4 Simple Side Dishes That Will Make Your Roast Chicken A Winter Winner

When the weather outside is cold and uninviting, it can be hard to muster up the motivation to cook a proper meal.
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However, when you have a delicious roast chicken in the oven, suddenly the idea of a home-cooked winter meal becomes much more appealing.
The key to making a perfect winter roast chicken dinner is to choose sides that will complement the bird without overpowering it.
Here are some great side dish ideas to consider when planning your winter roast chicken feast.
What is Roast Chicken?
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A roast chicken is a whole chicken that has been roasted in an oven.
The chicken is usually placed on a rack or roasting pan, making sure that the air can circulate around it while it cooks.
Roasting is using dry heat to cook the bird, making it crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
The cooking time for a whole chicken can vary depending on its size, but it typically takes about 1 hour at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Roast chicken is often served with vegetables and potatoes, and can be garnished with rosemary or other herbs.
While there are many ways to prepare this dish, classic roast chicken is simple yet delicious.
Whether you’re planning a big family dinner or a small intimate gathering, roast chicken is always a good choice.
What to Consider When Choosing a Roast Chicken’s Side Dish in Winter?
When it comes to choosing a side dish for your roast chicken in winter, there are a few things to consider.
The types of vegetables to use
The first is what kind of vegetables you want to include.
Do you want something hearty and filling, like roasted potatoes, or something light and fresh, like a salad?
- Root vegetables like turnips, parsnips and potatoes are always good choices.
- Winter squash is also plentiful now and makes a great accompaniment to roasted chicken.
- Brussels sprouts, kale and cabbage are other hearty greens that work well with roasted poultry.
- Consider using something unexpected like cranberries or figs for sweetness.
- Be creative!
- Nuts, dried fruit, fresh herbs, citrus–all can be used to make delicious side dishes for your roast chicken this winter.
How complex you want your side dish
Another thing to think about is whether you want your side dish to be cooked in the oven with the chicken, or if you’re okay with making it on the stove top.
If you want a dish that is simple and easy to make, go with something like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Which flavor profile you want to achieve
And finally, you need to decide what kind of flavor profile you’re going for.
Do you want something savory and rich, or bright and acidic?
In winter, a heartier side dish may also be in order.
- If you are looking for a recipe that will add some spice to your dinner table, try out a curried dish or apple sauce.
- If you want something indulgent and comforting, try a classic like stuffing or yams with marshmallows.
Once you’ve answered these questions, finding the perfect side dish for your winter roast chicken will be a breeze.
4 Best Side Dishes to Serve with Roast Chicken in Winter
When the temperature starts to drop and the days get shorter, winter sets in.
For many people, this means craving warm comfort foods like roast chicken.
But what to serve as a side dish for this mainstay of winter cuisine?
Here are a few of our favorite options for pairing with roast chicken this time of year.
Mashed potatoes
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Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that is often served alongside roasted chicken in the winter.
There are many ways to make mashed potatoes, and they can be tailored to fit your own personal taste.
Also, this combination is the perfect meal to cozy up with on a cold night.
Plus, it’s pretty easy to make and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients.
The potatoes will soak up the delicious juices from the chicken, making them even more flavorful.
Give it a try tonight!
Roasted root vegetables
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There’s nothing quite like the smell of roast chicken filling your home on a chilly winter day.
While the main course is certainly the star of the show, don’t forget about those delicious roasted root vegetables!
There are several wonderful reasons to serve them alongside the roast chicken for a nutritious and comforting meal.
- Roasted root vegetables are a great way to get your daily dose of veggies.
- They are packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential for winter health.
- They’re affordable and easy to prepare.
- The sweetness and earthiness of the vegetables pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of the chicken.
So why not give this simple and tasty dish a try next time you’re in the mood for something comforting?
Green beans
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When it comes to winter comfort food, roast chicken is hard to beat.
Although many people think of green beans as a summer vegetable, they can be enjoyed all winter long.
Serve them alongside roast chicken for a simple and satisfying meal.
Green beans are a good source of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C.
Whether you choose to serve them tossed in a delicious sauce or simply roasted with salt and pepper, green beans make the perfect side dish for a cozy winter meal.
Grain bowls
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As the temperature outside starts to drop, it’s natural to want warm, comforting foods.
Grain bowls are a perfect winter meal because they can be tailored to your liking and are easily customizable.
The roast chicken adds protein and flavor to the grain bowl, while the various toppings provide diverse textures and flavors.
Plus, grain bowls are a great way to use up leftovers from previous meals.
So if you’re looking for a new and tasty way to warm up this winter, give grain bowls a try!
The Bottom Line
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival a delicious roast chicken.
And when you’re looking for the perfect side dish to accompany your meal, look no further than these winter favorites.
Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or a holiday feast, these recipes will have everyone coming back for seconds.
So go ahead and put that big bird in the oven – your guests are sure to be impressed with what’s on the menu.