26 Sizzling Southern-Style Fried Chicken Dishes for Your Next Family Gathering

Posted on September 24, 2025 by Maryann Desmond

Nestled among the many delights of fried chicken is its incredible variety of mouthwatering sides. These accompaniments have been carefully curated to take your crispy chicken game to new heights, offering 20 tried-and-true options that are both classic and creative.

Fried chicken has a special place in the hearts of many people around the world. Its irresistible combination of a crunchy exterior giving way to tender and juicy meat is the ultimate comfort food experience.

Perfectly Tender Sweet Potato Side Dish

Perfectly Tender Sweet Potato Side Dish

Gently roasted to perfection, sweet potatoes make a delightful accompaniment to crispy fried chicken that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Simply slice and cook them until tender for a delicious side dish the whole family will love.

Southern-Style Fried Green Tomato Delight

Southern-Style Fried Green Tomato Delight

Vying for attention among Southern favorites, serving up fried green tomatoes alongside chicken has become a time-honored tradition for many families. This beloved dish offers a delightful twist on a classic meal and is a great way to mix things up if you’re in the mood for something new. One of the wonderful benefits of this side dish is that it’s easy to prepare and can be enjoyed with a variety of chicken recipes.

Crispy Baked Potato Sticks

Crispy Baked Potato Sticks

Naturally, a popular alternative to deep-fried potatoes is baked potato wedges, which are a staple in many children’s diets when paired with fried chicken. Not only do they offer a similar satisfying crunch, but also pack a punch of flavor and nutrients without the guilt of frying.

Fried Chicken’s Creamy Best Friend

Fried Chicken

Taking a closer look, it’s clear that mac and cheese pairs remarkably well with a variety of mains. One classic combination is undoubtedly fried chicken – there’s something special about the harmony of flavors when these two comfort food staples come together.

Editor Choice:  26 Juicy Steak Recipes Perfect for a Sizzling Summer Cookout

Buttery Buttermilk Biscuits Delight

Buttery Buttermilk Biscuits Delight

Zeroing in on the perfect accompaniment to your crispy fried chicken, these buttermilk biscuits deliver with their flaky, buttery goodness. Not only do they pair perfectly with a variety of toppings such as melted butter, drizzled honey, or spread jam, but they’re also ridiculously easy to make.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a sweet treat, these biscuits have got you covered – and with their tender texture and subtle tang, it’s no wonder they’re a hands-down favorite among home cooks.

Sweet Summer Corn Delight

Sweet Summer Corn Delight

Sweet Summer Corn Delight

Gathering around the dinner table to enjoy a delicious meal is truly one of life’s greatest pleasures, especially when it involves fresh sweet corn that has been perfectly buttered! This classic side dish is the perfect accompaniment to fried chicken and corn on the cob remains a timeless favorite among families. Get the recipe for this simple yet mouth-watering dish.

Potato Gratin Upgrade for Your Chicken

Potato Gratin Upgrade for Your Chicken

Nourish your taste buds with a twist on the classic mashed potato side dish by opting for a rich and creamy potato gratin, which will add an irresistible textural element to your fried chicken dinner, elevating it to new heights of flavor and excitement. Get the Recipe

Roasted Veggies for Fried Chicken

Roasted Veggies for Fried Chicken

Yearning for a satisfying accompaniment to your crispy fried chicken? Look no further than this delightful combination of roasted potatoes, carrots, and green beans – they’re not only easy to make but also packed with flavor.

Crispy Slaw Recipe

Crispy Slaw Recipe

Generally speaking, a classic pairing for fried chicken is a refreshing serving of coleslaw. This simple yet tasty condiment is quick to prepare and adds a delightful crunch to any meal.

Editor Choice:  20 Luscious Pomegranate Recipes to Elevate Your Holiday Gatherings

Quick Summer Squash and Corn Delight

Quick Summer Squash and Corn Delight

For a truly mouth-watering side dish, fire up the pan and sauté some fresh corn and chunky zucchini slices until they’re tender and lightly caramelized, making them the perfect accompaniment to your crispy fried chicken.

Cornbread Bliss with Southern Twist

Cornbread Bliss with Southern Twist

Unlocking the essence of comfort food, a simple yet satisfying combination is found in pairing warm sweet cornbread with crispy fried chicken. This classic duo has been a staple in many households for generations, and its appeal lies in the delightful contrast between the soft, fluffy texture of the cornbread and the crunchy exterior of the fried chicken. Enjoying a few slices of this mouthwatering cornbread alongside your fried chicken is sure to satisfy any craving for comfort food.

Classic Spud Salad Recipes

Classic Spud Salad Recipes

Nutritious potato salad has become a staple at various social events, such as family gatherings, parties, or even casual get-togethers with friends. Get the Recipe

Easy Bourbon BBQ Baked Bean Recipe

Easy Bourbon BBQ Baked Bean Recipe

Prepared in just a few minutes, baked beans are an effortless and convenient side dish option when paired with mouth-watering fried chicken. People often appreciate this recipe for its ability to provide a hassle-free experience while still indulging in the rich flavors of those scrumptious baked beans.

Quick Sauteed Greens in Minutes

Quick Sauteed Greens in Minutes

Taking centre stage at any dinner gathering, these sautéed green beans are a breeze to prepare and require minimal ingredients and cooking time. Pair them with crispy fried chicken for a well-rounded and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress your guests.

Famous Family Pasta Side Dishes

Famous Family Pasta Side Dishes

Luscious macaroni salads are often the unsung heroes of family gatherings, complementing classic comfort foods like fried chicken perfectly.

Editor Choice:  28 Creative Unusual Turkey Recipes for Adventurous Cooks

Maple Sweet Corn Fritters

Maple Sweet Corn Fritters

Beautifully balancing sweet and savory flavors, this side dish is made by cooking fresh corn kernels with crispy bacon, sautéed onions, a pinch of seasonings, and a drizzle of maple syrup. The result is a mouthwatering accompaniment that will leave your taste buds singing!

Garlic Parmesan Knobs in Minutes

Garlic Parmesan Knobs in Minutes

Undoubtedly, one of the reasons these bite-sized treats are so popular is their ease of preparation. A simple mix of ingredients and a sprinkle of garlic parmesan seasoning on top elevate the flavor profile, making each crispy morsel a delight to devour.

Timeless Comfort Mashup

Timeless Comfort Mashup

Keeping in mind that simplicity is key when it comes to side dishes, classic mashed potatoes are a timeless choice that never goes out of style. A staple at many restaurants and households alike, they’re a versatile accompaniment to a variety of main courses, particularly fried chicken, which seems to pair well with this comforting dish.

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment