So you’ve made an amazing Asian chicken salad, but now you’re scratching your head about what to serve alongside it? I’ve been there too! Asian chicken salad is already a flavor powerhouse with its blend of crisp veggies, tender chicken, and that irresistible tangy-sweet dressing. But pairing it with the right side dishes can transform your meal from good to absolutely unforgettable.
As someone who hosts dinner parties way too often (according to my wallet) I’ve experimented with countless side dish combinations. Today, I’m sharing my top 15 picks that perfectly complement the vibrant flavors of Asian chicken salad without overshadowing it.
Why Pair Side Dishes with Asian Chicken Salad?
Before diving into the specific recommendations, let’s talk about why you might want to serve something alongside your Asian chicken salad in the first place:
- Balance the meal: While Asian chicken salad is nutritious, adding a side dish creates a more complete and satisfying meal
- Enhance flavors: The right sides can complement and highlight the umami, sweet, tangy, and spicy notes in your salad
- Add texture: Different textures make eating more interesting and enjoyable
- Accommodate dietary needs: Side dishes allow you to cater to different preferences at your table
Now, let’s explore the best side dishes to serve with your Asian chicken salad!
Best Side Dishes for Asian Chicken Salad
1. Steamed Jasmine Rice
Jasmine rice is probably my favorite pairing with Asian chicken salad. It’s fragrant, fluffy, and provides a neutral base that balances the bold flavors of the salad perfectly. The light, aromatic qualities of jasmine rice make it an ideal companion that won’t compete with your salad’s complex flavor profile.
Pro tip: For an extra flavor boost, cook your rice in chicken or vegetable broth instead of water.
2. Vegetable Spring Rolls
Spring rolls provide a delightful crispy contrast to your salad Made with fresh vegetables wrapped in thin rice paper, they offer a different texture experience while complementing the Asian flavors. I like to serve these with a simple dipping sauce on the side.
When I’m feeling lazy (which is more often than I’d like to admit), I just buy pre-made ones from my local Asian market and nobody can tell the difference!
3. Edamame
These vibrant green soybeans are a nutrient powerhouse and incredibly easy to prepare. Just boil or steam them sprinkle with a bit of salt and you’ve got a protein-rich side that’s both healthy and delicious.
The subtle, nutty flavor of edamame pairs wonderfully with the bolder flavors in your chicken salad, and they add a fun interactive element as guests pop the beans out of their pods.
4. Cucumber Salad
When the weather’s hot and I want something super refreshing, I always make a simple cucumber salad. Thinly sliced cucumbers dressed with rice vinegar, a touch of sugar, and some spices create a cooling counterpoint to the robust flavors in your Asian chicken salad.
It takes literally 5 minutes to throw together, which is perfect when I’m already spending time on the main dish.
5. Fruit Skewers
Fruit skewers offer a sweet contrast that works surprisingly well with Asian chicken salad. Thread strawberries, pineapple, melon, and other colorful fruits onto skewers for a visually appealing side that adds a refreshing sweetness to your meal.
My guests always appreciate this unexpected pairing, especially during summer gatherings. Plus, they make your table look amazing for those Instagram pics!
6. Sesame Noodles
Cold sesame noodles introduce a creamy, slightly spicy element that harmonizes beautifully with Asian chicken salad. The noodles, coated in a rich sesame sauce, add substance to your meal while complementing the Asian flavor profile of your salad.
I usually make these ahead of time and let them chill in the fridge, which makes them perfect for entertaining.
7. Miso Soup
For a warming complement to your salad, miso soup is hard to beat. Made with fermented soybean paste, this traditional Japanese soup is light yet satisfying. It’s rich in probiotics and the umami flavors pair perfectly with the fresh components of your salad.
When serving both hot and cold dishes, I like to serve the soup in small cups rather than bowls to keep portions manageable.
8. Dumplings
Whether steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, dumplings make an excellent accompaniment to Asian chicken salad. Their savory fillings enclosed in tender wrappers provide a satisfying contrast to the crispness of the salad.
My family goes crazy for potstickers with a simple dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of chili oil.
9. Pickled Vegetables
Pickled vegetables offer a tangy and crunchy element that cuts through the richness of certain Asian chicken salad components. Common choices include cucumbers, carrots, daikon radish, and cabbage.
I like to make a quick pickle a day ahead, which allows the flavors to develop and saves me time on the day of serving.
10. Coconut Curry Soup
For a more substantial meal, coconut curry soup brings rich, aromatic warmth to complement the freshness of your salad. The creamy coconut base infused with curry spices creates a delightful contrast to the light, crisp textures in your Asian chicken salad.
11. Quinoa Salad
When I’m feeding health-conscious friends, I often serve a simple quinoa salad alongside Asian chicken salad. This ancient grain is packed with protein and has a pleasant, nutty flavor that pairs well with Asian flavors.
Add some fresh herbs like cilantro and mint, plus a squeeze of lime, and you’ve got a refreshing, nutritious side dish that complements without competing.
12. Brown Rice
For a healthier alternative to white rice, brown rice offers more fiber and nutrients while still providing that comforting starchy component. Its slightly nutty flavor works wonderfully with the Asian flavor profile.
I like to drizzle a little sesame oil and sprinkle some black sesame seeds on top for extra flavor and visual appeal.
13. Sweet Potato Fries
These are a bit unexpected but work surprisingly well! Sweet potato fries add a sweet-savory element and satisfying crispiness that contrasts beautifully with the salad’s textures. They’re also super popular with kids, making them a great choice for family meals.
Try seasoning them with a bit of five-spice powder to tie them into the Asian theme!
14. Fried Rice
When I want to transform my Asian chicken salad into a hearty dinner, I serve it with fried rice. This classic dish, packed with vegetables and flavored with soy sauce, complements the salad perfectly while making the meal more substantial.
Leftover rice works best for this, so I often make extra rice a day or two before planning to serve fried rice.
15. Green Tea
While not technically a side dish, green tea is the perfect beverage to serve with Asian chicken salad. Its slightly bitter, grassy notes cleanse the palate between bites and complement the Asian flavors in your salad.
Serve it hot in cooler months or iced when the weather is warm. I find that most guests appreciate this authentic pairing!
How to Choose the Perfect Side Dish
When deciding which of these sides to serve with your Asian chicken salad, consider:
- The flavor profile of your salad – If your salad is heavy on ginger and garlic, balance it with something milder or sweeter
- Texture contrasts – Pair crispy salads with softer sides like rice or soup
- The occasion – More formal gatherings might call for elegant sides like dumplings, while family dinners might be better with approachable options like sweet potato fries
- Season and temperature – Hot soup pairs better in winter, while cucumber salad feels right in summer
Frequently Asked Questions
What bread goes well with Asian chicken salad?
While bread isn’t a traditional pairing with Asian chicken salad, a light, airy baguette works nicely if you want a bread option. For something more substantial, try ciabatta or a whole wheat bread. Avoid heavy, strongly flavored breads that might compete with the salad’s delicate flavors.
What wine pairs best with Asian chicken salad?
For wine pairings, crisp, acidic whites like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement Asian chicken salad beautifully. The acidity helps cut through any richness in the dressing. If your salad has spicy elements, consider a slightly sweeter white like Riesling or Chenin Blanc to balance the heat. For red wine lovers, a light-bodied Pinot Noir works well.
Can I serve soup with Asian chicken salad?
Absolutely! Soups make excellent partners for Asian chicken salad. Besides the miso and coconut curry soups mentioned above, consider egg drop soup, wonton soup, or a clear chicken broth with Asian aromatics. The warm soup creates a nice temperature contrast with the cool salad.
Final Thoughts
Asian chicken salad is already a fantastic dish on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes elevates the entire meal experience. Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing like cucumber salad, or something more substantial like fried rice, there’s a perfect accompaniment for every occasion.
My personal favorite combination is Asian chicken salad with steamed jasmine rice and a small bowl of edamame. The flavors and textures complement each other perfectly, and it’s satisfying without being too heavy.
Next time you’re planning to serve Asian chicken salad, try one (or more!) of these side dishes to create a truly memorable meal that your guests will rave about. And remember, the best pairings are the ones you and your family enjoy most, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
What’s your favorite side dish to serve with Asian chicken salad? I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments!
1 General Tso’s Chicken
General Tsos Chicken is a popular dish that combines deep-fried chicken with a sweet, slightly spicy sauce. Its bold flavors and satisfying crunch offer a pleasant contrast to the freshness of your Chinese chicken salad, creating a symphony of flavors in your mouth.
Last but not least, potstickers make for a mouthwatering side dish. These pan-fried Chinese dumplings filled with ground meat and veggies provide a delicious savory flavor that complements the crisp, freshness of the salad.
Add some warmth to your meal with a bowl of hot and sour soup. The tangy, spicy flavors of this classic Chinese dish create a unique harmony with the crisp, cool salad. Its a pairing that will leave your taste buds dancing!
For a twist of flavor and texture, try some cold sesame noodles. Their creamy and slightly spicy sesame sauce complements the light and refreshing Chinese chicken salad. Its a side dish that adds a fun texture and delectable taste to your meal.
1 Kung Pao Chicken
Spicy, savory, and slightly sweet, Kung Pao Chicken is a flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad. The heat from the Kung Pao Chicken will complement the cool, crisp salad, creating a perfect balance.