Chicken drumsticks are a favorite in many households because of their juicy, tender meat and flavorful skin. But, the key to creating a truly memorable meal lies not just in the chicken itself, but also in the side dishes you choose to serve with chicken drumsticks. In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of options—from classic comfort foods to healthy alternatives—ensuring you have the perfect accompaniments for your chicken drumsticks.
Classic Side Dishes for Chicken Drumsticks
Mashed Potatoes
One of the most classic sides to serve with chicken drumsticks is mashed potatoes. Not only does their creamy texture perfectly complement the crispy skin of chicken drumsticks, but it also creates a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Why It’s a Perfect Match: The softness of mashed potatoes contrasts beautifully with the crispy skin and juicy meat of chicken drumsticks.
- Preparation Tips: To make your mashed potatoes extra creamy, add butter and a splash of cream during the mashing process. You can even mix in roasted garlic or shredded cheese for a twist.
For a detailed guide on making the perfect mashed potatoes to serve with chicken drumsticks, check out Allrecipes’ basic mashed potatoes recipe.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is another great option to serve with chicken drumsticks. This cool, crunchy salad balances the richness of the drumsticks, providing a refreshing contrast.
- Balancing Flavors and Textures: The crisp texture and tangy flavor of coleslaw cut through the fat of the chicken, making each bite more enjoyable.
- Types of Coleslaw: You can opt for a creamy mayonnaise-based coleslaw or a lighter, vinegar-based version, depending on your preference.
Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf is another excellent side dish to serve with chicken drumsticks, offering a subtle flavor that doesn’t overpower the main dish.
- Easy and Flavorful: The light and fluffy texture of rice pilaf, often seasoned with herbs and spices, provides a great base to soak up the juices from chicken drumsticks.
- Herbs and Spices: Consider adding parsley, thyme, or saffron to enhance the flavor of your rice pilaf.
Vegetable-Based Sides to Serve with Chicken Drumsticks
Roasted Vegetables
If you’re looking to add some nutrients to your meal, roasted vegetables are a fantastic choice to serve with chicken drumsticks.
- Best Vegetables to Roast: Common choices include carrots, potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers.
- Seasoning Ideas: A simple seasoning of olive oil, salt, and pepper works wonders, but you can also experiment with herbs like rosemary and thyme.
Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus
Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus are healthy and light sides to serve with chicken drumsticks.
- Nutritional Benefits: Both broccoli and asparagus are packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a great choice for a balanced meal.
- Quick and Easy Preparation: Steaming these vegetables takes only a few minutes, and you can season them with lemon juice, garlic, or a dash of salt.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
For a summery twist, try serving grilled corn on the cob with your chicken drumsticks. The sweet, smoky flavor of grilled corn pairs delightfully with the savory chicken.
- Perfect Grill Marks: To achieve perfect grill marks, brush the corn with butter and rotate it frequently on the grill.
- Flavor Variations: Enhance the flavor by brushing the corn with garlic butter or sprinkling it with parmesan cheese.
Unique and International Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken Drumsticks
Mediterranean Couscous
For a more exotic flavor profile, consider Mediterranean couscous to serve with chicken drumsticks. This light and fluffy dish is a great alternative to heavier sides.
- Incorporating Mediterranean Flavors: Add ingredients like olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs to give the couscous a true Mediterranean taste.
- Recipe Suggestions: Pair the couscous with a simple lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing and tangy side.
Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries offer a healthier alternative to regular fries and add a touch of sweetness to your meal when served with chicken drumsticks.
- Health Benefits: Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and fiber, making them a nutritious choice to serve with chicken drumsticks.
- Crispiness Tips: To get your sweet potato fries crispy, toss them in cornstarch before baking or frying.
- Spicing Options: Consider seasoning with paprika, cinnamon, or even a hint of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
If you’re a fan of garlic and parmesan, then roasted potatoes seasoned with these ingredients are a must-try side to serve with chicken drumsticks. Furthermore, they offer a savory, crispy complement to the dish.
- Winning Combination: Garlic and parmesan create a rich, umami flavor that complements the drumsticks’ savory taste.
- Perfect Roast: To achieve perfectly roasted potatoes, make sure to toss them in olive oil and roast at a high temperature.
For a detailed recipe, visit Bon Appétit’s garlic parmesan roasted potatoes recipe.
Low-Carb and Healthy Sides to Serve with Chicken Drumsticks
Cauliflower Rice
Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative to traditional rice, making it a perfect side dish to serve with chicken drumsticks for those watching their carb intake.
- Making Cauliflower Rice: You can make cauliflower rice by grating cauliflower florets or processing them in a food processor until they resemble rice grains.
- Flavor Enhancements: To add more flavor, sauté the cauliflower rice with garlic, onions, or herbs like cilantro.
For more information on the benefits of cauliflower rice, check out Healthline’s guide on cauliflower rice.
Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini noodles, or zoodles, are a great substitute for pasta and go well with chicken drumsticks, especially if you’re on a low-carb or gluten-free diet.
- Pasta Substitute: Zucchini noodles are light and absorb sauces well, making them a versatile option to serve with chicken drumsticks.
- Simple Sauce Ideas: Pair your zoodles with a marinara sauce, pesto, or a simple olive oil and garlic mix.
Quinoa Salad
Quinoa is a nutrient-dense grain that makes for a hearty and healthy salad to serve with chicken drumsticks. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a side dish that’s both filling and nutritious.
- Nutritional Benefits: Quinoa is high in protein, fiber, and essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source.
- Creating a Balanced Salad: Combine quinoa with vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and spinach, and top with a lemon or balsamic vinaigrette.
Comfort Food Pairings to Serve with Chicken Drumsticks
Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, and it pairs exceptionally well with chicken drumsticks.
- Why It’s a Comfort Food: The creamy, cheesy texture of macaroni and cheese complements the crispy, savory drumsticks.
- Variations: Try adding bacon bits, breadcrumbs, or extra cheese for a more indulgent dish.
Baked Beans
Baked beans are a hearty and flavorful side that goes great with chicken drumsticks, especially in a BBQ setting.
- Homemade Baked Beans: Making baked beans from scratch allows you to control the sweetness and spice levels.Learn how to make the perfect baked beans to serve with your chicken drumsticks.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve baked beans with a touch of brown sugar or molasses for added sweetness.
Cornbread
Cornbread is a Southern classic that pairs well with the savory flavors of chicken drumsticks.
- Southern-Style Cornbread: For moist and flavorful cornbread, use buttermilk and add a touch of honey to the batter.
- Serving Suggestions: Cornbread is perfect for soaking up any sauces or juices from the chicken.
Light and Refreshing Sides to Serve with Chicken Drumsticks
Cucumber Salad
A light and refreshing cucumber salad is a great way to balance out the richness of chicken drumsticks.
- Refreshing Qualities: The coolness of cucumber, combined with a tangy dressing, makes this salad a refreshing side to serve with chicken drumsticks.
- Herbs and Dressing: Add fresh herbs like dill or mint and dress with a light vinaigrette or yogurt-based sauce.
Tomato and Avocado Salad
Tomato and avocado salad is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with almost any chicken dish, including chicken drumsticks. Additionally, the creaminess of the avocado complements the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a well-balanced salad to serve with chicken drumsticks. For an extra touch of flavor, you can drizzle it with olive oil and balsamic vinegar or a lime-based dressing for added zest.
Watermelon Feta Salad
For a sweet and salty combination, try a watermelon feta salad to serve with chicken drumsticks. This unique side dish is perfect for summer meals.
- Summer Freshness: The sweetness of watermelon and the saltiness of feta create a refreshing and unexpected pairing to serve with chicken drumsticks.
- Preparation Tips: Add a handful of mint leaves for extra freshness and a splash of balsamic glaze for a tangy finish.
FAQs on What to Serve with Chicken Drumsticks
What Are the Best Sauces to Serve with Chicken Drumsticks?
Chicken drumsticks can be paired with a variety of sauces, depending on your preference:
- Barbecue Sauce: A classic choice that complements the smokiness of grilled or baked drumsticks.
- Honey Mustard: For a sweet and tangy flavor, honey mustard is an excellent choice.
- Buffalo Sauce: If you like your chicken spicy, buffalo sauce adds a nice kick.
How Do I Make Crispy Chicken Drumsticks in the Oven?
To achieve crispy chicken drumsticks in the oven:
- High Heat: Bake the drumsticks at a high temperature (around 425°F or 220°C) to ensure the skin crisps up.
- Use a Wire Rack: Place the drumsticks on a wire rack to allow the heat to circulate evenly.
- Pat Dry: Before seasoning, pat the drumsticks dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Can I Serve Chicken Drumsticks with Pasta?
Yes, chicken drumsticks can be served with pasta. Here are some pairing ideas:
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with a tangy dressing can be a great side to serve with chicken drumsticks.
- Spaghetti with Marinara: Serve the drumsticks alongside spaghetti with marinara sauce for a hearty meal.
What Are Some Kid-Friendly Sides to Serve with Chicken Drumsticks?
For a meal that kids will love, consider these sides:
- Mac and Cheese: Always a hit with children, mac and cheese is a safe bet to serve with chicken drumsticks.
- French Fries: Oven-baked fries or sweet potato fries are great kid-friendly options to serve with chicken drumsticks.
- Corn on the Cob: Kids will enjoy the fun of eating corn on the cob with their chicken drumsticks.
How Can I Make My Chicken Drumsticks More Flavorful?
Here are some tips for boosting the flavor of your chicken drumsticks:
- Marination: Marinate the drumsticks for at least a few hours before cooking to infuse flavor.
- Seasoning: Use a spice rub with garlic, paprika, and herbs to enhance the flavor.
- Glazing: Brush the drumsticks with a glaze, such as honey mustard or barbecue sauce, during the last few minutes of cooking.
Conclusion
Choosing the right side dishes to serve with chicken drumsticks can turn a simple meal into something special. Whether you like classic sides like mashed potatoes and coleslaw or want to try something different like Mediterranean couscous or zucchini noodles, there’s a perfect match for everyone. Try out different combinations to find your favorite, and enjoy the tasty mix of flavors and textures that these side dishes add to your meal.