Ever wondered what to serve alongside that delicious beer can chicken? You’re not alone. This mouthwatering dish is a crowd-pleaser, but finding the right sides can elevate your meal from good to unforgettable.
Picture this: you’ve got a juicy chicken cooking on the grill, the aroma wafting through the air. Now, what complements that savory flavor? In this article, you’ll discover a variety of tasty sides that pair perfectly with your chicken, creating a balanced and satisfying feast. From fresh salads to hearty sides, you’ll learn how to impress your guests and make your next gathering a hit.
Key Takeaways
- Perfect Side Pairings: Beer can chicken is enhanced by fresh salads like Caesar and Greek, grilled vegetables such as zucchini and asparagus, and hearty starchy sides including baked potatoes and rice pilaf.
- Savory Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces, including BBQ sauce, garlic aioli, and hot sauce, to add depth and flavor to your chicken.
- Delicious Bread Options: Complement your meal with garlic bread, dinner rolls, or cornbread that soak up chicken juices and balance the savory flavors.
- Refreshing Beverage Choices: Pair your beer can chicken with light beers like lagers and pilsners, or a crisp white wine, to enhance the dining experience.
- Decadent Desserts: Finish your meal with delectable desserts such as grilled peaches, rich brownies, or refreshing sorbets for a satisfying conclusion.
- Experiment and Impress: Explore different side combinations and flavors to create a memorable dining experience for you and your guests.
What To Eat With Beer Can Chicken
Pairing delightful sides with beer can chicken elevates your dining experience. Consider these options:
Fresh Salads
- Caesar Salad: Combine romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing. The crunch complements the tender chicken.
- Coleslaw: Mix chopped cabbage and carrots with a tangy dressing. The creaminess balances the smoky flavors.
- Greek Salad: Use tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. Its acidity cuts through the richness of the chicken.
Grilled Vegetables
- Zucchini and Peppers: Toss sliced zucchini and bell peppers with olive oil and seasonings. Grill until tender for a colorful side.
- Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil and lemon juice. Grill until slightly charred for a fresh taste.
- Corn on the Cob: Grill corn in its husk or wrapped in foil. The sweet, smoky flavor pairs well with chicken.
Starchy Sides
- Baked Potatoes: Bake potatoes until soft, then top with butter, sour cream, or chives. Their heartiness complements the meal.
- Rice Pilaf: Cook rice with broth, onions, and herbs. The light flavors enhance the chicken’s seasoning.
- Pasta Salad: Toss cooked pasta with vegetables, olives, and dressing. It’s a cold, satisfying option.
Dipping Sauces
- BBQ Sauce: Serve your favorite sauce for an extra layer of flavor. Choose sweet, tangy, or spicy varieties.
- Garlic Aioli: Blend mayonnaise with garlic and lemon juice for a creamy dip. The richness contrasts nicely with the chicken.
- Hot Sauce: Provide a selection of hot sauces for those who enjoy a spicy kick with their meal.
- Garlic Bread: Toast slices of bread with butter and garlic. The buttery flavor adds richness to your meal.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls work well for soaking up chicken juices or enjoying with butter.
- Cornbread: Sweet, moist cornbread complements the savory flavors of the chicken.
Each of these sides brings unique flavors and textures, enhancing your beer can chicken experience. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations to impress your guests.
Side Dishes
Beer can chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes that elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables add a burst of color and flavor to your plate. Choose vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, and corn on the cob.
- Zucchini: Slice into thick rounds, brush with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Grill until tender.
- Bell Peppers: Cut into strips, coat with olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic powder. Grill until slightly charred.
- Asparagus: Toss with olive oil, salt, and lemon juice. Grill until bright green and slightly crispy.
- Corn on the Cob: Grill whole, turning occasionally, until kernels brown slightly. Serve with butter for added richness.
These options enhance the meal’s freshness while complementing the smoky flavor of the chicken.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances the savory chicken. The combination of cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing is popular.
- Cabbage: Shred green and purple cabbage for varying colors and textures.
- Carrots: Grate for sweetness and added crunch.
- Dressing: Mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt to taste. Adjust for creaminess and acidity.
Toss the vegetables with the dressing and chill before serving. This dish offers contrast and enhances the meal’s flavor profile, making it an ideal companion to beer can chicken.
Sauces and Marinades
Sauces and marinades add incredible flavor to beer can chicken. Here’s a look at some popular options that enhance your meal.
Barbecue Sauce
Barbecue sauce pairs exceptionally well with beer can chicken. It complements the smoky flavor while adding sweetness and tang. Choose a classic tomato-based sauce or experiment with flavors like mustard or vinegar-based sauces.
- Spicy Barbecue Sauce: Mix cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a kick.
- Sweet and Tangy Barbecue Sauce: Combine honey or brown sugar with vinegar for a balanced taste.
- Homemade Barbecue Sauce: Simmer ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices for a unique blend.
Brush your chosen barbecue sauce on the chicken during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking for optimal flavor without burning.
Garlic Butter
Garlic butter elevates the taste of beer can chicken with rich, savory notes. This simple yet flavorful option works as both a marinade and a finishing touch.
- Basic Garlic Butter: Melt unsalted butter, then stir in minced garlic, salt, and parsley.
- Herbed Garlic Butter: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Garlic Butter: Incorporate red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Brush garlic butter onto the chicken before cooking and again during the last few minutes to enhance its golden, crispy skin. This technique guarantees a delicious, aromatic finish that impresses your guests.
Beverage Pairings
Enhancing beer can chicken requires careful beverage selection. Pairing drinks not only complements flavors but also elevates the overall dining experience. Here are some great options.
Beer Selection
Opt for a lager, pilsner, or pale ale to balance the rich flavors of beer can chicken. The lightness of these beers allows the smoky essence of the chicken to shine.
- Lager: A crisp lager works well, with its refreshingly clean taste.
- Pilsner: Go for a hoppy pilsner if you seek a slightly bitter contrast.
- Pale Ale: A smooth pale ale adds a touch of maltiness alongside the savory chicken.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try a fruit-infused beer. These options introduce a unique sweetness that pairs well with the spices used on the chicken.
Wine Options
Wine also offers a delightful pairing with beer can chicken. White wine stands out due to its refreshing nature.
- Chardonnay: A buttery Chardonnay complements the chicken’s flavor elegantly.
- Sauvignon Blanc: This wine’s crispness and herbaceous notes brighten the dish.
- Pinot Grigio: A light Pinot Grigio enhances the meal without overpowering it.
For red wine lovers, consider a light-bodied red, such as Pinot Noir. Its subtle fruitiness and acidity match up nicely with the smokiness of the chicken.
Dessert Choices
Desserts provide a sweet ending to your meal featuring beer can chicken. Here are some tasty options that pair wonderfully.
Fruit-Based Desserts
- Grilled Peaches: Slice peaches in half, remove the pit, grill until caramelized, and serve with vanilla ice cream.
- Berry Crumble: Combine mixed berries with a crumbly topping for a warm treat that’s easy to make and delicious.
Chocolate Treats
- Brownies: Rich, fudgy brownies satisfy chocolate cravings. Serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream on top.
- Chocolate Mousse: Light and airy, this dessert offers a silky texture that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken.
Custards and Puddings
- Panna Cotta: This creamy Italian dessert can be flavored with vanilla or fruit. It’s simple to prepare and always impressive.
- Rice Pudding: A comforting dessert made with rice, milk, sugar, and a touch of cinnamon pairs nicely with a favorite drink.
Ice Cream Options
- Ice Cream Sundaes: Set up a sundae bar with various toppings, allowing guests to customize their treats.
- Sorbet: Refreshing and dairy-free, sorbet comes in various flavors and cleanses the palate after the meal.
- Lemon Cake: This zesty option balances rich flavors and offers a refreshing finish to your meal.
- Carrot Cake: Moist and spiced, topped with cream cheese frosting, carrot cake provides a delightful touch of sweetness.
Choosing the right dessert can elevate your gathering. Consider these options for a satisfying sweet conclusion to a delicious meal.
Conclusion
You’ve got everything you need to create a fantastic meal with beer can chicken. With the right sides sauces and drinks you can elevate your gathering and impress your guests. Don’t hesitate to mix and match different flavors and textures to find the perfect combination that suits your taste.
Whether it’s a fresh salad hearty starchy side or a delightful dessert there’s no shortage of options to complement your chicken. So gather your friends and family enjoy the delicious food and make some great memories together. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best side dishes for beer can chicken?
There are many great side dishes for beer can chicken. Popular options include fresh salads like Caesar, coleslaw, and Greek salad. Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, asparagus, and corn on the cob add freshness. Starchy sides like baked potatoes and rice pilaf are hearty choices, while dipping sauces like BBQ and garlic aioli can enhance flavor.
How can I prepare grilled vegetables to serve with beer can chicken?
To prepare grilled vegetables, slice zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling. Cook over medium-high heat until tender and slightly charred, usually about 5-7 minutes, to enhance their natural sweetness and complement the smoky chicken flavor.
What sauces can enhance the flavor of beer can chicken?
Barbecue sauce is a classic choice; variations include spicy, sweet, and tangy. Garlic butter, either basic or herbed, is also excellent. Apply these sauces during cooking to maximize flavor. Experiment with homemade versions for a personal touch that can elevate the taste of your beer can chicken.
Which beverages pair well with beer can chicken?
For beer lovers, lagers, pilsners, and pale ales complement the chicken well. If you prefer wine, opt for white wines like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, and light-bodied reds like Pinot Noir. These drinks enhance the dish’s flavors without overpowering its smoky essence, creating a harmonious meal.
What dessert options work well after a meal of beer can chicken?
Fruit-based desserts like grilled peaches with vanilla ice cream or berry crumble are delightful choices that balance the meal. Chocolate lovers can enjoy brownies or light chocolate mousse. Custards and puddings, plus zesty lemon or moist carrot cake, provide a sweet ending to your gathering.
