Best Side Dishes for Smoked Chicken Thighs
Smoked chicken thighs are one of those cuts that just work. They’re juicy, forgiving, and full of flavor, whether you’re cooking for your family or feeding a backyard full of people.
The sides matter, though. The right side dish can balance the smoke, add some texture, and pull the whole plate together.
Here are five simple side dishes that pair really well with smoked chicken thighs. Nothing complicated — just solid BBQ sides that make sense.
1. Classic Creamy Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a BBQ staple for a reason. It’s cool, crunchy, and cuts through the rich, smoky flavor of the chicken without getting in the way. It works especially well with juicy smoked chicken thighs or brined smoked chicken thighs.
Ingredients
1 small head green cabbage (about 2 lbs), shredded
2 large carrots, peeled and grated
¼ cup finely chopped onion
1 cup mayonnaise
¼ cup apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
6 Tbsp granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1½ tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
½ tsp celery seed
Instructions
Add the cabbage, carrots, and onion to a large mixing bowl and toss to combine.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and celery seed until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and mix until evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Why It Works With Smoked Chicken
The creamy texture and slight tang balance out the smoke and richness of the chicken and keep the plate from feeling heavy.
2. Smoked Mac and Cheese
Smoked mac and cheese is comfort food that belongs at any BBQ. It’s rich, creamy, and picks up just enough smoke to match a good smoked chicken thighs recipe.
Ingredients
1 lb elbow macaroni
½ cup butter
¼ lb cream cheese
4 Tbsp all-purpose flour
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups milk
2 cups cream
1½ cups smoked Gouda cheese
1 Tbsp Rump Shaker All-Purpose BBQ Rub
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp brown sugar
½ tsp salt
¼ cup melted butter (for topping)
1 cup bread crumbs
Instructions
Preheat the smoker to 225°F. Cook the macaroni according to package directions and set aside.
Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in the flour, and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, then add the cream cheese and stir until smooth.
Add cheddar and smoked Gouda, stirring until fully melted.
Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce.
Mix melted butter, Rump Shaker BBQ Rub, and bread crumbs, then sprinkle over the top.
Place the mac and cheese in the smoker and smoke for about 1 hour.
Why It Works With Smoked Chicken
The flavors line up well without competing. Together, they make a solid, filling BBQ plate.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is simple, fast, and always a good idea. The natural sweetness works great with smoked boneless chicken thighs.
Ingredients
4 ears of corn, shucked
Unsalted butter
1 lime
Salt, to taste
Instructions
Peel back the husks and remove the silk. You can leave the husks attached and fold them back over, or remove them completely — either way works.
Lightly coat the corn with oil or melted butter and season with salt and pepper.
Grill over medium heat (375–400°F) for 12–15 minutes, turning every few minutes so it cooks evenly. You’re looking for tender kernels with a little char — not burnt.
Once done, finish with a little extra butter, fresh cracked pepper, or a squeeze of lime if you want to brighten it up.
Why It Works With Smoked Chicken
The sweet and savory flavors balance the smoke and seasoning on the chicken without taking over the plate.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are simple, comforting, and always welcome next to smoked chicken thighs.
Ingredients
6 cloves garlic, smashed and peeled
1 cup whole or 2% milk
8 Tbsp unsalted butter (plus more for serving)
1 Tbsp plus 1 tsp salt
2½ lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
Fresh chives, finely chopped
Instructions
Add garlic, milk, butter, and salt to a saucepan and heat gently until the butter melts. Remove from heat and cover.
Place potatoes in a pot, cover with cold water, salt generously, and bring to a boil.
Cook 15–20 minutes until fork-tender, then drain.
Pour the warm milk mixture over the potatoes, pressing the garlic cloves through a strainer to release flavor.
Mash until smooth and finish with chopped chives.
Why It Works With Smoked Chicken
The creamy texture and mild garlic flavor help balance the bold smokiness of the chicken, including brined smoked chicken thighs.
How to Build the Perfect BBQ Plate
A good BBQ plate is all about balance. When serving juicy smoked chicken thighs, keep these things in mind:
Choose sides that add contrast, like something crunchy or creamy.
Make sure the chicken skin is properly rendered and not rubbery.
Add a fresh element like grilled vegetables, green beans, or a light salad.
Include bread such as Texas toast, soft buns, or cornbread.
Serve a few different BBQ sauces — sweet, tangy, and mustard-based all work well.
Final Thoughts
Smoked chicken thighs are easy to cook and hard to beat. Pair them with classic sides like coleslaw, smoked mac and cheese, grilled corn, baked beans, or garlic mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a plate that works every time.
Keep it simple, keep it balanced, and let the chicken do the heavy lifting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do acidic fruits like pineapple work well with smoked boneless chicken thighs?
Yes. They add some brightness and help cut through the richness. Just balance them with savory sides.
Can I make the side dishes ahead of time?
Many of these can be prepped ahead, including coleslaw, baked beans, and mashed potatoes. Grilled corn is best made right before serving.
How long does it take to prepare a full BBQ plate?
Depending on what you choose, plan for about 3–4 hours when smoking the chicken.
Which flavors don’t work well with smoked chicken thighs?
Avoid sides that are overly salty or overly sweet. Smoked chicken thighs already bring plenty of flavor, so balance is key.
