What Food Goes With Fried Chicken? This culinary question sparks joy and anticipation for a delightful meal. At FOODS.EDU.VN, we believe the perfect pairing enhances the crispy, savory goodness of fried chicken. Discover delectable sides and complementary dishes to elevate your fried chicken experience, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more Southern comfort and tasty combinations.
1. Classic Southern Sides for Fried Chicken
Fried chicken and Southern cuisine are inseparable. These pairings are time-tested and adored.
1.1. Collard Greens
These leafy greens are a staple of Southern cooking. The bitter flavor of collard greens is balanced by slow cooking with bacon or ham hocks, creating a savory, slightly smoky counterpoint to the richness of fried chicken. The recipe creator, Ken Adams, suggests adding more red pepper for an extra kick. For expert guidance on preparing this classic dish and more, visit FOODS.EDU.VN.
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1.2. Fried Green Tomatoes
Tangy and crisp, fried green tomatoes offer a delightful contrast to the savory fried chicken. The slight acidity cuts through the richness, creating a balanced and flavorful bite. Diana Swenson-Siegel suggests you can also fry up red tomatoes with this recipe, but make sure they are not overripe, or they will be mushy. FOODS.EDU.VN has tips for selecting the best green tomatoes and achieving that perfect crispy coating.
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1.3. Yellow Squash Casserole
This creamy, cheesy casserole is a comforting side dish that complements fried chicken perfectly. The tender squash, gooey cheese, and crunchy cracker topping create a delightful texture contrast. ROSECART notes this dish is great because it can be made with low-fat ingredients and is still just as good. FOODS.EDU.VN offers variations on this classic, including substitutions for zucchini or corn flakes.
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1.4. Slow-Cooked Green Beans
Simmered low and slow with bacon or ham, these green beans are tender, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. Cookygirl raves that this recipe, as written, was absolutely delicious, melt-in-your-mouth Southern green beans. FOODS.EDU.VN provides tips for achieving the perfect tenderness and flavor in slow-cooked green beans.
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1.5. Zucchini Corn Fritters
These crispy, savory fritters are a delightful way to enjoy summer’s bounty. The sweetness of the corn and the mildness of the zucchini pair well with the richness of fried chicken. Plumtickled loved these fritters, even when using canned corn instead of fresh. Discover expert advice and countless recipes at FOODS.EDU.VN to elevate your culinary creations.
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2. Healthy and Fresh Sides for Fried Chicken
Balance the richness of fried chicken with these lighter, healthier options.
2.1. Succotash
This classic dish of corn and lima beans is a colorful and nutritious addition to any fried chicken meal. The sweetness of the corn and the earthiness of the lima beans create a balanced flavor profile. Littlehemmy stated they will gladly eat their lima beans from now on if they are prepared like this. Find innovative ways to incorporate vegetables into your meals at FOODS.EDU.VN.
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2.2. Green Bean Casserole
A beloved classic, green bean casserole offers a creamy, comforting counterpoint to fried chicken. The crisp-fried onions add a satisfying crunch. Jayme loved putting cheese in this casserole and stated, “Why, I don’t know because cheese makes everything better.” FOODS.EDU.VN offers tips for making this casserole healthier and more flavorful.
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3. Hearty and Satisfying Sides for Fried Chicken
These sides offer a substantial and fulfilling complement to fried chicken.
3.1. Baked Beans
Sweet and smoky baked beans are a quintessential side dish for any Southern meal. The rich flavor and hearty texture make them a perfect match for fried chicken. Lutzflcat states that baked beans are essential, not just for barbeque, but for fried chicken as well. Discover a wide range of hearty and delicious recipes at FOODS.EDU.VN.
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3.2. Fried Okra
Crunchy and savory, fried okra is a classic Southern side that pairs perfectly with fried chicken. The unique flavor and texture of okra make it a delightful addition to the meal. AMKNIGHT loved this fried okra recipe and thought it was delicious and even better than what they have had in restaurants. FOODS.EDU.VN offers expert tips for achieving the perfect crispy fried okra.
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3.3. Mashed Potatoes
Creamy and comforting, mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that complements fried chicken beautifully. The fluffy texture and rich flavor are a perfect match for the crispy, savory chicken. Happyschmoopies can get them light and fluffy every time with Chef John’s recipe. Learn Chef John’s secrets for perfect mashed potatoes every time at FOODS.EDU.VN.
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4. Breads and Biscuits for Fried Chicken
No Southern meal is complete without some type of bread. These options are ideal for sopping up the delicious juices.
4.1. Buttermilk Biscuits
Flaky and buttery, buttermilk biscuits are a Southern staple that pairs perfectly with fried chicken. Enjoy them plain, with butter, or dipped in gravy. Huntersand archers yiayia recommend leaving little chunks of lard the size of peas when cutting the flour in, inspired by Sadie’s advice. FOODS.EDU.VN provides tips for baking tender, fluffy biscuits every time.
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4.2. Hush Puppies
These deep-fried cornmeal dumplings are a classic Southern side dish. The crispy exterior and soft interior make them a delightful accompaniment to fried chicken. Ettelehc, whose husband is from Louisiana, swears that these hush puppies are the very best he’s ever eaten. Discover the secrets to perfect hush puppies at FOODS.EDU.VN.
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5. Comfort Food Classics with Fried Chicken
These comforting dishes bring back memories and provide a satisfying meal.
5.1. Mac and Cheese
Creamy, cheesy mac and cheese is a comforting classic that pairs well with fried chicken. The rich flavor and smooth texture create a satisfying combination. BLUEYS71 states, “I truly loved it, and I am a mac and cheese connoisseur. Very impressed. Using Velveeta and sharp Cheddar made for a perfect combination!” FOODS.EDU.VN offers tips for making the perfect mac and cheese, from classic recipes to creative variations.
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5.2. Potato Salad
Cool and creamy potato salad is a refreshing side dish that complements fried chicken perfectly. The tangy dressing and the addition of bacon, eggs, and celery create a flavorful and satisfying dish. Discover expert advice and countless recipes at FOODS.EDU.VN to elevate your culinary creations.
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6. Light and Tangy Sides for Fried Chicken
Cut through the richness of fried chicken with these refreshing and tangy options.
6.1. Coleslaw
Crisp and tangy coleslaw is a refreshing side dish that balances the richness of fried chicken. The creamy dressing and crunchy cabbage create a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. Esmee Williams states that this tastes like the real thing and suggests trying it if you love coleslaw. Find a wide range of refreshing side dish recipes at FOODS.EDU.VN.
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7. Flavorful Sauces and Dips for Fried Chicken
Enhance the flavor of your fried chicken with these delicious sauces and dips.
7.1. Honey Mustard Sauce
A classic pairing, the sweetness of honey and the tanginess of mustard create a balanced sauce that complements fried chicken beautifully.
7.2. Ranch Dressing
Creamy and herbaceous, ranch dressing is a versatile dip that works well with fried chicken and many other sides.
7.3. Hot Sauce
For those who like a kick, hot sauce adds heat and complexity to fried chicken. Experiment with different varieties to find your perfect match.
8. International Twists on Fried Chicken Pairings
Explore unique flavor combinations from around the world.
8.1. Korean Fried Chicken with Kimchi
The spicy, fermented kimchi cuts through the richness of the fried chicken, creating a bold and flavorful experience.
8.2. Japanese Karaage with Miso Soup
The savory miso soup complements the crispy, umami-rich karaage (Japanese fried chicken).
8.3. Mexican Fried Chicken with Elote
The creamy, spicy elote (grilled corn with mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder) is a perfect match for crispy Mexican-spiced fried chicken.
9. Unique and Unexpected Pairings for Fried Chicken
Dare to try these unconventional combinations.
9.1. Watermelon Salad
The sweetness and juiciness of watermelon provide a refreshing contrast to the savory fried chicken.
9.2. Pickled Vegetables
The acidity of pickled vegetables cuts through the richness of the fried chicken, creating a balanced and flavorful bite.
9.3. Spicy Peanut Noodles
The creamy, spicy peanut noodles add a unique and satisfying twist to the fried chicken meal.
10. The Perfect Fried Chicken Recipe
No discussion of fried chicken pairings is complete without a fantastic recipe.
10.1. Classic Southern Fried Chicken
This recipe uses a simple buttermilk brine and a seasoned flour coating for crispy, juicy chicken.
Ingredients:
- 1 (3-4 pound) chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Place chicken pieces in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk and dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place chicken pieces in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from skillet and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
10.2. Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through (165°F or 74°C).
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
- Use a wire rack to drain excess oil for extra crispy chicken.
11. Drinks That Complement Fried Chicken
The right beverage can elevate your fried chicken experience.
11.1. Sweet Tea
A Southern classic, sweet tea is a refreshing and sweet accompaniment to fried chicken.
11.2. Lemonade
The tartness of lemonade cuts through the richness of the fried chicken, creating a balanced flavor profile.
11.3. Beer
A crisp, cold beer is a classic pairing with fried chicken. Light lagers or hoppy IPAs work well.
12. Nutritional Information and Considerations
Enjoying fried chicken in moderation and with balanced sides is key.
12.1. Calories and Fat Content
Fried chicken is relatively high in calories and fat, so it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes.
12.2. Balancing Your Meal
Pair fried chicken with healthy sides like vegetables and salads to create a more balanced meal.
12.3. Healthier Alternatives
Consider baking or air-frying chicken for a healthier alternative to deep-frying.
13. The History of Fried Chicken
Fried chicken has a rich and fascinating history, particularly in the American South.
13.1. Origins in Scotland and West Africa
The technique of frying chicken can be traced back to Scotland, while the seasoning and flavor profiles have roots in West Africa.
13.2. Rise to Popularity in the American South
Fried chicken became a staple in the American South, particularly among African Americans, who developed unique and delicious recipes.
13.3. Fried Chicken Today
Today, fried chicken is enjoyed around the world, with countless variations and regional specialties.
14. Fried Chicken Around the World
Explore global variations of this beloved dish.
| Country | Dish | Key Ingredients/Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Southern Fried Chicken | Buttermilk brine, seasoned flour coating, deep-fried |
| South Korea | Korean Fried Chicken (KFC) | Double-fried for extra crispiness, glazed with sweet and spicy sauces |
| Japan | Karaage | Marinated in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, coated in potato starch, deep-fried |
| Philippines | Chickenjoy (Jollibee) | Marinated in a special blend of seasonings, deep-fried until crispy |
| Thailand | Gai Tod | Marinated in fish sauce, garlic, and coriander, deep-fried |
| Vietnam | Gà Rán | Marinated in lemongrass, ginger, and garlic, deep-fried |
| Indonesia | Ayam Goreng | Marinated in turmeric, coriander, and garlic, deep-fried |
| Nigeria | Fried Chicken | Marinated in ginger, garlic, and chili, deep-fried |
| Peru | Pollo a la Brasa (variation) | Marinated in a blend of Peruvian spices, rotisserie grilled (though fried versions exist) |
| United Kingdom | Fried Chicken | Often coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, deep-fried |
15. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Fried Chicken Pairings
Q1: What is the most popular side dish to serve with fried chicken?
A: Mashed potatoes are a classic and popular choice.
Q2: What can I serve with fried chicken besides mashed potatoes?
A: Coleslaw, mac and cheese, and green beans are excellent options.
Q3: What is a healthy side dish to pair with fried chicken?
A: A fresh salad or steamed vegetables are great choices.
Q4: What kind of sauce goes well with fried chicken?
A: Honey mustard, ranch dressing, and hot sauce are all delicious options.
Q5: What is a good drink to serve with fried chicken?
A: Sweet tea, lemonade, and beer are classic pairings.
Q6: How can I make fried chicken healthier?
A: Bake or air-fry the chicken instead of deep-frying.
Q7: What are some international variations of fried chicken?
A: Korean fried chicken, Japanese karaage, and Filipino Chickenjoy are all popular.
Q8: What is a unique and unexpected pairing for fried chicken?
A: Watermelon salad or pickled vegetables can be surprisingly delicious.
Q9: What is the best way to reheat fried chicken?
A: Bake it in the oven to maintain its crispiness.
Q10: How long does fried chicken last in the refrigerator?
A: Properly stored, fried chicken can last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Fried chicken is a versatile and beloved dish that can be enjoyed with a wide variety of sides and accompaniments. Whether you prefer classic Southern sides, healthy options, or international flavors, there’s a perfect pairing for every palate. Experiment with different combinations to discover your own favorite fried chicken meal.
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