10 Best Chicken Wing Side Dishes
Chicken wings are one of the most popular and beloved appetizers in the world. These small and delectable bites are perfect for any occasion, from watching the game with friends to family get-togethers.
While chicken wings are delicious on their own, they are ESPECIALLY amazing when paired with these 10 best chicken wing side dishes.
The perfect side dish can complement the flavors of the wings, cut through the spiciness, and make your meal one to remember. Check out our list of America’s Best Wings Recipes to pair with these delicious sides!
1. Air-Fried Truffle Parmesan Fries
There's nothing quite like the classic combination of chicken wings and French fries, and these air-fried truffle parmesan fries with garlic chive aioli take this classic pairing to a whole new level. T
he crispy, salty, and slightly earthy taste of the truffle parmesan fries, paired with the creamy, zesty, and herbaceous dipping sauce, create a perfect balance of flavors that perfectly complement the bold flavors of chicken wings.
These fries are made with hand-cut potatoes that are air-fried to crispy perfection with significantly less oil than traditional deep-frying methods.
The fries are then tossed in a delicious blend of fresh parmesan, white truffle oil, and fresh parsley, creating a savory and aromatic flavor that perfectly complements the spicy and tangy flavors of chicken wings.
The addition of the homemade dipping sauce, made with a mix of garlic, chives, and creamy mayo, adds a pungent and herbaceous element to the dish, making it a true standout. Get recipe here
2. Liege Belgian Waffles
Who would have thought that chicken wings and waffles go together like peanut butter and jelly?! These waffles, with their unique texture and rich flavor, may not be the first thing that comes to mind as a side dish for savory wings, but they create a surprisingly delicious combination.
To make the Liege Belgian waffles, you start by preparing a yeast-based dough that is infused with the sweetness of lukewarm milk and a touch of granulated sugar.
The yeast gives the waffles a light and airy texture as they cook. Once the dough is mixed, eggs, vanilla, butter, salt, and flour are added to create a rich and indulgent batter.
When served as a side dish alongside chicken wings, the sweetness of the Liege Belgian waffles complements the savory and spicy flavors of the wings.
Top the waffles with fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries, and a dollop of whipped cream or crème fraiche for a touch of freshness that balances the richness of both the waffles and the wings. Get recipe here
3. Chipotle Cilantro Rice
Chicken wings and rice are an excellent duo that never fails to satisfy, making rice one of the best chicken wing side dishes. This chipotle cilantro lime rice recipe brings an extra layer of excitement and complexity to the already delicious chicken wings.
Made with basmati or long-grained rice, it boasts a perfect balance of smokiness from the chipotle, freshness from the cilantro, and zesty tanginess from the lime.
Each grain of rice is infused with these enticing flavors, creating a captivating taste experience with every spoonful. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with wings, this rice is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal! Get recipe here
4. Detroit-Style Pizza
You won't believe how perfectly this Detroit-style pizza pairs with a plate of sizzling chicken wings! This pair will excite ANY game night crowd! One of the best chicken wings side dishes, the cheesy sensation of the pizza and the savory taste of chicken wings complement each other perfectly!
To make the pizza, start with the dough. With just a handful of ingredients – all-purpose flour, kosher salt, instant dry yeast, and warm water – you can transform your kitchen into a pizza haven.
Don't be intimidated by the process; it's surprisingly simple. A mere combination of olive oil, flour, salt, yeast, and warm water creates a supple and pliable dough that forms the foundation of this epic pie.
As it bakes, the crust develops a golden brown hue and a texture that is pillowy yet slightly chewy – a characteristic that defines the Detroit style. And let's not forget the toppings – pepperoni and sautéed mushrooms take this pizza to new heights of flavor. So go ahead and enjoy the delicious pairing of American wings and pizza! Get recipe here
5. Cajun Shrimp Orzo
Another surprising duo you never would have expected to go together is American wings and Cajun seafood! The bold flavors and comforting textures of this seafood delight perfectly complement the indulgent and saucy nature of chicken wings.
This Cajun shrimp orzo recipe is a testament to simplicity and flavor. While staying true to the essence of the classic shrimp orzo, it’s taken up a notch by the delicious Cajun flair.
The onion, bell pepper, and celery add depth and complexity, paying homage to the vibrant Cajun cuisine. The shrimp marinade, featuring a splash of olive oil, fresh parsley, and zesty lemon juice, infuses the seafood with a burst of tangy goodness.
As the orzo simmers in a delightful medley of Cajun seasoning, white wine, chicken broth, and fire-roasted tomatoes, it absorbs the rich flavors, creating a satisfying and soul-warming dish. Top it off with a sprinkle of lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh parsley, and you're ready to savor every bite. Get recipe here
6. Pasta Salad
Get ready to indulge in a delectable pasta with broccoli dish that pairs wonderfully with chicken wings. The key to unlocking the incredible flavors lies in the careful cooking of the broccoli florets.
Simply boil them in the same water you'll be using to cook the pasta, allowing them to soften and tenderize for approximately 10 minutes.
But here's where the magic happens: take half of the cooked broccoli florets and transform them into a creamy sauce. By blending them together, you create a luscious green cream that adds a burst of flavor to the pasta.
This irresistible combination of pasta and broccoli cream will leave everyone craving for more. It's a versatile and easy recipe that perfectly complements the bold and saucy nature of chicken wings.
Enhancing the dish, garlic and extra virgin olive oil infuse their aromatic essence, while a touch of red chili pepper adds a subtle kick for those seeking a spicy twist.
To crown it all, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese, elevating the taste profile with its savory notes. This pasta with broccoli recipe is an absolute delight, satisfying both your cravings and your desire for some wings and pasta. Get recipe here
7. Vegan Ramen (Gluten-Free, Soy-Free)
Indulge in the perfect pairing of vegan wings with this delectable vegan ramen recipe. With its creamy broth and gluten-free ramen noodles, this dish harmonizes beautifully with the flavors and textures of vegan wings, creating a delightful wings and ramen experience.
The gluten-free ramen noodles, with their tender and chewy texture, provide the perfect bed for vegan wings to rest upon. Their mild flavor allows the wings to shine while absorbing the delectable broth, resulting in a harmonious blend of tastes.
So, whether you're enjoying a cozy night in or hosting a gathering with friends, serving this vegan ramen alongside vegan wings will elevate your culinary experience to new heights. It's a combination that brings together comfort, health, and irresistible flavors in every bite. Get recipe here
8. Instant Pot Macaroni and Cheese
Chicken wings and macaroni make the perfect pair as they both embody the essence of comfort food. Indulging in a combination of these two beloved dishes is like wrapping yourself in a warm hug. Plus, the familiarity and satisfaction they bring create a delightful harmony in your taste buds.
The macaroni in this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Cooked to perfection, the elbow macaroni retains its delightful shape and slight chewiness. It serves as the foundation for the rich and creamy cheese sauce that coats each noodle, delivering a burst of comforting flavors in every bite.
The cheese sauce takes this macaroni to the next level of deliciousness. With a combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese, the sauce is velvety, smooth, and irresistibly cheesy.
The decadent blend of cheeses infuses the macaroni with a luxurious and indulgent essence, ensuring that every mouthful is a delightful experience.
Whether you're enjoying a casual weeknight dinner or hosting friends, the pairing of chicken wings and macaroni provides a satisfying and hearty feast that appeals to all ages. Get recipe here
9. Sheet Pan Nachos With Ground Beef
Wings and nachos are a match made in snacking heaven, both being popular foods that people love to munch on. These two crowd-pleasing favorites come together to create a blend of indulgence and flavor.
Perfect for any gathering or casual get-together, they provide an irresistible combination of textures and tastes that keep you coming back for more.
This recipe presents a glorious sheet pan loaded with layers of deliciousness. The foundation starts with a generous bed of crispy corn tortilla chips, providing a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Next comes the seasoned ground beef, adding a savory and meaty element that perfectly complements the other ingredients. But it doesn't stop there.
The nachos are generously topped with a blanket of shredded cheddar cheese that melts into gooey, golden goodness. Sliced black olives, black beans, and jalapenos bring a burst of tanginess and spice, elevating the flavor with their vibrant presence.
Optional toppings such as avocado, tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro, and salsa offer a customizable touch, allowing you to create your own flavor adventure.
Together, these ingredients create a symphony of taste that harmonizes beautifully with the bold and succulent wings, making wings and nachos an unbeatable combination for any occasion. Get recipe here
10. Pork Fried Rice
Pork fried rice is a delightful dish that perfectly complements chicken wings. This recipe makes use of leftover smoked pulled pork shoulder, transforming it into a flavorful and hearty fried rice.
The succulent and tender shreds of pork infuse the rice with a smoky richness. The combination of textures and flavors from the meat, rice, and vegetables creates a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds.
With the addition of peas, carrots, and minced garlic, the fried rice becomes a colorful medley of ingredients that not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute to a well-rounded and balanced dish.
The peas and carrots provide a touch of sweetness and a pop of vibrant color, while the minced garlic imparts a savory aroma that permeates the entire dish.
Seasoned with salt, pepper, and soy sauce, this fried rice achieves the perfect balance of flavors, resulting in a mouthwatering accompaniment to chicken wings.
The combination of wings and pork fried rice creates a satisfying and diverse meal that caters to different taste preferences and satisfies cravings for both savory and indulgent flavors. Get recipe here
