What Goes With Bbq Chicken For Easy Family Meal Prep Ideas
Barbecue chicken is a classic family favorite that is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you are hosting a summer gathering or just looking for easy meal prep ideas for your family during the week, BBQ chicken can be paired with a variety of sides to create a wholesome and satisfying meal. In this article, we will explore some of the best options that go well with BBQ chicken, along with easy meal prep ideas to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Serving Size
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups coleslaw mix
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 ears of corn, husked and cleaned
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- 2 cups mixed greens (optional for a salad)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional for a salad)
- 1 cucumber, sliced (optional for a salad)
- 1 cup watermelon, cubed (optional for a refreshing side)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Brush the chicken with half of the BBQ sauce, ensuring it is well coated.
- If using a grill, place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes on each side, basting with more BBQ sauce as it cooks. If using an oven, place the chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, basting halfway through.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the coleslaw. In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
- For the corn, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the cleaned ears of corn and cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender. Remove from water and spread butter over the corn, sprinkling with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F), remove from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Slice the chicken and serve it on a platter with the coleslaw and corn on the side.
- If desired, add a mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, or serve fresh watermelon cubes for a refreshing touch.
- Garnish the dish with fresh parsley before serving.
Delicious Side Dishes to Pair with BBQ Chicken
When thinking about what goes with BBQ chicken, the options are endless. Here are some delicious side dishes that can enhance your meal and are easy to prepare for family meal prep:
1. Classic Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a quintessential summer side dish that pairs beautifully with BBQ chicken. Its crunchy texture and tangy flavor complement the smoky and sweet notes of the chicken. You can make a quick coleslaw by mixing shredded cabbage and carrots with a dressing made of mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sugar.
2. Corn on the Cob
Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is another great accompaniment. It adds a sweet and buttery flavor that balances the richness of the BBQ chicken. Simply boil the corn for a few minutes, then slather it with butter and sprinkle with salt for a simple yet delicious side.
3. Baked Beans
Baked beans are hearty and flavorful, making them a perfect pairing with BBQ chicken. You can make a pot of baked beans from scratch or use canned beans for convenience. Adding bacon, brown sugar, and mustard can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
4. Potato Salad
A creamy potato salad is a staple at barbecues and picnics. Boil potatoes until tender, then mix with mayonnaise, mustard, diced onions, and celery. This dish is easy to prepare in advance and can be served cold.
5. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus can add a colorful and nutritious element to your meal. Toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill them alongside the chicken for a smoky flavor.
Meal Prep Tips for BBQ Chicken Dinners
Making BBQ chicken for a family meal prep can be efficient with a few tips:
1. Cook in Batches
Prepare a large batch of BBQ chicken at once. This can be stored in the refrigerator for several days or frozen for later use. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when needed.
2. Use Versatile Ingredients
Choose sides that can be easily varied throughout the week. For example, swap out corn for green beans or coleslaw for a mixed salad. This keeps meals interesting and prevents repetition.
3. Store Properly
Invest in good quality meal prep containers to keep your BBQ chicken and sides fresh throughout the week. Label containers with dates to ensure you consume them while still fresh.
4. Plan Ahead
Plan your meals for the week ahead. Decide which sides to pair with the BBQ chicken, and prep ingredients in advance to save time during the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for BBQ chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are often more flavorful and juicy than breasts, making them an excellent choice for BBQ.
2. How can I make BBQ chicken healthier?
To make BBQ chicken healthier, consider grilling instead of baking, using a low-sugar BBQ sauce, and serving with more vegetables as sides.
3. Can I freeze BBQ chicken and sides?
Yes, BBQ chicken can be frozen for later use. Ensure it’s stored in airtight containers or freezer bags. Most sides can also be frozen, though some, like salad, are best made fresh.
4. What are some vegetarian options to serve with BBQ chicken?
If you have vegetarian guests, consider serving grilled vegetable skewers, a hearty quinoa salad, or a fresh fruit salad as sides.
With these ideas and tips in mind, you can effortlessly create a delicious BBQ chicken meal that your family will love. Not only will you enjoy the great flavors, but you will also appreciate the convenience of easy meal prep. Happy cooking!
