French onion chicken is one of those comforting, flavor-packed dishes that’s both impressive and satisfying With its rich, savory profile featuring caramelized onions, melty cheese, and tender chicken, it’s a meal that deserves thoughtful side dishes to complete the experience. If you’ve been wondering what to serve with French onion chicken, I’ve got you covered with plenty of options that will elevate your dinner to restaurant quality
Understanding French Onion Chicken’s Flavor Profile
Before diving into side dish options, it helps to understand what makes French onion chicken special. This dish typically features:
- Tender chicken (often thighs or breasts)
- Caramelized onions that bring natural sweetness
- Rich, savory gravy or sauce
- Melted cheese (commonly Gruyere or Swiss)
- Herbs like thyme for aromatic depth
The dish is characterized by its rich, savory, and subtly sweet flavors The ideal pairings need to either complement these flavors or provide a balanced contrast without overwhelming the star of the show.
Best Starchy Sides for French Onion Chicken
1. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that works perfectly with the rich gravy from French onion chicken The creamy texture and mild flavor create the ultimate comfort food combination,
Pro tip: For extra richness, add some sour cream or cream cheese to your mashed potatoes. The tanginess helps cut through the richness of the chicken dish.
2. Roasted Potatoes
If you prefer something with more texture than mashed potatoes, crispy roasted potatoes are an excellent alternative. Toss small red or yellow potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh rosemary before roasting until golden brown.
3. Egg Noodles
Egg noodles are perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious French onion gravy. The wide, flat noodles catch all the sauce, making sure no flavor goes to waste. Simply boil according to package directions and toss with a little butter to prevent sticking.
4. Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf offers a lighter alternative to potatoes while still providing a canvas for the flavorful sauce. Cook your favorite rice (white, brown, or even a mix with wild rice), then stir in some sautéed onions and herbs for added flavor.
5. Crusty Bread or Baguette
Sometimes the simplest option is the best. A good quality crusty bread or French baguette is perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil.
6. Garlic Bread
For an easy but flavorful option, garlic bread complements French onion chicken beautifully. The garlicky, buttery flavor enhances the meal, and it’s perfect for dipping into the sauce.
7. Cheesy Biscuits
Buttery, fluffy biscuits with cheese added to the dough make for an indulgent side. They pair wonderfully with the chicken gravy and add another texture dimension to your meal.
Vegetable Sides That Balance the Meal
8. Green Beans
Fresh green beans provide a light, crisp contrast to the rich chicken. You can roast, sauté, or steam them to your preference. For extra flavor, try sautéing with a bit of garlic and finishing with a squeeze of lemon juice.
9. Roasted Asparagus
The slight bitterness of asparagus pairs beautifully with the richness of French onion chicken. Roast until tender-crisp with lemon and garlic for a bright, refreshing side dish.
10. Glazed Carrots
The natural sweetness of glazed carrots complements the savory flavors of the chicken. A simple glaze with butter, honey, and a touch of lemon juice is all you need for this colorful side.
11. Creamed Spinach
For something a bit more indulgent, creamed spinach makes for an elegant side dish. The creamy texture pairs nicely with the chicken, and the spinach adds nutrition to balance the meal.
12. Garlic Roasted Broccoli
Broccoli’s earthy flavor works well with French onion chicken, especially when roasted with garlic until the edges are slightly crispy. It provides a nice textural contrast to the tender chicken.
Fresh and Light Accompaniments
13. Classic Green Salad
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich chicken. The acidity helps cut through the richness and cleanses the palate between bites.
14. Arugula Salad with Lemon Dressing
Arugula’s peppery bite combined with a zesty lemon dressing creates a perfect balance to the sweet caramelized onions in the chicken dish. Add some shaved Parmesan for extra flavor.
15. Cucumber and Tomato Salad
This refreshing salad offers a cool and crisp contrast to the warm and savory chicken. The acidity of the tomatoes provides a palate-cleansing effect that works well with rich dishes.
Considerations for Different Dietary Needs
When planning your menu, keep in mind any dietary restrictions:
- Low-carb options: Focus on vegetables like roasted asparagus, green beans, or a fresh salad
- Gluten-free choices: Mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or roasted vegetables
- Vegetarian additions: Any of the vegetable sides can be made into more substantial dishes with the addition of nuts or cheese
Wine Pairing Suggestions
The right wine can elevate your French onion chicken meal:
- Medium-bodied red wines like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais complement the savory flavors
- Dry white wines such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc offer a refreshing contrast
- For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or unsweetened iced tea works well
Real People’s Favorites
I asked some fellow home cooks what they serve with French onion chicken, and here are some of their favorite pairings:
- “I always make mashed potatoes – they’re perfect for soaking up that amazing gravy!”
- “We love it with buttered egg noodles and some roasted broccoli on the side.”
- “A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness perfectly.”
- “I serve mine with garlic bread – nothing fancy but so good for getting every last bit of sauce!”
Tips for Creating a Balanced Meal
When deciding what to serve with French onion chicken, consider these principles:
- Balance flavors – The chicken is rich and savory, so include something bright or acidic
- Vary textures – Include something crisp or crunchy to contrast with the tender chicken
- Consider color – Add visual appeal with colorful vegetables
- Mind the heaviness – If serving a starchy side, balance with a lighter vegetable option
FAQ About Serving French Onion Chicken
Can I serve soup as a side dish with French onion chicken?
While both involve onion and cheese, serving French onion soup with French onion chicken might be overkill with similar flavors. It’s usually better to pair this dish with something offering a different flavor profile.
What are some kid-friendly sides for French onion chicken?
Kids often enjoy simpler flavors. Mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or simple steamed vegetables are usually safe bets. Cut the chicken into smaller pieces for easier eating.
I’m looking for a low-carb option. What sides would you recommend?
Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans are excellent low-carb choices. A simple salad with a light vinaigrette also works well.
How can I prepare these side dishes in advance?
Many sides can be prepped ahead of time. Salads can be washed and chopped, roasted vegetables can be cut, and starches like potatoes can be partially cooked. Finish cooking just before serving for freshness.
Can I use different herbs to enhance the side dishes?
Absolutely! Thyme, rosemary, parsley, and chives all pair well with French onion chicken. Experiment to find combinations you enjoy.
Final Thoughts
French onion chicken is a delicious, flavorful dish that deserves thoughtful side dishes to create a complete meal. Whether you prefer classic pairings like mashed potatoes or lighter options like a fresh salad, there are plenty of choices to complement this savory main course.
Remember that the best meal is one that suits your taste preferences and dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to mix and match from these suggestions to create your perfect plate. The key is finding balance between the rich, savory chicken and sides that either complement or provide contrast to those flavors.
What’s your favorite side dish to serve with French onion chicken? I’d love to hear your combinations in the comments below!
