When we think of enhancing our chicken burger experience, it's impossible to ignore the role of burger side dishes that make every bite even more delightful. Classic coleslaw originated from the Dutch word 'koolsla' meaning 'cabbage salad', is just the beginning of our exploration into good burger side dishes that pair perfectly with burgers.
In this article, we dive into a selection of grilled side dishes and more, from crispy sweet potato fries to savory mac and cheese, each chosen to complement your chicken burger in the best way possible. Join us as we discover the ultimate companions to your burger feast.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
As we explore the world of good burger side dishes, Crispy Sweet Potato Fries emerge as a fan favorite. They provide a sweet counterpoint to the savory chicken burger, while their crunchy texture adds an appealing layer to the meal. Here's how we create the ideal batch:
Preparation Steps:
Begin by peeling and cutting 2 pounds of sweet potatoes into fry-shaped pieces, about 1/4" wide and thick.
Soak these slices in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, ensuring they're thoroughly dried afterwards.
Seasoning and Baking:
Toss the dried sweet potato fries with 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 spoonful of cornstarch, and a spice combination consisting of garlic powder, smoky paprika, and freshly cracked black pepper.
Arrange the fries in a single layer on a parchment-covered baking sheet, avoiding overlap, and bake at 425°F. Start with 15 minutes, flip, and continue for another 10-15 minutes until they reach a perfect crisp.
Final Touches:
Once out of the oven, a sprinkle of fine sea salt enhances its flavor. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to achieve the ultimate crispy texture.
For an extra kick, optional spices like cayenne pepper can be added to the seasoning mix.
These Crispy Sweet Potato Fries, with their sweet and savory notes, are a quintessential companion to your chicken burger, elevating the entire dining experience.
Classic Coleslaw
Moving on, let's talk about the quintessential Classic Coleslaw, a dish that effortlessly marries simplicity with flavor to compliment your chicken burger. This coleslaw, with its creamy texture and tangy taste, is a testament to the timeless combination of cabbage, carrot, and onions. Here's a quick guide to making your coleslaw stand out:
Ingredients Mastery:
Main: Green cabbage, red onion, carrot, and parsley for a fresh touch.
Dressing: A classic blend of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, and black pepper creates a creamy yet zesty flavor profile.
Preparation Tips:
Cabbage should be julienned into thin strips, either with a knife or a mandoline for uniformity.
To ensure the vegetables are crisp and the flavors meld beautifully, mix the coleslaw a few hours before serving and keep it chilled.
Variations to Explore:
For a twist, consider adding shredded green apple or jicama for an extra crunch.
No-mayo versions or adding unique ingredients like celery seeds can personalize the dish to your taste.
Crafting the perfect Classic Coleslaw is all about balancing the creamy dressing with the crispness of the vegetables, making it an indispensable side for any burger occasion.
Savory Mac and Cheese
As we continue our journey exploring the perfect burger side dishes, let's dive into the world of savory mac and cheese. This dish, with its creamy, cheesy goodness, offers a comforting balance to the flavors of your chicken burger. Here's how we elevate this classic to new heights:
Ultimate Macaroni and Cheese:
Cheeses: Blend of extra sharp cheddar, Gruyere, Jarlsberg, and fontina for a rich, multi-dimensional flavor.
Preparation: Shred your cheese for smoother melting. Cook pasta al dente, and mix with homemade cheese sauce made from a roux, milk, and spices.
Customize: Add jalapenos, bacon, lobster, or caramelized onions for a personal touch. Consider an alternative topping of Cheez-It crackers for a crunchy finish.
Savory Mac and Cheese Cake:
Ingredients: Incorporates plain yogurt, eggs, self-rising flour, and a generous amount of grated Cheddar cheese.
Method: Mix with cooked macaroni, pour into a greased cake pan, and bake until golden. A unique twist that's sure to impress at any burger gathering.
Herbed Stovetop Mac and Cheese:
Flavour Profile: Sautéed shallots and garlic, combined with a blend of sage, oregano, and thyme, create a fragrant base for this creamy dish.
Cheese Sauce: A simple roux thickened with milk, enriched with white cheddar and Parmesan, coats the pasta perfectly for a stove-top version that’s both quick and delicious.
Each variation of mac and cheese brings its unique flair to the table, making them indispensable companions to your chicken burger experience. Whether baked, turned into a cake, or quickly whipped up on the stove, these mac and cheese recipes are guaranteed to elevate your meal.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a versatile and flavorful addition to any chicken burger meal, offering a delightful contrast with their smoky char and tender textures. Here's how we elevate these grilled side dishes to create an unforgettable dining experience:
Variety and Preparation: Ideal vegetables for barbecuing incorporate zucchini, mushrooms, asparagus, capsicum/chime peppers, and red onion. To guarantee in any event, cooking, cut them into comparative estimated pieces or stick them. Season with olive oil, salt, and pepper when barbecuing for that ideal character.
Grilling Techniques: Cook vegetables on a preheated barbecue to accomplish those beneficial barbecue marks and smoky flavour. Utilize a barbecue container for more modest pieces to keep them from falling through the meshes. For a broiler-like climate helpful for cooking, barbecue with the top shut. Cooking times differ; for instance, asparagus requires 6-8 minutes, while corn in its husk might require 15-20 minutes.
Serving Suggestions: Hoist your barbecued vegetables by serving them with a shower of balsamic coating or a sprinkle of disintegrated feta. They pair brilliantly with different principal dishes, from veggie burgers to bar-b-que Jackfruit Sandwiches, and can likewise be the superstar when served over quinoa or farro, finished off with tzatziki sauce and pita. For an extra eruption of flavor, consider marinating your vegetables in the wake of barbecuing with a blend of lemon juice, garlic, spices, and flavors.
Homemade Potato Chips
As we continue our culinary journey to find the ideal accompaniments for your chicken burger, we turn our focus to a tried-and-true classic: homemade potato chips. These crispy delicacies are more than simply a snack; they are an excellent side dish that complements the soft juiciness of a chicken burger unlike any other. Let's examine the range and methods for crafting these crispy delicacies:
Classic Crispy Potato Chips:
Start with 2 lbs of Russet potatoes, peeling and slicing them thinly using a mandoline for uniform thickness.
Absorb the cuts super cold water for 30 minutes to drain out the overabundance starch, then, at that point, dry completely with a perfect towel.
Heat 3 cups of vegetable or canola oil in a deep skillet to 350-365°F (175-185°C). Fry the potato slices in batches until golden brown.
Channel on a paper towel-lined plate, sprinkling salt over the warm chips. Permit them to cool in a solitary layer prior to getting a charge out of.
Innovative Variations:
Air-Fryer Potato Chips: For a better choice, throw the potato cuts with 1-2 tablespoons of oil and air-fry at 400°F for around 15-20 minutes, flipping part of the way through.
Herbed Steak Fries: Cut potatoes into thicker wedges, season with rosemary and thyme, and heat or air-fry until brilliant and fresh.
Flavor Twists:
After frying, while the chips are still warm, experiment with flavors. Sprinkle it with cheese powder, Kashmiri red chili powder, or even vinegar powder for a tangy kick. Mixing well ensures every chip is coated with bold flavors.
Custom-made Potato Chips offer a crunchy, flavorful side that hoists the chicken burger experience. Whether you settle on the exemplary slight chips, air-broiled variants, or herbed steak fries, these potato delights make certain to be a hit at any feast.
FAQs
Q: What are some classic side dishes that complement burgers?
A: The perfect burger companions include a variety of side dishes such as baked beans, pasta salads, grilled vegetables, coleslaw, and more. Choose one or a combination of these options to complete your burger meal quickly and deliciously.
Q: How can I enhance the flavor of my burgers?
A: To make any burger, whether it's beef, chicken, or veggie, more exciting, consider adding a zesty sauce, melted cheese, tangy pickles, or a crunchy slaw. These toppings can elevate the taste of your burger to new heights.
Q: What are recommended side dishes to serve with Hamburger Helper?
A: Complement your Hamburger Helper with sides like mac and cheese, tater tots, a blooming onion, zucchini noodles, baked ziti, bacon-wrapped asparagus, garlic bread, green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet potato fries, coleslaw, cheddar biscuits, corn on the cob, a wedge salad, or hush puppies for a complete meal.
Q: What ingredients can I add to my burger for extra flavor?
A: Incorporating blue cheese, grilled pineapple, or avocado into your hamburger can significantly enhance its flavor. These flavorful ingredients may already be available in your kitchen or pantry.