7 Unexpected Foods That Pair Well With Chicken

Watermelon pairs unexpectedly well with chicken, especially in salads or grilled dishes. The juicy, sweet flavor of watermelon creates a delightful contrast with the savory and slightly charred taste of grilled chicken. This unexpected combination brings out the best in both ingredients, with the watermelon’s refreshing sweetness balancing the rich flavors of the chicken. Together, they offer a perfect blend of textures and tastes, making this pairing both satisfying and refreshing.

One of the best ways to enjoy this pairing is in a salad, where the watermelon’s crispness meets the tender chicken, all brought together with a light vinaigrette. The bright flavors of the watermelon and the chicken make the salad feel vibrant and summery, offering a unique twist on a traditional chicken dish. Whether served at a picnic or as a light dinner, this combination is a surprising and delightful way to elevate a simple meal.

Pineapple’s sweet and tangy flavor adds a tropical twist to chicken dishes, bringing out a unique balance of tastes. When used in marinades or grilled alongside chicken, pineapple’s natural sugars caramelize beautifully, enhancing the savory elements of the meat. This combination creates a perfect balance between the sweet fruit and the savory, slightly smoky chicken, making it an exciting pairing for those who enjoy bold, contrasting flavors.

Pineapple is a key ingredient in dishes like Hawaiian-style chicken or sweet and sour chicken, where its bright, tropical notes provide a delicious contrast to the meat. The juicy texture of pineapple complements the tender chicken, resulting in a dynamic and flavorful meal. Whether used in a marinade, salsa, or grilled topping, pineapple elevates chicken dishes by adding a burst of freshness and complexity.

Mango is a versatile fruit that pairs wonderfully with chicken, especially when used in salsas, salads, or chutneys. The sweet, juicy flavor of mango provides a refreshing contrast to the mildness of chicken, adding a burst of tropical freshness to the dish. Mango’s natural sweetness enhances the savory qualities of chicken, making it a popular choice for creating vibrant and flavorful meals.

A mango salsa served over grilled chicken is a perfect example of this pairing, where the sweet, savory, and slightly spicy elements come together harmoniously. The salsa not only adds brightness and texture but also balances out the smokiness of the grilled chicken, creating a delicious and well-rounded dish that feels both light and satisfying.

Pomegranate seeds add a burst of tart sweetness and a pleasant crunch to chicken dishes, bringing both flavor and texture to the table. Sprinkling pomegranate seeds over roasted or grilled chicken creates a vibrant, colorful presentation while infusing the dish with their juicy and refreshing acidity. This unique combination elevates even the simplest chicken dishes, giving them a more sophisticated feel.

The slight acidity of pomegranate balances the richness of chicken, cutting through its savory flavors and adding a bright, tangy contrast. Whether mixed into salads or used as a garnish for roasted meats, pomegranate seeds introduce an unexpected yet delightful pairing that transforms a traditional dish into something more exciting and flavorful.

Avocado’s creamy texture and mild flavor make it a perfect pairing for chicken, complementing the lean protein with its natural richness. Whether sliced on top of a grilled chicken sandwich, blended into a smooth sauce, or mixed into a fresh salad, avocado adds a layer of richness and healthy fats that enhances the overall flavor and mouthfeel of the dish.

The combination of avocado and chicken is particularly popular in wraps and salads, offering a satisfying and nutritious meal that’s both light and filling. Avocado’s buttery texture pairs well with the mildness of chicken, creating a harmonious blend that feels indulgent while also providing essential nutrients, making it a go-to option for healthy, balanced meals.

Brie cheese adds a creamy, slightly tangy element to chicken dishes, creating a luxurious and indulgent pairing. Known for its rich and soft texture, Brie melts beautifully over roasted or grilled chicken, providing a rich and velvety layer that enhances the flavor of the meat. This creamy addition elevates even simple chicken dishes, transforming them into a more decadent experience.

Brie-stuffed chicken breasts or chicken served with a Brie sauce are particularly indulgent options that showcase the complementary flavors of the cheese and the chicken. The cheese’s mild tang perfectly balances the savory, slightly charred taste of the chicken, creating a dish that feels elegant yet comforting. This pairing is ideal for those looking to add a touch of sophistication to their meal.

Maple syrup provides a sweet, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with chicken, especially in glazes or marinades. When used as a glaze for roasted or grilled chicken, the syrup caramelizes beautifully, creating a deliciously sweet and savory coating that enhances the natural flavors of the meat. This combination brings out a rich depth of flavor, making it a satisfying choice for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness in their savory dishes.

Maple syrup is often paired with mustard or spices to balance the sweetness, adding complexity and creating a more dynamic flavor profile. The contrast between the sweet syrup and the tangy or spicy elements results in a unique and flavorful dish that is both bold and balanced. Whether drizzled over roasted chicken or used in a marinade, maple syrup adds a touch of indulgence that makes the dish feel special and memorable.