When it comes to serving a delicious taco dinner, chicken tacos often stand out as a fan favorite. Their versatility, ease of preparation, and crowd-pleasing flavor make them the perfect meal for a family gathering, casual dinner party, or even a weeknight feast. But what makes chicken tacos truly shine is the selection of side dishes, dips, drinks, and desserts that accompany them.
In this guide, we will explore an extensive array of traditional Mexican side dishes, as well as some creative and modern twists that pair beautifully with chicken tacos. From rich, flavorful rice to vibrant, fresh salsas and indulgent desserts, this article will cover everything you need to serve alongside chicken tacos to elevate your dinner experience.
Traditional Sides for Chicken Tacos for Dinner
Let’s begin with the classics. Traditional Mexican side dishes are beloved for their bold flavors and complementary textures. These dishes will transport your dinner guests straight to the heart of Mexico, making your chicken tacos the star of the evening.
Mexican Rice: A Classic Side for Chicken Tacos
Mexican rice is a staple side dish for tacos, and it’s easy to see why. The rice is typically cooked with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and spices, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic side dish that complements the savory and spicy notes of the tacos. If you want to try making this at home, check out this Mexican rice recipe.
The rice absorbs the flavors of the tomatoes and spices, which gives it a slightly smoky, earthy taste. For an extra touch of authenticity, consider adding a few sprigs of cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving. The rice also works beautifully as a filler in dinner chicken tacos themselves or as a bed to serve the tacos on top of, soaking up any flavorful juices from the chicken filling.
Variations:
- For added richness, mix in a bit of shredded cheese or cream.
- For a spicier twist, add a diced jalapeño or chipotle pepper to the cooking liquid.
Refried Beans as the Perfect Side for Chicken Tacos
Refried beans, with their creamy texture and mild flavor, are the perfect counterpart to the crispy shell and spiced chicken of dinner chicken tacos. Made by cooking pinto beans (or sometimes black beans) and mashing them into a smooth paste, refried beans are traditionally flavored with garlic, onions, and lard, although vegetarian versions can use oil or butter.
These beans add a hearty component to the meal, especially when served with a side of tortilla chips for dipping. You can also spread them inside your chicken tacos for an extra layer of flavor.
Variations:
- Stir in some crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese for a saltier, more complex flavor.
- Top the beans with chopped onions or cilantro for a bit of freshness.
Guacamole: A Refreshing Pairing with Chicken Tacos for Dinner
A taco night wouldn’t be complete without guacamole. This simple yet delicious avocado dip is the ultimate side for dinner chicken tacos. Guacamole combines creamy, ripe avocados with lime juice, cilantro, onions, and a hint of jalapeño or serrano pepper. The result is a refreshing dip that cools the palate between bites of spiced chicken tacos. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the crunch of tortilla chips or the crispy taco shell. You can follow this easy guacamole recipe to make it at home.
You can serve guacamole as a dip alongside tortilla chips or as a topping for the chicken tacos. Either way, it brings a cool, refreshing flavor that enhances the richness of the tacos.
Variations:
- For a fruity twist, add diced mango or pineapple to the guacamole.
- For an extra kick, mix in a bit of minced garlic or crushed red pepper flakes.
Elote: A Flavorful Accompaniment to Chicken Tacos
One of the most iconic Mexican street foods, elote is a perfect side dish for dinner chicken tacos. This grilled corn on the cob is coated with mayonnaise, Mexican crema, and crumbled cotija cheese, then dusted with chili powder and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. The combination of sweet corn, creamy dressing, salty cheese, and spicy chili powder makes elote an explosion of flavor with every bite.
The smoky, grilled flavor of the corn pairs perfectly with the seasoned chicken in the tacos, and the creamy toppings add a richness that balances out the spices.
Variations:
- For a more tangy version, substitute the mayonnaise with sour cream.
- If you want to avoid the messiness of eating corn on the cob, serve esquites—a salad made from the same ingredients but with the corn kernels cut off the cob.
Pico de Gallo
Fresh and zesty, pico de gallo is a raw salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice. This salsa is perfect for adding brightness and acidity to balance the richness of chicken tacos.
Unlike cooked salsas, pico de gallo is all about freshness. The raw ingredients retain their crispness and vibrant flavors, making it an excellent palate cleanser between bites of tacos. Spoon it over your tacos for added freshness, or serve it in a bowl with tortilla chips on the side.
Variations:
- Add diced cucumbers or radishes for extra crunch.
- For a sweeter version, mix in some diced mango or watermelon.
Mexican Coleslaw
Coleslaw isn’t just for BBQs; Mexican coleslaw adds a crisp, refreshing element to taco night. This slaw is made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and cilantro, tossed in a tangy dressing made from lime juice, olive oil, and a hint of cumin. The slaw provides a crunchy texture that pairs well with the soft chicken filling inside dinner chicken tacos.
The acidity of the lime dressing also helps to cut through the richness of the chicken tacos, making this side dish both flavorful and functional.
Variations:
- Add some sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Swap out the lime juice for apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter dressing.
Queso Dip
Who can resist a bowl of warm, melty cheese dip? Queso dip is a crowd-pleasing side that pairs perfectly with chicken tacos. This dip is typically made from melted cheese (such as cheddar or Monterey Jack) combined with cream, chilies, and sometimes ground beef or chorizo. It’s thick, creamy, and full of rich, savory flavors.
Serve the queso dip with tortilla chips for dipping, or drizzle it over your tacos for a cheesy twist.
Variations:
- Add some cooked, crumbled chorizo for a spicier, meatier dip.
- Stir in some chopped tomatoes or jalapeños for added texture and heat.
Creative and Modern Side Dishes for Chicken Tacos
If you’re looking to venture beyond the traditional, there are plenty of creative and modern sides that can elevate your chicken tacos to new heights. These dishes draw inspiration from a variety of cuisines, adding unique flavors and textures that complement the tacos in unexpected ways.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilling vegetables is an easy way to add depth of flavor to your meal. Vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and mushrooms take on a smoky, charred flavor when grilled, which pairs beautifully with the savory chicken in the tacos. These grilled vegetables can be served on the side, mixed into the tacos, or even used as a taco filling themselves.
The natural sweetness of the grilled vegetables balances out the spiciness of the chicken tacos, and their charred edges provide a satisfying crunch.
Variations:
- Drizzle the grilled vegetables with a balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness.
- Sprinkle some crumbled feta or goat cheese over the vegetables for a creamy contrast.
Black Bean and Corn Salad
A bright and flavorful black bean and corn salad is the perfect side dish for chicken tacos. This salad combines black beans, corn, tomatoes, cilantro, onions, and a lime-based dressing to create a dish that is both colorful and flavorful. The beans add a creamy texture, while the corn brings a sweet crunch, and the lime juice adds a zesty tang.
This salad works well as a side dish, but it can also be used as a filling for the tacos or as a topping for added texture and flavor.
Variations:
- Add diced avocado for extra creaminess.
- Stir in some cooked quinoa or rice for a more substantial side dish.
Cilantro Lime Rice
Chicken tacos and cilantro lime rice are a match made in heaven. This simple yet flavorful rice dish is made by tossing cooked white rice with fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a touch of butter or olive oil. The result is a bright, citrusy rice that balances the rich, savory flavors of the tacos.
Cilantro lime rice is light and fluffy, making it the perfect accompaniment to tacos without overwhelming the meal. Serve it on the side, or use it as a base for a taco bowl.
Variations:
- Add some finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Stir in some grilled corn kernels or diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
Sweet Potato Fries
For a modern twist on a classic side dish, serve sweet potato fries with your dinner chicken tacos. These crispy, slightly sweet fries offer a unique contrast to the savory, spicy flavors of the tacos. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the smoky, spicy notes in the chicken, and the crispy texture adds a satisfying crunch.
Sweet potato fries can be seasoned with a variety of spices, such as cumin, paprika, or chili powder, to complement the flavors in the tacos.
Variations:
- Toss the fries in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet-savory combo.
- Serve the fries with a side of chipotle aioli for dipping.
Mango Salsa
If you’re looking to add a tropical twist to your taco night, mango salsa is the way to go. This vibrant salsa combines diced mango, red onion, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice to create a sweet and tangy topping for chicken tacos. The sweetness of the mango pairs beautifully with the savory chicken, while the jalapeños add a touch of heat.
Serve mango salsa as a topping for the tacos, or as a side dish with tortilla chips.
Variations:
- Add diced pineapple or papaya for a more tropical flavor.
- Stir in some black beans or corn for extra texture.
Avocado Salad
A simple avocado salad is another great side dish for chicken tacos. This salad combines creamy avocados with fresh greens, tomatoes, onions, and a lime-based dressing. The result is a light, refreshing salad that balances the richness of the chicken tacos.
The creamy texture of the avocados contrasts with the crispness of the greens, while the lime dressing adds a zesty kick.
Variations:
- Add some grilled shrimp or chicken for a more substantial salad.
- Top the salad with crumbled queso fresco or feta for added flavor.
Dips and Sauces to Serve with Chicken Tacos
No taco night is complete without a selection of dips and sauces to complement the meal. These flavorful additions can be used as toppings for the tacos, or served on the side with tortilla chips.
Salsa Verde
Chicken tacos pair wonderfully with salsa verde, a tangy green salsa made from tomatillos, garlic, onions, and cilantro. The tomatillos give the salsa a slightly tart flavor, while the garlic and onions add depth and richness. Salsa verde is a great way to add a fresh, zesty flavor to your tacos.
You can drizzle salsa verde over the tacos, or serve it in a bowl with tortilla chips for dipping.
Variations:
- For a creamier version, stir in some sour cream or Mexican crema.
- Add diced avocados or green chilies for extra texture.
Chipotle Crema
If you’re looking for a smoky, spicy sauce to pair with your dinner chicken tacos, chipotle crema is a great option. This sauce is made from a combination of sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. The result is a rich, creamy sauce with a smoky heat that complements the flavors of the tacos.
Drizzle the crema over the tacos, or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce for tortilla chips.
Variations:
- Add a bit of honey or maple syrup for a sweet and spicy twist.
- For a thinner consistency, stir in some milk or cream.
Queso Dip
Warm, melty queso dip is always a crowd favorite at taco night. This dip is made by melting cheese (such as cheddar or Monterey Jack) with cream and chilies, resulting in a thick, creamy dip that’s perfect for dipping tortilla chips or drizzling over tacos.
The rich, savory flavor of the queso dip pairs well with the seasoned chicken in the tacos, and its creamy texture adds a luxurious element to the meal.
Variations:
- Stir in some cooked, crumbled chorizo for a meatier dip.
- Top the queso with chopped tomatoes or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
Sour Cream
Sour cream is a classic topping for tacos, adding a cool, creamy element that balances the heat from the spices. A dollop of sour cream on top of chicken tacos helps to mellow out the flavors, making each bite smooth and satisfying.
You can serve sour cream as a topping for the tacos, or as a side for dipping chips or vegetables.
Variations:
- Mix in some lime zest and chopped cilantro for a tangy, herby twist.
- Stir in a bit of chipotle powder or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Salsa Roja
Salsa roja is a traditional red salsa made from tomatoes, garlic, chilies, and onions. This salsa is typically cooked, which gives it a deeper, more concentrated flavor compared to fresh salsas like pico de gallo. The rich, smoky flavor of salsa roja pairs beautifully with the savory chicken in the tacos.
Drizzle salsa roja over the tacos, or serve it on the side with tortilla chips for dipping.
Variations:
- For a spicier version, add more chilies or a dash of hot sauce.
- Stir in some roasted tomatoes or grilled peppers for added smokiness.
Drinks to Serve with Chicken Tacos
When it comes to taco night, the right drinks can enhance the flavors of the meal and help cleanse your palate between bites. Here are some refreshing beverage options to serve with your chicken tacos:
Classic Margaritas
Margaritas are a quintessential Mexican cocktail that pairs perfectly with chicken tacos. Made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, this citrusy cocktail is both refreshing and tangy, making it the perfect complement to the spicy, savory flavors of the tacos. The acidity of the lime juice cuts through the richness of the chicken, while the tequila adds a slight bite that balances the flavors.
Serve the margaritas with a salted rim and a lime wedge for a classic presentation.
Variations:
- For a sweeter version, add a splash of orange juice or agave syrup.
- Try a frozen margarita by blending the ingredients with ice for a slushy consistency.
Mexican Beer
When it comes to beer, nothing pairs better with chicken tacos than a light, refreshing Mexican beer. Beers like Corona, Modelo, or Pacifico have a crisp, clean taste that complements the bold flavors of the tacos without overpowering them. The carbonation in the beer helps to cleanse your palate between bites, while the light, slightly sweet flavor provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken.
For an extra touch of authenticity, serve the beer with a wedge of lime.
Variations:
- For a bolder flavor, try a Mexican cerveza negra (dark beer), such as Negra Modelo or Bohemia Obscura.
- Mix the beer with lime juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce to make a Michelada—a tangy, spicy beer cocktail.
Agua Fresca
If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, agua fresca is a traditional Mexican drink made from fruit, water, and sugar. These light and refreshing beverages come in a variety of flavors, from watermelon to pineapple to cucumber, making them the perfect accompaniment to dinner chicken tacos. The fruity sweetness of the agua fresca helps to balance out the spiciness of the chicken tacos.
Serve agua fresca in a large pitcher with plenty of ice for a refreshing, thirst-quenching drink.
Variations:
- Mix and match fruits to create your own unique flavors (e.g., watermelon-mint or pineapple-cucumber).
- For a more tart version, add a splash of lime juice or a handful of fresh berries.
Desserts that Go with Chicken Tacos
After indulging in a savory taco dinner, a sweet dessert can provide the perfect finishing touch. Here are some delicious Mexican-inspired desserts to serve after your chicken tacos:
Churros
Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and dusted with cinnamon sugar, churros are a popular Mexican dessert that pairs perfectly with chicken tacos. These fried dough pastries are often served with a side of chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
The sweetness of the churros contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of the tacos, making them the perfect way to end your meal.
Variations:
- For a richer flavor, serve the churros with a side of dulce de leche or cajeta (Mexican caramel).
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon sugar for a spicy twist.
Flan
Flan is a rich and creamy caramel custard that provides a light yet indulgent finish to a taco dinner. Made with eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla, flan has a smooth, silky texture that melts in your mouth, while the caramel sauce adds a touch of sweetness.
The cool, creamy texture of the flan contrasts beautifully with the spicy, savory flavors of the tacos, making it the perfect dessert to end the meal on a sweet note.
Variations:
- For a more tropical flavor, add some coconut milk or grated coconut to the flan mixture.
- Top the flan with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
Tres Leches Cake
Tres leches cake is a moist and rich sponge cake soaked in three types of milk (hence the name “tres leches”). The cake absorbs the milk mixture, becoming incredibly soft and tender, while the whipped cream topping adds a light, airy finish.
This cake is the perfect dessert to serve after chicken tacos, as its light, sweet flavor balances out the spiciness of the meal, while the creamy texture provides a refreshing contrast to the savory tacos.
Variations:
- For a fruity twist, top the cake with sliced strawberries or mangoes.
- Add a bit of rum or brandy to the milk mixture for a boozy version of the cake.
Frequently Asked Questions About What Goes with Chicken Tacos for Dinner
1. What vegetables go well with chicken tacos?
Grilled or sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and mushrooms add a flavorful, smoky component to chicken tacos. These vegetables can be served on the side, or even added directly into the tacos for extra flavor and texture.
2. What are non-traditional sides for chicken tacos?
For a modern twist on taco night, try serving sweet potato fries, mango salsa, or a black bean and corn salad alongside your chicken tacos. These sides offer a unique flavor and texture contrast to the traditional Mexican dishes.
3. Can you serve soup with tacos?
Yes, tortilla soup is a great option to serve alongside chicken tacos, especially during the colder months. The warm, hearty soup complements the flavors of the tacos and adds an extra layer of comfort to the meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the sides, dips, drinks, and desserts you choose to serve alongside dinner chicken tacos can transform a simple taco night into a memorable dining experience. From traditional Mexican favorites like Mexican rice, refried beans, and elote to more creative options such as mango salsa and sweet potato fries, the possibilities are endless. Complement your tacos with refreshing drinks like margaritas or agua fresca, and finish the meal with indulgent desserts such as churros or tres leches cake.
By offering a variety of textures, flavors, and accompaniments, you can ensure that your chicken taco dinner is both satisfying and exciting for everyone. Whether you stick to the classics or venture into modern twists, this guide provides everything you need to create the ultimate taco experience, leaving your guests eager for more.