Chicken tacos are a staple for their flavor, versatility, and ease of preparation. But the magic of a taco night doesn’t end with the tacos themselves—it’s the sides, beverages, and accompaniments that complete the experience. From classic Mexican sides to creative pairings, this guide will help you create the perfect spread for your chicken tacos.
Why Pairing Matters
The right sides and accompaniments can elevate the flavor of chicken tacos. Whether you prefer traditional Mexican sides like refried beans or unique options like roasted vegetables, the pairings you choose can make the meal memorable.
For a guide to planning the perfect taco night, you can explore our Chicken Tacos: Ultimate Guide to Recipes and Tips, which offers more pairing ideas and preparation techniques.
Classic Sides for Chicken Tacos
1. Mexican Rice: A Perfect Side for Chicken Tacos
A flavor-packed Mexican rice is the quintessential side dish for tacos.
- How to make it: Cook rice with tomatoes, garlic, and cumin for a traditional taste.
- Add texture: Stir in diced vegetables or fresh cilantro.
- For a modern twist, try this Easy Baked Purple Sweet Potatoes Recipe as a nutritious side.
2. Refried Beans:
Creamy and hearty, refried beans balance the flavors of spicy chicken tacos.
- Use black or pinto beans, depending on your preference.
- Add a touch of lime juice and cilantro for brightness.
3. Tortilla Chips and Salsa:
- Pair your tacos with tortilla chips and a trio of salsas:
- Pico de gallo: Fresh and tangy.
- Salsa verde: Zesty and bright.
- Queso: Creamy and indulgent.
- Chips and dips are perfect for sharing as appetizers.
Fresh and Healthy Pairings
1. Guacamole:
Guacamole adds a creamy, flavorful contrast to chicken tacos.
- Make it fresh with ripe avocados, lime, garlic, and salt.
- For a twist, try adding roasted jalapeños or diced mango.
For more inspiration, see our Quick and Easy Grilled Chicken Avocado Salad.
2. Side Salads:
A crisp, fresh salad can lighten the meal.
- Mexican coleslaw: A mix of cabbage, lime, and cilantro.
- Zesty lime salad: With avocado, tomatoes, and a lime vinaigrette.
Unique Pairings and Beverages for Chicken Tacos
1. Roasted Vegetables:
Roasted veggies are nutritious and flavorful.
- Use zucchini, bell peppers, and sweet potatoes.
- Season them with taco spices for a cohesive meal.
2. Grilled Pineapple or Mango:
Grilled fruits add a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors of tacos.
- Brush slices with honey and lime juice before grilling.
- Serve them as slices or dice into a salsa.
Beverages to Serve with Chicken Tacos
Pairing your tacos with the right drink completes the experience.
1. Margaritas and Agua Frescas:
- Classic margaritas are the ultimate taco companion.
- Try variations like spicy jalapeño or tropical mango margaritas.
2. Agua Frescas
Non-alcoholic and refreshing, these fruit-based drinks are a crowd favorite.
- Popular flavors include watermelon, pineapple, and hibiscus.
For a full list of drink pairings, explore What to Drink with Tacos.
Sauces and Dips
Enhance your tacos with flavorful sauces:
- Creamy Chipotle Sauce: A smoky, spicy drizzle made with sour cream and chipotle peppers.
- Avocado Salsa: Creamy and refreshing, perfect for dipping or as a topping.
- Fire-Roasted Salsa: Bold and smoky, ideal for chip dipping or topping tacos.
FAQs
1. What vegetables go well with chicken tacos?
Roasted vegetables like bell peppers and onions or fresh toppings like lettuce and avocado are excellent choices.
2. Can I pair chicken tacos with pasta?
Yes, try a Mexican-inspired pasta salad with corn, black beans, and taco seasoning.
3. What desserts pair with chicken tacos?
Classic options like churros, tres leches cake, or a light fruit sorbet work well.
4. Are there healthy side options?
Absolutely! Opt for fresh salads, grilled veggies, or lighter dips like pico de gallo.
5. What appetizers go with chicken tacos?
Try mini taquitos, queso fundido, or stuffed jalapeños for crowd-pleasing starters.
Conclusion
Pairing the right sides, drinks, and toppings with chicken tacos makes every meal more exciting and delicious. Classic sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, and chips with salsa are easy crowd-pleasers. For something different, try grilled fruits, elote, or roasted vegetables. These sides don’t just taste great but also make the meal feel complete.
If you want lighter options, salads, guacamole, and veggie dishes are great choices. Drinks like margaritas, agua frescas, or horchata can make your taco night even better. For a healthy and tasty side dish idea, check out this recipe for Perfect Grilled Chicken with Veggies.
Hosting a party or just making dinner for your family? Experimenting with sides and drinks is an easy way to find new favorites. You can also try starters like mini taquitos or queso fundido and finish the meal with desserts like churros or tres leches cake.
The best thing about chicken tacos is how flexible they are. You can mix and match sides, flavors, and drinks to fit any event or mood. So grab your ingredients, pick your pairings, and enjoy a taco night that’s sure to impress!
