Ever stared at a plate of chicken patties wondering what else to add to make it a complete meal? I’ve been there too! Chicken patties are such a versatile protein that can transform from a simple weeknight dinner to something special with just the right side dishes
In this article I’m gonna share my favorite sides to pair with chicken patties that’ll take your meal from “meh” to “wow!” Whether you’re making homemade chicken patties from scratch or using frozen ones (no judgment here!), these side dish ideas will help you create a satisfying and balanced meal that everyone will love.
Traditional Sides That Never Disappoint
1. Mashed Potatoes
There’s something about creamy mashed potatoes that just works perfectly with chicken patties. The smooth texture complements the crispy exterior of the patties, creating a comfort food combo that’s hard to beat.
How to enhance your mashed potatoes:
- Add garlic, chives, or cheddar cheese for extra flavor
- Try different gravy options (brown gravy or herb-infused)
- For a twist, use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes
2. Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf serves as a versatile and aromatic side dish that pairs exceptionally well with chicken patties. I love how the fluffy grains soak up any juices from the patties, creating a delicious bite every time.
Rice pilaf can be customized with:
- Various herbs and spices
- Mixed vegetables for added nutrition
- Different cooking techniques like toasting the rice before simmering
3. Macaroni and Cheese
Who doesn’t love mac and cheese? This classic comfort food works amazingly alongside chicken patties, adding a creamy, cheesy element to the meal.
For the best mac and cheese:
- Try using different cheese varieties like cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella
- Make it from scratch or dress up a boxed version
- The gooey texture balances perfectly with the savory patties
4. Baked Beans
Baked beans offer a hearty and flavorful contrast to chicken patties. Their robust, savory taste creates perfect flavor pairings that enhance the meal’s overall experience.
Plus, baked beans provide:
- Rich protein and fiber content
- A satisfying texture
- A nice complement to the milder chicken flavor
Fresh and Lighter Options
5. Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad serves as an ideal side dish to elevate your chicken patties with its crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and savory Parmesan cheese.
To make your Caesar salad special:
- Add homemade croutons for extra texture
- Experiment with dressing variations (adding lemon or anchovy)
- The crispness provides a nice contrast to the hot patties
6. Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad offers an invigorating and crisp contrast to the savory flavors of chicken patties. I particularly love serving this chilled for a refreshing element on the plate.
For the best cucumber salad:
- Choose between tangy vinaigrettes or creamy yogurt-based dressings
- Slice cucumbers thinly and add onions or herbs for extra flavor
- Let it marinate briefly before serving
7. Coleslaw
Want to add some crunch to your chicken patty meal? Coleslaw is the answer! This delightful side dish offers endless flavor variations and a satisfying texture.
Coleslaw options include:
- Classic creamy versions
- Zesty vinegar-based varieties
- Homemade recipes that let you customize to your preference
8. Quinoa Salad
For a lighter and more nutritious complement to chicken patties, consider serving a vibrant quinoa salad. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice.
Quinoa salad variations:
- Add fresh vegetables and herbs
- Dress with a light vinaigrette
- Creates a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome
Vegetables That Pair Perfectly
9. Steamed Vegetables
For a healthier complement to chicken patties, steamed vegetables offer a vibrant and nutritious option that balances the richness of the meal.
The nutritional benefits are exceptional, and you can enhance the natural flavors with:
- A sprinkle of lemon zest
- A dash of olive oil
- A pinch of sea salt
10. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts make an excellent side dish for chicken patties, offering a deliciously crisp texture and a rich, caramelized flavor. I was surprised how well these work together!
Simple cooking techniques:
- Toss them in olive oil
- Roast at high heat
- Enjoy the nutritious complement to your meal
11. Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob provides a sweet and satisfying contrast that pairs wonderfully with chicken patties. It’s especially great during summer BBQs!
To elevate your corn:
- Try various grilling techniques to enhance natural sweetness
- Experiment with butter toppings (classic or garlic-herb)
- Enjoy this easy and delightful addition
12. Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus offers a crisp and slightly charred flavor that pairs excellently with the savory profile of chicken patties. It’s one of my favorite veggie sides!
For perfect grilled asparagus:
- Use proper grilling techniques to keep it tender yet firm
- Try an asparagus seasoning blend with garlic, lemon zest, and olive oil
- The natural flavors make it a standout side dish
Fun Finger Foods
13. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries offer a nutritious and flavorful alternative to traditional potato fries, making them an excellent side dish for chicken patties.
Customize your sweet potato fries with:
- Different seasoning options (paprika or garlic powder)
- Various dipping sauces (aioli or honey mustard)
- The natural sweetness complements the savory chicken
14. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread serves as a savory and aromatic side that perfectly complements chicken patties. The rich garlic butter spread over warm, crusty bread creates an irresistible flavor.
For extra indulgence:
- Try cheesy bread where melted cheese adds a creamy texture
- The combination guarantees a satisfying, flavorful meal
- Everyone will reach for seconds!
15. Air Fryer Fries
Crispy fries hot out of the air fryer are a crave-worthy accompaniment to chicken patties. Air frying cuts calories compared to deep frying, so you can enjoy them guilt-free.
Season your air fryer fries with:
- Salt
- Garlic powder
- Chili powder for some heat
Sauces and Condiments to Elevate Your Chicken Patties
The right sauce can transform your chicken patties from good to amazing! Here are some condiments that pair perfectly:
- Barbecue Sauce – Sweet and tangy, it moistens up the chicken and adds depth
- Ranch Dressing – Creamy, herb-infused, perfect for dipping
- Honey Mustard – The sweet and spicy combo is highly addicting
- Blue Cheese Dressing – Bold flavor that stands up well to chicken
Creative Meal Ideas for Chicken Patties
Chicken Patty Sandwich Bar
Take your chicken patties to the next level by making chicken patty sandwiches and offering a DIY topping bar. Set out:
- Toasted buns
- Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles
- Cheese slices (cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss)
- Bacon strips
- Various sauces
Chicken Patty Rice Bowl
Create a nutritious rice bowl with:
- Bed of fluffy rice
- Sliced chicken patty on top
- Roasted or steamed vegetables
- Drizzle of sauce (teriyaki or sweet chili)
How to Make Your Chicken Patties Even Better
Whether you’re using store-bought patties or making them from scratch, here are some tips to enhance them:
For homemade patties:
- Use high-quality ground chicken
- Add fresh herbs like parsley
- Include minced garlic and diced onion
- Use breadcrumbs or panko for texture
For cooking:
- Pan-fry in olive oil for a golden, crispy exterior
- Bake in the oven for a healthier option
- Try an air fryer for crispy results with less oil
FAQ: Common Questions About Serving Chicken Patties
What are healthy side options to serve with chicken patties?
Healthy options include quinoa salad with mixed vegetables, steamed broccoli, cucumber salad, or grilled asparagus. These sides are nutritious and complement the flavors of the chicken.
Which sauces pair well with chicken patties?
Tangy sauces like honey mustard, garlic aioli, barbecue sauce, or blue cheese dressing enhance the savory taste of chicken patties and are perfect for dipping.
Can the same side dishes be served with chicken patties and chicken breasts?
Yes! Many side dishes that work well with chicken breasts also pair nicely with chicken patties. Options like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and garden salads are versatile enough to complement both.
Final Thoughts
Chicken patties are a blank canvas waiting for your creativity! With these 15 side dish ideas, you’ll never run out of ways to make a complete, satisfying meal. My personal favorites are the crispy sweet potato fries and a tangy cucumber salad for balance, but you might find your own perfect pairing.
The best part about these side dishes is that many can be prepped ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. So next time you’re staring at a package of chicken patties in your freezer, you’ll have plenty of inspiration for what to serve alongside them!
What’s your favorite side dish to serve with chicken patties? Do you have a special sauce or condiment that takes them to the next level? I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments below!
What is the difference between a turkey burger and chicken burger?
Turkey burgers are made from lean ground turkey meat, which tends to be lower in fat than chicken.
Chicken burgers, on the other hand, are typically made from ground chicken.
Both options offer a healthier alternative to beef burgers, but turkey burgers are often leaner and have a milder flavor.
Simple ingredients for turkey burgers
To make delicious turkey burgers, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ground turkey or chicken: Start with lean ground turkey meat. Ground chicken is also a great alternative to ground beef.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the mixture together.
Egg: Acts as a binder.
Onion: Finely chopped for flavor.
Garlic: Minced for extra taste.
Fresh vegetables. Finely diced to add to the ground meat mixture. Vegetables like zucchini, squash and mushrooms are examples that add moisture to every bite.
Salt and black pepper: Season to your liking.
Herbs and spices: Consider adding dried oregano, thyme, or paprika.
Oil or cooking spray: For grilling or pan-frying.
Burger buns: To serve your turkey burgers.
While there are many ways to cook turkey burgers, I like to use the stove top and oven to make healthy turkey burgers when the weather is colder.
In the summer months when the whole family is home, I like to cook outside.
There are many different ways to cook turkey burgers.
- Grilled Burgers: Grill them outdoors for a smoky flavor. Use a grill pan or barbecue grill. Serve on whole wheat buns with your favorite toppings.
- Skillet Burgers: These juicy burgers are cooked in a cast iron skillet with a well-browned crust.
- Air Fryer Turkey Burgers: Cook fresh or frozen turkey burgers in an air fryer for a quick and crispy option.
- Oven-Baked Burgers: Place them on a baking sheet and bake in the oven until fully cooked.
