What to Eat With Pizza: 10 Sides That Go Well With Pizza
Pizza can easily be a meal on its own. But sometimes you want something extra on the side, especially when you’re ordering for a group, or you’re simply very hungry.
The good news is that you have plenty of options. Crispy chicken, fries, and garlic bread are easy favorites, while coleslaw, plantain, and even suya can bring something different to the table. The trick is finding sides that complement your pizza instead of making the whole meal feel too heavy.
Here are 10 sides worth adding to your next pizza order.
10 Sides to Eat With Pizza
1. Chicken Wings
Crispy chicken wings and pizza are a very easy combination to love. You get the cheesy, saucy bite of the pizza followed by crispy, seasoned chicken.
Wings also make sense when you’re ordering for friends because they are easy to share. Go for a spicy option if your pizza is on the milder side, or keep things simple with a seasoned chicken flavor.
2. French Fries
Sometimes, you don’t need to overthink it. Hot, crispy fries alongside a slice of pizza just work.
They are especially good when you have a sauce to dip them in. And if you’re ordering for a group, fries are one of those sides that tend to disappear from the table very quickly.
3. Coleslaw
Pizza can be rich, especially when you’re having plenty of cheese or meat toppings. A serving of cold, creamy coleslaw gives you something lighter and refreshing between bites.
The crunch from the cabbage and carrots also adds a different texture to the meal. It’s a simple side, but it can make a big difference when paired with a rich pizza.
4. Garlic Bread
If you are the type of person who thinks there is no such thing as too much bread, garlic bread is an easy choice.
The crispy edges, soft middle, and garlicky flavor go nicely with pizza. It is also handy for anyone who likes to mop up whatever sauce is left behind.
5. Chicken Strips
Chicken strips are another good option when pizza alone isn’t quite enough to satisfy your hunger. They are crispy, filling, and easy to share.
You can keep them simple or pair them with a dipping sauce. They also work with almost any pizza, so you don’t have to spend too much time worrying about whether the flavors will clash.
6. Salad
A fresh salad can bring some crunch and freshness to a pizza-heavy meal. You don’t need anything complicated either. Lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light dressing can do the job.
This is particularly useful when your pizza has rich toppings such as beef, pepperoni, or extra cheese. The fresh vegetables give your meal a different texture and flavor.
7. Mozzarella Sticks
For the people who believe there is no such thing as too much cheese, mozzarella sticks are right up your street.
You get a crispy coating on the outside and warm, stretchy cheese inside. Add a dipping sauce, and you’ve got a side that feels like a treat alongside your pizza.
It is definitely not the lightest combination, but sometimes that is not the point.
8. Fried Plantain
Now we’re getting into a combination worth trying. Sweet, golden fried plantain alongside a savory pizza gives you a sweet-and-salty contrast that can be surprisingly good.
The sweetness of the plantain works particularly well with pizzas that have savory or spicy toppings. If you already enjoy having plantain with other savory meals, there is no reason not to give this combination a try.
9. Chicken Suya
If you enjoy smoky, spicy flavors, chicken suya can bring something different to your pizza order.
The grilled, peppery chicken gives you a stronger flavor to enjoy alongside a milder pizza. You can also go the other way and pair it with a pizza that has some heat if you are confident about your spice tolerance.
This is one for anyone who likes a little Nigerian flavor on the table.
10. Dipping Sauce
Not every pizza craving calls for another full meal on the side. Sometimes, all you need is a good dipping sauce.
A creamy garlic sauce, spicy sauce, or another favorite dip can add another layer of flavor to your pizza. It can also come in handy for your crusts, fries, chicken wings, or strips.
If you already have a few sides on the table, a dip is an easy addition without making the meal unnecessarily heavy.
How to Choose the Right Side for Your Pizza
The easiest way to choose a side is to think about what your pizza already has.
Having a rich, meaty pizza? Something fresh or creamy, such as coleslaw or salad, can balance the meal.
Going for a cheesy pizza? Crispy sides like fries, chicken strips, or mozzarella sticks can keep things interesting.
Ordering for a group? Choose sides that are easy to share, such as wings, fries and chicken strips.
Want to try something different? Fried plantain or chicken suya can give your meal a different flavor without changing your pizza order.
And if you’re already very hungry, there is nothing wrong with getting two sides. Just make sure you are ready for the food coma afterwards.
Make Your Next Pizza Order a Full Meal
Pizza doesn’t have to be served on its own. The right side can add crunch, spice, freshness, or simply a little more food to the table.
Whether you want crispy wings, cold coleslaw, sweet plantain, or something with a bit of heat, there is plenty to choose from. Next time you’re ordering from Pizza Jungle, take a look at the menu and add a side that matches what you’re craving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best side dish to eat with pizza?
Chicken wings, fries, garlic bread, and coleslaw are popular choices. You can also try plantain or chicken suya if you want something different.
What goes well with pizza for dinner?
Pizza can be paired with filling sides such as chicken wings, chicken strips, or fries. A salad or coleslaw can also add a lighter option to the meal.
Can you eat fries with pizza?
Absolutely. Fries are a simple side that pairs well with most types of pizza, especially when served with a dipping sauce.
What drinks go well with pizza?
Soft drinks, fruit drinks, and chilled water can all work well with pizza. The best choice depends on the toppings and your personal preference.
