If you’re looking for the perfect accompaniment to your mouthwatering tandoori chicken, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll explore a variety of delicious options that will complement the bold flavors of your grilled chicken. From refreshing sides to tantalizing dips, we’ll help you create a complete and satisfying meal that will leave your taste buds begging for more. So, grab your apron, fire up the grill, and let’s discover the best dishes to serve with tandoori chicken!
Vegetable Side Dishes
Mixed Vegetables
A perfect accompaniment to Tandoori Chicken, mixed vegetables are a colorful and healthy addition to your meal. Whether you choose to steam or stir-fry them, mixed vegetables offer a variety of flavors and textures. You can include a combination of broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and snow peas. Season them with some salt, pepper, and a dash of lemon juice for a refreshing, tangy taste.
Saag Paneer
Saag Paneer is a delicious Indian dish made with spinach and paneer (Indian cottage cheese). The creamy texture of the paneer perfectly complements the smokey and flavorful Tandoori Chicken. The spinach is cooked with aromatic spices, garlic, and ginger, giving it a rich and earthy taste. Serve Saag Paneer alongside Tandoori Chicken and some naan bread for a well-rounded meal.
Cucumber Raita
Cucumber raita is a cooling and refreshing side dish that pairs wonderfully with the heat of Tandoori Chicken. Made with cucumbers, yogurt, and a blend of spices, this raita helps balance out the flavors of the spicy chicken. The creamy and tangy yogurt complements the succulent chicken, making it a delightful combination. Enjoy the crispness of the cucumbers and the aromatic spices in every refreshing bite.
Roasted Eggplant
Roasted eggplant is a tasty and hearty vegetable side dish that provides a depth of flavors to accompany your Tandoori Chicken. Slice the eggplant into thick rounds and roast them until they become tender and slightly charred. The smoky and caramelized flavors of the roasted eggplant complement the bold flavors of the chicken, creating a satisfying and satisfying meal. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, over the roasted eggplant for added freshness.
Masoor Dal
Masoor dal, also known as red lentil dal, is a protein-rich lentil dish that makes a perfect side dish for Tandoori Chicken. Cooked with aromatic spices, onions, tomatoes, and garlic, masoor dal offers a comforting and satisfying taste. The creamy texture of the lentils pairs well with the juicy Tandoori Chicken, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture to your meal. Serve it with some naan bread or steamed rice for a complete and filling dining experience.
Mint Chutney
Mint chutney is a flavorful and refreshing sauce that complements the bold and spicy flavors of Tandoori Chicken. Made with fresh mint leaves, cilantro, green chilies, garlic, and lemon juice, this chutney adds a burst of freshness to any dish. The coolness of the mint combined with the tanginess of lemon creates a perfect balance with the intense flavors of the chicken. Drizzle the mint chutney over your Tandoori Chicken or use it as a dipping sauce for a delightful burst of flavors.
Grain Side Dishes
Naan Bread
Naan bread is a staple in Indian cuisine and is the perfect accompaniment to Tandoori Chicken. This soft and fluffy bread pairs well with the spicy flavors of the chicken, helping to balance out the heat. Slather some butter or ghee onto the warm naan bread for an extra indulgence. Tear off a piece of naan and use it to scoop up the succulent pieces of Tandoori Chicken, creating a delicious and satisfying bite.
Pilaf Rice
Pilaf rice is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish that enhances the meal when served with Tandoori Chicken. Cooked with aromatic spices, such as cumin, cardamom, and cloves, pilaf rice adds a delightful blend of flavors to your plate. The light and fluffy texture of the rice complements the bold flavors of the chicken, creating a perfect balance. Garnish the pilaf rice with some toasted nuts, such as almonds or cashews, for added crunch and richness.
Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad is a healthy and nutritious grain side dish that pairs well with Tandoori Chicken. Mix cooked quinoa with some diced vegetables, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers, for a refreshing and crunchy salad. You can also add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or mint, to enhance the flavors. Dress the quinoa salad with a light vinaigrette or a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy and vibrant taste that complements the spicy chicken.
Roti
Roti is a traditional Indian bread that is a popular choice to serve with Tandoori Chicken. Made from whole wheat flour, roti is a healthier alternative to naan bread and offers a slightly nutty flavor. The soft and pliable texture of the roti allows you to wrap pieces of Tandoori Chicken and other accompaniments, such as mint chutney, pickled onions, and yogurt sauce, creating a delicious and convenient handheld meal. Enjoy the combination of the tender chicken and the chewy roti in every bite.
Biryani
Biryani is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish that complements the intense flavors of Tandoori Chicken. Made with basmati rice, aromatic spices, and a mix of meat or vegetables, biryani offers a complete meal on its own. The layered cooking technique allows the flavors to infuse into the rice, creating a delicious and aromatic dish. Serve a generous portion of biryani alongside your Tandoori Chicken for a hearty and satisfying meal that is full of flavors and textures.
Salads and Raita
Cucumber Tomato Salad
Cucumber tomato salad is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that pairs well with Tandoori Chicken. Made with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy dressing, this salad adds a burst of freshness to your plate. The coolness and crispness of the cucumbers complement the bold flavors of the chicken, creating a satisfying and balanced meal. Add some chopped red onions and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as cilantro or mint, for added flavor and texture.
Onion Salad
Onion salad is a simple and flavorful side dish that adds a punch of freshness to your Tandoori Chicken. Thinly slice some red onions and soak them in water for a few minutes to mellow their sharpness. Drain the onions and toss them with a squeeze of lemon juice, salt, and a pinch of chili powder for a zesty and tangy taste. The sharpness of the onions adds a savory and crunchy element to the meal, complementing the spiciness of the chicken.
Mango Raita
Mango raita is a sweet and tangy side dish that pairs well with the spicy flavors of Tandoori Chicken. Made with ripe mangoes, yogurt, and a blend of spices, this raita offers a refreshing and tropical taste. The sweetness of the mangoes balances out the heat of the chicken, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Enjoy the cool and creamy texture of the raita alongside the succulent pieces of Tandoori Chicken for a truly delightful dining experience.
Yogurt Salad
Yogurt salad is a light and refreshing side dish that complements the bold flavors of Tandoori Chicken. Made with creamy yogurt, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a hint of mint, this salad offers a cool and tangy taste that helps balance out the spiciness of the chicken. The creaminess of the yogurt creates a soothing contrast to the intense flavors, making it a perfect accompaniment. Add a dash of lemon juice and a sprinkle of salt and pepper for an extra burst of flavor.
Green Salad
A simple and classic green salad is a versatile side dish that pairs well with Tandoori Chicken. Mix together a variety of crisp salad greens, such as lettuce, spinach, and arugula, for a refreshing and nutritious base. Add some sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions for extra crunch and flavor. Dress the salad with a light vinaigrette or a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice for a tangy and vibrant taste. Enjoy the crispness and freshness of the greens alongside the bold flavors of the chicken.
Condiments and Accompaniments
Naan Bread
Naan bread is a versatile accompaniment that can be used to scoop up the succulent pieces of Tandoori Chicken or as a base for creating delicious wraps. The soft and pillowy texture of the naan bread pairs well with the spicy flavors of the chicken, providing a comforting and indulgent element to the meal. Brush some melted butter or garlic-infused oil on the warm naan bread for an extra burst of flavor and richness.
Mint Chutney
Mint chutney is a versatile condiment that adds a burst of freshness and flavor to your Tandoori Chicken. Made with fresh mint leaves, cilantro, green chilies, garlic, and lemon juice, this chutney offers a refreshing and tangy taste. The coolness of the mint complements the bold and spicy flavors of the chicken, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Enjoy the mint chutney as a dipping sauce or drizzle it over the chicken for an extra kick of flavor.
Pickled Onions
Pickled onions are a tangy and crunchy condiment that adds a burst of flavor to your Tandoori Chicken. Thinly slice some red onions and soak them in a mixture of vinegar, water, sugar, and salt to pickle them. The tanginess and acidity of the pickled onions cut through the richness and spiciness of the chicken, providing a refreshing and zesty contrast. Add a handful of pickled onions to your plate for an extra pop of flavor and texture.
Tamarind Chutney
Tamarind chutney is a sweet and tangy condiment that complements the bold flavors of Tandoori Chicken. Made with tamarind pulp, jaggery (unrefined cane sugar), and a blend of spices, this chutney offers a complex and savory taste. The sweetness and tanginess of the tamarind create a delightful contrast to the spicy chicken, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Drizzle the tamarind chutney over your Tandoori Chicken or use it as a dipping sauce for a burst of flavors.
Yogurt Sauce
Yogurt sauce, also known as raita, is a creamy and cooling condiment that pairs well with the spicy flavors of Tandoori Chicken. Made with yogurt, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, this sauce offers a refreshing and tangy taste that helps balance out the heat. The creamy texture of the yogurt creates a soothing contrast to the intense flavors, making it a perfect accompaniment. Use the yogurt sauce as a dipping sauce or drizzle it over the chicken for added creaminess.
Beverages
Mango Lassi
Mango lassi is a popular Indian beverage that provides a refreshing and sweet complement to Tandoori Chicken. Made with fresh mangoes, yogurt, milk, and a hint of cardamom, this creamy drink offers a tropical and indulgent taste. The sweetness of the mangoes balances out the spiciness of the chicken, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Sip on the mango lassi alongside your Tandoori Chicken for a cooling and satisfying beverage.
Indian Masala Chai
Indian Masala Chai is a fragrant and spiced tea that pairs well with the rich flavors of Tandoori Chicken. Brewed with a blend of black tea, milk, and a mix of aromatic spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves, Masala Chai offers a warm and comforting taste. The bold and robust flavors of the tea complement the intense flavors of the chicken, creating a perfect balance. Enjoy a steaming cup of Masala Chai alongside your Tandoori Chicken for a cozy and satisfying experience.
Cucumber Lemonade
Cucumber lemonade is a refreshing and hydrating beverage that helps cool down the heat of Tandoori Chicken. Blend together some fresh cucumber, lemon juice, water, and a touch of sweetness for a crisp and tangy drink. The coolness of the cucumber provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken, creating a rejuvenating combination. Add some ice cubes and a sprig of fresh mint for an extra burst of freshness.
Mint Lemonade
Mint lemonade is a zesty and invigorating beverage that complements the bold flavors of Tandoori Chicken. Blend together some fresh mint leaves, lemon juice, water, and a touch of sweetness for a vibrant and refreshing drink. The coolness and herbaceousness of the mint add a delightful contrast to the spiciness of the chicken, creating a harmonious and refreshing pairing. Serve the mint lemonade chilled with some ice cubes for a revitalizing and satisfying beverage.
Watermelon Cooler
Watermelon cooler is a refreshing and hydrating beverage that pairs well with the intense flavors of Tandoori Chicken. Blend together some fresh watermelon, lime juice, and a hint of mint for a light and revitalizing drink. The sweetness and juiciness of the watermelon provide a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Serve the watermelon cooler chilled for a thirst-quenching and satisfying experience.
Desserts
Gulab Jamun
Gulab Jamun is a classic Indian dessert that offers a sweet and indulgent finish to your Tandoori Chicken meal. These deep-fried dough balls are soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a burst of sweetness. The richness of the Gulab Jamun provides a delightful contrast to the bold flavors of the chicken, creating a satisfying and decadent dessert. Enjoy these sweet treats alongside a cup of Indian Masala Chai for a truly indulgent experience.
Mango Kulfi
Mango Kulfi is a creamy and delicious frozen dessert that pairs well with the heat of Tandoori Chicken. Made with pureed mangoes, condensed milk, and cardamom, this Indian-style ice cream offers a burst of tropical flavors. The cool and creamy texture of the Kulfi provides a soothing contrast to the spicy chicken, creating a delightful combination. Garnish the Mango Kulfi with some chopped pistachios or almonds for added texture and richness.
Rice Pudding
Rice pudding is a comforting and creamy dessert that complements the bold flavors of Tandoori Chicken. Made with rice, milk, and a touch of sweetness, this dessert offers a smooth and velvety texture. The subtle sweetness of the rice pudding creates a delightful contrast to the spiciness of the chicken, providing a comforting and satisfying end to your meal. Sprinkle some ground cinnamon or cardamom on top for an extra touch of warmth and aroma.
Kheer
Kheer, also known as Rice Payasam, is a traditional Indian dessert that is often served alongside Tandoori Chicken. Made with aromatic basmati rice, milk, sugar, and a blend of spices, Kheer offers a creamy and indulgent taste. The rice is slow-cooked in the milk, allowing it to absorb the flavors and create a rich and velvety texture. Garnish the Kheer with some chopped nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, for added crunch and richness.
Shahi Tukra
Shahi Tukra, also known as Indian Bread Pudding, is a rich and decadent dessert that pairs well with Tandoori Chicken. Made with bread soaked in saffron and cardamom-infused milk and then garnished with nuts and a drizzle of sweet syrup, Shahi Tukra offers a combination of textures and flavors. The creamy and fragrant milk-soaked bread provides a delightful contrast to the bold flavors of the chicken, creating a satisfying and indulgent dessert. Enjoy each bite of the Shahi Tukra as a sweet ending to your meal.
