55 Mouthwatering Ideas for What to Eat with Chicken Tenders

Are you staring at a plate of chicken tenders wondering what to serve alongside them? I’ve been there too many times! As a mom of three who’s always juggling mealtime madness, I can tell you that chicken tenders are practically a food group in my house. They’re quick, reliable, and everyone from my picky 4-year-old to my husband loves them.

But let’s be honest—chicken tenders on their own can get boring pretty fast That’s why I’ve compiled this mega-list of 55 delicious sides to pair with your chicken tenders, whether they’re homemade, from the freezer section, or from your favorite takeout spot

Why Chicken Tenders Are Awesome (But Need Great Sides)

Chicken tenders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. They’re:

• Quick to prepare
• Protein-packed
• Versatile (baked, fried, or grilled)
• Kid-approved
• Great for dipping

But they really shine when paired with complementary sides that balance their mild flavor and crispy texture The right side dish can transform basic chicken tenders into a complete, satisfying meal that feels like you actually put effort into dinner (even if you didn’t!)

Classic Comfort Sides for Chicken Tenders

These tried-and-true favorites never disappoint when served alongside chicken tenders

1. French Fries

Is there a more iconic pairing than chicken tenders and fries? I think not! Whether you prefer thin and crispy, thick-cut, or waffle fries, they’re the perfect vehicle for dipping in the same sauces as your tenders. For a healthier twist, try baking them instead of frying.

2. Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy pasta is basically chicken tenders’ soulmate. This combo is pure comfort food bliss! I like to use sharp cheddar for extra flavor and sometimes sneak in some veggies like broccoli or cauliflower. My kids never notice!

3. Mashed Potatoes

Smooth, buttery mashed potatoes make an excellent companion to crispy chicken tenders. The contrast between the crunchy coating and the creamy potatoes is absolutely divine. Add a little garlic or cheese to kick them up a notch.

4. Tater Tots

These bite-sized potato nuggets are basically french fries’ more fun cousin. They bake up crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, making them perfect for dipping. Plus, they’re super easy to make from frozen.

5. Baked Beans

Sweet and savory baked beans bring a smoky, flavorful element to your chicken tender meal. The contrast between the tangy beans and mild chicken works wonderfully together.

6. Cornbread

This Southern classic with its slight sweetness pairs beautifully with chicken tenders. I love making mine with corn kernels mixed in for extra texture and flavor. Drizzle with honey butter for an extra special treat!

7. Coleslaw

The cool, crunchy texture of coleslaw provides the perfect balance to hot chicken tenders. You can go with a creamy version or a tangy vinegar-based one—both work great!

Veggie Sides That Pair Perfectly with Chicken Tenders

Balance out your meal with these nutritious veggie options that still satisfy:

8. Roasted Sweetpotatoes and Carrots

These colorful root veggies roast up sweet and caramelized, complementing the savory flavor of chicken tenders. Toss them with a little maple syrup and cinnamon for a delicious twist.

9. Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Crispy, slightly charred Brussels sprouts from the air fryer are a game-changer, even for veggie skeptics. The slight bitterness pairs wonderfully with the mild chicken tenders.

10. Corn on the Cob

Sweet, juicy corn is always a hit with chicken tenders. Brush with butter and sprinkle with a little salt for a simple yet satisfying side.

11. Green Beans

Whether steamed, sautéed, or roasted, green beans make a perfect light side for chicken tenders. I like to add a squeeze of lemon and some slivered almonds for extra flavor and crunch.

12. Roasted Broccoli

Roasting brings out broccoli’s natural sweetness and creates crispy edges that complement chicken tenders beautifully. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese takes it to the next level.

13. Simple Garden Salad

A fresh green salad with your favorite veggies and dressing lightens up chicken tenders and adds nutritional value. It’s my go-to when I want to feel a little less guilty about serving chicken tenders again!

14. Cucumber Salad

Cool, crisp cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette or yogurt dressing refreshes the palate between bites of savory chicken tenders.

15. Zucchini Fries or Pasta

For a lower-carb alternative to regular fries, try zucchini cut into strips, breaded, and baked until crispy. Or use a spiralizer to create zucchini “pasta” for a veggie-forward side.

Unique and Flavorful Sides to Try

Want to get a little more adventurous? These unique sides will elevate your chicken tender game:

16. Mexican Street Corn Zucchini Dip

This cheesy, zesty dip combines the flavors of Mexican street corn with zucchini for a delicious side that doubles as an appetizer.

17. Sweet Potato Pretzel Bites

These fun bites combine the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the salty crunch of pretzels—a perfect complement to chicken tenders.

18. Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Carrots

Roasting these veggies with balsamic vinegar brings out their natural sweetness and adds a tangy kick that pairs beautifully with chicken tenders.

19. Fried Pickles

Tangy, crunchy fried pickles provide a delicious contrast to chicken tenders. The acidity cuts through the richness of the chicken for a balanced bite.

20. Potato Wedges

Thicker than french fries with more potato flavor, wedges can be seasoned with herbs and spices for extra flavor. They’re also healthier when baked instead of fried.

21. Loaded Sweet Potato Nachos

These nachos use sweet potato slices instead of tortilla chips for a healthier, more flavorful base. Top with black beans, cheese, and your favorite nacho toppings.

22. Quinoa Salad

Nutty quinoa makes a protein-packed base for a refreshing salad with vegetables, herbs, and a light dressing. It’s a nutritious counterpoint to fried chicken tenders.

23. Garlic Bread

Warm, buttery garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser. The garlicky, buttery flavor complements chicken tenders perfectly.

Kid-Friendly Sides That Adults Will Love Too

When you’re feeding little ones but don’t want to sacrifice flavor, these sides hit the sweet spot:

24. Sweetpotato Mac and Cheese

This twist on classic mac adds sweet potato for extra nutrition and natural sweetness that kids love. The vibrant orange color is fun too!

25. Cheesy Sweet Potatoes

These combine the nutritional benefits of sweet potatoes with the kid-approved goodness of melted cheese. Win-win!

26. Parsnip Fries

These look like french fries but offer a slightly sweeter, more complex flavor. Toss with garlic and parmesan for extra appeal.

27. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Crispy on the outside, tender inside, and naturally sweet—these are a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re much healthier than regular fries.

28. Fruit Salad

A colorful fruit salad provides a sweet counterpoint to savory chicken tenders. The fresh flavors cleanse the palate and add important nutrients to the meal.

Quick and Easy Sides for Busy Nights

When time is tight but you still want something better than just chicken tenders on a plate:

29. Steamable Frozen Vegetables

Those microwave-in-bag frozen veggies are a lifesaver on busy nights. Just steam, season, and serve alongside your chicken tenders.

30. Instant Pot Quinoa with Vegetables

The Instant Pot makes fluffy quinoa with veggies in just minutes. It’s a nutritious, hands-off side that cooks while you prepare the chicken tenders.

31. Microwave “Baked” Potatoes

Poke a few holes in potatoes, microwave until tender, then top with butter, cheese, sour cream, or whatever you like. Quick, easy, and satisfying!

32. Buttered Noodles

Simple pasta tossed with butter and maybe a sprinkle of parmesan cheese is ready in minutes and always a hit with the kids.

33. Minute Rice

Those quick-cooking rice packets save tons of time and come in various flavors to complement your chicken tenders.

Bread and Grain Sides

Carbs make everything better, especially when paired with chicken tenders:

34. Biscuits

Fluffy, buttery biscuits are perfect for sopping up sauce from your chicken tenders. They’re especially good with honey or gravy!

35. Dinner Rolls

Soft, warm rolls make any meal feel more special. They’re perfect for making mini chicken sandwiches too!

36. Rice Pilaf

This flavorful rice dish with herbs and sometimes vegetables elevates simple chicken tenders into a more sophisticated meal.

37. Couscous Salad

Quick-cooking couscous mixed with vegetables and a light dressing makes a refreshing side that’s ready in minutes.

38. Quinoa and Sweet Potato Salad with Fruit

This hearty salad combines protein-rich quinoa with sweet potato and fresh fruit for a nutritious, flavorful side.

Dips and Sauces to Elevate Your Chicken Tenders

Don’t forget about dipping sauces—they can transform basic chicken tenders into something special:

39. Honey Mustard

The perfect balance of sweet and tangy, honey mustard is a classic chicken tender companion.

40. Ranch Dressing

Cool, creamy ranch is always a hit, especially with kids. It works double-duty as a dip for both tenders and veggie sides.

41. BBQ Sauce

Sweet, smoky, and slightly tangy, BBQ sauce adds tons of flavor to plain chicken tenders.

42. Buffalo Sauce

For those who like it spicy, buffalo sauce brings the heat. Pair with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for the full wing experience.

43. Garlic Aioli

This elevated garlic mayo adds a sophisticated touch to chicken tenders that adults will appreciate.

44. Pesto

Herby, garlicky pesto is an unexpected but delicious partner for chicken tenders. It’s especially good with parmesan-crusted tenders.

Sweet Endings to Your Chicken Tender Meal

Finish off your meal with something sweet:

45. Peach Cobbler

This classic Southern dessert provides a sweet, fruity contrast to savory chicken tenders. The warm spices are especially comforting.

46. Fried Apples

Apples sautéed with butter, cinnamon, and sugar make a surprisingly delicious accompaniment to chicken tenders. The sweet-savory combo is addictive!

47. Chocolate Chip Sweet Potato Bread

This sounds weird but tastes amazing! The sweetness balances out the savory chicken, and it’s healthier than most desserts.

Make-Ahead Sides for Easier Meal Planning

Prep these sides in advance for stress-free mealtimes:

48. Pasta Salad

Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. The flavors often improve after a day in the fridge.

49. Potato Salad

Another make-ahead classic that pairs well with chicken tenders, especially for picnics or casual dinners.

50. Broccoli Orzo Salad

This refreshing pasta salad with tiny orzo, broccoli, and a lemony dressing can be made days ahead.

51. Greek Quinoa Salad

Packed with Mediterranean flavors, this hearty salad keeps well in the fridge and tastes great with chicken tenders.

52. Marinated Vegetable Salad

Veggies that have soaked in a flavorful vinaigrette hold up well and make a refreshing side to chicken tenders.

Splurge-Worthy Sides for Special Occasions

When you want to make chicken tenders feel fancy:

53. Loaded Baked Potato

A fluffy potato topped with all the fixings—sour cream, cheese, bacon, chives—elevates humble chicken tenders to steakhouse status.

54. Truffle Fries

Regular fries get a gourmet upgrade with a drizzle of truffle oil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

55. Lobster Mac and Cheese

For the ultimate splurge, chunks of lobster in creamy mac and cheese alongside chicken tenders make for an unexpectedly delicious surf and turf combo.

Final Thoughts: Mix, Match, and Enjoy!

The beauty of chicken tenders is their versatility. Don’t be afraid to mix and match these sides based on what you have on hand, what’s in season, or what your family prefers.

I often serve at least two sides with chicken tenders—typically a veggie and a starch—to create a balanced meal. And remember, even the simplest sides can elevate chicken tenders from a basic protein to a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

What’s your favorite side to eat with chicken tenders? I’m always looking for new ideas to keep mealtime interesting at my house!