Cheers to Chicken and Beer: Unconventional Pairings for the Bold and Brave
When you think of pairing beer with food, the first thing that comes to mind might be the classic combination of burgers and beer. But, what about chicken? Often overlooked, chicken is a versatile meat that can be paired with a variety of beers to create a delicious and unexpected flavor experience. In this article, we’ll explore some unconventional pairings for the bold and brave.
Belgian Witbier and Fried Chicken
Belgian Witbier is a light, refreshing beer that’s perfect for pairing with fried chicken. The crispy, salty skin of fried chicken is complemented by the citrus and coriander notes in the beer. The effervescence of the beer also helps to cut through the richness of the fried chicken.
IPA and Chicken Wings
If you’re a fan of spicy chicken wings, IPA is the perfect pairing for you. The bitter hops in the beer help to balance the heat of the wings, while the citrus notes complement the flavor of the chicken.
Porter and Chicken Tacos
Chicken tacos are a light and flavorful dish that pairs well with a dark and robust porter. The smoky and chocolatey notes in the beer complement the bold spices in the tacos, while the carbonation helps to cut through the richness of the chicken.
Sour Beer and Grilled Chicken Salad
For those who prefer a lighter meal, grilled chicken salad is a perfect pairing with sour beer. The tartness of the beer complements the acidity of the salad dressing, while the carbonation helps to cleanse the palate between bites.
Brown Ale and Chicken Pot Pie
Comfort food meets comfort beer with the pairing of chicken pot pie and brown ale. The nutty and caramel notes in the beer complement the creamy filling of the pot pie, while the carbonation helps to refresh the palate between bites.
FAQs
What is the best beer to pair with chicken?
The best beer to pair with chicken depends on the preparation and flavor profile of the dish. Belgian Witbier is a great pairing with fried chicken, IPA with chicken wings, porter with chicken tacos, sour beer with grilled chicken salad, and brown ale with chicken pot pie.
Can you pair beer with white meat chicken?
Absolutely! While chicken is often paired with red wine, white meat chicken pairs well with a variety of beers. The key is to consider the preparation and flavor profile of the dish when selecting a beer pairing.
Can you pair beer with spicy chicken?
Yes, spicy chicken pairs well with IPA. The bitterness of the hops helps to balance the heat of the chicken.
Conclusion
As we’ve shown, chicken and beer can be a surprisingly delightful pairing if done right. So, the next time you’re in the mood for some chicken, why not try something new and pair it with a beer that complements its flavors? Who knows, maybe you’ll discover a new favorite combination!