8 Air Fryer Sides That Pair Perfectly With Chicken
Chicken might be the star of the plate, but the sides are what transform a good meal into a memorable one. If you own an air fryer, you already know it can create crispy, flavorful dishes with less oil and in less time than traditional methods. From golden vegetables to crunchy snacks, these air fryer recipes pair beautifully with chicken, whether you are serving grilled breasts, fried drumsticks, or roasted thighs. Here are 8 air fryer sides that will elevate your chicken dinners to the next level.
1. Garlic Parmesan Fries
Fries and chicken are a classic combination, and the air fryer makes them crisp without the heaviness of deep frying. Cut russet potatoes into thin strips, toss with olive oil, garlic powder, Parmesan, and paprika, then cook until golden. The result is fries with a crunchy outside and fluffy interior, perfectly seasoned with cheesy garlic flavor. Pair with dipping sauces like ranch or aioli alongside crispy chicken tenders. Quick to prepare and healthier than fast food, these fries bring comfort and crunch to every bite.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts become addictive when cooked in the air fryer. Toss halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until the edges are crispy and caramelized. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or sprinkle of Parmesan at the end enhances their flavor. The air fryer’s high heat creates crunch without sogginess, making these sprouts both tasty and satisfying. They pair especially well with roasted or grilled chicken, adding earthy, savory balance to your meal. Nutritious, simple to prepare, and gourmet in flavor, they are a must-have side.
3. Sweet Potato Wedges
Sweet potato wedges are a vibrant and flavorful side that works beautifully with chicken. Cut sweet potatoes into thick wedges, coat with olive oil, smoked paprika, and garlic powder, then air fry until crisp on the outside and tender inside. Their natural sweetness complements smoky or spicy chicken recipes, while the spices provide savory depth. Packed with fiber and nutrients, they are a healthier alternative to standard fries. With their bold color and sweet-savory taste, these wedges brighten the plate and deliver crowd-pleasing flavor every time.
4. Zucchini Chips
Zucchini chips are light, crispy, and an excellent way to add vegetables to your meal without losing flavor. Slice zucchini thinly, toss with olive oil and breadcrumbs or Parmesan, then air fry until golden. The chips develop a delicate crunch that feels indulgent despite being lighter than traditional fried snacks. They are especially delicious alongside breaded chicken cutlets or grilled thighs, offering a refreshing texture contrast. Easy to customize with herbs or spices, zucchini chips are versatile, nutritious, and a side you will want to make again and again.
5. Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob takes on new life when cooked in the air fryer. Brush ears of corn with butter, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook until the kernels are tender and slightly charred. The result is juicy corn with just the right crisp outside. For extra flair, dust with chili powder and finish with a squeeze of lime. This side pairs beautifully with barbecued or grilled chicken, adding sweetness and smoky flavor. Quick, simple, and flavorful, it captures the essence of summer with every bite.
6. Onion Rings
Crispy onion rings are a diner-style favorite that come out lighter and just as delicious in the air fryer. Coat onion slices in flour, dip in egg, then cover with seasoned breadcrumbs before air frying until golden. The coating turns crunchy while the onions inside stay sweet and tender. Serve them with chicken sandwiches or fried drumsticks for a comforting pairing that feels like a restaurant meal. Fun, flavorful, and easy to make, onion rings bring nostalgic comfort to your chicken dinners without excess oil.
7. Roasted Carrots
Carrots develop a naturally sweet, caramelized flavor when roasted in the air fryer. Toss carrot sticks with olive oil, salt, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, then cook until tender with crisp edges. The slight char enhances their flavor, while fresh herbs like parsley or thyme add a finishing touch. These roasted carrots pair beautifully with savory chicken dishes, providing balance and color to the plate. Both healthy and flavorful, they are a side dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome, making them ideal for family meals.
8. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread might not be the most obvious chicken side, but it is always a crowd-pleaser. Spread butter mixed with garlic and parsley over slices of baguette or sandwich bread, then air fry until golden and crisp. The bread comes out crunchy on the outside with a soft, buttery center that complements baked or roasted chicken perfectly. Garlic bread is fast, easy, and universally loved, making it an ideal choice for weeknights or gatherings. It adds comfort, flavor, and familiarity that pairs seamlessly with any chicken main.
