If your family, like many, are kabob-lovers, you may be wondering what to serve with chicken kabobs.
Often referred to as chicken kebabs, this dish is a middle eastern staple. While traditional kabobs are marinated in yogurt, lemon, garlic, and spices, kabobs are now marinated and flavored in various ways.
This family favorite is typically made from the breast of the chicken, which is skewered with peppers, onions, and other vegetables. They’re then marinated and can be either grilled or baked. In fact, you’ll often see chicken kabobs at a summer barbeque grilled over an open flame.
Chicken kabobs are protein-rich with plenty of vitamins and minerals. They’re juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. And they should, therefore, be paired with a side dish that enhances and celebrates these flavors.
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Side Dishes for Chicken Kabobs:
Chicken kabobs are often served with rice and sometimes alone with a refreshing drink. But what’s great is that chicken kabobs pair well with almost anything.
However, there are many options to choose from, which can be confusing. We have prepared a list of 10 impeccable sides to help you decide what to serve with chicken kabobs.
1. Lemon Rice Pilaf
Chicken kabobs are a delicious and easy-to-make summertime meal. And if you’re looking for a side dish that’s flavorful and easy to prepare, look no further than lemon rice pilaf. The bright citrus flavor of the lemon pairs perfectly with the smoky taste of grilled chicken.
The rice is cooked in chicken broth before lemon juice, butter, and parsley are added. And the result is a light and refreshing side dish that is the perfect complement to chicken kabobs.
This dish can be made in advance. All you have to do when guests arrive is pop it in the oven.
2. Coconut Rice
Coconut rice is a popular side and the ideal option when determining what to serve with chicken kabobs. The rice is cooked in coconut milk, which gives it a rich, creamy flavor. The sweetness of the coconut is offset by the savory flavors of the chicken, making for a harmonious dish.
For an extra touch of flavor, you can also stir in some chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of shredded coconut. Either way, you’ll be left with a moreish sweet, sticky, and delightfully aromatic side dish.
3. Baked Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients, including fiber, vitamin A, and potassium. This makes them a healthy option when deciding what to serve with chicken kabobs.
Smokey and sweet go together like cookies and milk. And sweet potatoes have a naturally sweet flavor that pairs well with the savory taste of chicken. Simply cut your sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces, drizzle with olive oil, season, and bake for 30 minutes.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Fresh corn on the cob is a summertime staple, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than by grilling it. The sweetness of the corn pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of grilled chicken.
Grilled corn is easy to make and can be cooked right on the grill alongside the chicken kabobs. Brush each ear with olive oil and season with your favorite herbs or spices for the best results. Place the ears on the grill and cook until the kernels are tender and lightly charred. The charred kernels add a nice contrast in texture.
5. Artichoke Salad
This is an effortless side dish to prepare, and it does not require any cooking. However, steaming the artichokes beforehand brings out their natural flavors. It’s also an excellent vegetarian choice for individuals looking to reduce their meat intake or adopt a healthier diet.
A typical artichoke salad includes diced artichokes, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese. And the dressing is a combination of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and Dijon mustard.
The bold flavors of the artichokes compliment the grilled chicken perfectly, and the creamy dressing provides a welcome contrast to the crispy vegetables.
6. Potato Salad
Potato salad is a delectable potato dish popular the world over. And it’s the perfect pairing when wondering what to serve with chicken kabobs. Combine boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, finely chopped onions, and fresh coriander for a quick and easy creamy side.
Alternatively, you could go all out and mustard, cream cheese, boiled eggs, and bacon bits for an extra tasty side.
7. Grilled Fruits
Grilled fruits are the ideal side dish when thinking about what to serve with chicken kabobs. They’re packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make. The grill adds a smoky flavor to the fruit that perfectly compliments the grilled chicken kabob.
Simply cut your favorite fruits into bite-size pieces and thread them onto skewers. Then pop them onto the grill until they’re slightly charred. The grill caramelizes the natural sugars in the fruit, making them even more delicious.
8. Green Salad
Choose a refreshing and energizing leafy green salad to accompany your meat-heavy chicken kabob meal. Combine romaine lettuce, apples, cranberries, and tomatoes with olive oil and vinegar to add a zesty flavor to your chicken kabob.
You can also include corn and boiled eggs for added protein and nutrients. This salad goes well with an apple cider vinaigrette. And seasonings such as salt, pepper, and other spices can be used to enhance its flavor.
9. Grilled Guacamole
There are few things more satisfying than a juicy chicken kabob hot off the grill. The perfect complement to this classic summer dish is creamy, flavorful guacamole.
To make grilled guacamole, scoop out your grill avocado halves and mix the contents with chopped onion, lime juice, and seasoning. Use a fork or potato masher to mash everything together until desired consistency is reached.
Grilling the avocado and onions gives the guacamole a smoky depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the grilled chicken. The lime juice brightens the flavors and helps to keep the avocado from browning.
10. Red Cabbage Slaw
Opting for a fresh red cabbage slaw is ideal when deciding what to serve with chicken kabobs. This flavorful side dish is the perfect complement to chicken kabobs, and it couldn’t be easier to make.
Simply shred some red cabbage and carrots and mix them with your favorite dressing. You could go for a creamy mayonnaise dressing or choose a lighter, healthier vinaigrette. For some added sweetness, include some shredded apples.
Red cabbage slaw is versatile and adds crisp, fresh flavors to the smokey, succulent kabobs.
Conclusion
With so many side dish options at your fingertips, you may be wondering which one you should try first. Well, that’s entirely up to you. In fact, many of these side dishes are so easy to make that you could make 3 or 4 different sides with your chicken kabob meal. But no matter which side dish you select, it’s guaranteed to boost your meal and encourage smiles all around.