What Goes With BBQ Chicken For Make Ahead Meal Prep For Families
When it comes to family meal prep, BBQ chicken is a go-to choice for its flavor, versatility, and ease of cooking. But what sides can complement this delicious dish while ensuring a balanced meal? In this article, we’ll explore a variety of make-ahead sides that pair perfectly with BBQ chicken, creating a delightful and satisfying meal for your family. Whether you are preparing lunchboxes for the week or planning a family dinner, these sides will enhance your BBQ chicken experience.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, cubed
- 4 cups coleslaw mix
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce with the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the sweet potatoes. Toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then spread them on another baking sheet.
- Bake the sweet potatoes in the oven alongside the chicken for about 25 minutes, or until tender and slightly crispy.
- For the corn, if using fresh corn, boil it for about 3-5 minutes. If using frozen, simply heat it in a pan with a little olive oil until warmed through.
- To make the coleslaw, combine the coleslaw mix with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well and set aside.
- Once everything is cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- Divide the BBQ chicken, sweet potatoes, corn, and coleslaw into meal prep containers, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Seal the containers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why BBQ Chicken is a Family Favorite
BBQ chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a family tradition. The smoky, tangy flavors bring everyone together, whether you are enjoying it at a summer cookout or a cozy dinner at home. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in bulk and can be seasoned to suit everyone’s taste preferences.
Meal Prep Benefits
Meal prepping is an efficient way to save time during the week. By preparing your BBQ chicken and sides in advance, you eliminate the daily stress of cooking. This means more time to spend with family and less time worrying about what’s for dinner.
Delicious Sides to Pair with BBQ Chicken
Here are several side dishes that can be made ahead of time and pair beautifully with BBQ chicken:
1. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a classic summer side that complements BBQ chicken perfectly. You can grill it beforehand and simply reheat it when ready to serve. Brush it with butter and sprinkle with salt for a delicious finish.
2. Creamy Coleslaw
Coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to your BBQ chicken meal. The creamy dressing balances the smoky flavors of the chicken, making it an essential side. Prepare it in advance and keep it chilled until serving.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are not only nutritious, but they also provide a sweet contrast to the savory BBQ chicken. They can be cubed and roasted with spices, then stored in meal prep containers. They taste amazing warm or at room temperature.
4. Baked Beans
Baked beans are a hearty side that adds protein and fiber to your meal. You can prepare them in a slow cooker or on the stove. They can be made ahead of time and reheated when you’re ready to serve.
5. Quinoa Salad
A quinoa salad packed with vegetables and a light vinaigrette can be a great option for a healthy side. Quinoa is a protein-rich grain that complements the BBQ chicken well. Prepare it a day ahead and let the flavors meld in the fridge.
Storing Your Meal Prep
To ensure your BBQ chicken and sides stay fresh, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Label the containers with the date to keep track of freshness. Most of these sides can be kept for up to four days, making them perfect for meal prep.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, you can reheat the BBQ chicken and sides in the microwave or oven. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and warm the meal for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving is quicker, taking just a few minutes, but be sure to cover the food to avoid drying it out.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out more easily than thighs. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. How long can I store the meal prep containers in the fridge?
You can safely store meal prep containers in the fridge for up to four days. After that, it’s best to discard any leftovers.
3. Can I freeze BBQ chicken and sides?
Yes, you can freeze BBQ chicken and most sides. Just ensure they are stored in airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw them in the fridge before reheating.
4. What are some vegetarian options to pair with BBQ chicken?
If you have vegetarians in your family, consider serving sides like grilled vegetable skewers, a hearty salad, or roasted chickpeas to accompany the BBQ chicken.
Final Thoughts
When planning a family meal prep, BBQ chicken can serve as the star of the show, with a variety of delicious and nutritious sides to complement it. From roasted sweet potatoes to creamy coleslaw, this meal can be made ahead of time, making it easy to serve during a busy week. With these recipes and tips, you can ensure your family enjoys a delightful and satisfying dining experience every time.
