The chicken salad sandwich: a lunchtime classic, a picnic staple, and a go-to comfort food for many. But let’s face it, sometimes a sandwich alone just doesn’t cut it. You crave something to round out the meal, something to complement the creamy, savory goodness of the chicken salad. So, what do you eat with a chicken salad sandwich to elevate your dining experience? The options are endless, ranging from light and refreshing to hearty and satisfying. Let’s explore some of the best pairings.
Classic Sides: Timeless Companions for Chicken Salad
Sometimes, the best pairings are the ones we already know and love. These classic sides are reliable, familiar, and guaranteed to enhance your chicken salad sandwich experience.
Chips and Crisps: The Crunch Factor
A bag of chips is perhaps the most ubiquitous companion to a sandwich, and chicken salad is no exception. The salty crunch provides a welcome textural contrast to the soft bread and creamy filling.
Consider the type of chip. Classic potato chips are always a good choice, but kettle-cooked chips offer a thicker, heartier crunch. For a lighter option, try baked chips. Flavored chips can also add an interesting dimension. Salt and vinegar chips offer a tangy kick, while barbecue chips provide a smoky sweetness. Think about the flavor profile of your chicken salad. Is it sweet, savory, or tangy? Choose chips that complement those flavors.
Pickles: A Tangy Counterpoint
Pickles offer a tangy, vinegary bite that cuts through the richness of the chicken salad. The acidity helps cleanse the palate and prevent the meal from feeling too heavy.
Dill pickles are a classic choice, providing a straightforward sourness. Sweet pickles offer a sweeter, more complex flavor profile. Bread and butter pickles are a good compromise, offering a balance of sweet and sour. Consider serving a variety of pickles for your companions to choose from.
Salad: Light and Refreshing
A side salad is a great way to add some freshness and nutrients to your meal. Choose a salad that is light and refreshing, and that complements the flavors of the chicken salad.
A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a classic choice. The crisp lettuce and tangy dressing provide a welcome contrast to the creamy sandwich. A fruit salad can also be a good option, especially if your chicken salad is on the sweeter side. Consider adding berries, grapes, or melon.
Elevating Your Meal: More Creative Sides
If you’re looking to step outside the box and try something a little different, there are plenty of creative side dishes that pair well with a chicken salad sandwich.
Soup: A Cozy Combination
Soup and sandwiches are a natural pairing, and chicken salad is no exception. Choose a soup that is light and flavorful, and that complements the flavors of the chicken salad.
Tomato soup is a classic choice, its acidity pairing well with the richness of the sandwich. A creamy vegetable soup, such as broccoli cheddar or potato soup, can also be a good option, especially on a cold day. Just be careful not to choose a soup that is too heavy, as it could overwhelm the sandwich.
Coleslaw: Creamy and Crunchy
Coleslaw provides a similar textural contrast to chips, but with a refreshing, slightly sweet flavor. The creamy dressing complements the chicken salad, while the crunchy cabbage adds a satisfying bite.
Classic coleslaw is always a good choice, but you can also experiment with different variations. Add shredded carrots, raisins, or cranberries for a sweeter flavor. Try a vinegar-based coleslaw for a tangier option.
Pasta Salad: A Hearty Addition
Pasta salad is a more substantial side dish that can turn your chicken salad sandwich into a truly satisfying meal. Choose a pasta salad that is light and flavorful, and that complements the flavors of the chicken salad.
A simple pasta salad with vegetables and a vinaigrette dressing is a good option. Add some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. A creamy pasta salad, such as macaroni salad or potato salad, can also be a good choice, but be careful not to choose one that is too heavy.
Beyond Sides: Drinks and Desserts
No meal is complete without something to drink and a little something sweet. Here are some beverage and dessert options that pair well with a chicken salad sandwich.
Drinks: Refreshing and Complementary
Choose a drink that is refreshing and complements the flavors of the chicken salad. Avoid drinks that are too sweet or too heavy, as they could overwhelm the sandwich.
Iced tea is a classic choice, providing a refreshing and slightly tart flavor. Lemonade is another good option, especially on a hot day. Sparkling water or club soda can also be a good choice, offering a light and refreshing alternative to sugary drinks.
Desserts: A Sweet Ending
A light and simple dessert is the perfect way to end a chicken salad sandwich meal. Avoid desserts that are too rich or too heavy, as they could make you feel overly full.
Fruit is a healthy and refreshing option. A bowl of berries or a slice of watermelon are both great choices. Cookies or brownies can also be a good option, especially if you’re craving something sweet. Consider homemade cookies for a personal touch. A small scoop of sorbet or sherbet can also be a refreshing and light dessert.
Considering Dietary Needs and Preferences
When choosing side dishes, it’s important to consider any dietary needs or preferences of yourself or your guests.
Gluten-Free Options
For those who are gluten-free, traditional bread, crackers, and some pasta salads are off-limits. Opt for gluten-free bread or crackers, or choose side dishes that are naturally gluten-free, such as fruit salad, vegetable sticks with hummus, or a simple green salad with vinaigrette. You can also find gluten-free pasta options for pasta salads.
Vegetarian Options
While chicken salad is, of course, not vegetarian, many side dishes are. Focus on vegetable-based sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or a side salad. Be mindful of dressings, as some may contain meat-based ingredients.
Low-Carb Options
For those watching their carbohydrate intake, consider replacing bread with lettuce wraps or serving the chicken salad on top of a bed of greens. Side dish options include vegetable sticks with guacamole, a simple salad with a light vinaigrette, or cauliflower rice.
Chicken Salad Sandwich Variations and Pairings
The type of chicken salad sandwich you’re serving can also influence your choice of sides.
Classic Chicken Salad
This is the standard chicken salad with mayonnaise, celery, and onion. It pairs well with classic sides like potato chips, dill pickles, and a simple green salad.
Chicken Salad with Grapes or Apples
The sweetness of the fruit calls for slightly tangier or spicier sides to balance the flavors. Consider a vinegar-based coleslaw, spicy mustard, or a side of roasted vegetables with a touch of chili flakes.
Curried Chicken Salad
The warm spices in curried chicken salad pair well with cool and refreshing sides. Try a cucumber salad with yogurt dressing, mango chutney, or a side of rice pilaf.
Spicy Chicken Salad
If your chicken salad has a kick, opt for sides that offer relief and coolness. A creamy coleslaw, a cucumber and yogurt salad, or a sweet fruit salad can help balance the heat.
Presentation Matters
Don’t forget that presentation can make a big difference in the overall dining experience. Arrange your sandwich and side dishes attractively on a plate or platter. Use colorful napkins and serving dishes to create a visually appealing meal. Consider adding a garnish, such as a sprig of parsley or a lemon wedge, to add a touch of elegance.
Choosing the right accompaniments can transform a simple chicken salad sandwich into a memorable and satisfying meal. By considering the flavor profiles of both the sandwich and the side dishes, as well as any dietary needs or preferences, you can create a truly perfect pairing. So, next time you’re enjoying a chicken salad sandwich, don’t just grab a bag of chips. Take the time to explore some of these other options and elevate your dining experience.
Experiment, have fun, and discover your favorite combinations. The possibilities are truly endless!
What are some light and refreshing sides to pair with a chicken salad sandwich?
Light and refreshing sides are perfect for complementing the richness of a chicken salad sandwich. Consider options like a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the lettuce and the acidity of the dressing will cut through the creaminess of the chicken salad, creating a balanced and enjoyable meal. Other choices include a cucumber and tomato salad or a fruit salad featuring berries and melon.
Another great choice is coleslaw, but opt for a lighter version with less mayonnaise or a vinegar-based dressing. This will still provide a satisfying crunch and a contrasting flavor profile without being too heavy. Gazpacho, a chilled Spanish soup, can also be an excellent pairing, especially during warmer months, offering a burst of fresh vegetable flavors.
What are some crunchy or textural sides to complement the soft texture of a chicken salad sandwich?
To add some textural contrast to the soft filling of a chicken salad sandwich, consider sides with a satisfying crunch. Potato chips are a classic choice, providing a salty and crispy element that works well with the creamy chicken salad. Alternatively, homemade potato wedges baked until golden brown offer a more substantial and flavorful option.
Another excellent choice is a side of pickles, whether they are dill, bread and butter, or even spicy. The tangy and crunchy pickles will provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the sandwich. For a healthier option, consider raw vegetables like carrot sticks, celery sticks, or bell pepper strips, which offer a satisfying crunch and a boost of nutrients.
What are some soup options that pair well with a chicken salad sandwich?
Soup can be a wonderful accompaniment to a chicken salad sandwich, especially on a cooler day. A classic pairing is tomato soup, the acidity and warmth of which complements the creamy and savory flavors of the sandwich. Creamy tomato soup or a roasted tomato soup would be particularly delightful.
Another excellent choice is a light and flavorful vegetable soup. The variety of vegetables in the soup provides a nutritional boost and adds another layer of flavor to the meal. Avoid creamy soups, which might make the meal too heavy. Instead, consider a broth-based vegetable soup or a minestrone.
What are some healthy side dish options to balance out the chicken salad sandwich?
For a healthier meal, focus on sides that are packed with nutrients and low in processed ingredients. A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette is a great choice. The salad provides essential vitamins and minerals and adds a refreshing element to the meal.
Another healthy option is a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and adds a depth of flavor. Season them with herbs and spices for an even more satisfying and nutritious side dish.
What are some beverage pairings that enhance the flavors of a chicken salad sandwich?
The right beverage can significantly enhance the flavors of a chicken salad sandwich. Iced tea, especially unsweetened or lightly sweetened, is a classic choice. Its refreshing quality cuts through the richness of the sandwich and cleanses the palate. Lemonade is another excellent option, the acidity of which complements the creamy texture of the chicken salad.
For a more sophisticated pairing, consider a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity and citrus notes of these wines complement the flavors of the sandwich beautifully. Alternatively, a light and refreshing beer like a pale ale or a lager can also be a great choice, especially for a casual lunch.
Can you suggest some creative or unique side dishes to serve with a chicken salad sandwich?
Looking for something beyond the usual side dish? Consider a quinoa salad with roasted vegetables and a lemon-herb dressing. The quinoa adds a nutty flavor and a satisfying texture, while the roasted vegetables provide sweetness and depth. The lemon-herb dressing ties it all together with a bright and refreshing flavor.
Another unique option is a Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze. The creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil create a delicious and visually appealing side dish. Its fresh and vibrant flavors complement the richness of the chicken salad sandwich beautifully.
What are some make-ahead side dishes that are perfect for serving with a chicken salad sandwich?
For a convenient and stress-free meal, choose side dishes that can be prepared in advance. Pasta salad is an excellent option, as it can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Consider a pesto pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and olives, or a Greek pasta salad with cucumbers, feta cheese, and olives.
Another great make-ahead side dish is potato salad. Prepare the potato salad a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld together. Be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator to ensure freshness. These pre-prepared sides allow you to focus on enjoying your meal without spending extra time in the kitchen.