Global poultry meat consumption is expected to rise from 136.76 metric kilotons in 2023 to 153.85 metric kilotons in 2031. And among poultry meats, how can we forget our all-time favorite chicken? It's a versatile food that goes well with various side dishes.
It already offers multiple health benefits like improved bone health and immunity. When consumed with other side dishes, the taste and health benefits get multiplied. That being said, here are 5 delicious side dishes for a wholesome chicken meal.
Smooth creamy mashed potatoes set just the right contrast to dishes like barbeque chicken. They are even easy to make. You just have to add garlic and potatoes to salted, boiling water. Lower the heat to let it simmer until your potatoes become tender. Heat butter and milk separately until the butter melts. Drain the potatoes and keep them in a pot. While mashing the boiled potatoes, keep adding the warm milk mixture until the whole thing is smooth. Finish with the desired seasoning. They will taste great. Potatoes are packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, potassium, and various other nutrients to make your meal healthy.
Creamed spinach is super-easy to prepare and tastes lovely. Simply heat oil on medium-high in a frying pan, add spinach and garlic, and cook and stir for 2-3 minutes. Once the spinach begins to wilt, add nutmeg and cream. Season it and wait for it to boil. Simmer for about 2 minutes on reduced heat. Once the mixture thickens a bit, serve. Spinach is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, insoluble fiber, and various plant compounds. Pairing chicken with creamed spinach is, therefore, a great choice.
This is another tasty side dish simple to prepare. Remove the lower third of the broccoli stems and cut the remaining into 2-inch florets. Cover and steam broccoli over boiling water until it turns crisp-tender. Finely chop garlic, combine it with salt, pepper, and oil, and heat the mixture. Toss broccoli with it. Broccolis are a major source of Vitamin C, dietary fiber, and potassium, and the side dish will pair ideally with any chicken dish.
If you want something filling to pair with dishes like grilled chicken, you can opt for rice pilaf. It is typically cooked in broth or stock with spices and other ingredients like meat and veggies to make a wholesome dish. Rice is an important source of carbohydrates which is the main energy source of our body. So, rice pilaf with chicken is both a healthy and tasty choice.
Want to have chicken with a side dish that's served cold? This salad is the perfect pick. And the secret to making it delectable is to add just the right dressings and seasonings like olive oil, a splash of vinegar, pepper, and salt. Both tomatoes and cucumbers are loaded with nutrients and can make your meal healthier.
Try these appetizing side dishes along with your favorite chicken recipe. If you wish to take a break from kitchen time, simply sit back, order, and enjoy!