Chicken and corn is a classic combo that brings together the savory and sweet flavors to your plate. When it comes to finding the perfect side dishes to serve with chicken and corn, the options are endless. In this article, we will explore 10 delicious side dishes that can be paired with chicken and corn, a beginner’s guide to pairing chicken and corn, the best wine pairings for chicken and corn, how to make a creamy corn sauce for your chicken dish, healthy alternatives to traditional side dishes for chicken and corn, easy one-pan chicken and corn recipes, restaurant-quality sides that pair perfectly with chicken and corn, creative twists on classic chicken and corn pairings, vegetarian options that complement chicken and corn dishes, how to grill the perfect chicken and corn meal and quick-fix sides for busy weeknights with chicken and corn.
10 Delicious Side Dishes to Serve With Chicken and Corn
If you’re looking for the perfect side dish for your chicken and corn meal, you’ll need to consider the flavors and textures of the main course. For example, a simple arugula salad can add a crispy, fresh texture to the plate and balance the flavors of the dish. Here are some side dishes that can pair perfectly with chicken and corn:
- Baked Potato
- Grilled Asparagus
- Roasted Beet Salad
- Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
- Caesar Salad
- Garlic Bread
- Sweet Potato Casserole
- Green Beans
- Mac and Cheese
- Arugula Salad
When it comes to serving chicken and corn, it’s important to keep in mind the seasonality of the ingredients. During the summer months, fresh corn on the cob can be a delicious addition to the meal. You can grill the corn and serve it with a side of herb butter for a flavorful twist. Additionally, roasted summer vegetables such as zucchini, squash, and bell peppers can add a burst of color and flavor to the plate. Consider adding these seasonal vegetables to your side dish options for a well-rounded meal.
A Beginner’s Guide to Pairing Chicken and Corn
If you’re new to cooking and pairing chicken and corn, it’s important to consider the textures and flavors of each dish. Chicken can be seasoned in a variety of ways, and the way it’s cooked can drastically change the dish’s taste. Similarly, corn can be grilled, boiled, roasted or incorporated into a creamy sauce for extra flavor. As a general rule, chicken and corn pair well with savory, tangy and slightly sweet flavors. If you’re still unsure, opt for a side dish that balances the flavors and textures while adding some extra nutrition to your meal.
One popular way to incorporate chicken and corn into a meal is by making a hearty soup. Chicken and corn soup is a comforting and filling dish that can be customized to your liking. You can add in other vegetables like carrots and celery, or even some spices like cumin or paprika for an extra kick. This soup is perfect for a cozy night in or as a meal prep option for the week ahead.
The Best Wine Pairings for Chicken and Corn
When it comes to wine pairings, the acidity and body of the wine are vital. For lighter chicken dishes served with corn, you’ll want to opt for wines with low tannin and high acidity. Chablis, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Blanc are excellent options. Meanwhile, if you’re serving grilled or roasted chicken with a corn-based side dish, you can experiment with red wines that are low in tannins. Try a Pinot Noir or a Malbec.
Another great option for pairing with chicken and corn is a dry Riesling. The crisp acidity of the wine complements the sweetness of the corn and the tenderness of the chicken. If you’re looking for a more full-bodied white wine, a Viognier or a Chardonnay can also work well with these dishes.
For those who prefer red wine, a light-bodied Gamay or a Grenache can be a good choice. These wines have low tannins and high acidity, making them a great match for chicken and corn. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try a rosé wine. A dry rosé with a fruity flavor can be a refreshing complement to the flavors of chicken and corn.
How to Make a Creamy Corn Sauce for Your Chicken Dish
If you’re looking to add some extra flavor to your chicken dish, a creamy corn sauce can be an excellent addition. Making a creamy corn sauce is easy. Just heat some butter and garlic in a pan, add some flour, add corn kernels and cook for a minute. Pour some chicken stock and simmer until thick. Add some cream and season it. Remove it from the flame, puree it, and adjust the consistency. Serve it as a dip with your chicken and enjoy.
Not only is a creamy corn sauce delicious, but it also adds some nutritional value to your meal. Corn is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is also low in fat and calories. By incorporating corn into your sauce, you are adding some extra nutrients to your dish. Plus, the creamy texture of the sauce can help make your meal more satisfying and filling. So, not only will your chicken dish taste great, but it will also be a healthier option.
Healthy Alternatives to Traditional Side Dishes for Chicken and Corn
If you’re looking for a healthier option than traditional sides, consider substituting whole grains in place of white rice, pasta, or potatoes. Quinoa and brown rice can be a great addition to your chicken and corn dish. You can also make roasted vegetables or a salad filled with leafy greens, veggies, and nuts. With roasted vegetable sides, you can save calories and add nutrition to your meal.
Another healthy alternative to consider is using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. Sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. You can bake them, mash them, or even make sweet potato fries to go with your chicken and corn. Another option is to make a fruit salsa with diced mango, pineapple, and red onion. This sweet and tangy salsa pairs well with grilled chicken and corn and adds a burst of flavor to your meal.
Easy One-Pan Chicken and Corn Recipes
If you’re looking for an easy one-pan recipe for your chicken and corn meal, try a roasted chicken recipe. You can prepare them in advance and cook them when you’re ready to serve. For a more filling meal, add potatoes and carrots to the mix. Add some olive oil, garlic and seasonings to make sure your chicken gets a crispy crust. Roast for about an hour or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Another great one-pan chicken and corn recipe is a creamy chicken and corn skillet. Start by cooking diced chicken in a skillet until it’s no longer pink. Add in some corn, diced onions, and minced garlic. Then, pour in some heavy cream and let it simmer until it thickens. Serve over rice or with a side of crusty bread.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a grilled chicken and corn salad. Marinate chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lime juice, and chili powder. Grill the chicken and corn on a grill pan until they’re charred and cooked through. Toss with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and a simple vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing and nutritious meal.
Restaurant-Quality Sides That Pair Perfectly with Chicken and Corn
For restaurant-quality sides, you’ll need to consider the presentation and flavor of the dish. Try roasted Brussels sprouts or delicata squash. You can also try garlic parmesan roasted potatoes for an excellent flavor. Pairing your chicken and corn dish with a colorful vegetable side will make your meal look and taste fabulous.
Another great option for a side dish to pair with chicken and corn is a fresh salad. A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumbers with a light vinaigrette dressing can add a refreshing and healthy element to your meal. Alternatively, you can also try a creamy coleslaw or a warm cornbread to complement the flavors of your main dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures and flavors to find the perfect side dish for your chicken and corn meal.
Creative Twists on Classic Chicken and Corn Pairings
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a creative twist to your chicken and corn pairings. For example, you can try chicken skewers with corn salsa, or you can add some fresh herbs to your corn salad. You can also try roasting the corn and adding it to your chicken sandwich. These twists will add more excitement to your plates, giving them a unique taste.
Another great way to add a creative twist to your chicken and corn pairings is to make a creamy corn and chicken chowder. This hearty soup is perfect for cooler weather and can be made with fresh or frozen corn. Simply sauté some onions and garlic, add diced chicken, corn, and chicken broth, and let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through. Then, add some heavy cream and seasonings to taste. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Vegetarian Options That Complement Chicken and Corn Dishes
For vegetarians, serving meatless sides with a tangy flavor can work wonders for chicken and corn dishes. Try green beans sauteed in olive oil, garlic, and lime juice. Southern-style biscuits and cornbread are two great vegetarian options that can go well with the meal.
How to Grill the Perfect Chicken and Corn Meal
Grilling chicken and corn together is a fantastic idea that adds a smoky flavor to your dish. To grill chicken, preheat the grill to medium-high heat, oil the grate, and cook it for 7-8 minutes on each side or until cooked fully. As for corn, you can leave the husk on and soak in water. Once soaked, grill it for up to 12 minutes. This way, you’ll get perfectly grilled chicken and corn.
Quick-Fix Sides for Busy Weeknights with Chicken and Corn
If you’re running short on time but still want to whip up a chicken and corn meal, try some quick-fix sides. Microwave roasted broccoli with garlic, olive oil, salt and pepper; mix rice and corn and boil them together. You can also make a quick coleslaw with cabbage and apple cider vinegar. With these quick-fix sides, you can still enjoy a fabulous meal even on busy weeknights.
In conclusion, chicken and corn can be paired with a variety of dishes to create a delicious and nutritious meal. From classic sides dishes to creative twists and vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. By using these tips and ideas when preparing your next chicken and corn meal, you’re sure to impress your friends and family with a tasty and healthy dish.
