What Goes With Curry Chicken? 22 Delicious Side Dish Pairings

Curry chicken is a beloved dish across many cultures. The aromatic, gently spiced sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes that complement and enhance the flavors. Finding the perfect accompaniments for curry chicken can truly bring the meal together into a feast. In this article, we’ll explore 22 delicious options for side dishes that go with curry chicken.

An Overview of Curry Chicken

Curry chicken features tender chicken pieces simmered in a sauce flavored with curry powder and spices like coriander, cumin, turmeric, ginger, and garlic The sauce is creamy and rich, with a warm yet mild spiciness. Traditional curry chicken has origins in Indian, Thai, and Japanese cuisines It can be prepared in many ways – fried, baked, or simmered in the fragrant sauce. The versatility of curry chicken has made it popular worldwide.

When serving curry chicken, side dishes play an important role in balancing flavors and textures. The right sides can soak up the flavorful sauce, provide a cooling contrast, add crunch, and round out the nutrition profile of the meal. Here are 22 delicious options to consider when deciding what goes with curry chicken.

22 Side Dishes to Serve with Curry Chicken

1. Rice

Rice is one of the most classic pairings with curry chicken The mild flavor and fluffy texture naturally complements the rich sauce Basmati rice is especially aromatic and popular, but jasmine or long grain white rice also make excellent bases for soaking up curry sauce. For extra flavor, coconut rice flavored with coconut milk is a delightful match.

2. Naan

Naan, a traditional Indian flatbread, is another highly popular pairing with curry chicken. The chewy, soft bread easily soaks up sauce. Try brushing naan with garlic-infused ghee or topping with melted cheese for extra flavor. Naan can be purchased ready-made or homemade fairly easily.

3. Chutneys

Chutneys provide a burst of contrasting sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors next to the richness of curry chicken. Mango chutney is a classic choice, with its sweet-tart tropical fruitiness. Mint chutney offers a cooling herbal note, while tamarind chutney provides a unique sweet-sour taste. They all enhance the flavor journey of the meal.

4. Raita

Raita is a yogurt-based condiment that makes an excellent cooling counterpart to curry chicken. Grated cucumber and fresh herbs add brightness. The creamy base has a cooling effect to balance out the warming heat of the curry spices. Raita aids in digestion too.

5. Cucumber Salad

A light cucumber salad offers similar cooling, crunchy refreshment as raita alongside curry chicken. A vinaigrette or yogurt dressing can enhance the fresh flavors. Cucumber salad provides hydration and nutrients like Vitamin K.

6. Samosas

For texture contrast, try crispy samosas stuffed with spiced potatoes and peas. The flaky pastries pair wonderfully with the rich curry sauce for dipping. Samosas can also be filled with minced meat or lentils. They add fun finger food flair.

7. Vegetable Pakoras

Like samosas, vegetable pakoras provide crispy crunch. These savory fritters feature spices like cumin, coriander, and chili powder. Popular versions include paneer, spinach, onion, potato, cauliflower, or mixed vegetable pakoras. They make a light, appetizing accompaniment.

8. Poppadoms

Crispy poppadoms or papads serve as excellent vehicles for scooping up curry sauce. These wafer-thin, savory discs typically made from lentil flour provide subtle flavor and delightful cracker-like crunch. They come in a range of spices too.

9. Lentil Dal

Lentil dal is a staple in Indian cuisine that offers protein and fiber along with curry chicken. Red, yellow, brown, or green lentils can be simmered with aromatic spices into a thick, creamy pot. The earthy, hearty flavors pair nicely with curry.

10. Roasted Vegetables

For nutrition-packed color and flavor, roasted vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, Brussels sprouts, or squash make flavorful additions to a curry chicken dinner. Toss vegetables in olive oil, salt, pepper, and spices before roasting to caramelized perfection.

11. Green Salad

A simple green salad tossed with a vinaigrette provides fresh contrast and nutrients. Lettuce, spinach, kale, cabbage, arugula, or mixed greens work well. Toppings like tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, and onions add interest.

12. Cauliflower Rice

For a low-carb alternative to regular rice, try cauliflower rice. Simply pulse raw cauliflower florets in a food processor into rice-sized pieces. Saute with aromatics like garlic and ginger. Cauliflower soaks up sauce nicely.

13. Quinoa

Quinoa has an appealing fluffy yet slightly crunchy texture. Its mild, nutty flavor allows the curry chicken to shine. Quinoa also boasts more protein than rice or grains. Toss it with vegetables for a more complete meal.

14. Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes or crunchy roasted potatoes pair wonderfully with curry chicken, soaking up the luscious sauce. Potatoes provide hearty satisfaction along with potassium and fiber. They can be seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and garlic.

15. Garlic Bread

Warm, crispy garlic bread makes for satisfying dipping into the rich curry sauce. The garlicky flavor complements curry spices brilliantly. Focaccia, baguette, or ciabatta work well. Add herbs for extra dimension.

16. Roti

In Indian cuisine, roti flatbread frequently accompanies curry chicken. Typically made with whole wheat flour, roti has a pleasant chewiness that works well with soaked-up sauce. Plain, garlic, or butter-topped roti all make nice partners.

17. Fried Plantains

For a touch of sweetness, try fried plantains. Their subtly sweet flavor and crispy texture offset the richness of curry chicken pleasantly. Popular in Caribbean, Latin, and African cuisines, they can be fried ripe or unripe.

18. Mango Salsa

Fresh mango salsa provides a refreshing, tropical twist next to curry chicken. Diced mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and chili peppers create vibrant flavor and texture contrast on the plate. Pineapple salsa also pairs well.

19. Coconut Chutney

Coconut chutney offers a creamy, slightly sweet complement to curry chicken’s savory spices. Blending shredded coconut, yogurt, herbs, chili, and spices creates an easy chutney. The coconut amplifies the curry’s richness.

20. Spinach Saag

In Indian cuisine, spinach saag stew frequently accompanies curry chicken. Chopped spinach cooks down with aromatics into a silky puree ideal for scooping up curry sauce. It provides a nutrition boost too.

21. Green Beans

For a pop of color and crunch, green beans – either steamed and seasoned or stir-fried with soy sauce and sesame oil – make bright, crisp accompaniments to curry chicken. They have a mild, versatile flavor.

22. Papaya Salad

Spicy papaya salad provides a Southeast Asian approach to pairing with curry chicken. Shredded papaya, tomatoes, chilies, fish sauce, lime, and peanuts create atangy, savory salad that complements curry’s vibrancy.

The options for what to serve alongside curry chicken are practically endless. By including a variety of flavors, textures, temperatures, and nutritional profiles, you can craft a well-rounded and immensely satisfying curry feast. Experiment with different side dishes to find your favorite pairings. The right sides can truly enhance this beloved curry chicken dish into a memorable dining experience.