Chicken and rice is a simple and tasty meal that many people love. This article is all about what goes good with chicken and rice, from side dishes you can serve with chicken to special recipes like chicken and rice casserole. We’ll help you find the perfect side dish or show you how to mix it all up in a casserole dish.
What Goes Good With Chicken And Rice?
When you’re putting together a dinner menu and have a chicken and rice dish as the star, it’s natural to start wondering what to serve alongside it.
To elevate your meal, consider adding popular side dishes like Garlic Bread for a crispy, flavorful touch or a Spinach Salad for something green and refreshing. If you’re looking for something light and refreshing, a fruit salad can add color and flavor, making your dinner spread even more exciting.
These side dishes can turn your simple chicken and rice dish into a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Steamed vegetables: A colorful, nutrient-packed side
If you’re wondering what goes good with chicken and rice, steamed vegetables are an easy side dish that you can try. They bring a burst of color to your plate, making your meal more visually appealing. More than just looking good, they are packed with nutrients like vitamins and minerals. It’s a great choice for those who want to make their meals healthier.
So, the next time you’re thinking about what should go with chicken and rice, try a new one, like steamed veggies, to make a complete meal.
Garlic bread: The crispy, garlicky side dish for rice and chicken
When you have chicken and rice as your main dish, you might eat white rice, brown rice, or fried rice. Adding garlic bread as a side dish can change the whole meal. The chicken and rice are usually soft and mild, but garlic bread has a crispy texture and bold, garlicky flavor. This makes every bite more interesting.
Garlic bread nutrients and benefits:
- Garlic: Known for its antioxidant properties and can help with heart health.
- Olive oil: If you make your garlic bread with olive oil, you add healthy fats that are good for your heart.
- Herbs: Many garlic bread recipes include herbs like parsley or oregano, which have nutrients and health benefits.
So, the next time you plan a chicken and rice meal, consider adding garlic bread as one of these simple sides. It boosts the flavor and adds a little nutritional kick to your plate. Garlic bread also pairs well with Tuscan Chicken.
Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy side dish
When you’re pairing a classic chicken and rice meal, whether it’s with brown or white rice, coleslaw is a simple side dish that can add a whole new dimension to your dinner. Chicken and rice are often savory and soft, so coleslaw’s tangy and crunchy aspects offer a nice balance.
Coleslaw nutrients and benefits:
- Cabbage: Rich in fiber and vitamins, including Vitamin C and K.
- Carrots: A great source of Vitamin A and good for your eyesight.
- Dressing: Many coleslaws use yogurt or light mayo, adding a bit of calcium and protein to the mix.
So, if you’re thinking about what goes good with chicken and rice, consider coleslaw as a dish to serve with chicken. It’s not just a tasty addition; it’s a nutritious one that complements the textures and flavors of your main course.
Mango salsa: A tropical, sweet, and spicy side dish
If you’re looking for a side dish to serve that will add a fresh and exciting twist to your classic chicken and rice, mango salsa is one of the best side dishes to consider. Its tropical flavors pair well with chicken and rice, offering a sweet and spicy edge that turns your meal into something special.
Mango salsa nutrients and benefits:
- Mango: Rich in Vitamin C and A, and also offers dietary fiber.
- Chilies: Provide a dose of capsaicin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Cilantro and Lime: Packed with antioxidants and add a burst of flavor.
Adding mango salsa as a side dish makes for a more flavorful experience and helps create a more balanced and complete meal when you serve it with chicken and rice. So, the next time you’re preparing a dish for chicken and rice, think tropical and try mango salsa!
Roasted potatoes: A hearty side dish
If you’re wondering what goes good with chicken and rice, look no further than roasted potatoes. This side dish adds a hearty component to any meal. Season them just right and give them some time, and you’ll be sure to have a side dish that will taste great with cooked chicken and rice. It’s a great way to round out your meal.
Roasted potatoes nutrients and benefits include:
- Potatoes: High in Vitamin C and a good source of potassium.
- Seasoning: Herbs like rosemary and thyme add flavor and have antioxidant properties.
- Sweet Potatoes: If you opt for these, you’ll get a boost of Vitamin A and fiber.
Roasted potatoes are not just tasty but also nutritious, making them a well-rounded choice to serve with chicken and rice. Whether you go for regular or sweet potatoes, this is one side dish that can make your meal complete and satisfying.
Spinach salad: A refreshing and satisfying side dish for chicken and rice
If you’re trying to figure out what goes good with chicken and rice, especially if you’re having chicken breast, a spinach salad can be a refreshing and satisfying choice. It adds a light, healthy touch that can take your chicken and rice dinner menu to a new level. This perfect side dish with chicken can go great with the main course.
Spinach salad nutrients and benefits:
- Spinach: Packed with Vitamin K, Vitamin A, and iron.
- Nuts or sesame seeds: Add some crunch and healthy fats.
- Vinaigrette: Olive oil in a homemade dressing brings in heart-healthy fats.
Switch it up with a new one each time by adding different fruits, nuts, or dressings. That way, your spinach salad remains a fresh and exciting addition that can complement and elevate your meal with ease.
Classic Chicken And Rice Casserole As A Variation
Have you ever wondered what goes good with chicken and rice casserole? Well, one great idea is to turn it into a one-pan wonder by adding various ingredients directly into the casserole dish. Cooking in a single skillet saves time and infuses the dish with robust, savory flavors.
Key Casserole Combos:
- Creamy Chicken and Broccoli: Stir in chunks of creamy chicken and fresh broccoli florets. This combo is satisfying and adds a nice texture contrast.
- Garlic Bread Crumbs: Top your casserole with garlic bread crumbs. They add a crunchy layer that pairs well with the soft, creamy layers below.
- Cream Soup Base: Using a cream soup as the base will enrich the casserole with a lush, creamy texture.
Vegetable Boost:
- Green Beans: Adding these gives you much-needed fiber and a splash of color.
- Asparagus or Brussels Sprouts: Either of these options provides additional nutrients like folate and vitamin K, and they taste fantastic in the mix.
- Bell Peppers: Dice some up for a pop of color and an extra dose of Vitamin C.
- Butternut Squash: Small butternut squash cubes bring sweetness and a good amount of Vitamin A.
Finishing Touches:
- Side Salad: A simple side salad works well if you’re looking for something healthy to balance the meal.
- Dinner Rolls: Include some dinner rolls on the side, and you have a complete, satisfying meal.
Pairing Drinks With Chicken And Rice
Wondering what goes good with chicken and rice in the drink department? Here’s a list that can turn your dinner into something special.
Wine Choices:
- White Wine: Like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, they go well with creamy chicken and rice.
- Red Wine: Like Pinot Noir, a light red fits with spicy chicken and rice dishes.
Beer Picks:
- Lager: This crisp drink can make your meal feel fresh each time you take a bite.
- Wheat Beer: Good for spicy chicken and rice; it adds a different taste that you’ll enjoy.
Non-Alcoholic Options:
- Iced Tea: A simple choice that’s always good. Add lemon or peach for extra flavor.
- Flavored Water: Lemon or cucumber water can cleanse your palate, making each bite better.
By thinking about what drinks to pair, you’re sure to discover a new favorite. Make your meal great with ease by pairing a classic chicken and rice dish with one of these drinks.
FAQs
What pairs well with rice?
Rice is versatile and pairs well with lots of foods. You can have it with stir-fried veggies, grilled chicken, or fish. Bean dishes and lentil curry also go great with rice.
What food goes well with chicken fried rice?
With chicken fried rice, you can have things like egg rolls, dumplings, or a simple veggie stir-fry. A side of soup, like hot and sour or miso, is also a good choice.
What side to eat with chicken?
If you’re having chicken, you have many side options. Mashed potatoes, green beans, and coleslaw are classics. For something healthier, try a side salad or steamed asparagus.
What goes with white rice for dinner?
White rice can go with almost anything. You can pair it with grilled meat, stir-fried vegetables, or even just a simple fried egg on top. Sauces like soy sauce or teriyaki can add extra flavor.
Is chicken and fried rice good for you?
Chicken and fried rice can be balanced if you watch the ingredients. Using brown rice instead of white rice adds fiber. Also, go easy on the oil and soy sauce to lower the fat and sodium. Adding in some veggies will make it healthier, too.
What to eat with Chicken Tortilla Soup?
When thinking about what side dishes are best for Chicken Tortilla Soup, you can consider Tacos, Salsa chicken, Cornbread or Jicama Salad.
Conclusion
We’ve explored various options to answer the question, “What goes good with chicken and rice?” From healthy dish ideas like steamed vegetables and spinach salad to heartier options like garlic bread and chicken casserole, there’s a side to serve with your chicken and rice that will make your meal complete.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match the best side dishes to serve with your chicken and rice. Throw in a tasty beverage and elevate your meal to something special. Experimenting is the key to keeping your dinner menu exciting. So go ahead and try something new next time!
References:
- Yahoo! – 15+ Side Dishes for Chicken and Rice Casserole – https://autos.yahoo.com/15-side-dishes-chicken-rice-161554158.html
- Quora – What are some easy to cook side dishes for chicken and rice? – https://www.quora.com/What-are-some-easy-to-cook-side-dishes-for-chicken-and-rice
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