What To Serve With Balsamic Chicken (21+ Best Ideas!)

If you love fuss free dinners and big, bold flavours, balsamic chicken makes for an absolutely delicious meal! 

Typically made by tossing chicken thighs or breast chunks in a tasty marinade with balsamic glaze, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, and then baking in the oven, it can be on the table in around half an hour. 

It’s got a beautiful syrupy stickiness, without being overwhelmingly sweet. 

If you’ve decided to give this dish a try, you’re probably wondering about the best side dishes and accompaniments to make it into a balanced meal. 

Just looking for a handful of quick ideas? 

Not a problem! 

Some of the best choices for what to serve with balsamic chicken include mashed potatoes, garlic butter rice, couscous with herbs, steamed asparagus, glazed carrots, Greek salad, and focaccia bread. 

Keep reading for more ideas, inspiration, and easy to follow recipes and preparation tips… 

Starch-Based Accompaniments

Choosing the right starch-based side can complement the tangy and rich flavour of balsamic chicken beautifully.

These starchy sides will soak up the delicious sauce and balance the meal…

Classic Mashed Potatoes

You can’t go wrong with classic mashed potatoes.

They’re creamy and act as the perfect base for your balsamic chicken.

Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, milk, and a pinch of salt.

For extra flavour, stir in some chives or spring onions.

Garlic Butter Rice

Garlic butter rice offers a fragrant twist that’s simple yet satisfying.

Begin by sautéeing minced garlic in a mixture of butter and olive oil.

Add your rice, cooking until the grains become slightly toasted.

Then, simmer with chicken stock until fluffy.

Couscous with Herbs

Light and fluffy couscous with herbs makes for an easy and aromatic partner for your chicken.

Prepare the couscous as per the packet’s instructions, then fluff with a fork.

Mix through chopped herbs like parsley, coriander, or basil to add freshness.

Vegetable Pairings

When serving balsamic chicken, you’ll want to choose vegetables that complement the rich, tangy flavours of balsamic vinegar.

Fresh, vibrant vegetables work wonderfully to balance the dish.

Steamed Asparagus

Steamed asparagus is a classic choice, bringing a subtle, earthy taste that pairs beautifully with the tanginess of balsamic chicken.

For an extra touch of luxury, drizzle your asparagus with a little olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt.

A squeeze of fresh lemon is always a good idea! 

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts provide a gorgeous caramelised edge that echoes the depth of balsamic chicken.

To achieve that perfect roast, toss your sprouts in olive oil and roast until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Glazed Carrots

Glazed carrots add a sweet and slightly sticky counterpart that enhances the overall flavour profile.

Baste your carrots with a mix of honey and butter, then roast until they have a beautiful glaze.

It’s a delightful contrast to the savoury chicken.

Salads and Lighter Options

Pairing your balsamic chicken with a fresh salad offers a delightful contrast of flavours and textures, ensuring a balanced and nutritious meal.

Mixed Greens Salad

Toss together a mixed greens salad with a variety of leaves like rocket, spinach, and red leaf lettuce.

For an extra crunch, add sliced cucumbers and radishes.

A simple dressing of olive oil and lemon juice complements the tanginess of the balsamic chicken without overpowering it.

Greek Salad

Create a Greek salad that bursts with vibrant colours and bold tastes.

Combine ripe tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.

Dress the salad with extra virgin olive oil, a dash of red wine vinegar, and oregano to enhance the Mediterranean flavours.

Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Enjoy the classic Caprese salad with a twist by adding a balsamic glaze.

Layer slices of juicy tomatoes and mozzarella cheese with fresh basil leaves.

Drizzle with balsamic glaze to echo the balsamic theme of your chicken dish.

Bread Selections

Selecting the perfect bread to accompany your balsamic chicken can elevate your meal from delightful to sublime.

Here are some classic choices to consider.

Crusty Baguette

A crusty baguette offers a delightful contrast with its crisp exterior and fluffy interior.

Its simplicity makes it an ideal choice, allowing the balsamic flavour to shine.

Slice it diagonally for maximum effect.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread, with its aromatic flavour, complements the tang of the balsamic chicken nicely.

For a harmonious balance, opt for a garlic bread with a buttery base and a hint of parsley.

Focaccia

Focaccia, known for its herby and olive oil-infused taste, brings a Mediterranean flair to your plate.

Choose a focaccia adorned with rosemary and sea salt to pair with the rich balsamic glaze of your chicken.

Pasta and Noodles

Pairing balsamic chicken with pasta or noodles creates a balanced meal, providing a contrast in flavours and textures.

Here are some specific pasta dishes that complement the taste of balsamic chicken wonderfully…

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

For a simple yet flavourful option, try spaghetti aglio e olio.

This dish features spaghetti tossed in olive oil with garlic and a touch of chilli flakes.

It’s a light choice that won’t overshadow the rich taste of your balsamic chicken.

Penne with Pesto

Penne with pesto provides a fresh and herby complement.

The pesto sauce, made with basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese, offers a creamy texture and a vibrant green colour that pairs well with the tangy balsamic glaze on your chicken.

Linguine Alfredo

Opt for linguine alfredo if you prefer a creamier pasta.

The linguine is coated in a rich alfredo sauce made with butter, cream, and garlic, creating a satisfyingly decadent side that enhances the savoury notes of balsamic chicken.

(If you love Alfredo sauce, you’ll also enjoy what to serve with shrimp Alfredo!) 

Wine Pairing Ideas

When selecting a wine to complement your balsamic chicken, it’s essential to consider the acidity and depth of flavour that the dish presents.

Here are some wines that marry well with the rich notes of balsamic.

Chianti

Chianti, a medium-bodied red wine from Tuscany, beautifully balances the tangy reduction of balsamic chicken.

Look for Chianti Classico, with its hints of cherry and a touch of earthiness, to elevate the flavours of your meal.

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir offers a lighter option with enough versatility to pair with the sweetness and acidity of balsamic chicken.

Opt for a bottle with characteristics of ripe red berries and subtle spice to complement the dish without overpowering it.

Sauvignon Blanc

For those preferring white wine, Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp choice.

Its zesty citrus notes and herbal undertones will enhance the balsamic’s acidity and make for a refreshing pairing.

Seek out a vibrant and well-balanced wine for the best experience.

Dessert Suggestions

After enjoying a richly flavoured balsamic chicken dish, a well-chosen dessert can be the perfect end to your meal.

Here are three classic Italian desserts that are the perfect choices for what to serve with balsamic chicken. 

Classic Tiramisu

Tiramisu, which means ‘pick me up’, will indeed lift your spirits with its layers of savoury espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream.

For authenticity, dust with cocoa powder before serving.

Panna Cotta

This silky smooth dessert is versatile and vivid with flavours, and it’s a great choice for what to serve with balsamic chicken. 

Infuse your cream and sugar mixture with vanilla or citrus zests.

Top with a berry compote that cuts through the creaminess with a tangy edge.

Gelato Selection

Offer a variety of gelato flavours — think classic chocolate, strawberry, and pistachio.

Each spoonful provides a light yet indulgent experience, allowing for a refreshing palate after the balsamic chicken.

What’s your favourite choice for what to serve with balsamic chicken? 

Leave a comment below and share your best ideas! 

If you love chicken based recipes, you’ll also enjoy taking a look at what to serve with margarita chicken, and what to serve with chicken paprikash.