Introduction
Crack chicken is a rich, creamy, and savory dish that has gained immense popularity for its bold flavors. Made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, bacon, and ranch seasoning, it’s indulgent and delicious. But what do you eat with cracked chicken to create a balanced meal? Choosing the right side dishes is key to complementing the richness of crack chicken while adding variety and texture. In this article, we’ll explore the best sides to serve with crack chicken. Whether you prefer starchy options, vegetables, salads, or unique pairings, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the best side dishes that will elevate your cracked chicken experience.
Starchy Side Dishes for Cracked Chicken
Starchy side dishes are an excellent choice when thinking about what to eat with cracked chicken. These sides absorb the creamy sauce and make the meal heartier. Here are some popular options.
Baked Potatoes
Baked potatoes are a classic pairing with cracked chicken. Their soft, fluffy interiors provide the perfect base for the creamy sauce of cracked chicken. Slice open a hot baked potato, and the cheesy, savory chicken mixture seeps into the crevices, creating a satisfying, comforting bite. You can even top the potatoes with a dollop of sour cream or chives for added flavor. For those who enjoy more indulgence, adding bacon bits can take the pairing to the next level.
Baked Mushroom Rice
Baked mushroom rice is another ideal side dish if you’re wondering what to eat with cracked chicken. This hearty dish is packed with umami flavor from the mushrooms, making it a robust side that complements the richness of crack chicken. The earthy flavor of mushrooms balances the creamy chicken perfectly, while the rice serves as a soft, starchy base. The baked rice soaks up the sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
Lemon Garlic Pasta
If you’re looking for a lighter starch, lemon garlic pasta offers a bright contrast to the rich crack chicken. The zesty lemon cuts through the creaminess of the chicken, while the garlic adds depth to the dish. Toss the pasta in a simple lemon butter sauce for a refreshing, citrusy side. This side not only enhances the flavors but also makes the meal more balanced and less heavy.
Hawaiian Rolls
If you’re craving bread and wondering what to eat with cracked chicken, look no further than Hawaiian rolls. These sweet, fluffy rolls are ideal for soaking up the creamy sauce from crack chicken. The subtle sweetness of the rolls contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken, while their soft texture makes them perfect for creating mini sandwiches. Use Hawaiian rolls to make crack chicken sliders or simply serve them alongside the meal.
Sweet Potato Fries
For a healthier yet delicious option, consider baked sweet potato fries. Their natural sweetness pairs well with the savory, creamy cracked chicken. Baking the sweet potato fries until they are crispy adds texture and provides a contrast to the richness of the chicken. You can sprinkle them with sea salt or cinnamon to enhance the flavor, and they make for an excellent dipping companion to the crack chicken sauce.
Starchy sides are versatile and perfect for soaking up the rich flavors of cracked chicken. But if you’re looking for something lighter and healthier, let’s explore some vegetable-based side dishes that offer freshness and balance.
Vegetable-Based Side Dishes for Cracked Chicken
Vegetables are a wonderful complement to cracked chicken because they add freshness and balance out the rich, creamy flavors. If you’re wondering what to eat with cracked chicken to lighten up the meal, here are some excellent vegetable-based sides.
Sauteed Broccoli
One of the simplest and healthiest vegetable sides to serve with crack chicken is sautéed broccoli. The slight bitterness of broccoli pairs well with the creamy richness of cracked chicken, and its crunchy texture offers a satisfying contrast. Lightly sauté the broccoli with olive oil, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice to add brightness. For extra flavor, sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top. This dish is easy to prepare and provides a fresh, green element to your meal.
Smashed Brussels Sprouts
If you’re thinking about what to eat with cracked chicken to add texture and flavor, try smashed Brussels sprouts. These little green gems become crispy and caramelized when roasted, adding a delicious contrast to the softness of crack chicken. Boil the Brussels sprouts until tender, then smash them gently and roast them with garlic, olive oil, and parmesan. The crispy, cheesy sprouts add both texture and a savory flavor that pairs beautifully with crack chicken.
Green Beans Almondine
Green beans almondine is a timeless vegetable side dish that works perfectly with cracked chicken. The tender-crisp texture of green beans contrasts with the creaminess of the chicken, while the toasted almonds add a nutty crunch. Cook the green beans until they’re just tender, then toss them in butter and toasted almonds. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish and balances out the richness of the chicken.
Maple Sriracha Roasted Cauliflower
For those who enjoy a combination of sweet and spicy flavors, maple sriracha roasted cauliflower is the perfect choice. Toss cauliflower florets in a mixture of maple syrup and sriracha, then roast them until crispy. The caramelized sweetness pairs well with the creamy chicken, while the sriracha adds a bit of heat. This creative side dish is ideal when you want to add a kick to your meal.
Vegetable-based sides not only lighten up the meal but also provide vibrant colors and textures that contrast with cracked chicken. Now, let’s dive into some fresh salad pairings that are perfect when deciding what to eat with cracked chicken.
Salad Pairings for Cracked Chicken
Salads are a great way to add freshness and crunch to a rich dish like cracked chicken. If you’re wondering what do you eat with cracked chicken for a lighter, refreshing side, here are some delicious salad options.
Greek Farro Salad
Greek farro salad is a hearty yet refreshing side dish that complements the richness of cracked chicken. Made with farro, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, and feta, this salad offers a balance of textures and flavors. The farro provides a nutty, chewy base, while the cucumbers and tomatoes bring freshness. A simple lemon vinaigrette adds a tangy brightness that cuts through the creamy chicken, creating a balanced meal.
Mango Slaw
For a sweet and tangy twist, mango slaw is a vibrant side dish to pair with cracked chicken. This slaw combines crunchy cabbage with juicy mango, cilantro, and a light vinaigrette. The sweetness of the mango and the crunch of the cabbage offer a delightful contrast to the creamy, savory chicken. It’s a light and refreshing side that adds a tropical element to your meal.
Lemon Parmesan Kale Salad
Kale’s hearty texture makes it an excellent match for cracked chicken, and when paired with a bright lemon parmesan dressing, it becomes the perfect side. The bitterness of the kale is softened by the tangy lemon, while the parmesan adds a nutty richness. This salad provides a fresh, citrusy contrast to the creamy chicken, making it a healthy and satisfying pairing.
Salads provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of cracked chicken, helping to balance out the flavors and textures. But if you’re looking for something fun and unique, there are plenty of creative sides to consider.
Fun and Unique Side Dishes for Cracked Chicken
If you’re feeling adventurous and wondering what do you eat with cracked chicken for a unique twist, here are some fun side dishes to try.
Belgian Waffles
Belgian waffles may seem like an unconventional side for cracked chicken, but they offer a delightful sweet and savory combination. The waffles’ crispy texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy crack chicken, and their deep pockets hold the sauce perfectly. Serve the waffles as a base for the chicken or on the side for a bold and indulgent meal.
Garlic Grilled Romaine
Grilled romaine lettuce is a surprising yet tasty side dish that pairs well with cracked chicken. The slight char from the grill adds a smoky flavor to the crisp lettuce, while a drizzle of garlic and parmesan enhances the dish. The warm, smoky romaine is a unique and flavorful contrast to the creamy chicken, offering both texture and flavor complexity.
Air Fryer Corn Ribs
For a fun, crispy side, try air fryer corn ribs. These corn ribs are made by slicing corn on the cob into quarters, then air frying them until crispy. Toss them in garlic butter or your favorite seasoning for an extra punch of flavor. The sweet, buttery corn complements the savory crack chicken, and the crispy texture adds an exciting element to the meal.
Unique sides can add creativity and fun to your crack chicken meal, making it more exciting. But if you’re following a low-carb or keto-friendly diet, there are still plenty of delicious sides you can enjoy with cracked chicken.
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Sides for Cracked Chicken
Since crack chicken is naturally low in carbohydrates, it’s easy to find keto-friendly sides to serve with it. If you’re on a low-carb diet and wondering what do you eat with cracked chicken, here are some excellent options.
Keto Tortilla Chips
Keto tortilla chips are a great crunchy, low-carb alternative to traditional chips. Made with almond flour or cheese, these chips are perfect for scooping up the creamy crack chicken sauce. Whether you serve them as a side or as a snack, these keto chips add texture without the carbs.
Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” are a light and healthy alternative to pasta. Toss the zucchini noodles with garlic, olive oil, and parmesan for extra flavor. The noodles absorb the creamy sauce from the cracked chicken, making this pairing both satisfying and keto-friendly.
Mashed Cauliflower
Mashed cauliflower is a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that pairs perfectly with cracked chicken. The creamy texture of the cauliflower mimics mashed potatoes, while its mild flavor complements the bold flavors of the chicken. Add garlic, butter, and a splash of cream to the cauliflower mash for extra richness.
These keto-friendly sides are ideal for keeping your meal low in carbohydrates while still enjoying the rich, creamy flavor of crack chicken. Now, let’s explore how to choose the best sides to create a well-balanced meal.
Tips for Choosing the Best Sides for Cracked Chicken
When deciding what to eat with cracked chicken, it’s important to think about balance and variety. Cracked chicken is rich and creamy, so pairing it with lighter, fresher sides can help balance the meal. Consider these tips when choosing your sides:
- Balance the richness: Since cracked chicken is heavy, pairing it with lighter vegetables or fresh salads will create a more balanced meal. Leafy greens, citrusy salads, or roasted vegetables work well.
- Add texture: Crack chicken has a creamy texture, so adding crispy or crunchy sides can enhance the overall eating experience. Sweet potato fries, roasted Brussels sprouts, or grilled vegetables provide the perfect texture contrast.
- Consider dietary preferences: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, pair cracked chicken with low-carb sides like mashed cauliflower, zucchini noodles, or keto-friendly chips. This ensures you stick to your diet while enjoying a delicious meal.
Ultimately, the best side dishes for cracked chicken are those that complement its rich flavors while balancing the meal with freshness, texture, or lighter ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best vegetables to serve with crack chicken?
The best vegetables to serve with cracked chicken include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, green beans, and roasted cauliflower. These veggies add a fresh, crunchy element that balances the creamy chicken.
Can I serve crack chicken with bread or rolls?
Yes, soft bread or rolls like Hawaiian rolls and dinner rolls pair perfectly with cracked chicken. They soak up the sauce and are great for making sliders or mini sandwiches.
Is crack chicken suitable for a keto or low-carb diet?
Crack chicken is naturally low-carb and works well for keto diets. You can pair it with keto-friendly sides like zucchini noodles, mashed cauliflower, or keto tortilla chips for a low-carb meal.
What starchy sides go well with crack chicken?
Starchy sides like baked potatoes, lemon garlic pasta, and sweet potato fries complement the creamy sauce of cracked chicken. These sides absorb the sauce and add substance to the meal.
Can I serve crack chicken with a salad?
Yes, salads are an excellent pairing with crack chicken. Light, citrusy salads like kale or farro salad help balance the richness of the chicken by adding a fresh, crunchy element.
Conclusion
Cracked chicken is a rich and flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Whether you choose starchy sides like baked potatoes and pasta or opt for fresh vegetables and salads, there’s no shortage of delicious pairings. For those following low-carb diets, keto-friendly options like zucchini noodles or mashed cauliflower provide the perfect complement.
The key to a great cracked chicken meal is balance. Pair the creamy richness of the chicken with lighter, fresher sides to create a well-rounded, satisfying meal. Whether you prefer classic sides, fun and unique dishes, or healthier options, the possibilities are endless when it comes to what to eat with cracked chicken.
Now that you have plenty of side dish ideas, it’s time to mix and match to create your perfect cracked chicken meal. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors, textures, and combinations to enhance your cracked chicken dining experience!