12 Easy Memorial Day Chicken Side Dishes for Your BBQ or Picnic are the perfect way to complement your grilled chicken and create a feast that your family and friends will rave about. Memorial Day is a time for honoring those who have served, and it’s also an opportunity to gather outdoors, enjoy the fresh air, and savor delicious food. While the main dish—usually a juicy grilled chicken or tender BBQ wings—steals the spotlight, the right sides can elevate the meal and bring out the best flavors.
From refreshing salads to flavorful casseroles, these side dishes are simple to prepare, yet full of vibrant, seasonal ingredients that will delight your guests. Whether you’re planning a laid-back picnic or hosting a more elaborate BBQ in the backyard, these dishes are designed to pair perfectly with your chicken, making your Memorial Day celebration a delicious one.
Easy to make ahead, these sides won’t require you to be glued to the grill while everyone else is having fun. They’re all about keeping things simple and stress-free, so you can focus on enjoying the day. Get ready to explore sides that will add crunch, creaminess, and fresh, zesty flavors to your Memorial Day menu, ensuring your BBQ is nothing short of memorable.
BBQ Baked Beans with Bacon
BBQ Baked Beans with Bacon are a must-have for any outdoor gathering. The combination of sweet and smoky flavors creates a deliciously satisfying dish that complements grilled meats perfectly. Plus, it’s super easy to make, so you can spend more time enjoying the sunshine.
This recipe features tender beans simmered in a rich sauce, enhanced by crispy bacon that adds a savory crunch. It’s the ultimate comfort food, bringing a taste of the backyard barbecue to your table!
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine kidney beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, chopped onion, crumbled bacon, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake uncovered for about 30-40 minutes, until the beans are hot and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious BBQ baked beans!
Zesty Cucumber and Tomato Salad
This zesty cucumber and tomato salad is a refreshing side dish perfect for your Memorial Day BBQ or picnic. It combines crisp cucumbers with juicy tomatoes, creating a light and bright flavor that pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or burgers. The best part? It’s super easy to whip up in just a few minutes!
The salad is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free addition to your spread. The zesty dressing adds a delightful kick, enhancing the freshness of the vegetables while keeping everything juicy and vibrant. You’ll find that it’s an instant crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Herbed Potato Wedges with Dipping Sauce
These herbed potato wedges are the perfect side for any BBQ or picnic, bringing a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor to your plate. Tossed with a blend of fresh herbs and spices, they offer a delightful taste that pairs wonderfully with any grilled chicken or meat.
Simple to prepare, these wedges can be seasoned to your liking, making them a versatile choice for all your outdoor gatherings. Serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick, and watch as they become a crowd favorite!
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Your choice of dipping sauce (ketchup, ranch, or aioli)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the potato wedges with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
- Spread the wedges on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce.
Creamy Coleslaw with Apple and Raisins
This creamy coleslaw is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The sweetness of apples and raisins pairs perfectly with the crunch of cabbage, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. It’s a simple recipe that comes together quickly, making it a great choice for your Memorial Day BBQ or picnic.
The creaminess of the dressing balances the crispness of the vegetables, while the apples add a nice touch of sweetness. This coleslaw not only looks appealing but also brings a burst of flavor that complements grilled meats perfectly.
Ingredients
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 large apple, cored and diced
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, diced apple, and raisins.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Toss again before serving and enjoy your creamy coleslaw!
Spicy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob
This spicy garlic butter corn on the cob is a delicious and simple side dish perfect for your Memorial Day BBQ. Combining sweet, juicy corn with the kick of spices and rich butter creates a flavor explosion with every bite. It’s an easy recipe that everyone will love, and it pairs well with any main dish.
The butter and spices blend seamlessly, creating a savory coating that enhances the natural sweetness of the corn. Whether grilling or boiling, this dish is quick to prepare and will surely be a crowd-pleaser at your picnic.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Corn: Husk the corn and remove all silk. Rinse under cold water and pat dry.
- Make the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Grill the Corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over each ear of corn.
- Cook the Corn: Place the corn on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
- Serve: Remove the corn from the grill, brush with any remaining garlic butter, and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Roasted Vegetable Pasta Salad
This roasted vegetable pasta salad is a vibrant and tasty dish perfect for your Memorial Day BBQ or picnic. It combines tender pasta with a variety of roasted vegetables, creating a delightful harmony of textures and flavors. The fresh herbs add a bright finish that balances the hearty elements, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Simple to prepare, this dish can be made ahead of time and served cold or at room temperature, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings. Toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or keep it vegetarian for a lighter option.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small eggplant, diced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and eggplant with olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Spread evenly.
- Roast the vegetables for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized, stirring once halfway through.
- While the vegetables are roasting, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, roasted vegetables, basil, and parsley. Toss gently to mix.
- Serve cold or at room temperature, drizzling with a little extra olive oil if desired.
Sweet and Tangy Pickle Salad
This Sweet and Tangy Pickle Salad is the perfect side dish for any Memorial Day BBQ or picnic. It’s a delightful mix of crunchy vegetables, including pickles, peppers, and tomatoes, all tossed together in a zesty dressing. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors makes it a refreshing addition to your meal, and it’s simple enough to whip up in no time.
This salad offers a great crunch and a burst of flavor that complements grilled chicken beautifully. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy holiday gatherings. Everyone will love how light and bright it is!
Ingredients
- 2 cups sliced pickles (dill or sweet)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced pickles, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Let the salad sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy!
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers
Grilled lemon herb chicken skewers are a fresh and tasty option for your Memorial Day BBQ or picnic. The combination of zesty lemon and fragrant herbs brings out the best in tender chicken, making each bite juicy and flavorful. Plus, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to whip up, even if you’re not an experienced cook!
Perfect for the grill, these skewers are easy to prepare ahead of time. Just marinate the chicken, thread it onto skewers, and toss them on the grill for a few minutes. They make a great addition to any spread and are sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and stir to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with additional lemon slices and fresh herbs if desired.
Classic Macaroni Salad with a Twist
This Classic Macaroni Salad with a Twist is the perfect side dish for your Memorial Day BBQ or picnic. Combining creamy dressing with fresh vegetables and a hint of zest, it offers a delightful balance of flavors that everyone will love. Simple to whip up, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with grilled meats and is sure to be a hit on your picnic table.
The addition of cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs gives this traditional recipe a refreshing upgrade. It’s a fun take on the classic that keeps the comfort while adding a burst of color and taste. With just a few minutes of prep, you can have this delicious salad ready to go!
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
- Add the cooled macaroni, cherry tomatoes, celery, red onion, and parsley to the bowl. Stir gently to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your revamped classic macaroni salad!
Grilled Caprese Salad Skewers
Grilled Caprese Salad Skewers are a delightful twist on the classic Caprese salad, making them perfect for summer gatherings. They’re packed with fresh flavors from juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil. Grilling adds a smoky depth that elevates these simple ingredients, making them a crowd-pleaser at any BBQ or picnic.
Not only are these skewers tasty, but they’re also super easy to assemble. You can whip them up in no time, and they look beautiful on the table. These skewers are not just a side dish; they can also serve as a light appetizer or snack. Enjoy the fresh taste of summer with this quick and delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- On each skewer, thread a cherry tomato, followed by a mozzarella ball, and a basil leaf. Repeat this process until the skewer is filled, leaving a little space at the ends.
- Once all skewers are assembled, drizzle with balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is slightly melted and the tomatoes are blistered.
- Remove from the grill and serve warm or at room temperature.
Cornbread Muffins with Honey Butter
Cornbread muffins are a delightful addition to any BBQ or picnic. They’re sweet, fluffy, and have a rich corn flavor that pairs perfectly with various main dishes. These muffins are simple to whip up and will surely impress your guests, making them the ideal side for your Memorial Day gathering.
The combination of the warm, buttery muffins with a drizzle of honey creates a comfort food experience that everyone will love. Whether served alongside grilled chicken or enjoyed on their own, these cornbread muffins will add a touch of Southern charm to your meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup honey (for serving)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a muffin tin.
- In a large bowl, mix together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and melted butter. Whisk until well blended.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the muffins cool for a few minutes, then serve warm with softened butter and honey drizzled on top.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a refreshing and colorful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your picnic table. Loaded with fresh vegetables, creamy feta, and protein-packed quinoa, it’s both nutritious and satisfying. The zesty dressing ties everything together, making it a perfect choice for outdoor gatherings.
Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, this salad can be made ahead of time, allowing the ingredients to marinate and enhance their taste. It’s a delightful side that pairs well with grilled chicken or can stand alone as a light meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Let it cool.
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Toss to Combine: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Chill and Serve: Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Conclusion
These 12 easy Memorial Day chicken side dishes are just what you need to create a balanced and delicious spread that complements your BBQ or picnic. Whether you choose to whip up a fresh corn salad, a creamy coleslaw, or a vibrant quinoa dish, there’s no shortage of flavors to suit any taste.
With a combination of make-ahead and quick-prep recipes, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy the company of your guests. Memorial Day is all about celebrating with good food and great company, and these sides will undoubtedly help make your gathering one to remember. So fire up the grill, get your sides ready, and enjoy a day full of fantastic food, fun, and memories!