Okay, picture this: I am When the grill is on, the smell of marinated chicken wafts through the air. You’ve got those beautiful chicken kabobs sizzling away, ready to be devoured. But then you pause.. What do you serve with them?What are the sides of chicken kabobs?I’ve been there, grabbing a bag of chips last minute. I want to eat more chips, but I can’t stand the idea of it being an afterthought. What are some of the best side dishes to serve with chicken kabobs? Think of tacos, where the fillings are amazing but the sides take it to another level. Let’s get those kabobs the sidekick they deserve!

What are chicken kabobs?

Chicken kabobs are pieces of chicken threaded onto skewers, often with vegetables, and are served with a side of rice. What are some examples of pan-fried food that can be grilled, baked, Think of them as little portable meals on a stick! What is the beauty of chicken kabobs? Can you marinate chicken in a variety of ways? Can you use any combination of vegetables you like: peppers, onions, zucchini, tomatoes… What are the possibilities in life? What are some fun ways to enjoy chicken?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What’s not to love about chicken kabobs? What happens when you pair them with the right side? Why are you so obsessed with making it a complete meal?

Flavor Explosion:I’m sharing my side here, but I don’t want to be a just afterthought. They are designed to complement and enhance the flavors of the chicken kabobs, creating a symphony of flavors. Is there a taste in every bite? I always aim for a balance of fresh, bright, and slightly indulgent.
EffortlessWhat are some great side dishes to serve with chicken kabobs? Most of these sides can be prepped ahead of time, leaving you more time to enjoy your company.
Budget-Friendly FChicken is an affordable protein, and many of these side dishes use inexpensive, seasonal ingredients. How do I feed a crowd without breaking the bank? What I love most about this is that it feels like a special occasion meal without the special someone. What is occasion price tag?
So Many Possibilities!:Chicken kabobs are a blank canvas, and so are these side dishes. Feel free to mix and match, swap out ingredients, and customize to your liking. I’ve been known to throw in some grilled pineapple or peaches for extra sweetness – don’t be afraid to add them! What’s better than a plain old chicken?

How do I make side dishes for chicken kabobs?

Quick Overview

What are some of the best side dishes to make with chicken kabobs? What is a creamy cucumber salad? ), a vibrant quinoa salad bursting with Mediterranean flavors, and some simple grilled corn on the cob. Seriously, it’s mostly chopping, mixing, and grilling. No fancy ingredients or complicated techniques required. What are some great side dishes to serve with chicken kabobs? How do I get started?

Ingredients

What is the recipe for Creamy Cucumber Salad?

2 large cucumbers, peeled, seeded and thinly sliced.
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (I use full-fat for extra creaminess) .
How much sour cream should I use?
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill. 1 teaspoon chopped rad
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar per 1 cup.
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, but I like it!)
Salt and pepper to taste.

For the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: (seafood

1 cup quinoa, cooked according to package directions.
One cup chopped cherry tomatoes.
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese. 1/4 cup shredded
1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives.
1/4 cup chopped red onion.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. 1 cup shredded.
2 tablespoons lemon juice. 1 tablespoon thy
2 tablespoons olive oil. 1 tablespoon salt. 2
Salt and pepper to taste.

What is the recipe for Grilled Corn on the Cob?

4 ears of corn, husks and silks removed. 4 inches of hair.
2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter): 1 tablespoon kosher salt.
Salt and pepper to taste.
Optional: chili powder, garlic powder or your favorite spices.

How do I follow

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber Salad

In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, Greek yogurt, sour cream, white wine vinegar, salt, pepper, and pepper. Set aside. What is sugar and how can you use it? Season with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. This is KEY! The longer it sits, the better it tastes.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

While the cucumber salad is chilling, cook the quinoa according to package directions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and let it cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Quinoa Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and salt. Set aside. Red onion, parsley. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil. Set aside. What is the best dressing for quinoa salad? Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Prep the Corn on the Cob

Brush the corn on the cob with olive oil (or melted butter) and season with salt, pepper, and any other seasoning. What spices do you like? I love chili powder. What are some good ways to use it?

Step 5: Grill the Corn

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the corn on the cob on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred. I like to rotate it every few minutes for even cooking.

Step 6: Serve!

Serve the chicken kabobs alongside the creamy cucumber salad, Mediterranean quinoa salad, and grilled corn on the cob. Garnish with extra fresh dill or parsley, if desired. Enjoy!

What to Serve It With

These sides are incredibly versatile and can be paired with so much more than just chicken kabobs!

For a BBQ: The cucumber salad is the perfect refreshing counterpoint to heavier grilled meats. The quinoa salad adds a healthy and flavorful element, and the corn is a BBQ staple!

For a Light Lunch: The quinoa salad is substantial enough to be a meal on its own. Add some grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.

For a Potluck: These sides are all easy to transport and are sure to be a hit at any gathering. I always get asked for the cucumber Salad Recipe!

For a Weeknight Dinner: Pair these sides with simple grilled fish or roasted vegetables for a quick and healthy meal. Sometimes I’ll even skip the meat altogether and just load up on the sides – they’re that good!

My family loves when I make this combination. It’s colorful, flavorful, and feels like a celebration of summer. Plus, it’s a great way to get everyone to eat their veggies!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Sides for Chicken Kabobs

Okay, so these recipes are pretty straightforward, but here are a few extra tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years to really take them to the next level:

Cucumber Salad Secrets: To prevent the cucumber salad from becoming too watery, salt the sliced cucumbers and let them sit in a colander for about 30 minutes before adding them to the dressing. This will draw out excess moisture. I also use Greek yogurt because it’s naturally thicker than regular yogurt.

Quinoa Perfection: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness. Cook it in broth instead of water for extra flavor. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices in the salad. Mint, oregano, or even a pinch of cumin can add a unique twist.

Grilled Corn Mastery: Soak the corn in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent the husks from burning. This also helps to steam the corn from the inside, resulting in a more tender and juicy cob. And for the love of all things delicious, don’t be shy with the butter and spices!

Flavor Boosters: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar to any of these sides to brighten up the flavors. A sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds can also add a nice crunch and nutty flavor. And don’t forget the fresh herbs! They make all the difference.

Make Ahead Magic: All of these sides can be made ahead of time, which is a lifesaver when you’re entertaining. Just be sure to store them separately and combine them right before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy. The corn is best served immediately, but you can grill it ahead of time and reheat it briefly on the grill or in the microwave.

Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cucumber salad or the quinoa salad. Or try using a spicy marinade for the chicken kabobs. The contrast between the cool sides and the spicy chicken is amazing!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to keep these delicious sides fresh and ready to enjoy later:

Cucumber Salad: This is best enjoyed within 24 hours, as the cucumbers will release moisture over time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before serving.

Quinoa Salad: This can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and improve over time! You may need to add a little extra lemon juice or olive oil before serving to freshen it up.

Grilled Corn: Grilled corn is best eaten immediately, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Wrap each cob tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Reheat it briefly on the grill, in the microwave, or in a skillet with a little butter.

Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing the cucumber salad, as the cucumbers will become mushy. The quinoa salad can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Grilled corn can also be frozen, but it’s best to remove the kernels from the cob first. Store the kernels in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator or cook them directly from frozen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the cucumber salad dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the Greek yogurt and sour cream with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut yogurt or cashew cream. Just be sure to choose an unsweetened variety. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!

What if I don’t like olives?

No problem! Simply omit the olives from the quinoa salad, or substitute them with another ingredient you enjoy, such as chopped bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts.

Can I grill the corn without the husks?

Yes, you can, but be sure to brush the corn with plenty of oil or butter to prevent it from drying out. You’ll also need to keep a closer eye on it and turn it more frequently to prevent it from burning.

Can I add protein to the quinoa salad?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or lentils would all be great additions. I sometimes add some crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option.

What other vegetables can I add to the chicken kabobs?

The possibilities are endless! Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and pineapple are all great choices. Just be sure to cut the vegetables into similar sizes so they cook evenly.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my favorite sides for chicken kabobs that will transform your grilling game! I genuinely think these sides take a simple meal and elevate it to something truly special. They’re fresh, flavorful, and easy to make, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend get-togethers. And remember, don’t be afraid to experiment and customize these recipes to your liking. After all, cooking is all about having fun and creating something delicious that you and your loved ones will enjoy.

If you’re looking for more delicious side dish ideas, be sure to check out my other recipes. I have tons of options for every occasion! And if you try these sides for chicken kabobs, I’d love to hear how they turned out. Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Happy grilling!