Picnics are a relaxing way to enjoy a meal outdoors, especially when the food is easy to carry and even easier to love. The mix of comfort, casual dining, and fresh air creates the perfect setting for a memorable day with friends or family. Many public parks in Des Moines allow food setups, making them ideal spots for a peaceful afternoon meal.
Packing delicious pizza & chicken in Des Moines for a picnic is a smart choice. Both dishes offer a wide range of flavors and serving styles, making them ideal for sharing at a picnic table or on a blanket in one of the scenic parks. Choosing familiar foods makes setup and cleanup much easier during outdoor gatherings.
Pick the Right Pizzas for a Balanced Spread
Ordering a variety of pizzas adds interest and satisfies different preferences. Traditional cheese or pepperoni options provide a familiar base, while creative choices like chicken alfredo or roasted veggie pizzas introduce more personality to the table. Pizza slices are often served in recyclable boxes, which are convenient for picnics.
Thinner crusts tend to stay crisp longer and are less messy when served outdoors. Cutting pizzas into smaller slices also encourages sampling and makes it easier for guests to try multiple flavors during your Des Moines picnic without feeling too full. Many local pizza places offer customizable sizes and toppings suitable for group events.
Select Chicken That’s Easy to Pack and Eat
Chicken is a great picnic item when chosen for flavor and practicality. Bone-in pieces like drumsticks and thighs are portable and simple to eat without utensils. In Des Moines, many restaurants offer combo packs that include a mix of chicken cuts ideal for picnics.
Boneless options, such as crispy tenders or seasoned wings, also make serving and cleanup easier. Bringing a variety of dipping sauces like ranch or barbecue lets everyone customize their plate while keeping the meal stress-free and enjoyable outdoors. Pre-packed sauces are easy to transport and reduce the need for bulky containers.
Add Snacks That Are Easy to Share
Snacks are perfect for guests to enjoy before or between bites of the main dishes. Choosing items that are easy to handle without plates or utensils makes the spread more accessible. These snack choices keep things casual and can be enjoyed while setting up or relaxing under the sun:
- Garlic knots with dipping sauce
- Mini pretzels or crackers
- Crunchy veggie sticks
- Single-serve trail mix packets
Finish Strong With Simple, Sweet Desserts
Ending the meal with a dessert gives everyone something to look forward to. Baked goods like brownies or shortbread cookies are easy to share and don’t need refrigeration. Individual dessert bars are available at many Des Moines bakeries in picnic-friendly packaging.
Small fruit tarts or lemon bars also offer a sweet touch without adding too much weight to the meal. When picnicking here, packing a few light treats keeps the atmosphere fun and carefree. Bringing reusable containers makes post-picnic cleanup quick and efficient.
Explore Local Favorites in Des Moines for Pickup and Delivery
Many local food spots offer convenient online ordering, making it easy to plan a picnic without spending time in the kitchen. Menus often include family-style pizza, chicken meals, and side options that are packaged for easy transport. Some websites even allow custom orders and scheduled pickups, which can save time when preparing for an outdoor gathering.
Starting your picnic with delicious pizza & chicken in Des Moines creates a simple, satisfying outdoor meal. Choosing the right mix of flavors, easy-to-eat sides, and shareable treats ensures that every guest enjoys a relaxed and tasty gathering in one of Des Moines’ many beautiful picnic spots. Local eateries offer a variety of takeout-friendly options perfect for open-air dining.
