13 Memorial Day Chicken Side Dishes For Perfect Pairings is the ultimate guide to making your Memorial Day celebration memorable with delicious, crowd-pleasing sides that pair perfectly with your favorite grilled or roasted chicken. Memorial Day is all about honoring those who have served while coming together with family and friends to enjoy good food, good company, and the start of summer. And nothing brings people together like a beautifully prepared chicken meal, complete with sides that elevate the entire dining experience.
In this collection of 13 mouthwatering chicken side dishes, you’ll find a variety of options to complement your chicken—whether you’re preparing a classic BBQ chicken, grilled lemon herb chicken, or crispy fried chicken. From light, refreshing salads to indulgent, cheesy casseroles, these sides cover every flavor profile you could desire. Think creamy potato salad, tangy coleslaw, buttery corn on the cob, and vibrant vegetable medleys that add both color and texture to your plate.
Memorial Day is the perfect occasion to experiment with new recipes, impress your guests, and enjoy the flavors of summer. So, grab your grill, fire up the oven, and get ready to create the ultimate Memorial Day spread with these 13 incredible chicken side dishes. You won’t want to miss a single bite!
Chicken Salad With Grapes
Chicken Salad with Grapes is a refreshing and delicious dish that perfectly balances savory and sweet flavors. With tender pieces of chicken, juicy grapes, and crunchy nuts, this salad is both satisfying and light, making it an ideal side for summer gatherings.
This recipe is simple to whip up, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time. It’s perfect for Memorial Day picnics or barbecues, where you want something tasty without spending all day in the kitchen. Serve it on its own or in a sandwich, and it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, halved grapes, and chopped nuts.
- In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
For a delightful twist, you can find more tips and variations on this chicken salad recipe.
Harvest Chicken Salad
The Harvest Chicken Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect side dish for your Memorial Day gathering. With tender chicken, crisp apples, and crunchy pecans, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying. It’s simple to whip up and can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without a last-minute rush.
This salad is not just delicious but also visually appealing, featuring vibrant greens and colorful fruits. The sweetness of the apples and the nuttiness of the pecans complement the savory chicken beautifully, creating a well-balanced dish that everyone will love. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats or on its own, this Harvest Chicken Salad is sure to be a hit at your next outdoor event. For the full recipe, check out this link.
Chicken Caesar Salad
Chicken Caesar Salad is a delicious combination of crisp romaine lettuce, tender chicken, crunchy croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing. This salad is a classic that offers a satisfying mix of flavors and textures, making it a perfect side dish for your Memorial Day gathering. It’s easy to whip up, and you can customize it to your liking with various toppings.
If you want to keep things simple, you can use store-bought dressing and rotisserie chicken. For a homemade touch, try grilling your chicken and making the dressing from scratch. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and other summer dishes. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cooked chicken, sliced or diced
- 1 cup croutons
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cooked chicken, and croutons.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Adjust the amount of dressing according to your taste.
- Season: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and add salt and pepper if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light meal!
For more detailed instructions, you can check out this Chicken Caesar Salad recipe.
Creamy Chicken Pasta
This Creamy Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with pasta, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s comforting, satisfying, and perfect for any gathering, especially during Memorial Day celebrations. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a meal that’s both simple to prepare and a crowd-pleaser.
With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time. It’s creamy, savory, and offers a hint of freshness, thanks to the herbs. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it a versatile choice for your summer menu. Check out this delicious recipe to impress your guests!
Crockpot Chicken Mac And Cheese
Crockpot Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken with creamy, cheesy pasta. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you enjoy your day.
The combination of gooey cheese and succulent chicken makes this meal a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, especially on Memorial Day. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, cubed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- In your crockpot, combine the uncooked macaroni, chicken broth, shredded chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Add the cream cheese and half of the cheddar cheese on top. Do not stir.
- Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours or until the pasta is tender.
- Once cooked, stir in the remaining cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and place under the broiler for a few minutes until golden brown.
You can check out more details and variations for this recipe here.
Chicken And Waffles Casserole
Chicken and waffles casserole is a delightful blend of savory and sweet that brings comfort to any gathering. This dish combines crispy chicken pieces with fluffy waffles, all baked together in a creamy sauce, making it a hearty option for Memorial Day celebrations or any casual get-together.
Making this casserole is simple and perfect for feeding a crowd. The combination of flavors ensures that each bite is delicious, and you can easily prepare it ahead of time. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve!
For those eager to try this dish, here’s a quick recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 waffles, cut into squares
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla extract, salt, and pepper.
- In a greased baking dish, layer the chicken and waffle squares. Pour the egg mixture over the top.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, then bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until set and golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. For an extra touch, drizzle with more maple syrup if desired.
Try out this Chicken and Waffles Casserole for your next gathering!
Easy Healthy Chicken Salad
This Easy Healthy Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at your Memorial Day gathering. The tender chicken, crisp veggies, and creamy dressing come together to create a dish that’s not only tasty but also nutritious. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make, making it a go-to recipe for busy days.
The refreshing taste of fresh herbs and crunchy cucumbers adds a bright note, while the creamy dressing ties everything together. It’s a dish everyone will love, and it pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or as a filling for sandwiches. Check out this link for more details on how to prepare this dish: Easy Healthy Chicken Salad.
Crack Chicken Dip
Crack Chicken Dip is a creamy, cheesy delight that brings together shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and plenty of gooey cheese. This dish is perfect for gatherings, offering a savory flavor that everyone will love. It’s so simple to make that even novice cooks can whip it up with ease!
The combination of flavors creates a rich, indulgent dip that pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, crackers, or even fresh veggies. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
For those looking to impress at their next gathering, this dip is a must-try. Check out this Crack Chicken Dip recipe and enjoy a delicious addition to your meal!
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo Chicken Dip is a crowd-pleaser that brings together the bold flavors of buffalo sauce and creamy cheese goodness. This dish is perfect for gatherings, especially on Memorial Day, when you want something delicious and easy to whip up.
With its spicy kick and cheesy texture, it’s hard to resist diving in! This recipe combines shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, and of course, that signature buffalo sauce. Not only is it simple to make, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides and chips, making it a fantastic addition to your holiday spread. For the full recipe, check out this Buffalo Chicken Dip.
Chicken Salad Sandwich
A chicken salad sandwich is a classic dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy dressing, and crunchy veggies, all nestled between slices of toasted bread. It’s perfect for warm days, easy to whip up, and delivers a satisfying mix of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or just craving a quick meal, this sandwich is sure to please everyone.
The beauty of a chicken salad sandwich lies in its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite herbs, spices, and additional ingredients. Serve it with chips or a side salad for a complete meal. For a delightful recipe, check out this chicken salad sandwich recipe.
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a creamy and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta, all tossed in a rich Alfredo sauce. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. With its delightful flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table.
The combination of savory chicken and vibrant broccoli creates a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and healthy. Plus, the Alfredo sauce adds a wonderful creaminess that ties all the ingredients together. If you’re looking for a quick and delicious recipe, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a must-try!
Chicken And Rice Soup
Chicken and rice soup is a comforting classic that warms the soul with every spoonful. This dish combines tender pieces of chicken, hearty rice, and fresh vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. It’s an easy recipe that’s perfect for any day, especially when you’re looking for something wholesome and satisfying.
The taste is a delightful blend of savory and comforting, making it a family favorite. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, providing a delicious meal that can be made in under an hour. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken for a quick dinner. For those interested, you can find a detailed recipe for this dish here.
Final Thoughts:
Pairing the right sides with your chicken can transform a simple meal into an unforgettable feast, and these 13 Memorial Day chicken side dishes provide plenty of variety to please all tastes. Whether you’re looking for something light and fresh or rich and comforting, there’s a side dish here that will perfectly complement your chicken, making your Memorial Day dinner the highlight of the holiday.
This collection of recipes not only adds depth to your meal but also gives you the opportunity to explore new flavors and try unique combinations that will have your guests asking for the recipe. So, get ready to enjoy a day filled with great food, good company, and lots of laughter. Memorial Day is all about creating lasting memories, and with these delicious chicken side dishes, you’re sure to do just that.
Happy cooking and enjoy your Memorial Day feast!
