Chicken and Wine Pairing Guide: The Best Wine with Chicken

Let’s talk chicken. One of the most versatile ingredients in the culinary world, chicken is the canvas for a wide variety of flavors. And what better way to elevate your chicken dish than by pairing it with a perfect glass of wine? Whether you’re roasting, grilling, or tossing it into a creamy sauce, the right wine can take your chicken dish from “meh” to magnificent.

In this guide, we’ll explore what wine pairs with chicken, from light and zesty whites to bold reds. Get ready to discover your new favorite pairing with chicken — it’s a match made in culinary heaven!

Why Wine and Chicken Work so Well Together

Chicken is an incredibly versatile protein, and its ability to take on a wide range of flavors makes it the perfect match for wine. Unlike more robust meats like beef or lamb, chicken offers a mild base that allows wine to shine without being overpowering. Its tender, juicy texture and subtle flavor profile create the ideal backdrop for both delicate whites and structured reds.

The key to pairing wine with chicken is considering the cooking method and accompanying flavors. A well-roasted chicken with herbs and butter will benefit from a wine that can balance its richness, such as a creamy Chardonnay. On the other hand, a zesty, lemony grilled chicken demands a wine that offers crisp acidity, like Sauvignon Blanc, to elevate the freshness of the dish. Additionally, chicken’s ability to absorb the nuances of seasonings and marinades allows it to pair beautifully with wines that offer everything from fruity and floral notes to smoky and earthy tones.

What Wine Goes with Chicken? Understanding the Basics

The beauty of chicken is its adaptability — it takes on the flavors of whatever it’s cooked with, making it a blank canvas for endless wine pairing possibilities. But not all wines are created equal when it comes to complementing chicken. Factors like preparation style, seasonings, and sauces will change the game entirely.

Here are some of the standout options for pairing chicken with wine.

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is a classic pairing for chicken, especially when it’s roasted or served in a creamy sauce. The wine’s rich, buttery notes complement the tender, savory meat, while its crisp acidity balances out the richness. A perfect harmony for any chicken lover. The oak-aged versions, in particular, add a layer of complexity with their vanilla and toasted notes, making them especially suited for more indulgent preparations like chicken Alfredo or roasted chicken with root vegetables. It’s a versatile option that works equally well with both lighter and richer chicken dishes.
Discover more chicken and Chardonnay recipes here.

Sauvignon Blanc

If your chicken recipe features herbs, garlic, or citrus, Sauvignon Blanc is your go-to. This light-bodied, aromatic white wine’s sharp acidity cuts through the flavors, complementing dishes like herb-roasted or grilled chicken. Its fresh and zesty profile enhances the herbal notes of your dish, creating a delightful contrast. Sauvignon Blanc also pairs beautifully with chicken prepared in lighter, tangy sauces, such as a lemon or mustard glaze, where the wine’s lively character adds an extra layer of brightness.

Pinot Gris

Pinot Gris is a smooth, medium-bodied white with just the right balance of fruit and acidity. Its light, crisp nature makes it a great match for chicken dishes that are fresh, light, and a bit herbaceous. Think herb-roasted chicken or chicken with light sauces. The wine’s delicate fruitiness, with hints of apple, pear, and citrus, provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the chicken. It’s a wonderful option for those who prefer a more subtly-flavored wine that doesn’t overpower the dish but still brings complexity to the table.

Pinot Noir

Fans of red wine, rejoice! Pinot Noir is the perfect light-bodied red to pair with chicken. Its earthy and fruity tones add depth to dishes like chicken with mushrooms or herbal flavors, while its low tannins ensure it won’t overpower the delicate chicken. The wine’s bright acidity and silky texture make it a versatile choice for a variety of chicken preparations, from roasted to grilled. Its subtle notes of cherry, raspberry, and forest floor enhance the savory and umami flavors of chicken, especially when paired with roasted vegetables or balsamic glazes.

Cabernet Sauvignon

For barbecue chicken fans, Cabernet Sauvignon is a stellar choice. Its bold flavors and notes of dark fruit and spice stand up beautifully to smoky, tangy barbecue sauces. The wine’s tannic structure helps balance the richness of the sauce, while its intense flavors complement the charred and caramelized notes of the chicken. It’s a fantastic match for grilled or slow-cooked barbecue chicken, where the wine’s body and power enhance the deep flavors of the dish, creating a satisfying pairing for those who crave a heartier wine with their meal.

Rosé

Rosé is a summer favorite that pairs perfectly with light and fresh chicken dishes. Think grilled chicken salads or chicken with citrus glazes. The wine’s crisp acidity and subtle fruitiness make it a refreshing choice. Rosé’s versatility means it can complement a wide range of chicken dishes, from Mediterranean-inspired grilled chicken with olives and feta to more classic preparations like chicken piccata. It’s an easy-drinking option that offers a touch of fruitiness without overwhelming the flavors of lighter, herbaceous dishes.

Sparkling Wine

Sparkling wine is not just for celebrations – it’s also perfect for chicken, particularly fried chicken. The effervescence helps cleanse the palate between bites, while the subtle sweetness of the wine complements the savory crunch of the fried chicken coating. The high acidity of sparkling wine also cuts through the richness of fried food, refreshing the palate with each sip. Whether you’re enjoying a classic fried chicken or a crispy chicken sandwich, the bubbles in sparkling wine bring a sense of lightness and balance, making it an unexpectedly delightful pairing.

Pairing Tips Based on Chicken Dishes

While it’s helpful to know which wines work well overall, specific pairings for particular dishes take things to the next level. Here’s a handy guide to pairing wine with your favorite chicken recipes.

Roasted Chicken

• Wine Pairings: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc
• Why It Works: Chardonnay’s rich body enhances the roasted flavors, while Pinot Noir adds earthy complexity. Sauvignon Blanc’s crispness provides a refreshing contrast.
• Recommended Pairing: La Crema Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

Grilled Chicken

• Wine Pairings: Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Rosé
• Why It Works: Sauvignon Blanc enhances herbal marinades, while rosé balances smokiness with its crisp, fruity notes.
• Recommended Pairing: La Crema Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc

Fried Chicken

• Wine Pairings: Pinot Gris, Sparkling Wine
• Why It Works: The freshness of Pinot Gris and the effervescence of sparkling wine cut through the crispy, fatty richness of fried chicken.
• Recommended Pairing: La Crema Blanc De Blancs
• Recipes: Try these recipes for the ultimate pairing experience
  Perfect Fried Chicken or Southern Chicken and Waffles.

Chicken in Creamy Sauces

• Wine Pairings: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Viognier
• Why It Works: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir complement creamy textures without overwhelming them, while Viognier’s floral notes add an extra layer of intrigue.
• Recommended Pairing: La Crema Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

Chicken with Herbs and Citrus

• Wine Pairings: Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Rosé
• Why It Works: These wines accentuate the brightness of herbs and citrus without overshadowing their delicacy.
• Recommended Pairing: La Crema Pinot Noir Rosé
• Recipes: Explore recipes like Herb & Cheese-Stuffed Chicken or Chicken Thighs with Potato and Lemon.

Spicy Chicken Dishes

• Wine Pairings: Chardonnay
• Why It Works: Chardonnay’s lush profile tones down heat while complementing spices with its fruit-forward notes.
• Recommended Pairing: La Crema Tidal Break Chardonnay
• Recipe: Spice lovers, try these Chicken Fajitas.

Barbecue Chicken

• Wine Pairings: Cabernet Sauvignon, Sparkling Rosé
• Why It Works: Bold wines like Cabernet and the refreshing effervescence of sparkling rosé amplify the smoky, tangy barbecue flavors.
• Recommended Pairing: La Crema Brut Rosé

Chicken Casseroles

• Wine Pairings: Pinot Noir, Chenin Blanc, Viognier
• Why It Works: These wines highlight hearty, layered flavors without overpowering the comforting essence of casseroles.
• Recommended Pairing: La Crema Los Carneros Pinot Noir
• Recipes: Learn how to make a wonderful Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken and Mushroom Dishes

• Wine Pairings: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay
• Why It Works: Pinot Noir’s earthiness matches mushrooms perfectly, while Chardonnay adds balance and brightness.
• Recommended Pairing: La Crema Anderson Valley Chardonnay
• Recipes: Try this delicious One Pot Risotto

La Crema Wines: The Top Choice for Chicken and Wine Pairings

Now that we’ve covered what wine goes with chicken in all its glorious forms, let’s talk about the real star of the show: La Crema wines. Our portfolio is filled with wines that complement all kinds of chicken dishes, whether you’re serving up a simple roasted chicken or a flavor-packed BBQ feast.

La Crema wines are known for their exceptional quality, balance, and versatility, making them the ideal choice for your next chicken and wine pairing. Whether you prefer a rich Chardonnay, a smooth Pinot Noir, or a refreshing Rosé, La Crema has the perfect wine to enhance your chicken dish.

So, why not explore our selection of wines and start experimenting with different pairings? You might just find your new favorite combination. Plus, check out our blog for even more food pairing inspiration and delicious recipes! Visit our blog here.

And don’t forget to meet Tracey Shepos-Cenami, La Crema’s very own culinary expert, who brings a wealth of experience and passion to all our wine and food pairing recommendations. Tracey played a pivotal role in developing the culinary program at La Crema Estate at Saralee’s Vineyard, including introducing a VIP wine and cheese pairing experience. When she’s not at La Crema she regularly competes on the Food Network against some of the country’s top chefs, including Bobby Flay, Alex Guarnaschelli, and Christa Lutdke.
Learn more about Tracey here.