One of the best parts about eating lunch or dinner at a restaurant is that you get to try unique dishes and combinations that you may not think of on your own. Better yet, you don’t have to worry about shopping for ingredients, preparing a meal and cleaning up. You can experiment with different flavors and combos and decide for yourself what’s worth preparing on your own.
Below are some underrated chicken combinations you should be open to trying. If you see them on one of your menus, give them a try and watch your palette expand!
Chicken and pasta aren’t anything new, but together, they make magic happen! Chicken and pasta are a satisfying combination because you get comforting pasta along with tender, flavorful chicken. And, both are easy to cook and work well with many different flavors.
Restaurants that serve pasta will often have several different pasta dishes with chicken to choose from such as chicken alfredo, chicken carbonara or chicken and mushroom pasta. Pick the recipe that fits your taste preferences and enjoy it with a side of garlic bread and a garden salad.
You might not think that chicken and waffles go together, but if you’ve ever tried them at a restaurant, you’ll quickly discover that they do. The tender golden waffles and perfectly spiced buttermilk chicken is just delicious - and the flavors work well together.
Chicken and waffles are typically served with maple syrup or honey. Some restaurants will even play around with textures and flavors by adding things like candied pecans, powdered sugar and berries. Either way, you’re in for a real treat!
Another combination that doesn’t get as much attention as it should is chicken and rice. Many people assume that chicken and rice is bland, but when done right, it can be packed with flavor! Plus, it’s a comfort dish that’s perfect for winter or when you’re not feeling well.
You can look for chicken and rice dishes specifically on the menu, or branch out and try a chicken and wild rice casserole or a stew like jambalaya. Jambalaya is a cajun dish that’s made many different ways, but it often includes chicken, sausage and rice.
Chicken salad is one thing, but chicken on salad is another! You can easily add chicken to most salads, giving you more protein and helping you feel fuller longer. This is especially helpful if you’re watching your carb intake.
Most restaurants will ask if you want your chicken grilled or crispy, so you can pick your cooking method and enjoy moist, tender chicken served on a fresh bed of greens. Chicken actually pairs well with most vegetables, so this is a great option if you’re trying to eat healthier but still dine out.
Chicken is a versatile protein that pairs well with potatoes, rice, vegetables and even other meats and fish! Trust your favorite chicken restaurants for great combinations that will make your mouth water!