Have you ever made a batch of chicken salad sandwiches and thought “What should I serve with these?” You’re not alone! Chicken salad sandwiches are a classic lunch or picnic option, but finding the perfect side dish can take your meal from good to unforgettable.
As someone who’s hosted countless lunch gatherings, I’ve experimented with many side dishes to complement chicken salad sandwiches. Today, I’m sharing my favorite pairings that will elevate your next meal!
Why Side Dishes Matter with Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Chicken salad sandwiches are already pretty filling on their own. They provide protein from the chicken, some veggies from the salad ingredients, and carbs from the bread. However, the right side dish can
- Add contrasting textures
- Introduce complementary flavors
- Make the meal more satisfying
- Provide additional nutrients
Let’s dive into the best options to serve alongside your chicken salad sandwich!
Classic Side Options for Chicken Salad Sandwiches
1. Coleslaw
Nothing complements a chicken salad sandwich quite like a classic coleslaw. The crunchy texture and tangy flavor create a perfect contrast to the creamy sandwich.
My quick coleslaw tip Try adding a bit of Dijon mustard and fresh dill to your coleslaw dressing for an elevated flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken salad, Just be careful not to go overboard with mayo if your chicken salad already has plenty!
2. Potato Chips
Sometimes the simplest option is the best! Store-bought chips work perfectly, but if you’re feeling ambitious, homemade potato chips seasoned with garlic powder, celery salt, and pepper make for an impressive side.
3. French Fries
Who doesn’t love French fries? They’re universally appealing and work wonderfully with chicken salad sandwiches. The saltiness complements the creaminess of the chicken salad without overpowering it.
4. Potato Salad
Potato salad is another classic pairing that works well with chicken salad sandwiches. The creamy, hearty nature of potato salad makes for a filling meal, especially when you add dill pickle, red onion, and celery for extra crunch and flavor.
Fresh and Healthy Sides
5. Garden Salad
For a lighter option, a simple garden salad with fresh vegetables and a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richer chicken salad sandwich. Tomatoes, cucumbers, and a variety of greens make for a nutritious side.
6. Caesar Salad
The crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons of a Caesar salad create a wonderful balance of textures alongside a chicken salad sandwich. The tangy, garlicky notes of the dressing bring a zesty contrast to the milder flavors of chicken salad.
7. Corn Salad
A simple corn salad is super easy to prepare and doesn’t require any cooking! Mix corn with tomatoes, onion, and crumbled feta cheese for a delicious side dish that comes together in minutes.
8. Quinoa Salad
For a healthy and hearty option, try a quinoa salad loaded with veggies and a light vinaigrette. The nutty, earthy taste of quinoa pairs well with chicken salad. I like to toss in chopped cucumber, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes for color and crunch.
Warm and Comforting Sides
9. Butternut Squash Soup
This nutty, slightly sweet soup makes an excellent counterpart to chicken salad sandwiches, especially during fall and winter. The warmth of the soup contrasts nicely with the cold sandwich.
Pro tip: Try adding an apple to your butternut squash soup for a subtle sweetness that works great with chicken salad!
10. Baked Potato Soup
Looking for comfort in a bowl? Baked potato soup pairs wonderfully with chicken salad sandwiches. Creamy, savory, and filled with potato, cheese, and bacon flavors, this rich soup complements the lightness of chicken salad perfectly.
11. Roasted Potatoes and Carrots
Roasted vegetables, particularly potatoes and carrots, make a hearty and flavorful side dish. Roasting them with garlic, herbs, and butter creates tender, flavorful vegetables that complement chicken wonderfully.
Fun and Creative Sides
12. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic accompaniment that works particularly well with chicken salad sandwiches. The creamy yolk filling complements the chicken salad, while adding more protein to your meal. A sprinkle of paprika on top adds color and a little spice.
13. Fried Pickles
For something a bit different, try fried pickles! The crispy, deep-fried coating paired with the tangy crunch of the pickle creates a fun contrast to the creamy chicken salad sandwich.
14. Avocado Fries
Slice ripe avocados, coat them in breadcrumbs, and bake or fry them for a trendy side dish. The creamy interior with a crispy exterior offers an interesting texture variation while providing healthy fats.
15. Cheese Twists
If you love cheese, homemade cheese twists can be a delightful accompaniment to chicken salad sandwiches. These flavorful treats have much more personality than standard breadsticks thanks to the inclusion of cheese.
Seasonal Pairings for Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Different seasons call for different side dishes! Here are some ideas based on the time of year:
Spring/Summer Sides
- Sweet corn on the cob
- Blistered tomatoes
- Fresh fruit salad
- Cucumber slices with dill
Fall/Winter Sides
- Butternut squash soup
- Caramelized carrots
- Roasted root vegetables
- Warm bread with herb butter
Quick FAQs About Chicken Salad Sandwich Pairings
Is chicken salad bad for you?
Chicken salad can be part of a healthy diet, but it depends on the ingredients and portions. The chicken provides good protein, and the vegetables add nutrients. However, the mayonnaise content can increase calories and fat. For a healthier version, use less mayo or substitute with Greek yogurt.
Can you put pickles in a chicken salad sandwich?
Absolutely! Pickles add a nice tangy crunch to chicken salad. If you enjoy pickles and think they complement your chicken salad, feel free to include them in your sandwich.
What other salads go well with chicken?
Chicken pairs wonderfully with many salads, including:
- Potato salad
- Rice salad
- Farro salad
- Corn salad
- Spinach salad
- Sweet potato salad
My Personal Favorite Combination
I’ve tried countless combinations over the years, but my go-to side for chicken salad sandwiches has to be a simple Caesar salad with a small portion of potato chips. The Caesar salad provides freshness and crunch, while the chips satisfy that craving for something salty and crispy. It’s simple but perfectly balanced!
Making It a Complete Meal
When hosting a lunch gathering, I like to offer a couple of side options for guests. Usually, I’ll prepare:
- One fresh option (like a garden salad or Caesar salad)
- One comfort food option (like potato chips or soup)
- A light dessert (fresh fruit or small cookies)
This combination ensures everyone finds something they enjoy while keeping the meal balanced.
Final Thoughts
The beauty of chicken salad sandwiches is their versatility – they can be paired with countless side dishes to create a satisfying meal. Whether you prefer something light and fresh or warm and comforting, there’s a perfect side dish waiting to be discovered.
What’s your favorite side to serve with chicken salad sandwiches? Do you have a special recipe you’d like to share? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below!
Picnic-Friendly Sides For Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Sandwiches are the quintessential picnic food, and chicken salad sandwiches are a nice change from the old PB+J workhorse. Here are some of the best sides for a day at the playground.
- Potato Chips – Whether baked or traditional, potato chips are a quick and convenient picnic side. Change it up with cheese straws or veggie straws!
- Fresh Fruit – Either bring a melon to cut up, a rinsed bag of grapes, or pick up a fruit platter at the grocery store on your way!
- Raw Vegetables – While you’re at the store, grab a vegetable platter as well. Fresh veggies are a cool favorite on hot park days.
Chicken Salad Sandwiches – Main Dish or Side Dish?
A well made chicken salad has a protein as the main ingredient, a vegetable, and a fat or oil of some sort. Make it a sandwich, and you add a carbohydrate.
Chicken salad sandwiches are a complete main dish and so simple, especially if you make it with a store bought rotisserie chicken.
It’s wonderful to have a cool lunchtime option for hot summer days that really covers all of the nutritional bases.
However, you can also eat it in smaller servings alongside big bowls of soup and it makes one of the best side dishes.
It adds a nice contrast in flavor and texture, particularly to pureed soups.
The possibilities of what to pair with chicken salad sandwiches are nearly endless and your taste buds will be so satisfied!
