Hot chicken is a spicy, fried chicken dish that originated in Nashville, Tennessee. It’s typically served with plain white bread to help temper the heat. Here are some of the most common sides and drinks that pair well with hot chicken:
Breads
Bread is essential for soaking up some of the spicy oil and juices from hot chicken. Plain white bread works best as it doesn’t compete with the flavors of the chicken. Other bread options include:
- Biscuits – Flaky, buttery biscuits are a popular alternative to white bread
- Cornbread – Adds a sweet, corn flavor to balance the heat
- Toast – Slices of buttered Texas toast can stand up to the chicken juices
- Buns – Brioche or potato buns work well for hot chicken sandwiches
Sides
Starchy sides like fries, baked beans, and mac and cheese are typical pairings with hot chicken. The starch helps absorb some of the spicy oil and gives your mouth a break from the heat. Cool, creamy sides also complement the chicken well. Popular options include:
- French fries
- Baked beans
- Coleslaw
- Potato salad
- Mac and cheese
- Collard greens
- Mashed potatoes
- Creamed corn
Dips and Sauces
Dips and sauces can help temper the spiciness of hot chicken or complement the flavors. Some good options include:
- Ranch dressing – The cool creaminess helps put out the heat
- Blue cheese dressing – Another cooling option with added tang
- Honey mustard – The sweetness balances the spice
- Comeback sauce – A mayo-based sauce popular in Nashville
- Hot sauce – For even more heat if you want it!
Drinks
You’ll want something to wash down each spicy, juicy bite of hot chicken. Here are some drink ideas:
- Iced tea – Sweet tea is especially popular in the South
- Lemonade – Tart and sweet, great for cooling your mouth
- Soda – Sprite or ginger ale help tame the heat
- Beer – Something light like a lager or wheat beer
- Milk – The cold dairy soothes the burn
Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh produce adds nutrition and gives your palate a break from the rich chicken. Some options include:
- Cucumber slices
- Tomato slices
- Pickles
- Watermelon
- Cole slaw
- Potato salad
- Corn on the cob
- Collard greens
Desserts
Cool, sweet treats are a nice way to finish off a spicy hot chicken meal. Popular dessert choices include:
- Banana pudding
- Peach cobbler
- Sweet potato pie
- Pecan pie
- Ice cream or sherbet
- Popsicles
Conclusion
Hot chicken is all about balance – the spice and richness of the chicken balanced out by cool, creamy, or starchy sides. Plain white bread, fries, coleslaw, and pickles are classic pairings. Iced tea, lemonade, or milk help put out the fire. Banana pudding or peach cobbler make a sweet southern ending to a hot chicken feast.