Chicken salad croissants are one of those perfect lunch options that combine creamy, savory goodness with buttery, flaky pastry. But what transforms this sandwich from a simple meal to an unforgettable dining experience? The secret lies in the perfect side dishes!
As someone who’s hosted countless lunch gatherings, I’ve experimented with dozens of side dishes to accompany chicken salad croissants. Today, I’m sharing my favorite pairings that will elevate your meal to restaurant quality.
Why Side Dishes Matter for Chicken Salad Croissants
Before diving into specific recommendations, let’s talk about why choosing the right sides is so important:
- They provide balance to the rich, creamy chicken salad
- They add contrasting textures to complement the flaky croissant
- They can offer nutritional components missing from the main dish
- They transform a simple sandwich into a complete meal
The best accompaniments for chicken salad croissants create harmony through contrast – think crunchy sides against creamy filling or tangy flavors to cut through richness.
Fresh and Crunchy Side Dishes
1. Fresh Fruit Salad
A vibrant fruit salad is my go-to side when serving chicken salad croissants for brunch or a light lunch The natural sweetness and refreshing juiciness create a perfect contrast to the savory sandwich,
Pro tip: Try combining tropical fruits like pineapple, mango and kiwi with a light citrus dressing for an extra burst of flavor!
2. Classic Coleslaw
Coleslaw is practically made to go with chicken salad croissants! The crisp, tangy crunch provides a delightful counterpoint to the creamy chicken filling
For the best pairing, I recommend choosing a vinegar-based coleslaw rather than a mayo-heavy version. The acidity helps cut through the richness of the chicken salad, creating a more balanced bite.
3. Cucumber Dill Salad
This light, refreshing side dish offers a crisp contrast to chicken salad croissants. I love making this with:
- Thinly sliced cucumbers
- Fresh dill
- A light vinaigrette or yogurt-based dressing
- A sprinkle of salt and pepper
The cool, garden-fresh flavor profile makes this an especially good choice for summer lunches.
4. Mixed Green Salad
A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a perfect palate-cleansing side dish. To make it more interesting, add:
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber slices
- Red onion
- Nuts or seeds for extra crunch
- A light balsamic or lemon vinaigrette
This side dish is not only delicious but also adds nutritional balance to your meal.
Savory and Hearty Sides
5. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries offer that perfect balance of crispy exterior and sweet, tender interior that pairs surprisingly well with chicken salad croissants.
I prefer oven-baking mine with a light coating of olive oil, salt, and a touch of paprika or cinnamon. The subtle sweetness complements the savory notes in the chicken salad filling beautifully.
6. Tomato Basil Soup
A small cup of warm tomato basil soup makes for a comforting and satisfying side, especially during cooler months. The acidity and herbaceous flavors of the soup create a lovely contrast to the rich, creamy chicken salad.
This pairing gives you that classic “soup and sandwich” combination that always feels special.
7. Roasted Vegetables
A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings both color and nutrition to your plate. I particularly like combining:
- Carrots
- Bell peppers
- Zucchini
- Red onions
- Brussels sprouts (when in season)
The natural sweetness that emerges when vegetables are roasted creates a delightful counterpoint to the savory chicken salad.
8. Creamy Potato Salad
When I’m serving chicken salad croissants for a heartier meal, potato salad is my go-to side. The smooth, creamy texture provides a substantial complement to the sandwich.
For best results, I use fresh herbs like dill or chives in my potato salad to brighten the flavors and tie it to the chicken salad.
Tangy and Pickle-Based Sides
9. Pickle Spears
Sometimes the simplest sides are the most effective! Crisp, tangy pickle spears provide that perfect acidic punch to cut through the richness of chicken salad croissants.
You can offer different varieties – from classic dill to spicy or sweet pickles – to accommodate various taste preferences.
10. Marinated Olives
For a Mediterranean twist, marinated olives make an excellent accompaniment to chicken salad croissants. The briny, savory flavors create a sophisticated contrast to the sandwich.
I like to serve a mix of different olive varieties like Kalamata and Castelvetrano for visual appeal and flavor diversity.
Elevated Sides for Special Occasions
11. Deviled Eggs
When I’m hosting a special lunch, deviled eggs make a elegant and satisfying side dish for chicken salad croissants. Their creamy, savory nature complements the sandwich perfectly.
For variety, try adding different toppings to your deviled eggs – paprika, dill, bacon bits, or even a small slice of pickle.
12. Antipasto Skewers
These colorful skewers packed with Italian flavors make both a visual and flavorful statement alongside chicken salad croissants. I typically include:
- Marinated mozzarella balls
- Cherry tomatoes
- Folded salami or prosciutto
- Olives
- Artichoke hearts
- Fresh basil leaves
They’re impressive enough for company but simple enough for everyday enjoyment.
13. Quinoa Salad
For a nutritious, protein-rich side, quinoa salad pairs wonderfully with chicken salad croissants. The nutty flavor and unique texture of quinoa creates an interesting contrast.
I like to add plenty of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a light dressing to my quinoa salad for maximum flavor and visual appeal.
14. Pasta Primavera
A light pasta primavera filled with fresh seasonal vegetables makes a colorful and satisfying side dish. The key is keeping the sauce light – a simple olive oil and herb dressing works perfectly.
This side is particularly good when you’re serving chicken salad croissants as part of a larger spread or buffet.
15. Garlic Parmesan Knots
When I want something a bit more indulgent, warm garlic parmesan knots provide that perfect savory, buttery complement to chicken salad croissants.
The rich aroma and flavor of fresh-baked bread with garlic and cheese elevates the entire meal to something truly special.
FAQ About Serving Chicken Salad Croissants
What’s the best type of croissant to use?
Buttery, flaky traditional croissants are the classic choice. For best results, use fresh ones that aren’t overly dense. Mini croissants work great for parties or appetizer-sized portions!
Should I warm the croissant before adding chicken salad?
Generally, no. Cold chicken salad is best served on room-temperature croissants. Warming can make them too soft and potentially soggy. If your croissants aren’t super fresh, a very light toasting can help revive them.
What drinks pair well with chicken salad croissants?
My favorite beverages to serve alongside include:
- Iced tea (sweet or unsweetened)
- Lemonade
- Sparkling water with citrus
- Light white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
How can I prevent the croissants from getting soggy?
This is something I’ve struggled with! My best tips:
- Don’t overfill the croissants
- Line the inside with a lettuce leaf to create a moisture barrier
- If preparing ahead, keep the chicken salad and croissants separate until just before serving
Final Thoughts
Chicken salad croissants are already delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right side dishes transforms them into a memorable meal. Whether you’re planning a casual lunch, elegant brunch, or special occasion, there’s a perfect accompaniment on this list.
My personal favorite combination is a chicken salad croissant with a small mixed green salad and a few pickle spears on the side – the perfect balance of flavors and textures!
What’s your favorite side to serve with chicken salad croissants? I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments below!
Classic Salads with Greens
Classic Salads with greens, like this Spinach and Arugula Salad, are light and delicious and make a great pairing. This Salad is topped with cranberries, glazed pecans, and parmesan cheese with bacon and tossed in a homemade honey mustard.
Leafy Green Salads also make a nice choice because theyre not carb heavy and are quick to make. Try this Kale Pomegranate Salad, Arugula Pear Salad, and Peach Burrata Salad too.
Just say pasta, and Ill come running! I absolutely love fresh pasta salads for side dishes, like this Lemon Orzo with Feta Pasta Salad. Its topped with a lemon vinaigrette dressing and completely loaded with Greek flavors.
Any guest Ive ever had over goes crazy over this easy pasta salad recipe. For more delicious quick pasta salads, try this Pasta Salad with Balsamic Dressing, Hawaiian Macaroni Salad, and Pesto Tortellini Salad.
This Farro Ancient Grain Salad is one of the most addicting salads I know and its healthy. It features a curry dressing that I can guarantee will make you want seconds. Its a fantastic side choice for chicken salad and you can even prep it a day ahead to save on time.
Side Dishes for Chicken Salad:
An easy Soup recipe is always a great option to pair with Chicken Salad, especially in the Fall and Winter months. This Vegetable Rice Soup is a wonderful option because it doesnt have meat, and is full of veggies with a flavorful tomato broth.
Soup serves a lot of people as well, so if youre planning a party, its always a good choice. For more of my favorite soup recipes, try this Outback Baked Potato Soup, Chicken Minestrone and Bistro French Onion Soup.