Roast chicken. The very words evoke feelings of comfort, warmth, and satisfying deliciousness. It’s a dish that transcends cultures and generations, a culinary classic that’s equally at home at a casual family dinner or a sophisticated dinner party. But even the most perfectly roasted chicken can benefit from the right accompaniments. Choosing what to eat with roast chicken is crucial to creating a truly memorable meal. This guide explores the world of side dishes and beyond, offering inspiration for every taste and occasion.
The Foundation: Classic Side Dishes
Some pairings are simply timeless. They’ve earned their place alongside roast chicken for a reason: they just work. These classic side dishes offer a balance of flavors and textures that complement the richness of the chicken without overpowering it.
Potatoes: The Undisputed King
It’s hard to imagine a roast chicken dinner without potatoes in some form. They are the ultimate comforting carbohydrate. The options are virtually limitless, allowing you to tailor your potato dish to your personal preference.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, roasted potatoes are a natural partner for roast chicken. Toss them with olive oil, herbs (rosemary and thyme are classic choices), garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper before roasting them alongside the chicken. The chicken drippings will add even more flavor to the potatoes as they cook.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, smooth, and utterly comforting, mashed potatoes offer a wonderful textural contrast to the crispy skin of the roast chicken. For extra richness, consider adding cream cheese, sour cream, or browned butter. Don’t forget a generous pat of butter on top!
Scalloped Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy cheese sauce, scalloped potatoes are a decadent and satisfying side dish. They require a bit more preparation than roasted or mashed potatoes, but the result is well worth the effort.
Vegetables: A Necessary Balance
While potatoes are a beloved side, it’s important to include vegetables for a balanced and nutritious meal. The right vegetables can add color, flavor, and vital nutrients to your roast chicken dinner.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables alongside the chicken is a simple and delicious way to prepare them. Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes are excellent choices. Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and asparagus also roast beautifully. As with the potatoes, toss the vegetables with olive oil, herbs, and seasonings before roasting.
Green Beans: Whether steamed, sautéed, or roasted, green beans are a versatile and refreshing side dish. A simple preparation with butter, garlic, and lemon juice is often the best way to showcase their fresh flavor.
Asparagus: Springtime brings the joy of asparagus, its grassy flavor is delicious with chicken. You can roast it alongside the chicken or grill it for a slightly smoky flavor. A squeeze of lemon is all it needs to shine.
Stuffing: The Ultimate Comfort Food
For many, stuffing is an integral part of a roast chicken dinner. It’s a comforting and flavorful side dish that soaks up all the delicious juices from the chicken.
Classic Bread Stuffing: Made with bread, celery, onion, herbs, and broth, classic bread stuffing is a crowd-pleaser. Consider adding sausage, cranberries, or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Wild Rice Stuffing: For a more sophisticated twist, try wild rice stuffing. Wild rice is a nutritious and flavorful grain that pairs well with a variety of ingredients.
Beyond the Classics: Expanding Your Culinary Horizons
While the classic side dishes are always a safe bet, there’s no reason to limit yourself. Exploring different flavors and textures can elevate your roast chicken dinner to a whole new level.
Salads: A Fresh Counterpoint
A fresh, vibrant salad can provide a welcome contrast to the richness of roast chicken. Choose a salad that complements the flavors of the chicken and other side dishes.
Caesar Salad: The creamy, tangy dressing and crunchy croutons of a Caesar salad make it a classic choice.
Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: The peppery flavor of arugula pairs well with the richness of the chicken, while a bright lemon vinaigrette adds a touch of acidity.
Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: The earthy sweetness of beets and the tangy creaminess of goat cheese create a delicious and visually appealing salad.
Grains: Exploring Different Textures
While potatoes are the most common carbohydrate choice, other grains can also be excellent accompaniments to roast chicken.
Quinoa: This nutritious grain is a great alternative to rice or potatoes. It’s light, fluffy, and can be flavored in countless ways.
Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice dish cooked in broth with vegetables and herbs, rice pilaf is a simple and elegant side.
Farro: With its chewy texture and nutty flavor, farro is a hearty and satisfying grain.
Sauces: Enhancing the Flavor
A well-chosen sauce can elevate your roast chicken dinner to new heights. It can add moisture, flavor, and complexity to the dish.
Pan Gravy: Made from the drippings of the roast chicken, pan gravy is a classic choice. It’s rich, savory, and perfect for drizzling over the chicken, potatoes, and stuffing.
Chimichurri Sauce: This Argentinian sauce is made with parsley, garlic, oregano, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. It’s bright, herbaceous, and adds a zesty kick to the chicken.
Lemon Herb Sauce: A simple sauce made with butter, lemon juice, herbs, and garlic, lemon herb sauce is light, refreshing, and complements the flavors of the chicken beautifully.
Seasonal Sensations: Adapting to the Seasons
The best side dishes for roast chicken often depend on the season. Take advantage of fresh, seasonal produce to create a truly memorable meal.
Spring: Fresh and Vibrant
In the spring, focus on fresh, light flavors and vibrant colors.
Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce: A classic springtime dish that pairs perfectly with roast chicken.
Pea and Mint Salad: The sweetness of peas and the refreshing flavor of mint create a delightful salad.
New Potatoes with Dill: Tender new potatoes tossed with butter and fresh dill are a simple and delicious side.
Summer: Light and Refreshing
In the summer, opt for light and refreshing side dishes that won’t weigh you down.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, corn on the cob is a quintessential summer side dish.
Tomato and Cucumber Salad: A simple and refreshing salad that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Watermelon and Feta Salad: The sweetness of watermelon and the salty tang of feta cheese create a surprisingly delicious combination.
Autumn: Warm and Comforting
In the autumn, embrace warm, comforting flavors and hearty vegetables.
Roasted Butternut Squash: The sweet, nutty flavor of butternut squash is a perfect match for roast chicken.
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Roasted Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon are a delicious and satisfying side dish.
Apple and Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberries and the sweetness of apples create a festive and flavorful sauce.
Winter: Rich and Hearty
In the winter, indulge in rich, hearty side dishes that will warm you from the inside out.
Creamy Polenta: A comforting and versatile side dish that can be flavored in countless ways.
Braised Red Cabbage: The sweet and sour flavors of braised red cabbage make it a perfect accompaniment to roast chicken.
Root Vegetable Mash: A combination of mashed potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and other root vegetables, root vegetable mash is a hearty and flavorful side dish.
Wine Pairings: Completing the Experience
No roast chicken dinner is complete without the perfect wine pairing. The best wine will depend on the flavors of the chicken and the side dishes.
Pinot Noir: This light-bodied red wine is a classic pairing for roast chicken. Its earthy, fruity notes complement the flavors of the chicken without overpowering it.
Chardonnay: A full-bodied white wine with notes of butter and oak, Chardonnay is a good choice for roast chicken with creamy sauces or richer side dishes.
Rosé: A versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of foods, rosé is a good option for roast chicken with lighter side dishes or salads.
Tips for Planning Your Roast Chicken Meal
Planning a roast chicken meal can be overwhelming, but with a little preparation, you can create a delicious and memorable dinner.
Consider your guests: Think about your guests’ preferences and dietary restrictions when planning your menu.
Choose a variety of side dishes: Offer a mix of flavors and textures to create a well-balanced meal.
Prepare ahead of time: Many side dishes can be prepared ahead of time, which will save you time and stress on the day of the dinner.
Don’t be afraid to experiment: Try new recipes and flavor combinations to create a unique and personalized roast chicken dinner.
Most Importantly: Enjoy the process! Cooking should be fun and relaxing. Put on some music, pour yourself a glass of wine, and enjoy the process of creating a delicious meal for yourself and your loved ones.
Ultimately, the best things to eat with roast chicken are those that you enjoy the most. Experiment with different flavors and textures to create your own perfect pairings. With a little creativity and planning, you can turn a simple roast chicken dinner into a truly memorable culinary experience.
What are some classic side dishes that pair well with roast chicken?
Roast chicken is a versatile dish, and many classic side dishes complement its savory flavor. Roasted vegetables, like carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts, are a popular choice, offering a balance of sweetness and earthiness that pairs perfectly with the chicken’s richness. Creamy mashed potatoes or a light and tangy coleslaw are also excellent options, providing contrasting textures that enhance the overall dining experience.
Beyond the classics, consider adding a starch like rice pilaf or quinoa salad to absorb the flavorful chicken juices. For a lighter touch, a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the chicken. Ultimately, the best side dish depends on your personal preferences, but these suggestions are a great starting point for creating a well-rounded and delicious meal.
How can I choose a wine that complements roast chicken?
Selecting the right wine to pair with roast chicken depends on how the chicken is prepared and the accompanying side dishes. A versatile choice is a medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, which offer a refreshing acidity that complements the chicken’s savory flavor without overpowering it. These wines are particularly well-suited for roast chicken served with lighter sides like salads or steamed vegetables.
If the roast chicken is richly seasoned or accompanied by heartier sides like roasted potatoes or gravy, consider a light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais. These reds have subtle fruit flavors and earthy notes that complement the chicken’s flavor profile without being too heavy. Avoid overly tannic wines, as they can clash with the chicken’s delicate flavors.
What are some less common but delicious side dish ideas for roast chicken?
Beyond the standard options, there are many unique and flavorful side dishes that can elevate your roast chicken meal. Consider serving a vibrant roasted beet salad with goat cheese and walnuts for a colorful and sophisticated pairing. Alternatively, a creamy polenta or risotto can provide a comforting and satisfying counterpoint to the chicken’s savory flavors.
For a lighter and more refreshing option, a grilled peach and arugula salad with a balsamic glaze can add a touch of sweetness and peppery bitterness. Experiment with different herbs and spices in your side dishes to complement the chicken’s seasoning. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and create a truly memorable dining experience.
How can I make a pan sauce from the chicken drippings to enhance the flavor of the meal?
Creating a delicious pan sauce from the chicken drippings is a simple way to add incredible flavor to your roast chicken. After removing the chicken from the roasting pan, place the pan over medium heat on your stovetop. Add a tablespoon or two of flour to the pan drippings and whisk continuously to create a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
Next, deglaze the pan with about a cup of chicken broth or white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer the sauce for several minutes, allowing it to reduce and thicken slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs, such as thyme or rosemary. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve for a smooth and elegant finish.
Are there any vegetarian side dishes that would pair well with roast chicken for a mixed meal?
Even when serving roast chicken, it’s important to offer vegetarian options for guests. Many vegetarian dishes complement roast chicken beautifully, providing a balanced and inclusive meal. A hearty lentil stew or a vegetable tagine with couscous can offer a satisfying and flavorful alternative.
A vibrant roasted vegetable medley with balsamic glaze or a creamy butternut squash soup can also be excellent choices. These options not only cater to vegetarians but also add variety and nutritional value to the meal. Consider offering a selection of side dishes that appeal to both meat-eaters and vegetarians for a truly inclusive dining experience.
What kind of bread goes best with roast chicken?
The type of bread that pairs best with roast chicken depends on the overall meal and your personal preference. A crusty sourdough bread is an excellent choice, providing a chewy texture and tangy flavor that complements the chicken’s savory notes. Its sturdy structure also makes it ideal for soaking up the pan juices or gravy.
Alternatively, a soft and buttery brioche roll can offer a more decadent and comforting experience. Its richness and delicate sweetness create a delicious contrast with the chicken’s flavor. For a lighter option, a simple baguette or crusty Italian bread can also be a good choice, especially when served with olive oil and herbs.
How can I make sure my side dishes are ready at the same time as the roast chicken?
Proper timing is crucial for ensuring that your side dishes are ready when the roast chicken is done. Start by planning your menu and estimating the cooking times for each dish. Choose side dishes that can be prepared in advance or require similar cooking times to the chicken.
For example, roasted vegetables can be cooked alongside the chicken in the same oven, while mashed potatoes can be prepared ahead of time and reheated. Utilize a timer and a cooking schedule to keep track of each dish’s progress. Don’t be afraid to adjust cooking times as needed to ensure that everything is perfectly cooked and ready to serve simultaneously.