The Best Wines to Pair with Chicken – A Guide to Perfect Poultry Pairings

Chicken might seem like the simple option, but when it comes to wine pairings, it’s anything but boring. Its versatility means there’s a perfect bottle for every style — from tender roast dinners to bold, spicy wings and everything in between.

The key to a great pairing? Think about the preparation. The sauce, seasoning, and cut all play a part in choosing a wine that complements rather than competes. Whether you’re a white wine lover or curious about reds with poultry, this guide will help you match every bite with the perfect sip.

Why White Wine Is a Natural Fit for Chicken

White wine and chicken are a classic combination. The light body and bright acidity of whites complement the lean protein beautifully, lifting delicate flavours without overpowering them.

For grilled chicken, herb-based rubs, or lemony marinades, Sauvignon Blanc and Vermentino shine — crisp, refreshing, and full of citrus and green notes.

For creamier dishes like chicken in white wine or buttery sauces, an oaked Chardonnay or Viognier adds depth with notes of vanilla, stone fruit, or even a hint of spice.

And when spice enters the picture — think glazed wings, peri-peri, or Asian-style chicken — an off-dry Riesling or Gewürztraminer cools the heat while enhancing those bold flavours.

Best Wine Pairings for Different Chicken Styles

Grilled or Herb-Rubbed Chicken – Fresh, Zesty Whites

Think of light, aromatic wines with good acidity. Sauvignon Blanc offers grassy, citrus-driven brightness, while Vermentino adds subtle salinity and floral tones — perfect for Mediterranean-style herbs and grilled textures.

Creamy or Buttery Sauces – Rich, Textured Whites

When your chicken is cloaked in a creamy sauce or baked into a rich pie, reach for a wine with weight and structure. Oaked Chardonnay provides buttery smoothness and spice, while Viognier adds a lush, aromatic touch with hints of peach and honeysuckle.

Roast Chicken – Elegant, Balanced Whites

A classic roast calls for a wine with balance and subtlety. Pinot Gris or a fine White Burgundy (Chardonnay from Burgundy, France) bring freshness, minerality, and enough body to stand up to crispy skin and roasted aromatics.

Spicy or Glazed Chicken – Aromatic, Off-Dry Wines

When sugar, spice, or heat enters the picture, you need a wine with sweetness or bold aromatics. Off-dry Riesling and Gewürztraminer are natural choices, as their fruit-forward profiles balance heat and richness with ease.

Can You Pair Red Wine with Chicken?

Absolutely — especially with darker cuts like thighs and drumsticks, or if your dish includes rich, savoury sauces. The trick is to choose reds that are lighter in body and lower in tannin, so they enhance rather than overwhelm the flavours.

Pinot Noir is a standout here: soft, earthy, and full of red berry fruit, it’s fantastic with mushroom-based sauces or roasted leg meat. Gamay, the grape behind Beaujolais, is another go-to — juicy, bright, and brilliant served slightly chilled.

And when you’re working with smoky BBQ sauces or tomato-based marinades, reach for a bolder red like Zinfandel or Grenache. Their ripeness, spice, and structure stand up beautifully to deeper flavours.

Unexpected Pairings: Rosé & Bold Whites

Don’t overlook a good dry rosé — its crisp acidity and red fruit flavours work surprisingly well with everything from grilled chicken skewers to spicy drumsticks. And for lovers of white wine who want to experiment, try a rich Chenin Blanc or white Rhône blend when you’re serving roast chicken with stuffing or gravy.

Final Thoughts

Chicken is one of the most flexible proteins out there, and that’s exactly what makes it so rewarding to pair with wine. Whether you’re roasting it simply or loading it up with spice, there’s a perfect bottle to match.

Want help picking the right wine for your next dish? Browse our collection or get in touch — we’re always happy to help you find your perfect pairin

Cheers to good wine and even better chicken! 🥂