Barbecue chicken drumsticks are a quintessential summer dish, evoking images of backyard barbecues, family gatherings, and smoky, savory goodness. Their affordability and ease of preparation make them a crowd-pleaser. But beyond the drumsticks themselves, what truly elevates the experience are the side dishes and accompaniments. Choosing the right pairings can transform a simple meal into a memorable feast. This comprehensive guide explores a wide array of delectable options that complement the flavors of BBQ chicken drumsticks, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences.
Classic BBQ Sides: The Tried-and-True Champions
When it comes to BBQ chicken drumsticks, some side dishes are simply indispensable. These classics have earned their place on picnic tables and backyard grills for a reason: they perfectly complement the smoky, sweet, and savory flavors of the chicken.
Coleslaw: A Creamy and Tangy Counterpoint
Coleslaw’s cool, creamy texture and tangy flavor provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the BBQ chicken. Its crispness cuts through the smoky notes, cleaning the palate between bites.
There are numerous variations of coleslaw to explore. Classic creamy coleslaw, with its mayonnaise-based dressing, is a staple. Vinegar-based coleslaw offers a sharper tang, while slaw with fruit, such as apples or cranberries, adds a touch of sweetness. Consider experimenting with different dressings and ingredients to find your perfect coleslaw match.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet and Summery Perfection
Few things scream “summer barbecue” like perfectly grilled corn on the cob. The sweetness of the corn kernels complements the smoky sweetness of the BBQ sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Grilling corn on the cob is a simple process. You can grill it in the husk, soaked in water beforehand, or shuck it and grill it directly over the heat. A simple brushing of butter and a sprinkle of salt and pepper are all it takes to create a delectable side dish. Consider adding a touch of chili powder or garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
Potato Salad: A Creamy and Comforting Staple
Potato salad is a BBQ side dish for a reason. Its creamy texture and hearty flavor provide a satisfying counterpoint to the BBQ chicken.
Similar to coleslaw, potato salad boasts a wide range of variations. From classic mayonnaise-based potato salad to German potato salad with a vinegar-based dressing and bacon, the possibilities are endless. Adding hard-boiled eggs, celery, or pickles can enhance the texture and flavor.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Creative Side Dishes
While the classics are always a safe bet, don’t be afraid to venture beyond the tried-and-true and explore more creative side dish options. These unexpected pairings can add excitement and variety to your BBQ chicken drumstick meal.
Grilled Vegetables: A Healthy and Flavorful Addition
Grilled vegetables offer a healthy and flavorful complement to BBQ chicken. The grilling process enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables, creating a delicious caramelized flavor.
Some excellent choices for grilling include bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, onions, and asparagus. Simply toss the vegetables in olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs, and grill until tender and slightly charred. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.
Macaroni and Cheese: A Comfort Food Classic with a Twist
Macaroni and cheese is a crowd-pleasing comfort food that pairs surprisingly well with BBQ chicken. Its creamy, cheesy goodness complements the smoky and savory flavors of the chicken.
To elevate your macaroni and cheese, consider adding some BBQ-inspired elements. Mixing in shredded BBQ chicken, bacon bits, or a drizzle of BBQ sauce can create a unique and flavorful twist on this classic dish. Using a blend of cheeses, such as cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan, will add depth and complexity to the flavor.
Baked Beans: A Sweet and Savory Delight
Baked beans are another BBQ staple that pairs perfectly with chicken drumsticks. Their sweet and savory flavor profile complements the smoky and tangy flavors of the barbecue sauce.
Homemade baked beans are far superior to canned versions. You can customize the flavor by adding bacon, molasses, brown sugar, and your favorite spices. Slow-cooking the beans allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and satisfying side dish.
Salads: Light and Refreshing Companions
If you’re looking for lighter and more refreshing options to accompany your BBQ chicken, salads are an excellent choice. They provide a welcome contrast to the richness of the chicken and offer a variety of flavors and textures.
Watermelon Salad: A Sweet and Juicy Summer Treat
Watermelon salad is the perfect summer salad. Its sweet and juicy watermelon is balanced by salty feta cheese, tangy red onion, and refreshing mint. A simple vinaigrette ties all the flavors together.
The coolness of the watermelon and the saltiness of the feta provide a refreshing counterpoint to the warmth and richness of the BBQ chicken. It’s a light and flavorful option that won’t weigh you down.
Pasta Salad: A Versatile and Customizable Choice
Pasta salad is a versatile side dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Choose your favorite pasta shape, add a variety of vegetables, cheese, and protein, and toss it all in a flavorful dressing.
Some popular pasta salad ingredients include cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, olives, mozzarella cheese, and grilled chicken or shrimp. A vinaigrette-based dressing is a classic choice, but you can also experiment with creamy dressings or pesto.
Green Salad with a Tangy Vinaigrette: A Simple and Healthy Option
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a light and healthy option that complements BBQ chicken without overpowering it. The crispness of the greens and the acidity of the vinaigrette cut through the richness of the chicken, providing a refreshing balance.
Choose your favorite greens, such as romaine lettuce, spinach, or mixed greens. Add some simple toppings, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion. A vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and herbs is the perfect finishing touch.
Dips and Sauces: Enhancing the Flavor Experience
Beyond the main side dishes, dips and sauces can add an extra layer of flavor and excitement to your BBQ chicken drumstick meal.
Ranch Dressing: A Classic Pairing
Ranch dressing is a classic dip that pairs well with BBQ chicken. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor complement the smoky and savory notes of the chicken.
Whether you prefer homemade or store-bought ranch, it’s a simple and satisfying dip that’s sure to please. Consider adding some chopped herbs or spices to customize the flavor.
Blue Cheese Dressing: A Bold and Tangy Option
Blue cheese dressing offers a bolder and more pungent flavor that complements the richness of BBQ chicken. The tangy and slightly salty flavor of the blue cheese cuts through the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
Serve blue cheese dressing as a dip for the chicken or as a dressing for a salad. Its strong flavor is best enjoyed in moderation.
Avocado Crema: A Creamy and Refreshing Dip
Avocado crema is a creamy and refreshing dip that adds a healthy and flavorful element to your BBQ chicken meal. Made with avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, and cilantro, it’s a bright and flavorful alternative to heavier dips.
The coolness of the avocado and the tanginess of the lime juice provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth and richness of the BBQ chicken. Serve it as a dip or as a topping for your side dishes.
Bread and Grains: Completing the Meal
Don’t forget the bread and grains! These simple accompaniments can help round out your BBQ chicken drumstick meal and provide a satisfying base for your other dishes.
Cornbread: A Sweet and Savory Classic
Cornbread is a classic BBQ side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken. Its sweet and slightly crumbly texture complements the smoky and savory flavors of the chicken.
Serve cornbread warm with butter or honey. Consider adding some jalapeños or cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Dinner Rolls: A Simple and Versatile Choice
Dinner rolls are a simple and versatile choice that can be used to mop up extra BBQ sauce or to create mini sandwiches with the chicken.
Choose your favorite type of dinner roll, from soft and fluffy to crusty and rustic. Serve them warm with butter or your favorite spread.
Rice Pilaf: A Flavorful and Aromatic Grain
Rice pilaf is a flavorful and aromatic grain that adds a touch of elegance to your BBQ chicken meal. Cooked in broth with herbs and spices, it’s a delicious and satisfying side dish.
Choose your favorite type of rice, such as long-grain white rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice. Add some vegetables, such as onions, carrots, or celery, for added flavor and texture.
Drinks: Quenching Your Thirst
No BBQ meal is complete without refreshing beverages. Choose drinks that complement the flavors of the food and help you stay cool on a hot summer day.
Iced Tea: A Classic BBQ Beverage
Iced tea is a classic BBQ beverage that’s both refreshing and flavorful. Choose your favorite type of tea, such as black tea, green tea, or herbal tea.
Sweeten the tea with sugar, honey, or lemon. Serve it over ice with a slice of lemon or lime.
Lemonade: A Tart and Refreshing Choice
Lemonade is a tart and refreshing choice that’s perfect for a hot day. Its acidity cuts through the richness of the BBQ chicken, providing a refreshing balance.
Make your own lemonade with fresh lemons, sugar, and water, or choose a store-bought version. Serve it over ice with a slice of lemon.
Beer: A BBQ Staple for Many
For those who enjoy alcoholic beverages, beer is a popular choice for BBQ. Light lagers and IPAs are often a good pairing, but experiment to find your preference.
Desserts: Sweet Endings to a Savory Meal
Finish your BBQ chicken drumstick meal with a sweet treat. Choose desserts that are light and refreshing, or opt for something more indulgent to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Watermelon: A Light and Refreshing Option
Watermelon is a light and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for a summer barbecue. Its sweetness and juiciness provide a satisfying end to the meal.
Serve watermelon chilled, cut into wedges or cubes. You can also grill watermelon for a caramelized flavor.
Peach Cobbler: A Warm and Comforting Treat
Peach cobbler is a warm and comforting dessert that’s perfect for a BBQ. Its sweet and juicy peaches are topped with a buttery and crumbly crust.
Serve peach cobbler warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Ice Cream: A Classic and Versatile Choice
Ice cream is a classic dessert that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Choose your favorite flavor, from classic vanilla to more adventurous options.
Serve ice cream in a cone, in a bowl, or as a topping for your other desserts.
Choosing the right side dishes and accompaniments can elevate your BBQ chicken drumstick meal from simple to spectacular. By exploring the wide range of options available, from classic BBQ sides to creative salads and refreshing drinks, you can create a memorable and delicious dining experience. Remember to consider your personal preferences and dietary needs when making your choices, and don’t be afraid to experiment with new flavors and combinations. Enjoy your BBQ!
What are some classic side dishes that complement BBQ chicken drumsticks?
Classic side dishes that pair perfectly with BBQ chicken drumsticks often focus on contrasting textures and flavors to balance the rich, smoky taste. Consider options like creamy coleslaw, which offers a refreshing crunch and tangy sweetness. Corn on the cob, with its buttery and slightly sweet flavor, is another timeless choice, providing a simple yet satisfying complement to the chicken.
Potato salad, whether a classic mayonnaise-based version or a vinegar-based German potato salad, brings a hearty and comforting element to the meal. Baked beans, slow-cooked with molasses and bacon, offer a sweet and savory counterpoint to the BBQ sauce. These sides are popular for a reason: they create a well-rounded and enjoyable BBQ experience.
What are some healthy side options for BBQ chicken drumsticks?
For a healthier approach to your BBQ chicken drumstick meal, focus on fresh vegetables and whole grains. A vibrant salad with mixed greens, grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, and a light vinaigrette provides essential nutrients and a refreshing contrast to the heavier chicken. Quinoa or brown rice salad mixed with herbs, lemon juice, and chopped vegetables offers a nutritious and flavorful alternative to traditional starchy sides.
Another excellent option is steamed green beans or asparagus, lightly seasoned with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon. Grilled corn on the cob, while still a classic, can be enjoyed with minimal butter or oil for a healthier twist. These healthier choices ensure a balanced and satisfying meal without compromising on flavor.
Can you suggest some unique or unexpected side dishes to serve with BBQ chicken drumsticks?
If you’re looking to spice things up and venture beyond the usual suspects, consider serving BBQ chicken drumsticks with some more unique side dishes. Grilled pineapple salsa, with its sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors, offers a refreshing and unexpected contrast to the smoky chicken. Watermelon feta salad with mint provides a cool and refreshing counterpoint, perfect for hot summer days. These additions introduce interesting flavor profiles and textures that elevate the overall dining experience.
Mac and cheese with a kick, perhaps with the addition of jalapenos or smoked gouda, adds a comforting yet adventurous element. Elote-style corn on the cob, brushed with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and chili powder, offers a flavorful twist on a classic favorite. These unique sides are sure to impress your guests and add a memorable touch to your BBQ.
What types of drinks pair well with BBQ chicken drumsticks?
The robust flavors of BBQ chicken drumsticks call for drinks that can either complement or cut through the richness. Iced tea, especially a sweet tea or unsweetened black tea with lemon, is a classic choice that provides a refreshing and palate-cleansing effect. Lemonade, with its tart and sweet combination, also helps to balance the savory flavors of the chicken.
For alcoholic beverages, consider a light-bodied beer like a lager or a pale ale, which won’t overpower the food. Alternatively, a dry rosé wine or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc can offer a refreshing and complementary pairing. For a bolder option, a bourbon-based cocktail can echo the smoky notes of the BBQ sauce.
What are some dessert options that complement a BBQ chicken drumstick meal?
After indulging in BBQ chicken drumsticks, a light and refreshing dessert is often the perfect way to end the meal. Watermelon is a classic choice, providing a cool and hydrating sweetness that cleanses the palate. Fruit salad, especially one featuring seasonal berries and other fruits, offers a refreshing and healthy dessert option.
If you prefer something a little more indulgent, consider a peach cobbler or berry crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These warm and comforting desserts provide a satisfying sweet ending to the BBQ experience. A simple homemade ice cream or sorbet is also a great choice, offering a light and refreshing sweetness.
How can I plan a complete BBQ meal featuring chicken drumsticks, considering both sides and drinks?
When planning a complete BBQ meal around chicken drumsticks, consider balancing flavors and textures. Start by choosing a few key sides that complement the BBQ sauce on the chicken, such as a creamy coleslaw for tanginess, baked beans for sweetness and depth, and potato salad for heartiness. Adding a lighter, healthier option like a green salad ensures a well-rounded meal. Don’t forget to think about dietary restrictions or preferences of your guests when selecting your sides.
Next, choose beverages that complement the food and cater to your guests’ tastes. Offer a variety of options, including both non-alcoholic choices like iced tea and lemonade, and alcoholic options like beer or wine. Consider offering a signature cocktail that pairs well with the BBQ flavors. Finally, plan a dessert that provides a refreshing and satisfying conclusion to the meal, such as fruit salad or a light ice cream.
What are some tips for preparing side dishes in advance for a BBQ with chicken drumsticks?
Preparing side dishes in advance is key to a stress-free BBQ experience. Many side dishes, such as coleslaw, potato salad, and baked beans, can be made a day or two ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together and reduces the workload on the day of the event. For salads, prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving to prevent wilting.
Consider prepping vegetables like corn on the cob by shucking them and storing them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. Marinades for grilled vegetables can also be prepared ahead of time. On the day of the BBQ, focus on cooking the chicken drumsticks and assembling the final touches on the sides. This will allow you to relax and enjoy the company of your guests.