What to Serve With Chicken Casserole
Chicken casserole is one of my favourite meals to cook for the family during the colder months. Filled with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a medley of vegetables, it’s a true one-pot wonder. It’s filling, nutritious and warming, making it the ideal meal for cold days. But I do always wonder what to serve with chicken casserole.
I’ve often gone with crusty bread rolls or mashed potato, but when I make chicken casserole with potatoes in (which I don’t always do), we really don’t want more potatoes or filling carbs on the side.
For those who lead a busy lifestyle, some side dishes can be prepared ahead of time and easily reheated, ensuring that you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones. I love to use my slow cooker to cook a chicken casserole, and then reheat premade side dishes to go with it. Simple and quick is key on busy weeknights.
Classic Side Dishes
There are several classic side dishes to serve with chicken casserole that can complement the flavourful main course. Here are some popular options:
Mashed Potatoes
If you haven’t added potatoes to your casserole, then mashed potatoes are a comforting and versatile addition to a chicken casserole meal. To prepare these, simply boil peeled and cubed potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. For a flavour twist, add some minced garlic to the mix. Serve the garlic mashed potatoes alongside the casserole for a delicious pairing. You can’t beat soaking up the sauces from a creamy chicken casserole with some tasty mashed potato.
Green Beans
Green beans add a healthy and colourful touch to your chicken casserole plate. For an exotic twist, try sautéing the beans in olive oil with a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Alternatively, you could try tossing the green beans with garlic and a hint of butter for an easy and irresistible side dish.
Rice
Rice is another classic side that works well with chicken casserole. It may not be your first choice to serve with a casserole, but it does actually work really well. There are plenty of ways you can prepare it to suit your taste:
- White rice: Simple and basic, cooked white rice complements the flavours of the casserole without overpowering them.
- Brown rice: With its nutty, chewy texture, brown rice adds a healthy and satisfying element to the meal.
- Pilau rice: This fragrant and flavourful dish is made by sautéeing rice in olive oil or butter, then simmering it in chicken stock with added vegetables and seasonings.
Healthy Options
Salads
One healthy option to serve alongside chicken casserole is a variety of salads. Not only do salads provide colourful visual appeal, but they also offer numerous health benefits, and they’re perfect when you want something light to go with a casserole.
A simple quinoa salad can be made with cooked quinoa, vegetables, and herbs tossed in a light vinaigrette dressing. This side dish is rich in protein and fibre, making it a great addition to a wholesome meal.
Another choice for a salad is spinach and avocado salad. Spinach, a nutrient-dense green, works really well with creamy avocado. Sprinkle in some chopped parsley for added flavour and garnish. For extra texture, you can also add:
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced cucumbers
- Chopped red onions
For a low-calorie option, try a refreshing romaine salad. Simply mix crisp romaine lettuce, an assortment of colourful veggies, and a light dressing to create a delightful, guilt-free side dish.
I bought a vegetable chopper a little while ago, and it’s so handy for making lots of salad in one go. I dice it all in advance and then keep it in an airtight container in the fridge so it’s always there, ready to be used.
Fruit Salads
OK, so it may sound a little unusual, but don’t knock it until you’ve tried it! Fruit salads make for amazing side dishes and can be prepared in advance, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Fruit salads provide a fresh and sweet contrast to the rich, savoury flavours of chicken casserole. One option is a rainbow fruit salad, which is made with a colourful combination of fruits like strawberries, pineapple, kiwi, and blueberries. The more colour on your plate, the better!
Chickpea Salad
Consider serving a chickpea salad alongside your chicken casserole for a more wholesome and protein-packed option. This salad can be easily prepared by combining cooked chickpeas with:
- Feta cheese for a tangy, creamy element
- Peas for added texture
- Olive oil and lemon juice for a simple yet zesty dressing
This hearty salad serves as a satisfying side dish that complements the casserole without overpowering its flavours.
Avocado Salad
Another excellent choice to consider is an avocado salad, which adds a creamy and refreshing element to the meal. To prepare this dish, simply mix together sliced avocados with your choice of additional ingredients, such as:
- Lettuce or baby spinach for a crunchy base
- Tomatoes and cucumber for extra freshness
- A light vinaigrette made with lemon juice, olive oil, and your preferred seasoning
This simple yet elegant salad offers a perfect balance of flavour and texture that pairs wonderfully with chicken casserole’s rich and hearty taste.
Steamed Vegetables
Steamed vegetables are another healthy side dish choice to accompany a chicken casserole. These veggies provide essential nutrients, can be easily prepared, and add a vibrant burst of colour to the meal. Some popular steamed vegetables include:
- Carrots
- Broccoli
- Green beans
- Cauliflower
For an added twist, sprinkle some herbs or spices like parsley, garlic, or lemon zest over the steamed vegetables. This boosts their flavour without adding excessive calories or fat.
Whether you choose a tasty salad or a simple steamed vegetable dish, these healthy options provide tasty and nutritious additions to complement the chicken casserole.
Flavourful Accompaniments
Try one of these accompaniments if you fancy adding extra flavour to your plate.
Herbs and Spices
Incorporating various herbs and spices can significantly enhance a well-seasoned chicken casserole. Lemon pepper is a popular choice, as it adds a zesty kick to the dish, while sesame seeds can provide a delicious crunch. For a more unique flavour experience, don’t hesitate to try chutney-glazed carrots as a side. This warm and slightly sweet addition is simple to make and tastes absolutely delicious.
Bold, leafy herbs such as fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary also work well with chicken casserole. When mixed into the dish, these herbs can lend a subtle but deeply aromatic taste to the chicken casserole, making it even more enticing.
Sauces and Condiments
Sauces and condiments can drastically alter the flavour profile of a chicken casserole, so don’t shy away from experimenting with these additions. A sour cream-based sauce, for example, can add a tangy and rich contrast to the dish, while a drizzle of maple syrup can balance out the spiciness with a touch of natural sweetness.
Hearty Sides
Sometimes, we just want a hearty meal, and nothing else will do. For a complete meal, you can use a variety of baked goods, casseroles, and grains to accompany your chicken casserole, making for a satisfying meal.
Baked Goods
- Crusty bread: Warm, buttery crusty bread is a comforting side that complements the flavours of a chicken casserole. Serve it straight from the oven for maximum enjoyment. You can’t beat the taste of warm bread dipped in casserole sauce, I can just taste the melted butter now!
- Garlic bread: A crispy, fragrant garlic bread adds flavour and texture to your chicken casserole meal. Its rich garlic flavour and crusty exterior make for a moreish accompaniment.
Grains
- Quinoa salad: A light, fresh quinoa salad with vegetables and herbs, tossed in a vinaigrette, makes for a healthy and delicious side. It nicely balances the richness of the chicken casserole.
- Pilau rice: Aromatic and subtly flavoured, pilau rice is a versatile side dish that goes well with chicken casserole. Its delicate taste lets the casserole’s flavours take centre stage.
- Orzo: This small, rice-shaped pasta adds a delightful texture to your meal when served alongside chicken casserole. Cooked al dente and lightly seasoned, orzo is an understated yet tasty side dish.
What Vegetables to Serve with Chicken Casserole
You can serve whatever vegetables you like with chicken casserole. I’ll often use veg in the casserole and then try to use different vegetables as a side dish.
Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus is a simple yet elegant side dish that works well with chicken casserole. The natural sweetness of the asparagus is enhanced by roasting, and its tender-crisp texture offers a lovely contrast to the soft, rich casserole. To prepare this dish, simply toss asparagus spears in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in the oven at 200°C (Gas Mark 6) for 12-15 minutes. For added flavour, top the roasted asparagus with a sprinkling of toasted almonds.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a versatile and nutrient-rich vegetable that can be prepared in a variety of ways to accompany chicken casserole. One popular option is roasted Brussels sprouts, which become caramelised and tender in the oven. Toss the sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 180°C (Gas Mark 4) for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
Another delicious option is Brussels sprouts with garlic and bacon. Sauté diced bacon until crisp, then add minced garlic and sliced Brussels sprouts. Cook until the sprouts are tender, then finish the dish with a splash of sesame oil for added depth of flavour.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a classic vegetable side that can be served alongside chicken casserole in various forms. Steamed broccoli, simply seasoned with salt and pepper, is a light option that balances the richness of the casserole.
For a more flavourful option, try lemon pepper roasted broccoli. Toss broccoli florets in olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then roast in the oven at 190°C (Gas Mark 5) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred. This zesty and colourful side dish adds both flavour and visual appeal to the meal.
Another choice is honey-glazed carrots and tenderstem broccoli. Cook the vegetables until tender, then toss them in a mixture of honey, butter, and salt for a sweet and savoury side that both adults and children will enjoy.
Alternative Side Dishes
If you’re wondering what to serve with chicken casserole and you’re bored with the more traditional options, then try one of these alternative side dishes for chicken casserole.
Bacon Side Dishes
For those who enjoy a bit of bacon in their meals, baked beans with bacon can be a delicious and hearty alternative side dish for chicken casserole. Again, don’t knock it until you’ve tried it! The combination of flavours and textures adds a smoky and savoury touch to the dish. To prepare this side dish, you can simply combine your favourite baked beans recipe with cooked and crumbled bacon.
Another bacon choice is steamed vegetables with bacon crumbles. You can make this by steaming a mix of your favourite vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and asparagus, then sprinkling cooked bacon bits on top. The crispy bacon adds a delightful contrast to the vegetables, making them an exciting addition to the table.
Other Side Dish Ideas
- Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and maple syrup
- Grilled zucchini and eggplant with garlic and lemon
- Creamed kale with Parmesan cheese
- Baked sweet potato fries with cinnamon and honey
- Quinoa salad with roasted vegetables and feta cheese
- Air fryer corn on the cob with chilli-lime butter
- Roasted beets with goat cheese and balsamic glaze
- Spicy roasted chickpeas with paprika and cumin
- Grilled asparagus with lemon and Parmesan cheese
- Beet and carrot slaw with honey mustard dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Best potato side?
When it comes to pairing a potato side with chicken casserole, roasted or garlic mashed potatoes are a popular choice. The fluffy, buttery texture of mashed potatoes complements the rich flavours of the casserole, while roasted potatoes add a crispy contrast.
Healthy side options?
For a healthier side option, consider serving steamed or roasted vegetables such as green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. A colourful salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is another option that adds freshness and balance.
Tasty dinner sides?
If you’re looking to enhance the flavours of your chicken casserole, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or cheese-stuffed bread. Artichoke pull-apart bread and corn tortillas are equally delicious accompaniments. Alternatively, orange-glazed carrots or grilled honey balsamic-glazed peaches can bring a touch of sweetness to your meal.
Quick, easy sides?
For a quick and easy side dish, try pairing your chicken casserole with a simple pilau rice, a baguette with olive oil, or pre-made buttermilk biscuits. A store-bought bagged salad mix is another simple yet delicious option that requires minimal prep time.
Serving with rice?
Pilau rice is an excellent side dish to serve with chicken casserole. The subtle flavour of the rice allows it to complement both chicken and beef-based casseroles, making it a versatile pairing option. Simply prepare the rice according to package instructions and serve alongside the casserole.
What to Serve with Chicken & Broccoli Casserole?
Chicken and broccoli casserole can be enjoyed with a variety of side dishes. For a comforting and hearty meal, serve it with garlic mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes. If you prefer a lighter option, a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables will complement the dish well. Whatever your preference, there are plenty of delicious side options to suit your tastes.
