Chicken tacos are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways, from grilled to shredded, spiced, or mild. One of the reasons they’re so popular is their ability to pair well with a wide range of sides and accompaniments. Whether you’re throwing together a quick weeknight dinner or planning a grand taco night, choosing the right combinations will elevate your meal. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore all the options to enhance your chicken tacos, from traditional Mexican side dishes to creative and unexpected pairings.
What Goes Well with Chicken Tacos: Traditional Mexican Side Dishes
One of the most obvious choices when deciding what goes well with chicken tacos is to serve them with traditional Mexican side dishes. Chefs have developed these dishes over centuries to perfectly complement the flavors of tacos, and they’re also crowd-pleasers that people find familiar and love.
1. Mexican Rice
Mexican rice is a staple side dish that perfectly complements chicken tacos. Its slightly savory and tomatoey flavor helps balance out the spices typically found in tacos. Made with long-grain rice, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and sometimes a bit of chili or cumin, it’s a simple dish that allows the flavors of the tacos to remain the focus while offering a rich, starchy base. You can cook Mexican rice with chicken broth for added depth or throw in diced vegetables like peas and carrots for a more substantial dish.
Pro tip: For extra flavor, sauté the rice in oil until golden before adding your broth and other ingredients. This deepens the nutty flavor of the rice, which pairs exceptionally well with chicken seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and garlic.
2. Refried Beans
Refried beans are another classic side that pair beautifully with chicken tacos. Made from pinto or black beans, they offer a creamy, savory complement to the textures of crispy taco shells or soft tortillas. Traditionally, cooks prepare refried beans with lard or oil and flavor them with onions, garlic, and spices. You can serve them smooth or leave them chunky, depending on your preference.
The creamy consistency of refried beans contrasts nicely with the crisp textures often found in tacos, providing a satisfying mouthfeel. They’re also a fantastic source of protein, making them not only delicious but also nutritious.
3. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a popular street food in Mexico and an excellent side for chicken tacos. This dish consists of grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. The smoky flavor from the grill, combined with the creamy and tangy toppings, creates a burst of flavor that complements the savory spices of chicken tacos.
For a less traditional option, you can also serve this as a salad, known as esquites, where the corn is cut off the cob and mixed with the same ingredients, making it easier to eat alongside tacos. Learn how to make authentic Mexican Street Corn to elevate your taco night.
4. Charro Beans
Charro beans, also known as frijoles charros, offer a flavorful bean dish that often accompanies tacos. Unlike refried beans, cooks leave charro beans whole instead of mashing them, cooking them in a broth with bacon, onions, garlic, and sometimes jalapeños or tomatoes. The result is a soupy, smoky dish that you can enjoy as is or serve with a little cheese or cilantro on top.
The brothiness of charro beans offers a great contrast to the drier textures of chicken tacos, and the addition of bacon gives the beans a rich, smoky flavor that pairs well with grilled or roasted chicken.
What Fresh and Light Options Go Well with Chicken Tacos?
While traditional Mexican sides are always a hit, lighter and fresher options can help balance the richness of the chicken tacos. These sides offer bright, zesty flavors that add a refreshing contrast, especially if your chicken is heavily seasoned or spicy.
1. Guacamole
Guacamole is a staple at any taco night and pairs exceptionally well with chicken tacos. The creamy texture of avocados combined with lime, cilantro, and onions adds a rich yet refreshing element to the meal. Guacamole can be served as a dip with tortilla chips, but it also works beautifully as a topping for the tacos themselves, adding a burst of creaminess to each bite.
What makes guacamole so versatile is that it can be adjusted to suit different flavor profiles. You can make it spicier by adding jalapeños, or sweeter by mixing in some diced mango or pineapple for a tropical twist.
2. Pico de Gallo
Pico de gallo, or fresh salsa, is a simple mix of chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice. It’s a bright and zesty accompaniment that cuts through the richness of chicken tacos. The freshness of the ingredients adds a crisp texture and vibrant flavor, which makes it an ideal topping or side dish.
The acidity from the lime in pico de gallo enhances the flavors of chicken tacos, particularly if the chicken is marinated in citrus or served with a spicy seasoning. It’s a versatile salsa that can be made as mild or as spicy as you like, depending on your personal taste. For a fresh, zesty side, make your own using this Pico de Gallo Recipe.
3. Taco Slaw
Taco slaw is a light and crunchy side that can either be served on the side or directly on top of the tacos. Made with shredded cabbage, lime juice, and cilantro, taco slaw offers a crisp texture that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken and soft tortillas. You can also add a bit of jalapeño for heat or carrots for a pop of color and sweetness.
The slaw adds a cooling element to balance out the spices in chicken tacos and provides a fresh crunch with each bite. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time, making it a convenient option for taco nights.
4. Cucumber and Avocado Salad
If you’re looking for a super-refreshing side to go with your chicken tacos, a cucumber and avocado salad is a great choice. The cool, crisp cucumbers and creamy avocado pieces are tossed in a light vinaigrette made from lime juice, olive oil, and cilantro. The salad is both hydrating and flavorful, which helps cool down any spiciness in the chicken tacos.
Creative Side Options for What Goes Well with Chicken Tacos
If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving your chicken tacos with some more unconventional sides. These creative options will surprise and delight your guests, adding an element of fun and flavor to your meal.
1. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a unique and flavorful side that pairs surprisingly well with chicken tacos. The natural sweetness of the potatoes contrasts with the savory, spicy flavors of the chicken, while the crisp texture of the fries adds another dimension to the meal. You can season the fries with a bit of chili powder or paprika for an extra kick, or keep them simple with just a sprinkle of salt.
2. Mango Salsa
Mango salsa brings a tropical twist to your chicken taco night. Made with diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro, this salsa is sweet, tangy, and just a little bit spicy. The sweetness of the mango complements the smoky or spicy flavors of grilled chicken, while the lime juice adds a bright, zesty note.
Mango salsa works particularly well if your chicken is grilled or roasted with spices like cumin and chili powder, as the sweetness balances the heat and richness of the meat.
3. Pineapple Slaw
For a twist on the traditional taco slaw, try making a pineapple slaw. The tangy sweetness of pineapple, combined with crunchy cabbage and a lime-based dressing, creates a refreshing side that pairs beautifully with chicken tacos. The tropical flavor of the pineapple brings a new element to the dish, adding brightness and a touch of sweetness.
This slaw is especially good with grilled or blackened chicken, as the fruitiness helps balance out the charred, smoky flavors.
4. Grilled Veggie Skewers
Grilled veggie skewers are another fun and unexpected side that works great with chicken tacos. Simply skewer vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions and grill them until they’re slightly charred and tender. The smoky flavor of the grilled vegetables complements the spices in the chicken tacos, and the skewers add a colorful, healthy element to the meal.
For extra flavor, brush the veggies with a mixture of olive oil, lime juice, and garlic before grilling. The vegetables’ smoky char pairs beautifully with the earthy flavors of cumin and paprika in chicken tacos.
Dips and Appetizers That Go Well with Chicken Tacos
A good taco night always starts with some flavorful dips and appetizers to get the meal going. These dips not only serve as a prelude to the main event but also work as sides that can be enjoyed throughout the meal.
1. Seven-Layer Dip
Seven-layer dip is a crowd-pleasing favorite at any taco night. Made with layers of refried beans, guacamole, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, olives, and green onions, this dip offers a bit of everything. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own but also works well as a side or topping for chicken tacos.
The creamy layers of sour cream and guacamole balance out the spices in the tacos, while the salsa adds a bit of tang and heat. You can serve it with tortilla chips for dipping or spoon it directly onto your tacos for extra flavor.
2. Queso Dip
Queso dip is a warm, cheesy dip that’s perfect for drizzling over chicken tacos or scooping up with tortilla chips. Made with melted cheese, milk, and spices like cumin and chili powder, queso adds a rich, indulgent element to the meal. Some versions also include ground chorizo or diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
3. Salsa Verde
Salsa verde is a tangy, green salsa made from tomatillos, cilantro, and lime juice. It’s a lighter, more refreshing alternative to traditional red salsa and pairs wonderfully with chicken tacos. The acidity from the tomatillos cuts through the richness of the chicken, while the cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note.
4. Creamy Jalapeño Dip
If you like a bit of spice, a creamy jalapeño dip is the perfect appetizer for your chicken taco night. Made with cream cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, and lime juice, this dip is both spicy and tangy. It works well as a dip for tortilla chips but can also be used as a sauce to drizzle over the tacos.
Drinks That Go Well with Chicken Tacos
No taco night is complete without the right drinks to wash down your meal. The key to choosing a good drink pairing is to balance the flavors of the food with the drink. Whether you prefer alcoholic beverages or non-alcoholic options, here are some great drinks that pair perfectly with chicken tacos.
1. Margaritas
Margaritas are the classic drink to serve with tacos. Made with tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, this refreshing cocktail has the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and salty flavors. The acidity of the lime juice cuts through the richness of the chicken, while the tequila adds a pleasant kick.
You can serve traditional lime margaritas or try different variations like strawberry or mango margaritas to add a fruity twist.
2. Horchata
For a non-alcoholic option, horchata is a traditional Mexican drink made from rice, milk, cinnamon, and sugar. It’s sweet and creamy, making it the perfect drink to cool down the spices in your chicken tacos. The cinnamon flavor also complements the cumin and chili powder often used in taco seasoning.
Horchata is refreshing without being overpowering, and its mild sweetness pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of the tacos.
3. Mexican Beer
Light, crisp beers like Corona, Modelo, or Pacifico are excellent choices for pairing with chicken tacos. The lightness of these beers won’t overpower the food, and their refreshing qualities help cleanse the palate between bites. You can also try serving your beer with a wedge of lime for added brightness.
Desserts That Go Well with Chicken Tacos
After a flavorful taco meal, a sweet dessert is the perfect way to end the night. Here are some classic Mexican-inspired desserts that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
1. Churros
Churros are a popular Mexican dessert made from fried dough coated in cinnamon sugar. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a delicious contrast to the savory flavors of chicken tacos. Serve them with a side of chocolate sauce for dipping, and you have a dessert that’s sure to please everyone.
2. Flan
Flan is a creamy caramel custard that melts in your mouth. Its smooth texture and rich caramel flavor make it the perfect dessert to balance out the spices in your taco meal. Plus, it’s light enough that you won’t feel overly full after eating it, making it a great way to end a big meal.
3. Tres Leches Cake
Tres leches cake is a sponge cake soaked in three types of milk (evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream) for a rich, moist dessert. The cake is sweet and creamy, providing a satisfying finish to your taco meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best salsa for chicken tacos?
The best salsa for chicken tacos depends on your taste preferences. Pico de gallo offers a fresh, zesty flavor, while salsa verde provides a tangy, slightly spicy option. For a smoky, rich flavor, you can’t go wrong with chipotle salsa.
2. What drinks go best with chicken tacos?
Margaritas, Mexican beer, and horchata are all excellent drink choices to pair with chicken tacos. The acidity in margaritas and beer helps cut through the richness of the chicken, while the sweetness of horchata cools down any spiciness.
3. Can you serve a taco bar with chicken tacos?
Absolutely! A taco bar with various toppings like guacamole, salsa, sour cream, queso, and fresh veggies is a fun and interactive way to serve chicken tacos. Guests can customize their tacos to their liking, making it a perfect option for parties or family dinners.
4. What vegetables pair well with chicken tacos?
Vegetables like roasted peppers, grilled zucchini, cabbage slaw, and avocados are great options that pair well with chicken tacos. These veggies provide freshness and crunch that complement the tender chicken and soft tortillas.
5. What cheese goes well with chicken tacos?
Cheeses like cheddar, queso fresco, Monterey Jack, and Cotija are excellent choices for topping chicken tacos. These cheeses add a creamy, salty element that enhances the flavors of the chicken.
Conclusion
Chicken tacos are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can be paired with a wide variety of sides, dips, drinks, and desserts to create an unforgettable meal. Whether you prefer traditional Mexican accompaniments like Mexican rice, refried beans, and street corn, or enjoy fresher, lighter options like guacamole, pico de gallo, and taco slaw, there’s no shortage of ways to enhance your taco experience. Creative side dishes, such as sweet potato fries or mango salsa, and flavorful dips like seven-layer dip and queso, offer exciting variations that can elevate even the simplest taco night.
The drinks you choose, whether classic margaritas, refreshing horchata, or light Mexican beer, can round out the meal and complement the rich and bold flavors of the tacos. Finishing the meal with desserts like churros, flan, or tres leches cake ensures a sweet conclusion to a savory feast.
Ultimately, the beauty of chicken tacos lies in their flexibility. By mixing and matching from this extensive list of sides and accompaniments, you can tailor each meal to your tastes and make every taco night unique. Whether you’re hosting a taco bar or enjoying a family dinner, the possibilities are endless for what goes well with chicken tacos!