Chicken quesadillas are a beloved meal for good reason—they’re easy to make, delicious, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving them for a casual family dinner or at a party, the right side dishes and accompaniments can turn this dish from simple to spectacular. Wondering what goes with chicken quesadillas for dinner? Let’s explore the best side dishes, sauces, and drinks that will elevate your quesadilla game.
Why Pairing Matters
Pairing the right sides with chicken quesadillas isn’t just about complementing flavors. It also provides balance, ensuring the meal is satisfying without being too heavy or too light. Chicken quesadillas are rich with cheese, protein, and often spices, so adding sides that bring freshness, crunch, or a different texture will enhance the overall dining experience. Let’s dive into what sides go well with chicken quesadillas.
Classic Mexican Side Dishes
To keep your chicken quesadilla meal rooted in Mexican tradition, you can’t go wrong with classic Mexican sides. These time-honored dishes are flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfectly suited to complement the cheesy, savory nature of quesadillas.
1. Rice Variants
Rice is a staple side dish in Mexican cuisine. It adds texture, flavor, and a starchy component that pairs perfectly with the gooey melted cheese and crispy tortilla of a quesadilla. Here are some rice options you can serve alongside your chicken quesadillas:
- Mexican Rice: Known for its tomato-infused flavor and vibrant orange hue, Mexican rice is a go-to side dish for chicken quesadillas. The rice is typically cooked with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and spices to give it a bold flavor. This rice is the perfect way to add substance to the meal without overwhelming the flavors of the quesadillas. To diversify your dinner menu, consider pairing this rice with dishes like baked spaghetti for a hearty and comforting twist.
- Cilantro-Lime Rice: For a lighter and fresher take on rice, cilantro-lime rice is an excellent choice. The brightness of the cilantro and the tanginess of the lime add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken quesadillas. This option works well if you want to keep the meal feeling lighter but still flavorful.
- Spanish Rice: Another delicious option is Spanish rice, which is often cooked with saffron and bell peppers, giving it a slightly more complex and aromatic flavor. Spanish rice is heartier than cilantro-lime rice but still provides a great balance to the savory quesadillas.
2. Beans
Beans are a traditional side dish in Mexican cuisine, and they add protein, fiber, and earthy flavors that perfectly complement chicken quesadillas. You can prepare beans in various ways, depending on the texture and flavor you prefer:
- Refried Beans: Creamy and savory, refried beans are a classic side dish for Mexican meals. Made from cooked and mashed pinto or black beans, they have a smooth and rich texture that pairs beautifully with the crispy, cheesy quesadilla. Serve with a sprinkle of cheese on top or add a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
- Black Beans: For a lighter, healthier option, black beans are a great alternative. Season them with cumin, garlic, and lime for a punch of flavor. Black beans offer a good source of protein and fiber, making them an excellent side to balance the richness of the quesadillas. You can also serve them with other protein-based dishes like rotisserie chicken for a hearty meal.
3. Guacamole and Avocado-Based Sides
Avocados are a versatile ingredient in Mexican cuisine, and they add a creamy, fresh element to your meal. Here are two avocado-based sides that go perfectly with chicken quesadillas:
- Guacamole: No Mexican meal is complete without guacamole. This simple yet flavorful dip is made with mashed avocado, lime juice, cilantro, and sometimes chopped tomatoes or onions. Guacamole adds a creamy texture and a bright, tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the cheesy quesadillas. It’s also easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. Check out this guacamole recipe to make your own at home.
- Avocado Salad: For a lighter option, consider making an avocado salad. Slice avocados and mix them with red onions, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing and healthy side that complements the richness of chicken quesadillas. This salad adds a fresh and tangy element to the meal, keeping it balanced.
Fresh Salads and Vegetables
Adding fresh, crisp vegetables to your chicken quesadilla meal lightens up the plate and balances the richness of the cheese and tortillas. Here are some great salad and vegetable options:
1. Pico de Gallo
Pico de gallo is a fresh salsa made from chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice. It’s light, tangy, and packed with flavor. Pico de gallo adds a burst of freshness to your quesadilla meal, whether you serve it as a topping or as a side. The acidity from the lime juice and the crunch of the onions and tomatoes help to cut through the richness of the quesadillas, making the meal more balanced and flavorful.
2. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a healthy and delicious option to serve alongside chicken quesadillas. The smoky, charred flavor of grilled veggies pairs wonderfully with the cheesy, savory quesadillas. Here are some ideas for vegetables you can grill:
- Bell Peppers and Onions: The natural sweetness of grilled bell peppers and onions complements the savory, cheesy flavors of chicken quesadillas. You can season the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill them until they’re soft and slightly charred.
- Zucchini and Corn: Grilled zucchini and corn are great additions to your plate. These vegetables have a slightly sweet flavor and a tender-crisp texture when grilled, making them a delightful side to chicken quesadillas. Brush them with lime juice and sprinkle with chili powder for added flavor.
3. Slaw Variants
A crisp and tangy slaw is a great way to add crunch and freshness to your quesadilla meal. Here are two variations you can try:
- Mexican Coleslaw: This slaw is made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and cilantro, dressed with a lime-based vinaigrette. The tangy and crunchy texture of the coleslaw provides a perfect contrast to the creamy, cheesy quesadillas.
- Mango Slaw: For a sweeter twist, try making a mango slaw. The natural sweetness of the mango pairs beautifully with the spicy and savory flavors of the quesadillas. This slaw is also a great way to add a tropical flavor to your meal.
Dipping Sauces and Condiments
No quesadilla meal is complete without dipping sauces. They not only enhance the flavor but also add moisture and richness to the dish. Here are some essential sauces and condiments to serve with chicken quesadillas:
1. Sour Cream
A dollop of sour cream is a classic condiment to serve with chicken quesadillas. Its cool, creamy texture provides a great contrast to the spicy and cheesy flavors of the quesadillas. You can also mix sour cream with a little lime juice and cilantro to create a light, tangy sauce that pairs perfectly with the meal.
2. Salsa Variants
Salsa is a must-have when serving quesadillas. There are many different types of salsa you can make or buy, depending on your preference for spice and flavor:
- Tomato Salsa: A traditional tomato-based salsa is made with fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice. It’s fresh, tangy, and adds a burst of flavor to the quesadillas. You can serve this salsa on the side for dipping or spoon it over the quesadillas as a topping.
- Salsa Verde: Made from tomatillos, salsa verde is a tangy, slightly sweet salsa that pairs perfectly with chicken quesadillas. Its bright green color and zesty flavor make it a refreshing accompaniment to the rich quesadillas.
- Chipotle Salsa: For those who like it spicy, chipotle salsa is a great option. This smoky, spicy salsa is made with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce and has a deep, rich flavor that complements the chicken and cheese in the quesadillas.
3. Taqueria Sauces
For a little something extra, consider adding taqueria-style sauces to your meal. These sauces pack a lot of flavor and can add an exciting twist to your quesadilla dinner:
- Cilantro-Lime Sauce: This creamy sauce is made with sour cream, cilantro, and lime juice. It’s light, tangy, and adds a refreshing element to your quesadilla meal.
- Spicy Mayo: Spicy mayo is another great option for dipping your quesadillas. Made with mayonnaise and hot sauce, it’s creamy with a bit of a kick, adding depth and richness to each bite.
Creative Fusion Pairings
For those looking to step outside traditional Mexican sides, here are some creative fusion pairings that will take your quesadilla meal to the next level:
1. Fries and Potatoes
While not a traditional pairing, fries and potatoes are a fun and delicious side to serve with chicken quesadillas. Here are two ways you can serve them:
- Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of sweet potato fries complements the savory, cheesy quesadillas. They’re also a healthier alternative to regular fries, adding fiber and nutrients to the meal.
- Mexican-Spiced Fries: Take regular fries and elevate them by seasoning them with cumin, paprika, and chili powder. These spicy, crispy fries will add an extra layer of flavor to your quesadilla meal.
2. Corn on the Cob (Elote)
Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken quesadillas. Grilled corn on the cob is slathered with mayo, cheese, lime, and chili powder, giving it a tangy, rich flavor that complements the cheesy quesadillas. This traditional street food is a fun and delicious addition to your meal.
3. Non-Traditional Sides
For those who want to mix things up, consider pairing chicken quesadillas with non-Mexican sides. These creative options will bring variety to your meal:
- Caesar Salad: The crisp, tangy flavors of Caesar salad contrast beautifully with the richness of the quesadillas, making it a perfect non-Mexican pairing. The creamy Caesar dressing complements the melted cheese, while the crisp lettuce adds freshness to the meal.
- Leek and Potato Soup: If you’re serving quesadillas in the cooler months, a warm soup like leek and potato soup adds a comforting element to the meal. The creamy, hearty soup pairs well with the crispy, cheesy quesadillas, creating a well-rounded dinner.
Drinks to Pair with Chicken Quesadillas
No meal is complete without the perfect drink pairing. From classic cocktails to non-alcoholic options, here are some great drinks to serve with chicken quesadillas:
1. Margaritas
Classic margaritas are the quintessential drink to serve with chicken quesadillas. The tangy lime and tequila cut through the richness of the cheese and chicken, making it the perfect pairing. Whether you prefer your margaritas on the rocks or frozen, they are sure to complement the bold flavors of the quesadillas.
2. Mexican Beers
For beer lovers, light and refreshing Mexican beers are the perfect match for chicken quesadillas. Beers like Corona, Modelo, or Pacifico have a crisp flavor that balances the richness of the meal without overpowering it.
3. Non-Alcoholic Options
If you’re looking for non-alcoholic options, here are some great drinks to pair with chicken quesadillas:
- Horchata: This creamy, cinnamon-flavored rice drink is perfect for cooling down spicy quesadillas. Horchata has a sweet and smooth flavor that contrasts nicely with the savory and spicy elements of the meal.
- Agua Fresca: A refreshing fruit-based water made from watermelon, cucumber, or other fruits, agua fresca is a light and healthy option to serve with chicken quesadillas. Its light, fruity flavor balances the richness of the meal.
Dessert Pairings
End your quesadilla dinner on a sweet note with these traditional Mexican desserts:
1. Churros
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, churros are a delicious dessert that pairs perfectly with chicken quesadillas. Dust the churros with cinnamon and sugar and serve them with a side of chocolate sauce for dipping.
2. Mexican Flan
Flan is a rich, creamy caramel custard that makes a delightful dessert after a hearty quesadilla meal. Its smooth texture and sweet flavor provide a perfect contrast to the savory quesadillas, creating a well-balanced meal.
3. Sopapillas
Fried pastries drizzled with honey, sopapillas are another traditional Mexican dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth. They’re light, airy, and have a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the bold flavors of the quesadilla meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the best sides for quesadillas?
The best sides to serve with chicken quesadillas include Mexican rice, refried beans, and guacamole. Fresh sides like pico de gallo and grilled vegetables also complement the flavors well.
2. Can I serve quesadillas with non-Mexican sides?
Yes! Non-traditional sides like Caesar salad, sweet potato fries, and leek and potato soup are great options that bring variety and balance to your meal.
3. Are there healthier options to serve with quesadillas?
Absolutely! Pair your quesadillas with black beans, avocado salad, or grilled vegetables for healthier, nutrient-rich sides.
4. What sauces go well with chicken quesadillas?
The best sauces to pair with quesadillas include sour cream, guacamole, salsa verde, and chipotle salsa. For an extra zing, try cilantro-lime sauce or spicy mayo.
Conclusion
Chicken quesadillas are a versatile and delicious dish, but the right side dishes can make all the difference. Whether you choose to stick with classic Mexican sides like rice and beans, or explore more creative fusion pairings like sweet potato fries and Caesar salad, there’s no shortage of ways to elevate your quesadilla dinner. Don’t forget to experiment with different dipping sauces, refreshing drinks like margaritas or agua fresca, and end the meal with a delicious churro or flan.