Popeye’s is a wonderland of bold flavors and Louisiana charm. Their chicken might be the main attraction, but the side dishes are an ensemble cast you can’t ignore.
With crunchy textures, spicy kicks, and buttery goodness, choosing the best side dish can feel like a culinary quest. We are ranking 16 Popeye’s side dishes from the ones you’ll regret to those worth a pilgrimage.
1. Mashed Potatoes With Gravy
Popeye’s mashed potatoes with gravy provoke passionate opinions. Dive into this dish, and you’re met with a smooth, creamy texture that whispers warmth to your soul.
But then, the gravy—a bold, peppery concoction—takes center stage, unapologetically stealing the spotlight.
2. Cajun Fries
If fries were a dance, Cajun Fries would be a spicy salsa. These aren’t your average potato sticks; they’re infused with a scorching blend of spices that set your taste buds ablaze.
Crunchy on the outside, soft within, they are a tantalizing contradiction. With every fry, the Cajun kick hits like a fiery tango, leaving you both breathless and craving more.
3. Red Beans And Rice
A love letter to Louisiana’s culinary roots. This side dish captures the essence of home-cooked comfort with its savory, smoky flavor.
Each spoonful wraps you in a cozy blanket of spices. A staple that stands the test of time, these red beans and rice are a heartwarming embrace from the bayou.
4. Coleslaw
The paradox of Popeye’s sides. It’s crunchy, creamy, and surprisingly refreshing amidst a sea of fried delights. The crisp cabbage and carrots dance in a tangy dressing.
This coleslaw is the cool breeze on a hot southern day. A refreshing counterpoint to its richer companions. It’s the side that whispers “balance”.
5. Buttermilk Biscuits
Behold the buttermilk biscuits: fluffy clouds of buttery wonder. These golden gems are both a breakfast staple and a dinner delight.
With each bite, they crumble into delicate layers, unveiling a buttery richness that dances on your palate. A biscuit that could melt hearts and butter alike, it pairs beautifully with any meal.
6. Macaroni And Cheese
A cheesy embrace that comforts like a warm hug. This dish takes you back to childhood with its creamy, gooey goodness.
It’s a symphony of flavor, where the cheese reigns supreme. The ultimate comfort food, mac and cheese is the side that brings people together with its universal appeal.
7. Cajun Rice
Cajun Rice: the life of the party, packed with spices and attitude. This dish is a wild ride through a symphony of flavors.
This is where rice meets a medley of vegetables and spices that excite the senses. A burst of zest is keeping you on your toes. It’s a side with charisma!
8. Corn On The Cob
Bite of summer sunshine. This side dish brings the joy of backyard barbecues to your plate, with each kernel bursting with sweet juiciness.
Slathered in butter and sprinkled with herbs, it’s a simple pleasure that’s hard to resist. A bite into the corn transports you to sun-drenched afternoons and laughter-filled gatherings.
9. Green Beans
Surprise in the world of sides. These green wonders offer a crisp, healthy contrast to the rich, fried fare.
Sautéed with garlic and herbs, they deliver a burst of freshness and flavor. A reminder that vegetables can be exciting too. It’s the side that sneaks in some greenery amidst the indulgence.
10. Jalapeño Peppers
Jalapeño Peppers: the daredevils of Popeye’s sides. These spicy little numbers bring the heat with a fiery kick that sets taste buds ablaze.
Crunchy and bold, they are the thrill-seekers’ choice, offering a spicy surprise with every bite. Not for the faint-hearted, these peppers add excitement and adventure to your meal.
11. Cajun Gravy
The unsung hero of Popeye’s sides. This rich, savory concoction transforms any dish it touches, adding depth and flavor with its bold personality.
A fusion of spices and herbs, it’s the perfect companion for mashed potatoes or rice. This gravy commands attention, proving that sides can be stars too.
12. Onion Rings
These golden rings bring a satisfying crunch that echoes in your ears.
Battered and fried to perfection, they offer a savory burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with any main course.
The side that adds a touch of playful fun to your meal, making every bite an adventure. Who can resist the allure of a perfectly fried onion?
13. Cheese Fries
Imagine crispy fries drenched in a sea of gooey cheese. Each bite is a harmonious blend of crunch and creamy richness, a symphony for your senses.
It’s a side dish that’s unapologetically indulgent, daring you to savor each cheesy morsel. A taste of heaven on earth, these fries are a testament to the power of cheese and potatoes.
14. Applesauce
Unexpected charmer in the lineup of sides. Sweet and comforting, it offers a delightful contrast to the savory dishes.
With its smooth texture and subtle hint of cinnamon, it transports you to a world of warmth and nostalgia. It’s the side that surprises you with its simplicity.
15. Green Bean Salad
A fresh take on a classic side. This dish combines crisp green beans with juicy tomatoes and tangy feta cheese.
It’s the side that brings a breath of fresh air to your meal. For those seeking balance amidst indulgence, the green bean salad is a refreshing change.
16. Wild Rice Pilaf
This is the sophisticated member of Popeye’s sides. This dish exudes elegance with its earthy blend of wild rice, herbs, and vegetables.
A testament to the art of seasoning. It’s the side that offers a touch of refinement, balancing indulgence with a hint of sophistication.