Smothered chicken is a comfort dish that will leave your family feeling satisfied. But what sides go with smothered chicken? We've got you covered with some of the best sides to pair with this meal. So, let's check them out.
There are several schools of thought for deciding what goes well with smothered chicken. Here are some ideas to get you started.
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed broccoli
- Salad
- Baked beans
- Macaroni and cheese
- Green beans
- Corn
- Biscuits/Cornbread
- Rice
- Potato salad
- Fruit salad
- Coleslaw
- Pasta
As you can see, there are a lot of tasty side dishes to choose. In this article, we will help you decide what goes best with smothered chicken. And, we will also answer other frequently asked questions about smothered chicken, so read on!
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The Best Sides For Smothered Chicken
When choosing a side, there are some factors you'll want to keep in mind. First, know what you're in the mood for.
For example, if you're looking for something light and healthy, a salad or steamed vegetables might be the way to go. But if you're looking for something hearty and filling, mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese might be more your style.
You'll also want to consider what will pair well with the flavors in your smothered chicken. For example, if you're using a cream-based sauce, something like mashed potatoes or pasta will help to balance out the dish.
In comparison, if you're using a tomato-based sauce, roasted vegetables or green beans might be better.
Let's review each of these sides in more detail.
1. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that goes with just about everything. They're creamy, flavorful, and filling - everything you want in a side dish.
When it comes to smothered chicken, mashed potatoes are a great option because they help balance out the flavors. Also, if you're using a cream-based sauce, the potatoes will help to cut through the richness.
2. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a great option if you're looking for something healthy and flavorful. You can make them ahead of time and reheat them, so they're perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Steamed Broccoli
If you want another healthy option to go with smothered chicken, choose steamed broccoli. It's a quick and easy side dish that you can make in a few minutes.
When paired with smothered chicken, steamed broccoli is a great option because it's light and healthy. Also, it balances out the flavors of the dish without weighing it down.
4. Salad
You can get creative when making a salad. There are endless possibilities for the flavors and textures with this side.
You can make a house salad with dressing that pairs well with your smothered chicken. For example, ranch dressing or vinaigrette would go well with a cream-based sauce.
5. Baked Beans
Since smothered chicken is a Southern dish, it only makes sense to serve it with a side of baked beans. They're hearty, filling, and full of flavor. You can cook baked beans that are mixed with bacon with brown sugar or use a more traditional recipe.
6. Macaroni and Cheese
Who doesn't love mac and cheese? It's creamy, cheesy, and delicious. It's the perfect side dish for smothered chicken because it pairs well with the gravy and enhances the flavors.
7. Green Beans
Another healthy green vegetable that is tasty with smothered chicken is green beans. This vegetable is delicious when steamed, roasted, or sauteed.
There are several green bean recipes that will ensure your meal is creative and exciting. Also, you can add bacon, cheese, or even almonds for a bit of crunch.
8. Corn
Sweet corn is a classic side dish and beloved Southern food. It pairs well with the various flavors in smothered chicken and adds a nice contrast.
Choose corn on the cob or creamed corn. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even make a corn pudding.
9. Biscuits/Cornbread
No matter if you add honey, butter, or dip your cornbread in gravy, this is sure to be an incredibly delicious side. And, both biscuits and cornbread are traditional in Southern cooking.
10. Rice
Several variations of rice will go well with your smothered chicken. Try a filling side of white, brown, or even wild rice.
Another option that is full of flavor is rice pilaf, and it pairs well with the other ingredients in smothered chicken.
11. Potato Salad
No matter if you are doing red potato or sweet potato salad, this will be a filling and satisfying side. You can get as creative as you want with the flavors.
12. Fruit Salad
If you are looking for a light and refreshing side, fruit salad is always a good option. It's full of vitamins and minerals, and it is light and refreshing. So, it pairs well with the other flavors in smothered chicken.
You can get creative with the fruits that you use. It is best to use fruits that are in season to make your salad. This will ensure that they're fresh and full of flavor.
13. Coleslaw
Because smothered chicken is a Southern dish, it would make sense to serve it with a side of coleslaw. It's a creamy and crunchy side that adds a wonderful contrast to the texture and seasoning of smothered chicken.
You can make your own coleslaw, or you can buy it pre-made. Either way, it's a delicious option.
14. Pasta
You can also add a side of pasta with your smothered chicken. It's a filling and satisfying option helps balance out the flavors.
Bow-tie pasta or shells are a good choice because they pair well with gravy.
Where Did Smothered Chicken Come From?
Smothered chicken is a Southern dish that was originally from Louisiana. The dish requires slow-cooking chicken in a gravy or sauce. It is also popular to do smothered pork or add seafood to the dish.
Typically, this dish uses a gravy or sauce made of roux, a flour and fat mixture. However, if you don't want to do the cajun or creole versions, you can make different gravies using other methods.
Smothered chicken is a popular dish because it is easy to prepare and you can make it in large batches. It's also a hearty and filling meal, which is perfect for colder weather.
How Do You Make Smothered Chicken?
Typically, smothered chicken is a one-pan dish. You start by browning the chicken in a large skillet. When the chicken is almost cooked, you remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, you will make your gravy or sauce. Once the gravy or sauce is done, you add the chicken back into the skillet.
Next, cover the pan and let it simmer until the chicken gets cooked through. Now, this is a simple version of the recipe, but there are many variations you can make.
You can also add vegetables, such as mushrooms, onions, and peppers. This is a great way to sneak some extra veggies into your diet.
Also, you can bake smothered chicken or put it into a crockpot. These methods are great if you want to make it ahead of time or if you want to let it cook while you're doing other things.
Smothered chicken is a delicious and easy dish to make, no matter how you make it. It's perfect for a weeknight meal, or you can dress it up and make it for a special occasion.
What Are Some Tips For Making Smothered Chicken?
A tip for making smothered chicken is to get a good quality chicken. It will make a big difference in the flavor and texture of the dish. Plus, be sure to pat your chicken dry before adding it to the pan to get a good sear.
Another tip is to brown the chicken before you add it to the gravy or sauce. This will help to lock in the flavor and keep the chicken moist.
It's also important to let the dish simmer for a good amount of time. This will allow the flavors to meld together and create a delicious dish.
Low and slow is important for the gravy or sauce as well. You don't want to rush this part of the dish because the gravy will burn and ruin the flavor.
Finally, don't be afraid to get creative with your ingredients. For example, you can add different vegetables or change up the type of pasta that you use.
Final Thoughts
Smothered chicken is a Southern dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. It's perfect for a weeknight meal, or you can dress it up and make it for a special occasion. With so many side options, you can try a different one each time you make it.
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