If you’re wondering what should I serve with chicken skewers, you’re not alone. Chicken skewers are a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides to create a complete, satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a quick weeknight dinner, the right side dishes can elevate your skewers and impress your guests. In this guide, we’ll explore the best sides to serve with chicken skewers, from fresh salads to hearty grains, and more.
In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of side dishes, dips, and accompaniments that perfectly complement chicken skewers. From refreshing salads to flavorful rice and savory dipping sauces, there’s no shortage of options to complete your meal. We’ll also provide internal links to Dana Recipes to help inspire your cooking.
Rice Dishes to Serve with Chicken Skewers
Rice is one of the most versatile and popular sides to serve with chicken skewers, and the image above perfectly highlights how rice can round out a skewer meal. Whether you’re looking for a simple steamed rice dish or something more flavorful, rice serves as the ideal base to soak up the juices and sauces from the skewers.
1. Steamed White Rice
Steamed white rice, as seen in the image, is a simple yet effective side for chicken skewers. The plain rice acts as a neutral backdrop, allowing the flavors of the chicken and any sauces to shine through. It’s also a great option for balancing out bold marinades or spicy seasonings on the skewers.
To add a little extra flavor to the rice, consider cooking it in chicken broth instead of water or adding a touch of lemon zest and olive oil after cooking for a refreshing twist.
2. Herbed Brown Rice
For a healthier, whole-grain option, brown rice is a fantastic side dish. Brown rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken skewers, providing a nutty flavor and chewy texture that complements the tenderness of the chicken.
To make the rice more exciting, you can mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil. A squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil can add brightness to the dish. Brown rice also works well with more hearty and savory skewers, such as those marinated in garlic or soy sauce.
If you’re looking for more flavorful rice ideas, check out this recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, where the garlic and parmesan flavors would complement a side of herbed rice.
3. Lemon Rice Pilaf
For a Mediterranean-inspired side dish, lemon rice pilaf is an excellent choice. The zesty lemon flavor adds a light, refreshing contrast to the savory chicken skewers. Pilaf is traditionally made by toasting rice in butter or olive oil, then simmering it in broth and seasoning it with spices like garlic, onion, and lemon zest.
The lemon adds brightness to the dish, making it perfect for serving alongside grilled chicken skewers. You can also add toasted pine nuts or almonds for added texture and flavor.
Grilled Vegetables to Pair with Chicken Skewers
Grilled vegetables are a perfect pairing with chicken skewers. The smoky flavor and charred texture of the vegetables complement the grilled chicken beautifully, creating a cohesive and delicious meal. The image above showcases beautifully grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, which are common choices for skewer pairings.
1. Grilled Zucchini and Squash
Zucchini and squash are popular choices for grilling alongside chicken skewers. Their mild flavor and tender texture make them a perfect complement to the smoky and savory notes of the chicken. Slice them lengthwise, brush with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper before grilling.
Grilled zucchini and squash are healthy, low-calorie sides that add a vibrant color to your plate. You can even skewer them alongside the chicken for a mixed meat-and-vegetable skewer presentation.
2. Grilled Bell Peppers and Onions
Bell peppers and onions add a sweet, slightly smoky flavor to the meal when grilled. These vegetables become tender and caramelized on the grill, adding a depth of flavor that enhances the chicken skewers.
For a Mediterranean twist, drizzle your grilled bell peppers and onions with balsamic vinegar or a splash of olive oil and lemon juice. This simple but flavorful side dish pairs well with chicken skewers marinated in Mediterranean or Middle Eastern spices.
3. Grilled Eggplant
For a more unique option, try adding grilled eggplant to your chicken skewer meal. Eggplant has a meaty texture and absorbs marinades and seasoning well. Slice the eggplant into rounds or long strips, coat with olive oil, and grill until tender and slightly charred.
Grilled eggplant pairs beautifully with chicken skewers, especially when served with a light yogurt or tahini sauce on the side. Its earthy flavor contrasts nicely with the bright flavors of chicken skewers.
Dips and Sauces to Serve with Chicken Skewers
No chicken skewer meal is complete without a selection of dips and sauces. Dipping sauces add moisture and flavor to each bite, making the meal even more satisfying. Whether you prefer creamy, tangy, or spicy dips, there’s something for every palate.
1. Soy-Garlic Dipping Sauce
In the image, a soy-based dipping sauce is served alongside the chicken skewers. This savory sauce, likely made with soy sauce, garlic, and perhaps a touch of sesame oil, provides a bold, umami flavor that pairs well with grilled chicken.
To recreate a similar sauce, mix soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This simple dipping sauce is perfect for adding a salty, savory kick to the skewers.
2. Tzatziki Sauce
For a Mediterranean twist, tzatziki is a popular sauce to serve with chicken skewers. Made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and lemon juice, tzatziki offers a refreshing, creamy contrast to the savory grilled chicken.
This cool and tangy dip is ideal for chicken skewers seasoned with herbs like oregano, thyme, or cumin. It’s also a great match for grilled vegetables, making it a versatile addition to your meal.
3. Spicy Harissa Sauce
If you’re looking to add a bit of heat to your chicken skewers, consider serving them with a spicy harissa sauce. Harissa is a North African chili paste made with roasted red peppers, garlic, and spices. It adds a smoky, spicy kick that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
You can drizzle harissa over the skewers or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. For those who love a little extra heat, harissa is the perfect complement to chicken skewers with a smoky, grilled flavor.
Bread and Starches to Pair with Chicken Skewers
Bread and starches are hearty side dishes that round out the meal, making it more filling and satisfying. These sides are especially great for soaking up the sauces and juices from the chicken skewers.
1. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic side dish that pairs well with just about any meal, and chicken skewers are no exception. In the image above, you can imagine garlic bread adding a crispy, buttery element to the plate. The rich garlic flavor complements the savory chicken, and the bread serves as a great vehicle for dipping into sauces.
To make garlic bread, simply spread a mixture of butter, minced garlic, and parsley over slices of baguette and toast them until golden brown.
For a more unique twist, check out Garlic Bread Rolls from Dana Recipes. These soft rolls have a buttery garlic filling, making them a delicious addition to your skewer meal.
2. Grilled Pita Bread
Grilled pita bread is an excellent choice for serving alongside chicken skewers, especially if you’re going for a Mediterranean or Middle Eastern theme. Brush pita rounds with olive oil and grill them until warm and slightly charred. Pita bread is perfect for scooping up sauces like tzatziki or hummus.
You can also cut the pita into wedges and serve it as a side for dipping, or use it to make mini wraps with the chicken skewers.
3. Couscous
Couscous is a light, fluffy grain that works well as a side for chicken skewers. It’s especially great when you want a side that complements the meal without overpowering the flavors of the chicken. To enhance the flavor, mix the couscous with fresh herbs, lemon juice, and olive oil.
For an added touch, toss in chopped vegetables or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. Couscous is versatile, easy to prepare, and pairs wonderfully with a variety of seasonings.
Light Salads to Serve with Chicken Skewers
A fresh salad is a great way to balance the richness of grilled chicken skewers. Crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and light dressings provide a refreshing contrast to the savory meat.
1. Cucumber and Tomato Salad
A cucumber and tomato salad is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with chicken skewers. The crispness of the cucumbers and the sweetness of the tomatoes create a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
To make this salad, combine sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Toss with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a bright, tangy dressing.
2. Greek Salad
A Greek salad is a perfect Mediterranean side dish for chicken skewers. It’s made with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, all tossed in a lemon-oregano vinaigrette. The salty, tangy feta cheese and olives provide a great counterbalance to the grilled chicken.
Greek salad pairs especially well with chicken skewers marinated in olive oil, garlic, and herbs like oregano or thyme.
Conclusion: What Should I Serve with Chicken Skewers?
When planning a meal around chicken skewers, the sides you choose can make all the difference. From flavorful rice dishes to grilled vegetables, dips, and bread, there are plenty of options to complement your skewers and create a balanced meal.
The image of chicken skewers, grilled vegetables, and rice perfectly illustrates how a well-rounded meal can come together with the right accompaniments. For even more inspiration, don’t forget to explore recipes on Dana Recipes, such as Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, which can serve as the centerpiece of your next meal.
For more ideas on what to serve with chicken skewers, check out this guide on perfect side dishes for grilled chicken by Food Network.