Chicken drumstick side dishes are a dinner-time favorite for a reason. They’re affordable, easy to cook, and undeniably delicious, whether they’re baked, fried, or grilled. But turning this simple main into a memorable meal requires the perfect supporting cast. Finding the right chicken drumstick side dishes can elevate your dinner from good to great.
This guide offers a wide array of side dishes and sauces that pair beautifully with chicken drumsticks. You’ll find everything from classic comfort foods and healthy vegetables to flavorful sauces that will have everyone reaching for more. Get ready to discover your new favorite combination and make your next chicken dinner a standout success.
Classic Comfort Sides
Sometimes, nothing beats a classic. These comforting side dishes are tried-and-true companions for juicy chicken drumsticks, creating a meal that feels both satisfying and familiar.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food and a perfect partner for chicken drumsticks. Their smooth, buttery texture is ideal for soaking up any juices or sauces from the chicken. You can keep them simple with butter and milk, or dress them up by mixing in roasted garlic, chives, or cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Macaroni and Cheese
A rich and cheesy bowl of macaroni and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser. The creamy texture and savory flavor of the cheese sauce complement the savory chicken perfectly. For a gourmet twist, try a baked version with a crispy breadcrumb topping. It adds a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.
Cornbread
A slice of warm, golden-brown cornbread is a wonderful addition to any chicken dinner. Whether you prefer it sweet and cake-like or savory and crumbly, its hearty texture holds up well. Serve it with a pat of honey butter to add a touch of sweetness that balances the savory notes of the chicken.
Coleslaw
A refreshing, crunchy coleslaw offers a cool contrast to warm, succulent chicken drumsticks. The crisp cabbage and carrots, combined with a tangy and creamy dressing, provide a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the meat. It’s a simple side that adds both texture and brightness to your plate.
Healthy Vegetable Sides
For a lighter, more balanced meal, pairing your chicken with nutritious vegetables is an excellent choice. These vegetable-focused chicken drumstick side dishes add color, vitamins, and fresh flavors to your dinner table.
Roasted Broccoli with Lemon
Roasting broccoli brings out its natural sweetness and gives it a satisfyingly crisp texture. Toss the florets with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving adds a zesty kick that brightens up the entire dish and complements the chicken beautifully.
Green Bean Almondine
This elegant yet simple side dish involves sautéing crisp green beans with toasted almonds and a hint of garlic. The nutty crunch of the almonds and the fresh flavor of the green beans create a sophisticated and delicious pairing for chicken drumsticks. A splash of lemon juice or a knob of butter at the end can elevate it even further.
Glazed Carrots
Sweet, tender glazed carrots are a colorful and tasty side that appeals to all ages. Simmering sliced carrots in a mixture of butter, brown sugar (or honey), and a pinch of salt creates a beautiful glaze that enhances their natural sweetness. They add a touch of elegance and a pop of color to your meal.
Corn on the Cob
A summer classic, corn on the cob is a simple, fun, and delicious side for grilled or baked chicken. Whether you boil it, grill it, or roast it, the sweet, juicy kernels are always a hit. Serve it with butter and a sprinkle of salt, or get creative with toppings like chili powder, lime juice, and cotija cheese for a Mexican-inspired twist.
Flavorful Grain & Salad Sides
Grains and salads can round out your meal by adding substance and complex flavors. These side dishes are perfect for creating a more filling and texturally interesting dinner.
Quinoa Salad with Black Beans
A vibrant quinoa salad is a healthy and hearty option. Combine cooked quinoa with black beans, corn, red onion, and chopped cilantro. A lime vinaigrette ties it all together, creating a zesty and refreshing side that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken.
Rice Pilaf
A well-made rice pilaf is more than just a simple grain; it’s a flavorful and aromatic dish. Toasting the rice in butter or oil before adding broth infuses it with a nutty flavor. You can customize it by adding sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs like parsley or thyme for a side dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
Potato Salad
A classic potato salad is a staple at picnics and family dinners for good reason. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor profile provide a cool and satisfying contrast to hot chicken drumsticks. You can stick to a traditional recipe with mayonnaise and celery or try a German-style version with a vinegar-based dressing for a different twist.
Delicious Dips & Sauces
The right sauce can transform your chicken drumsticks from simple to sensational. Whether you prefer something creamy, spicy, or sweet, a good sauce adds an extra dimension of flavor.
BBQ Sauce
A classic choice, BBQ sauce offers a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors that are a natural match for chicken. You can use your favorite store-bought brand or make your own to control the level of sweetness and spice. It’s perfect for basting, dipping, or slathering.
Honey Mustard
The combination of sweet honey and tangy Dijon mustard creates a sauce that’s both simple and incredibly flavorful. Honey mustard is versatile enough to be used as a glaze while cooking or as a dipping sauce on the side. Its balanced profile complements the savory taste of the chicken without overpowering it.
Ranch Dressing
Cool and creamy ranch dressing is a fantastic dipping sauce for chicken, especially if your drumsticks are spicy. The herbaceous and tangy flavor provides a refreshing counterpoint to the heat, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Buffalo Sauce
For those who like it hot, a spicy buffalo sauce is the way to go. Made with hot sauce, butter, and a few other seasonings, it provides a fiery kick that will excite your taste buds. Serve it with a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing to cool things down.
Find Your Perfect Pairing
With so many delicious options, you can easily create a new and exciting meal every time you cook chicken drumsticks. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting, healthy, or bold, there’s a side dish or sauce on this list that will perfectly complement your main course. Don’t be afraid to mix and match to discover your family’s new favorite combination.
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