31 Mouth-Watering Fried Chicken Side Dishes You Will Love

From a classic loaded baked potato to an old-fashioned Coleslaw to cabbage and macaroni salad, there’s nothing better than some crunchy side dishes with your meat! But several other sides can make an equally tasty addition to your meal.

Here is a quick table with the best fried chicken sides, their preparation time and the calories per serving. 

Fried Chicken Sides: Quick Table

Recipe	Calories (Per Serving)	Preparation Time
Fried Onion	505	12 Minutes
Creamy Corn	274	25 Minutes
Fried Okra and Tomatoes	260	30 Minutes
Fried Green Beans	150	30 Minutes
Fried Asparagus	188	25 Minutes
Cornbread	330	55 Minutes
Fried Turnip Greens	105	40 Minutes
Fried Collard Greens	26	26 Minutes
Fried Brussel Sprouts	296	22 Minutes
Fried Pickles	174	25 Minutes
Fried Apples	446	35 Minutes
Fried Jalapeno Poppers	263	40 Minutes
Classic Macaroni Salad	373	2 Hours 35 Minutes
Fried Chicken Ramen Noodles	148	50 Minutes
Fried Chicken Poutine	720	30 Minutes
Sausage & Pepper Macaroni Salad	370	35 Minutes
Baked potato	93	1 Hour
Macaroni and cheese	642	1 Hour
Buttermilk Biscuits	353	35 Minutes
French Fries	219	1 Hour 20 Minutes
Garlic Toast	82	10 minutes
Slaw (or Chopped Salad)	120	5 Minutes
Mashed red potatoes	280	35 Minutes
Fried Corn	170	1 Hour
Fried Sweet Potato Fries	282	50 Minutes
Banana Pudding Cake	319	12 Hours 40 Minutes
Rice Pudding / Congee	250	40 Minutes
Cornbread Muffins	179	28 Minutes
Tomato Sauce	102	45 Minutes
Green Bean Casserole	312	45 Minutes
Fried Bananas	259	20 Minutes

Chances are, you’ve got a big family gathering coming up, and you’re scrambling to find some new ideas for your side dishes.

Fried chicken will probably be on the menu at some point; if it isn’t, these recipes can easily be modified to include chicken.

Though you can cook it more simply – by sautéing or roasting – frying will always be the best method for delivering that crispy exterior and moist, tender interior.

With all the frying going on, it’s also fun to serve up some extras to share or add variety.

Here are 31 fried chicken side dishes that range from fresh fruit and vegetable-based accompaniments (like coleslaw) to decadent desserts (like cheesecake). They will satisfy your guests’ cravings with ease.

1. Fried Onion 

Fried onions are kind of a classic. They typically use white onions, which are mildest in taste, so they don’t take over the dish too much.

If you’re going to use them, go for red onions, as they will add more of a kick to the dish. This is an excellent side dish to have with your fried chicken.

Calories Per Serving: 505

Preparation Time: 12 Minutes

2. Creamy Corn 

Creamy corn is a relatively common side dish, but if you want to bring it up a notch, you should cook the corn first, then ice and chill it. 

You can even add some two-flavor parmesan cheese on top if you wish. It will create a creamy flavor and color for your side dish.

Calories Per Serving: 274

Preparation Time: 25 Minutes

3. Fried Okra And Tomatoes

Okra is a vegetable usually viewed positively, but there are a few cases where okra is used as a side dish. That’s right; you can snack on okra as a side dish because it has the same texture and flavor as fried potatoes. 

In fact, fried okra and tomato have become such an American staple that we frequently put them on sandwiches or burgers.

Calories Per Serving: 260

Preparation Time: 30 Minutes

4. Fried Green Beans 

Fried green beans are a side dish with a similar texture and flavor to mashed potatoes but are a bit more unique. 

It may seem simple, but this is the perfect side dish if you want something with fried chicken without much zesty or spice to it.

Calories Per Serving: 150

Preparation Time: 30 Minutes

5. Fried Asparagus 

Asparagus is another vegetable that tends to be overlooked when choosing side dishes. It’s a great side dish to have because it’s not only a unique flavor but also pretty healthy and easy to prepare. 

You can wash, peel, and then steam or fry it. This way, you will get the freshest taste possible while having a side that goes well with the chicken.

Calories Per Serving: 188

Preparation Time: 25 Minutes

RELATED: Thin Sliced Chicken Breast Recipes with Healthy Cooking

6. Cornbread 

Cornbread has always been a favorite Southern side dish. This bread is an excellent compliment to fried chicken and other meals. 

You can also experiment with the type of cornmeal that you use so that your cornbread has its distinct taste.

Calories Per Serving: 330

Preparation Time: 55 Minutes

7. Fried Turnip Greens 

You may be wondering what fried turnip greens are since you’ve never eaten them before. They’re delicious, though! They are served with other things such as ham or fish. 

They’re similar to collard greens in terms of nutrition and how they’re prepared. As far as flavor goes, they are a bit like lettuce.

Calories Per Serving: 105

Preparation Time: 40 Minutes

8. Fried Collard Greens 

Collard greens are believed to be the original black-eyed peas of the Southern United States. They’re traditionally served like fried okra and tomatoes. 

The reason why this is such an excellent side dish is that it’s incredibly easy, and it can go well with almost any dish.

Calories Per Serving: 26

Preparation Time: 26 Minutes

9. Fried Brussel Sprouts 

Fried Brussel Sprouts are some vegetables often overlooked as a side dish. They’re traditionally used with bacon which is a tasty combination, but they can also be used with chicken which adds even more flavor. 

You can also boil them in an instant pot or some sort of steamer if you prefer that method. Either way, the delicious Brussel sprouts will quickly finish your fried chicken!

Calories Per Serving: 296

Preparation Time: 22 Minutes

RELATED: 35 Comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Recipes with Flavouring

10. Fried Pickles 

If you’re looking for something to go along with spicy fried chicken, this is the side dish for you. 

The reason why it’s so great is that it’ll help clear out your sinuses which will make the spicy chicken much more manageable! You can also add some of your favorite spices if you’d like to make these even better.

Calories Per Serving: 174

Preparation Time: 25 Minutes

11. Fried Apples 

If you have leftover apples that you can’t finish, then this is an excellent option for you. However, it might be a bit strange at first. 

These turn out fairly decent and are pretty sweet, making them perfect for your favorite fried chicken dish.

Calories Per Serving: 446

Preparation Time: 35 Minutes

12. Fried Jalapeno Poppers 

It’s not a chicken side dish list without some sort of popper dish on it! The jalapeno adds the perfect amount of heat to this dish and will leave you satisfied. 

This can also double as an appetizer at your next party. So, if you’re looking for something to pair with your fried chicken, then give this one a shot.

Calories Per Serving: 262

Preparation Time: 40 Minutes

13. Classic Macaroni Salad 

No Macaroni salad is complete without a creamy, crunchy dressing. And the best part of this macaroni salad recipe is that it only takes a few minutes to make. 

Simply combine one box of dry macaroni with mayonnaise, mustard, onion, and celery, and you have a tasty macaroni salad that’s ready in the time it takes to boil water. Serve it alongside some juicy fried chicken for a casual yet delicious meal.

Calories Per Serving: 373

Preparation Time: 2 Hours 35 Minutes

14. Fried Chicken Ramen Noodles 

Like most fried noodle dishes, the noodles are tossed into the hot wok for some quick cooking before the rest of the ingredients are added. 

The finished dish has a mouth-watering crunch and texture that will leave you wanting more.

Calories Per Serving: 148

Preparation Time: 50 Minutes

15. Fried Chicken Poutine 

French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy make an incredible combination. When you toss some fried chicken into the mix, you have Fried Chicken Poutine. 

A dish inspired by the poutines of Quebec and the traditional gravy fries of southern Canada. To make it even more decadent, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top before serving.

Calories Per Serving: 720

Preparation Time: 30 Minutes

RELATED: 23 Chicken Appetizers Recipe With Great Flavoring!

16. Sausage & Pepper Macaroni Salad 

As the only macaroni salad recipe on the list, there’s no excuse for being disappointed when making this dish. Good macaroni salad is a classic that should be made at home as often as possible. 

This recipe combines two unique flavors for a dish that’s sure to please everyone. The sausage gives the traditional mac and cheese filling some spice, while the peppers add texture and another layer of flavor. You can add some corn, tomato, and parsley.

Calories Per Serving: 370

Preparation Time: 35 Minutes

17. Baked Potato 

Baked potatoes are great for fried chicken side dishes. To make them right, you should leave the skin on and cut a small piece off the top. 

This keeps the inside of the potato from getting too soft while cooking in oil. Enjoy your meal!

Calories Per Serving: 93

Preparation Time: 1 Hour

18. Macaroni And Cheese 

Macaroni and cheese are one of the most popular side dishes to have with fried chicken. For the best results, put some of your fried chicken drippings in your macaroni and cheese. 

You can also add some bacon bits to it if you want a stronger flavor (put them in at the same time as the macaroni).

Calories Per Serving: 642

Preparation Time: 1 Hour

19. Buttermilk Biscuits 

These biscuits also work well with fried chicken, as long as they aren’t overdone. To keep them soft and tender, you need to grease your baking sheet first and then cook your biscuits on low heat (around 300 degrees). 

If you are looking for a little crunch with your biscuits, add some celery salt to them after cooking.

Calories Per Serving: 353

Preparation Time: 35 Minutes

20. French Fries 

These are the thick-cut kind that goes with chicken wings, but they can also be used anytime fried potatoes are called for. 

Most prefer to use them on a sandwich or in a pasta dish, but sometimes you can just eat them straight out of the pan. Whatever your fancy, these fries will work.

Calories Per Serving: 219

Preparation Time: 1 Hour 20 Minutes

RELATED: How Long To Bake Chicken Breast At 400

21. Garlic Toast 

This is a popular side to have with fried chicken because it is flavorful and can go a long way in filling people up. 

Of course, you could use garlic knots, but they tend to be quite small. The garlic toast should be large enough to fill your belly.

Calories Per Serving: 82

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes

22. Slaw (Or Chopped Salad) 

Another classic that goes well with chicken can be something as simple as shredded cabbage tossed with a bit of salt and dressing or more complex like macaroni salad. 

The best-fried chicken sides include the foods above, along with things like served greens, vegetable medley, and macaroni salad.

Calories Per Serving: 120

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes

23. Mashed Red Potatoes 

These are better than plain, white potatoes. The red color makes them stand out, and the mix of butter and cream or milk gives them a certain richness that can’t be matched. 

This is meant for you if you’re looking for a light and fluffy side dish. Red mashed potatoes were made for fried chicken!

Calories Per Serving: 280

Preparation Time: 35 Minutes

24. Fried Corn 

Corn on the cob as a side dish is an acquired taste. The corn needs to be cooked just right—if it’s too hot or undercooked, then the corn will have a bad taste to it. 

On the flip side, if the corn is too soft, then it can become mushy and lose its flavor altogether.

Calories Per Serving: 170

Preparation Time: 1 Hour

25. Fried Sweet Potato Fries 

Fried is a yummy way to get your fries and eat them. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. 

This combination is unbeatable. Sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamin A and antioxidants, which sweep away free radicals in our bodies.

Calories Per Serving: 282

Preparation Time: 50 Minutes

RELATED: The Shelf Life Of Chicken Broth

26. Banana Pudding Cake 

Banana pudding cake has a smooth and velvety texture with a hint of sweetness highlighted by adding nutmeg and cloves. 

It’s also delicious with fried chicken because the vanilla flavor will taste even more wonderful with the added crunch of chicken pieces.

Calories Per Serving: 319

Preparation Time: 12 Hours 40 Minutes

27. Rice Pudding / Congee 

Rice pudding is another excellent choice for many reasons. It’s light, creamy, and comforting—and it’s a very inexpensive side dish that you can prepare quickly in a few minutes. If you want to add some spice, then add jalapenos or chilies. 

You also don’t need to worry about the nutritional content of this dish because rice is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates.

Calories Per Serving: 250

Preparation Time: 40 Minutes

28. Corn Bread Muffins 

Cornbread muffins are nice because they contain all the flavor you’re looking for without taking up too much space on your plate. 

They’re also super easy to make, so you won’t have to stress yourself out when it comes to whether or not you’ll be able to cook dinner on time.

Calories Per Serving: 179

Preparation Time: 28 Minutes

29. Tomato Sauce 

The great thing about tomato sauce (or any kind of tomato-based sauce) is that it enhances the flavor of fried chicken! It also goes beautifully with pasta, pizza, and just about anything else you can think of. 

If you choose to make your tomato sauce, then make sure that you use only the freshest ingredients possible because overcooked tomatoes will taste quite awful.

Calories Per Serving: 102

Preparation Time: 45 Minutes

30. Green Bean Casserole 

Green bean casserole is great at Thanksgiving, but it’s even better with fried chicken! This classic side dish is easy to make and super tasty. 

As fantastic as mac & cheese is, green bean casserole is even more delicious with your fried chicken meal. And you can spice it up any way you like or make it creamy. The choice is yours!

Calories Per Serving: 312

Preparation Time: 45 Minutes

31. Fried Bananas 

Fried bananas are made by first dipping the bananas in batter and then frying them until they are crispy on the outside but soft on the inside. 

They go great with fried chicken and even with McDonald’s French fries as well! Remember, fried bananas are not just for dessert!

Calories Per Serving: 259

Preparation Time: 20 Minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is A Fried Chicken Side Dish?

A fried chicken side dish is any sort of food that can be served with your meat to make it more enjoyable.

Typically, there are two types of fried chicken side dishes:

1. Things that can be placed on the table before eating, and

2. Things that are usually pickled or preserved in some way and are then included in a meal as a garnish

Is It Mandatory To Have A Side Dish For Your Fried Chicken?

Although many people believe it’s necessary to have something to eat with their meat, this isn’t always the case – especially for those who normally have an extremely small appetite.

That being said, there is usually no harm in having a side dish with your meat. Feel free to experiment as you like!

What Should I Serve With Chicken Fried Chicken?

There are plenty of side dishes that one can choose to enhance the flavor and make your dish a complete meal. A fried chicken meal is perfect with mashed potatoes, roasted okra, mac and cheese, and jiffy jalapeno cornbread, among other things.