy mess. And nobody wants that.
Serve it hot, serve it fast, and let the bread do its job: being the perfect partner to your chicken wings.
Vegetable-Based Sides
When it comes to balancing out the richness of chicken wings, there’s nothing quite like a good vegetable-based side. I mean, wings are already indulgent, crispy, and sometimes downright decadent—so pairing them with something fresh, crunchy, or even a bit tangy? It’s like hitting the reset button on your palate, making every bite of those wings taste as good as the first.
Coleslaw: The Crisp and Creamy Contrast
Coleslaw is a classic. It’s the cool, creamy sidekick that always comes through in a pinch. The way the cabbage crunches in your mouth, mixed with the tangy, slightly sweet dressing, it’s a refreshing contrast to the heat of spicy wings. Whether you’re into a classic slaw with mayonnaise or a vinegar-based slaw for that extra zing, it’s all about that crispness that cuts through the richness of the wings.
And let’s not forget the way coleslaw pairs with BBQ chicken wings. That smoky, sticky sauce combined with the coolness of the slaw is just… perfection. It’s like a little summer BBQ on your plate, no matter the season.
Celery and Carrot Sticks: The Crunch You Crave
Ah, the unsung heroes of the wing platter—celery sticks and carrot sticks. They’re simple, yes, but they’re also essential. There’s something about that crisp, clean bite that balances out the savory, sometimes fiery flavors of the wings.
And let’s be real—these veggies aren’t just there for decoration. When you’ve got a wing that’s slathered in hot sauce or dipped in blue cheese dressing, a bite of celery or carrot is like a refreshing palate cleanser. It gives your taste buds a moment to breathe before diving back into the flavor fest.
Plus, if you’re wondering what side dish goes with chicken wings and you’re looking to keep things a bit lighter, you can’t go wrong with these crunchy veggies. They add texture, they’re easy to snack on, and they make you feel like you’re balancing out all that indulgence… even if just a little.
Green Salad: The Fresh Factor
Now, I know what you’re thinking. Salad? With wings? But trust me, it works. A green salad—think crisp lettuce, maybe some peppery arugula, a handful of cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette—adds a fresh, zesty note to your wing spread. It’s the kind of side that makes you feel good about going back for that extra wing… or three.
A simple Caesar salad works too, especially when the wings are on the milder side. The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons bring a richness that mirrors the wings, but the greens keep everything feeling balanced and bright.
Grilled Vegetables: The Smoky Twist
Let’s talk about grilled vegetables for a second. Corn on the cob, zucchini, bell peppers, maybe even some grilled onions—these are the sides that add a smoky depth that plays beautifully with wings. Especially if you’re working with grilled or BBQ wings, the charred edges and caramelized flavors of the vegetables create a symphony of smoky, sweet, and savory notes on your plate.
The best part? Grilled veggies are as versatile as they come. You can season them with just a little salt and pepper, or go wild with herbs and spices. Either way, they bring a satisfying heartiness to the meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome at the same time.
Pitfalls to Avoid: Overpowering Flavors
But here’s where you need to tread carefully—vegetable-based sides should complement the wings, not compete with them. It’s all about balance. If you’re going heavy on the spices or dressing, you risk overshadowing the main event. Keep the flavors bright and fresh, letting the natural taste of the vegetables shine through. You want the veggies to enhance the experience, not steal the show.
Potatoes and Root Vegetables
When it comes to pairing wings with a side, potatoes and root vegetables are like the heavyweights of the culinary world. They’ve got that hearty, earthy vibe that makes you feel grounded, satisfied, like you’re truly indulging in something worthwhile. And honestly, when you’re digging into a plate of wings, there’s nothing better than having something starchy and substantial to round out the experience.
French Fries: The Crispy Companion
Let’s start with the classic—French fries. Crispy, golden, and just the right amount of salty. They’re the perfect sidekick to wings, offering that satisfying crunch that contrasts so well with the tender meat. Whether you’re dipping them in ranch dressing, slathering them in BBQ sauce, or just enjoying them plain, fries bring a kind of comfort that’s hard to beat.
And let’s be real—when you’re thinking about what side dish goes with chicken wings, fries are probably the first thing that comes to mind. They’re familiar, they’re loved by everyone, and they’ve got that universal appeal. But don’t just settle for regular fries—consider sweet potato fries if you’re in the mood for something with a touch of sweetness to offset the savory wings.
Mashed Potatoes: The Creamy Comfort
Now, if you’re looking for something that feels like a warm hug on a plate, mashed potatoes are where it’s at. Creamy, buttery, and oh-so-smooth, they’re the kind of side that makes you slow down and savor every bite. They work especially well with wings that have a bit of spice, like Buffalo wings or hot sauce-drenched wings, because the creaminess helps cool things down a bit.
And here’s the thing—mashed potatoes aren’t just a side; they’re an experience. Maybe you mix in some garlic, maybe a bit of cheese, or even a touch of sour cream. The variations are endless, and each one brings its own unique twist to the table. They’re the kind of side that’s versatile enough to pair with anything but has enough character to stand on its own.
Potato Wedges: The Chunky Alternative
If fries are a little too light and mashed potatoes a little too soft, potato wedges strike that perfect balance. They’re chunky, they’ve got those crispy edges, and they’re seasoned to perfection. Wedges bring a little more heft to the table, making each bite feel like you’re really sinking your teeth into something.
Wedges are great because they’ve got the surface area to hold onto all sorts of seasonings. Whether you’re going for something simple with just salt and pepper or getting adventurous with paprika, garlic powder, or even a bit of parmesan, wedges give you that satisfying crunch and fluffiness in one.
Sweet Potatoes: The Sweet and Savory Twist
Now, let’s not forget about sweet potatoes. They’ve got that natural sweetness that pairs surprisingly well with the savory flavors of wings. Whether you’re roasting them until they caramelize just right or frying them up into crispy sweet potato fries, they add a whole new dimension to the meal.
Sweet potatoes are particularly good with spicy wings—the sweetness tempers the heat, creating a balanced bite that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, they’re a bit more nutrient-dense, so you get to feel like you’re making a slightly healthier choice, even when indulging in wings.
Root Vegetables: The Earthy Underdogs
But what if you want to venture beyond the potato? That’s where root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and beets come into play. Roasted root vegetables have this amazing ability to develop deep, rich flavors that are slightly sweet, slightly savory, and wholly satisfying.
Roast them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and maybe some rosemary or thyme, and you’ve got a side that’s hearty enough to hold its own against the bold flavors of wings. The caramelization that happens in the oven brings out their natural sugars, making each bite a little celebration of flavor.
Pitfalls to Avoid: Overloading on Starch
But here’s where you need to be careful—balance is key. It’s easy to go overboard with starchy sides, especially when you’re pairing them with something as rich as wings. Too many heavy sides can leave you feeling weighed down. So, while potatoes and root vegetables are fantastic, make sure to pair them with something lighter, like a green salad or celery sticks, to keep things from getting too overwhelming.
Pasta and Rice Dishes
There’s something deeply satisfying about pairing wings with a solid pasta or rice dish. It’s that hearty, comfort food vibe that turns a simple meal into something that sticks with you, in the best possible way. When you’re contemplating what side dish goes with chicken wings, pasta and rice just make sense—they soak up sauces, they’re versatile, and they add that substantial bite that rounds out the meal perfectly.
Macaroni and Cheese: The Creamy Classic
Mac and cheese, where do I even begin? It’s the epitome of comfort food, creamy and indulgent with that irresistible cheesy goodness. The way the cheese clings to each piece of pasta, creating this velvety texture that contrasts so beautifully with the crispy, spicy wings. It’s the kind of side that doesn’t just sit quietly next to the wings—it joins the party.
And it’s versatile, too. You can keep it classic with cheddar, or mix it up with something sharper like gruyère or a bit of smoked gouda. Maybe even throw in some bacon for an extra layer of flavor that ties in with the smoky notes of BBQ chicken wings. Mac and cheese is the kind of dish that complements without competing, offering a rich, creamy respite between bites of those fiery wings.
Pasta Salad: The Chilled Counterpoint
Now, let’s talk pasta salad. It’s a bit of a wildcard, isn’t it? Served cold, it’s refreshing, light, and a fantastic counterbalance to the heat of the wings. A good pasta salad isn’t just about the pasta—it’s about the mix-ins. Think cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, maybe some olives, all tossed in a zesty vinaigrette. The acid from the dressing cuts through the richness of the wings, making each bite a little burst of brightness.
And the best part? Pasta salad is endlessly customizable. Want something creamy? Go with a mayonnaise-based dressing. Looking for a Mediterranean twist? Throw in some feta and olives, maybe a few herbs like oregano or basil. It’s a dish that can adapt to whatever flavor profile you’re working with, which makes it an ideal side for wings.
Fried Rice: The Flavorful Fusion
Then there’s fried rice. It’s got that savory, umami-rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the boldness of wings. Whether you’re making a simple egg fried rice or going all out with bits of bacon, peas, and scallions, fried rice brings a whole new level of satisfaction to the table.
What I love about fried rice is its ability to play well with others. It can stand up to the heat of spicy wings, absorb the tang of hot sauce, and complement the sweetness of BBQ sauce all at once. It’s that perfect middle ground—filling, flavorful, but never overpowering. Plus, the little bits of crispy rice that form at the bottom of the pan? Pure gold.
Risotto: The Creamy Indulgence
Now, let’s get a bit fancy with risotto. Creamy, rich, and endlessly satisfying, risotto is like the more sophisticated cousin of mac and cheese. The way it slowly absorbs broth, becoming this luscious, silky dish, makes it an elegant counterpoint to the more rugged wings.
Risotto can be a blank canvas—infuse it with parmesan and a bit of lemon zest for brightness, or take it in a more earthy direction with mushrooms and truffle oil. Either way, it’s a side that adds a touch of luxury to your wing experience, turning a casual meal into something special.
Pitfalls to Avoid: Overly Heavy Sides
But here’s where things can get tricky—pasta and rice dishes are hearty, and when paired with something as rich as wings, it’s easy to go overboard. The key is balance. Avoid making your sides too heavy or creamy, especially if the wings themselves are already on the rich side. You want the pasta or rice to complement the wings, not weigh everything down. Lighten things up with a touch of acid, some fresh herbs, or a bit of crunch to keep the meal from feeling too dense.
Appetizers as Side Dishes
There’s a certain magic in serving appetizers as side dishes with chicken wings. It’s like creating a feast within a feast—a spread where every bite, every nibble, has its own moment to shine. When you’re planning a meal and pondering what side dish goes with chicken wings, appetizers might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but let me tell you—they should be.
Mozzarella Sticks: The Cheesy Indulgence
Let’s start with mozzarella sticks. Gooey, melty cheese encased in a crispy breadcrumb shell—what’s not to love? These golden sticks of heaven are the ultimate sidekick to wings, especially when you’re dipping them in marinara sauce or even going wild with a bit of ranch dressing. The contrast between the molten cheese and the crispy coating, combined with the bold flavors of wings, is a match made in comfort food paradise.
Mozzarella sticks bring that rich, satisfying bite that just makes you want to keep going back for more. They’re indulgent, yes, but sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.
Onion Rings: The Crispy Crunch
Then there are onion rings. Oh, onion rings—their crispy exterior gives way to that sweet, tender onion inside, and it’s a game-changer. Whether you’re dipping them in BBQ sauce or enjoying them on their own, they add a layer of crunch that’s perfect alongside wings.
The beauty of onion rings lies in their simplicity. They don’t try to steal the spotlight; they just sit there quietly, doing their job of being the best darn crispy, crunchy side you could ask for. And when you pair them with something bold, like spicy wings, that contrast in textures and flavors is pure bliss.
Jalapeño Poppers: The Spicy Kick
If you’re a fan of heat, jalapeño poppers are the way to go. Stuffed with cream cheese, maybe a bit of cheddar, then breaded and fried to perfection, these little bites of joy bring that fiery kick that takes your wing experience to another level.
They’re bold, they’re spicy, and they’re a fantastic partner to Buffalo wings or any wing with a bit of heat. The creaminess of the filling cools things down just enough, while the jalapeño itself delivers that satisfying burn. It’s a rollercoaster of flavors in every bite, and honestly, who doesn’t love a good thrill?
Chips and Salsa: The Light and Fresh Option
For something a bit lighter, chips and salsa offer a fresh, vibrant contrast to the richness of wings. The crunch of the chips, paired with the tangy, zesty salsa, creates a refreshing bite that balances out the heaviness of the wings.
Whether you’re serving a classic tomato salsa or getting creative with something like a mango salsa, this appetizer-turned-side dish keeps things light and breezy, giving you a break from the intensity of the wings. It’s the kind of side that keeps the meal lively and engaging, adding bursts of fresh flavor that wake up your palate.
Pitfalls to Avoid: Overloading on Fried Foods
But here’s the thing—you’ve got to watch out for the temptation to overload on fried foods. When your main dish is wings, which are often fried or at least richly seasoned, pairing them with too many fried sides can leave you feeling weighed down. Balance is key. Mix in something lighter, like the chips and salsa, to keep the meal from tipping too far into the indulgent side of things.
Bean and Legume Dishes
Beans and legumes—now, this is where things get interesting. They bring a whole new level of depth and texture to the table, adding something hearty and satisfying that balances out the richness of chicken wings. When you’re asking yourself what side dish goes with chicken wings, don’t overlook the humble bean. They may seem simple, but in the right hands, they can steal the show.
Baked Beans: The Sweet and Savory Staple
Baked beans. They’re the unsung hero of the BBQ world, with their sweet, smoky flavor that perfectly complements the bold, spicy notes of wings. Slowly simmered with a touch of brown sugar, a dash of mustard, maybe even a splash of BBQ sauce, these beans develop a rich, deep flavor that pairs beautifully with BBQ chicken wings.
The sweetness of the baked beans offsets the heat, creating this wonderful contrast that makes every bite feel complete. It’s comfort food at its finest, warming you from the inside out with every spoonful.
Black Bean Salad: The Fresh and Zesty Option
Now, let’s talk black bean salad. This isn’t your typical side dish—it’s light, it’s zesty, and it’s bursting with flavor. Imagine black beans tossed with fresh corn, diced tomatoes, red onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. It’s like a fiesta in a bowl, with all those bright, vibrant flavors coming together in perfect harmony.
Black bean salad is the kind of dish that plays off the wings’ spiciness, adding a refreshing, cooling element that keeps things balanced. It’s especially good when you’re serving something fiery, like Buffalo wings, because it helps to cleanse the palate and keep you coming back for more.
Hummus: The Creamy, Nutty Delight
And then there’s hummus. You might not think of hummus right away when you’re considering sides for wings, but trust me—this creamy, nutty spread has a place at the table. Made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic, hummus brings a smooth, rich texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy, juicy wings.
Pair it with some carrot sticks or celery sticks for dipping, and you’ve got a side dish that’s both satisfying and a bit lighter on the palate. The subtle flavors of hummus won’t overpower the wings but will provide that perfect creamy complement.
Lentil Soup: The Hearty, Warming Bowl
Let’s not forget about lentils. A bowl of lentil soup might sound like an unusual pairing with wings, but think about it—a slow-cooked, hearty soup made with lentils, onions, carrots, and maybe a bit of cumin and coriander, simmered to perfection. It’s warm, it’s comforting, and it adds a depth of flavor that’s earthy and satisfying.
Lentil soup works particularly well if your wings are on the spicier side, as the mild, comforting flavors of the soup help to balance out the heat. Plus, it’s filling in a way that feels wholesome, without being overly heavy.
Pitfalls to Avoid: Overcomplicating Flavors
But here’s the thing—you don’t want to overcomplicate it. Beans and legumes have a natural, earthy flavor that doesn’t need a lot of embellishment. If you start adding too many spices or overly complex flavors, you risk overshadowing the wings. Keep it simple, let the beans do their thing, and you’ll have a side dish that’s not just an afterthought, but a star in its own right.
Fried and Crispy Snacks
Crispy snacks and wings—they’re like the ultimate tag team. The crunch, the texture, the way each bite just sings with that satisfying crackle. It’s a combo that’s hard to beat, especially when you’re thinking about what side dish goes with chicken wings. Let’s be honest, sometimes you just want that extra layer of crunch to round out the meal. Let’s dive into some crispy contenders.
Potato Chips: The Crunchy Classic
Potato chips. Simple, right? But there’s a reason they’ve been a favorite for so long. That thin, crispy snap you get with every bite is like music to your taste buds. And when you’ve got a plate of wings, that light, airy crunch of a good potato chip adds just the right contrast.
You can keep it classic with salted chips or mix it up with flavors like BBQ or sour cream and onion. The chips act as a perfect counterbalance to the rich, savory wings. And if you really want to go all out, try pairing your chips with a dip—ranch dressing or even a tangy blue cheese dressing.
Fried Pickles: The Tangy Twist
Then there’s fried pickles. If you haven’t tried these yet, you’re in for a treat. The briny, tangy flavor of the pickles wrapped in a crispy, golden batter is nothing short of addictive. They’re like little bites of magic that bring a zesty punch to your wing feast.
Fried pickles are especially good with spicy wings. The cool, sharp tang of the pickle contrasts with the heat, cooling your palate just enough while still delivering that satisfying crunch. And the best part? They’re bite-sized, so you can just keep popping them into your mouth without even realizing it.
Onion Strings: The Light and Crispy Companion
Onion strings are like onion rings’ delicate cousin. Thinly sliced onions dipped in batter and fried until they’re light as air, these crispy wisps are perfect alongside wings. They bring that same sweet, savory flavor as onion rings but in a lighter, more ethereal form.
Pile them high on your plate next to a heap of wings, and you’ve got a combo that’s hard to resist. The onion strings almost melt in your mouth, providing a crispy counterpoint to the juicy wings. They’re especially great with BBQ chicken wings, where the sweetness of the onions complements the smoky, tangy sauce.
Corn Fritters: The Sweet Crunch
Now, let’s talk about corn fritters. These little golden nuggets are a blend of sweet corn kernels mixed into a light batter and fried until they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It’s a textural delight, with the sweetness of the corn playing off the savory, crispy coating.
Corn fritters are a bit more unexpected, but that’s what makes them so fun. They add a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with wings, especially when dipped in a bit of hot sauce or ranch dressing. It’s that combination of sweet, savory, and spicy that keeps you coming back for more.
Pitfalls to Avoid: Grease Overload
But here’s the catch—fried and crispy snacks can be tricky. Too much grease, and the whole thing can go from delightfully crispy to uncomfortably heavy. The goal is to get that perfect, light crunch without drowning in oil. Keep your frying temperature just right, and drain your snacks on paper towels to avoid that greasy pitfall. After all, you want your crispy sides to complement the wings, not overshadow them with too much oil.
Sweet and Savory Pairings
Balancing the fiery, crispy goodness of chicken wings with something sweet—that’s where the magic happens. There’s something about the contrast between sweet and savory that makes each bite more exciting, more memorable. When you’re figuring out what side dish goes with chicken wings, sweet and savory pairings might just be the twist you didn’t know you needed.
Honey-Glazed Cornbread: The Golden Perfection
Cornbread is already a classic, but when you take it up a notch with a honey glaze? Game changer. Imagine warm, crumbly cornbread straight out of the oven, drizzled with just enough honey to give it a golden sheen. The sweetness from the honey pairs perfectly with the slight earthiness of the cornmeal, creating a harmony that’s hard to beat.
Now, pair that with wings. Whether you’re munching on BBQ wings or something with a bit more heat, the honey-glazed cornbread brings a sweet relief that doesn’t overpower but rather enhances the flavor of the wings. It’s that perfect bite of comfort in between the spicy, savory punches from the wings.
Bacon-Wrapped Dates: The Decadent Bite
Here’s where things get a little indulgent—bacon-wrapped dates. These little morsels are the ultimate sweet and savory treat. You’ve got the natural sweetness of the dates, soft and chewy, wrapped in smoky, crispy bacon. It’s a combination that’s so simple yet so luxurious.
The beauty of bacon-wrapped dates is how they play with the wings. The sweetness of the dates contrasts with the salty, savory bacon, and together they balance out the bold flavors of the wings. Whether your wings are coated in hot sauce or something more subtle, these little bites bring a rich, complex flavor that makes everything feel just a bit more special.
Pineapple Salsa: The Tropical Twist
Now, let’s add a bit of tropical flair with pineapple salsa. Fresh, juicy pineapple chopped up with some red onion, cilantro, maybe a jalapeño or two—it’s a vibrant, zesty explosion of flavor. The sweetness of the pineapple, with its slight tang, complements the freshness of the cilantro and the heat from the jalapeños.
This salsa is a fantastic pairing with wings, especially spicy wings. The sweet, tangy pineapple cools down the heat just enough, while the brightness of the salsa keeps your palate refreshed. It’s a side dish that’s light, flavorful, and a bit unexpected—perfect for adding a little zing to your wing spread.
Candied Sweet Potatoes: The Comforting Contrast
Sweet potatoes are already naturally sweet, but when you take them to the next level with a bit of brown sugar and butter, you’re entering a whole new territory of deliciousness. Candied sweet potatoes, with their caramelized edges and soft, buttery interior, are the kind of side that brings a deep, comforting sweetness to the table.
When paired with wings, especially those with a smoky or spicy kick, the candied sweet potatoes offer a soothing contrast. The rich, sweet flavors mellow out the boldness of the wings, creating a balanced bite that’s both satisfying and comforting.
Pitfalls to Avoid: Overpowering Sweetness
But here’s the trick—you need to be careful with sweetness. Too much, and you risk overpowering the wings, turning what should be a balanced pairing into a sugar overload. The key is to find that sweet spot (pun intended) where the sweetness complements rather than competes with the savory, spicy goodness of the wings. It’s all about balance, letting each element shine without overshadowing the others.
FAQ on What Side Dish Goes With Chicken Wings
What are the best sides to serve with chicken wings?
The best sides to serve with chicken wings are those that balance out the bold flavors of the wings. French fries, onion rings, and coleslaw are classics. They offer texture and flavor contrast that complements the wings, making each bite more enjoyable. You want sides that enhance, not overshadow.
What healthy sides go well with chicken wings?
For a healthier option, think about green salads, vegetable platters, or roasted vegetables. These sides add freshness and crunch without overwhelming the meal. A crisp Caesar salad or some carrot sticks with celery can provide a light, refreshing counterbalance to the richness of wings.
What side dishes pair well with spicy wings?
When you’re dealing with spicy wings, cooling sides are key. Consider serving ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a pasta salad. The creaminess helps to tame the heat while adding an extra layer of flavor. Cornbread or mashed potatoes also work well to mellow out the spice.
Can I serve bread-based sides with chicken wings?
Absolutely. Bread-based sides like garlic bread, cornbread, or biscuits are fantastic with chicken wings. They soak up sauces and provide a satisfying, hearty complement. The key is to keep them warm and fresh to avoid that dreaded soggy texture, which can drag down the whole meal.
What’s a good vegetarian side dish for chicken wings?
For a vegetarian side, consider something like baked beans, macaroni and cheese, or hummus with vegetable sticks. These options bring texture and flavor that pair well with wings while keeping things plant-based. Pasta salad or a simple green salad are also great choices.
Are there any unusual sides that go well with chicken wings?
Yes, think outside the box with sides like fried pickles, bacon-wrapped dates, or even a pineapple salsa. These add a surprising twist to your meal, bringing in sweet, tangy, or crunchy elements that keep the palate excited and engaged throughout the dining experience.
What sauces can be paired with chicken wings as a side?
Sauces like ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, and BBQ sauce are classics. But don’t stop there. A good hot sauce, honey mustard, or even a creamy garlic aioli can add that extra kick, turning each bite into a new flavor experience. Pair wisely for the best results.
How can I add a sweet element to my chicken wing sides?
Adding a sweet element can be as simple as candied sweet potatoes or a honey-glazed cornbread. These sides bring a comforting sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory and spicy notes of the wings. Fried plantains or a light fruit salad can also do the trick.
Can pasta be a good side dish for chicken wings?
Pasta can definitely hold its own next to wings. Whether it’s a creamy macaroni and cheese or a tangy pasta salad, the key is to balance the richness of the wings with the texture and flavor of the pasta. A simple pasta salad with fresh ingredients works well in almost any scenario.
What are some dipping sides that go with chicken wings?
Dipping sides are a must. Think mozzarella sticks, jalapeño poppers, or onion rings. These sides add an extra layer of fun to the meal, allowing you to mix and match flavors. The key is to keep the dips varied—something creamy, something spicy, and something tangy for a balanced spread.
Conclusion
What side dish goes with chicken wings? It’s a question that leads us into a world of culinary possibilities, where the right side can elevate a simple meal into something unforgettable.
From the creamy comfort of macaroni and cheese to the crisp bite of celery sticks dipped in ranch dressing, the options are as varied as they are delicious. Whether you’re looking for something light and fresh like a green salad, or craving the rich, hearty flavors of garlic bread or baked beans, the perfect side is out there waiting to complement your wings.
The beauty of these pairings lies in their ability to balance and enhance, to create a plate where every element works in harmony. So, as you plan your next wing feast, let these ideas inspire you to choose sides that not only satisfy but elevate your meal to new heights.