What to Serve with BBQ Chicken? 24 Internationally Inspired Side Dishes

Barbecue chicken is a classic favorite that never fails to satisfy the taste buds. Its smoky and savory flavors make it a perfect choice for a summertime cookout or any casual gathering. While the chicken takes the spotlight, it's the side dishes that truly complete the meal. If you're looking to add some international flair to your BBQ chicken feast, here are 24 internationally inspired side dishes to consider.

Mexican Street Corn

Also known as elote, this grilled corn on the cob is slathered in a tangy and creamy mixture of mayo, cheese, lime juice, and chili powder.

Greek Salad

A refreshing combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a zesty dressing made with olive oil and lemon juice.

Korean Kimchi

This traditional side dish of fermented cabbage is spicy, tangy, and packed with probiotics. It adds a unique and bold flavor to your BBQ chicken meal.

Indian Cucumber Raita

A cool and refreshing yogurt-based side dish with cucumbers, mint, and spices like cumin and coriander. It balances the heat of BBQ chicken beautifully.

Italian Caprese Salad

A simple yet elegant salad featuring slices of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

Jamaican Rice and Peas

A staple side dish in Jamaican cuisine, this flavorful combination of rice and kidney beans cooked in coconut milk is a perfect match for BBQ chicken.

Thai Green Papaya Salad

A tangy and spicy salad made with shredded green papaya, lime juice, fish sauce, chili peppers, and peanuts. It adds a burst of flavors to your meal.

Spanish Patatas Bravas

Crispy fried potatoes topped with a spicy tomato sauce and served with aioli. It's a delicious and satisfying side dish with a Spanish twist.

Moroccan Couscous Salad

A light and fluffy couscous salad with a medley of colorful vegetables, dried fruits, and aromatic spices like cumin and cinnamon.

Brazilian Pão de Queijo

These cheese bread balls are gluten free and made with tapioca flour and cheese. They are perfect for snacking alongside your BBQ chicken.

Lebanese Tabouli

A refreshing salad made with bulgur wheat, parsley, mint, tomatoes, cucumbers, lemon juice, and olive oil. It adds a fresh and herby element to your meal.

Japanese Edamame 

Steamed soybean pods sprinkled with sea salt make for a healthy and protein-packed side dish that pairs well with BBQ chicken.

Vietnamese Vermicelli Salad

A light and flavorful salad made with rice vermicelli noodles, grilled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing with fish sauce and lime juice.

South African Chakalaka

A spicy vegetable relish made with tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and spices. It adds a vibrant kick to your BBQ chicken.

Turkish Tabbouleh

A bulgur salad with finely chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, onions, and a lemon and olive oil dressing. It's a fresh and satisfying side dish.

Argentine Chimichurri Sauce

A vibrant green sauce made with fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil. Drizzle it over your BBQ chicken for an extra burst of flavor.

Korean Japchae

A stir fried dish made with glass noodles, vegetables, and marinated beef. It's a hearty and flavorful side dish that complements BBQ chicken well.

Spanish Gazpacho

A chilled tomato based soup blended with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, and onions. It's a refreshing and light side dish to enjoy alongside BBQ chicken.

Mexican Guacamole

Creamy and flavorful, guacamole is made with ripe avocados, lime juice, cilantro, onions, and tomatoes. It's a classic Mexican side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken.

Thai Mango Salad

A tangy and sweet salad made with ripe mangoes, red onions, cilantro, peanuts, and a zesty dressing with lime juice and fish sauce. It adds a burst of tropical flavors to your BBQ chicken meal.

Italian Garlic Bread

Crusty bread brushed with garlic-infused olive oil, sprinkled with herbs like parsley and oregano, and baked until golden brown. It's a crowd-pleasing side dish that goes well with BBQ chicken.

Brazilian Farofa

A toasted cassava flour mixture sautéed with onions, garlic, and bacon. It adds a crunchy and savory element to your BBQ chicken feast.

Lebanese Baba Ganoush

A smoky and creamy dip made with roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Serve it with pita bread or as a spread for a delightful addition to your BBQ chicken meal.

Caribbean Plantain Chips

Thinly sliced plantains fried until crispy and seasoned with salt. These addictive chips provide a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness to accompany BBQ chicken.

With these 24 internationally inspired side dishes, you can elevate your BBQ chicken meal to a global culinary experience. Whether you're in the mood for something spicy and tangy like Korean kimchi or refreshing and herby like Lebanese tabbouleh, there's a side dish on this list to suit every palate. So, fire up the grill, prepare your favorite BBQ chicken recipe, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering feast with these delectable sides from around the world.