When it comes to a delicious and flavorful dish like teriyaki chicken, figuring out what to serve alongside it can sometimes be a bit of a puzzle. Luckily, we’re here to help you solve that puzzle with some irresistible and complementary options. From steamed rice to crispy veggies and even a refreshing salad, we’ve got the perfect accompaniments to make your teriyaki chicken meal complete. Say goodbye to the guessing game and get ready to elevate your dining experience with these delectable suggestions.
Salads
Green Salad with Ginger Dressing
A refreshing and light salad, the green salad with ginger dressing is the perfect accompaniment to teriyaki chicken. The crispness of the mixed greens, combined with the tangy and slightly spicy ginger dressing, creates a delightful contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the chicken. The freshness of the salad also helps balance out the overall meal, adding a touch of vibrancy to your plate.
Asian Slaw
For a vibrant burst of flavors, look no further than Asian slaw. Packed with colorful veggies like shredded cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and scallions, this slaw brings a delightful crunch to your meal. The dressing, typically made with a combination of soy sauce, lime juice, and sesame oil, complements the teriyaki chicken beautifully. Its tangy and slightly sweet taste adds a refreshing element to the meal, making it the perfect side dish.
Cucumber Salad
If you’re looking for something light and refreshing, a cucumber salad is an excellent choice. The cool and crispy cucumbers paired with a tangy dressing of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and a hint of sesame oil create a delicious contrast to the warm and savory teriyaki chicken. The simplicity of this salad allows the flavors of the cucumber to shine, providing a wonderful palate cleanser between bites of the main dish.
Sesame Noodle Salad
For a more substantial side dish, consider a sesame noodle salad. Made with buckwheat or soba noodles, this salad is both nourishing and satisfying. Tossed with a flavorful sesame dressing and garnished with chopped scallions and sesame seeds, it adds a delightful Asian flair to your teriyaki chicken meal. The combination of textures and flavors will take your taste buds on a culinary adventure, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a hearty side dish.
Vegetables
Stir-Fried Vegetables
Stir-fried vegetables are an excellent choice to pair with teriyaki chicken. The vibrant colors and variety of vegetables make for a visually appealing side dish, while the quick cooking method ensures that the vegetables retain their crispness and essential nutrients. You can customize your stir-fried vegetables with your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas, and season them with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for an added depth of flavor.
Steamed Broccoli
If you prefer a simpler preparation method, steamed broccoli is a classic option that never disappoints. The vibrant green florets, lightly cooked until tender-crisp, provide a fresh and healthy addition to your meal. Steaming the broccoli allows it to retain its vibrant color, nutrients, and a slight crunch. Drizzle with a bit of soy sauce or sprinkle some sesame seeds to add a touch of Asian flair to your plate.
Grilled Asparagus
For a side dish that bursts with flavors, grilled asparagus is a wonderful choice to accompany your teriyaki chicken. The charred and slightly smoky flavor of the grilled asparagus complements the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce perfectly. Toss the asparagus spears in a bit of olive oil, sprinkle some salt and pepper, and grill them until they are tender and slightly charred. Serve alongside your teriyaki chicken for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
If you’re a fan of roasted vegetables, adding some roasted Brussels sprouts to your teriyaki chicken meal will take it to the next level. The caramelization that occurs during roasting intensifies the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts and gives them a crispy texture. Toss them with a touch of soy sauce or balsamic glaze before roasting to enhance their flavors even further. The combination of the rich teriyaki chicken and the savory Brussels sprouts creates a truly satisfying dining experience.
Rice and Noodles
Fried Rice
Fried rice is a classic and versatile side dish that pairs exceptionally well with teriyaki chicken. The fragrant and flavorful rice, combined with a medley of vegetables, scrambled eggs, and a splash of soy sauce, makes for a mouthwatering combination. The slightly charred and smoky wok flavor adds an extra layer of complexity to the dish. Serving fried rice alongside your teriyaki chicken will not only enhance the overall taste experience but also provide a satisfying and filling meal.
Garlic Butter Noodles
If you’re looking for a simple and comforting side dish, garlic butter noodles are a great choice. These buttery and garlicky noodles create a luxurious and creamy texture that complements the flavors of the teriyaki chicken. Whether you opt for spaghetti, udon, or soba noodles, toss them with melted butter, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of parsley for a burst of freshness. The combination of the savory teriyaki sauce and the rich garlic butter noodles is simply divine.
Coconut Rice
For an exotic twist to your teriyaki chicken meal, coconut rice is a fantastic option. Fragrant, fluffy, and slightly sweet, coconut rice adds a tropical touch to the overall flavor profile. The natural sweetness of the coconut milk pairs harmoniously with the savory teriyaki sauce, creating a delightful blend of flavors. The creaminess of the coconut rice also helps mellow out any spiciness in the teriyaki sauce, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a milder taste.
Soba Noodles
Soba noodles, made from buckwheat flour, are a popular choice in Japanese cuisine and make a wonderful side dish for teriyaki chicken. These thin and slightly nutty-flavored noodles provide a unique texture and taste experience. Cold or hot, soba noodles can be served in various ways, such as tossing them in a soy-based sauce or serving them in a broth. Whichever way you choose to enjoy them, soba noodles will add depth and variety to your teriyaki chicken meal.
Breads
Garlic Naan
Indulge your taste buds by serving teriyaki chicken with warm and fragrant garlic naan bread. This traditional Indian bread is soft, pillowy, and infused with the irresistible flavors of garlic and herbs. The garlicky notes of the naan bread beautifully complement the savory teriyaki chicken, creating a fusion of Asian and Indian flavors. Tear off a piece of naan, scoop up some teriyaki chicken, and savor the delicious combination of textures and flavors.
Hawaiian Rolls
For a touch of sweetness and softness, serve your teriyaki chicken with Hawaiian rolls. These fluffy, slightly sweet dinner rolls are a popular choice for various dishes, including sandwiches and sliders. The sweetness of the rolls complements the savory teriyaki chicken beautifully, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Feel free to add a pat of butter to the warm rolls for an extra indulgent experience.
Sesame Breadsticks
If you’re craving a crunchy side to accompany your teriyaki chicken, look no further than sesame breadsticks. These crispy and flavorful breadsticks, typically brushed with a mixture of sesame oil and sprinkled with sesame seeds, provide a satisfying crunch to your meal. The nutty aroma of the sesame seeds adds depth to the overall flavor profile. Dip them in teriyaki sauce or enjoy them on their own for a delightful and addictive side dish.
Steamed Buns
For an authentic Asian twist to your teriyaki chicken meal, steamed buns are a fantastic option. Soft and pillowy, these steamed buns are traditionally filled with a variety of ingredients, including meat, vegetables, or even sweet fillings. Stuff your homemade or store-bought steamed buns with teriyaki chicken for a mouthwatering combination of textures and flavors. The tender and fluffy buns perfectly complement the rich and savory teriyaki chicken, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds.
Sauces and Dips
Teriyaki Dipping Sauce
What better way to enhance the flavors of your teriyaki chicken than with a teriyaki dipping sauce? This sauce is the perfect accompaniment, providing an extra burst of rich and savory flavors. Typically made with a combination of soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and ginger, this glossy and slightly thick sauce adds depth and sweetness to your meal. Dip your chicken or drizzle the sauce over your plate, and let the teriyaki flavors shine.
Yum Yum Sauce
Yum yum sauce, also known as Japanese white sauce or shrimp sauce, is an incredibly versatile dipping sauce that goes well with teriyaki chicken. It has a creamy and tangy flavor profile, making it an excellent complement to the savory chicken. Typically made with mayonnaise, tomato paste, garlic powder, and a few other ingredients, yum yum sauce adds a delightful creaminess and tanginess to your meal. Serve it on the side or drizzle it over your chicken for an extra burst of flavor.
Sweet Chili Sauce
For those who enjoy a bit of heat and sweetness, sweet chili sauce is a perfect choice to pair with teriyaki chicken. This sauce combines the flavors of spicy red chilies, garlic, vinegar, and sugar, creating a delightful balance of sweet and spicy. Drizzle it over your chicken or use it as a dipping sauce to add a unique and vibrant kick of flavor. The combination of teriyaki chicken and sweet chili sauce will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Wasabi Mayo
If you’re looking to add a touch of heat and creaminess to your teriyaki chicken, wasabi mayo is a fantastic choice. The fiery kick of wasabi, combined with the smoothness of mayo, creates a unique and flavorful sauce. The wasabi mayo adds a refreshing and slightly spicy element to the dish, balancing out the sweetness of the teriyaki chicken. Spread it on your chicken or use it as a dip for a burst of zesty goodness.
Side Main Dish Combos
Teriyaki Chicken with Fried Rice
One of the most classic and delicious combinations, teriyaki chicken with fried rice is a crowd-pleaser. The sweetness of the teriyaki sauce pairs perfectly with the savory and aromatic flavors of fried rice. Each bite combines the juicy chicken, the fluffy and slightly charred rice, and a medley of vegetables for a satisfying and flavorful experience. This combo is ideal for those who crave a complete meal with dynamic flavors.
Teriyaki Chicken with Stir-Fried Noodles
For a satisfyingly savory meal, consider pairing teriyaki chicken with stir-fried noodles. The rich and flavorful teriyaki sauce beautifully coats the tender chicken and blends harmoniously with the stir-fried noodles. Whether you choose chow mein, lo mein, or even udon noodles, the combination of the savory chicken and the slightly charred noodles creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more.
Teriyaki Chicken with Grilled Vegetables
If you’re looking for a lighter and more wholesome option, teriyaki chicken with grilled vegetables is a fantastic choice. The charred and sweet flavors of the grilled vegetables bring a delightful smokiness to the dish, balancing out the richness of the teriyaki chicken. Whether you grill bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, or any other favorite vegetable, their natural sweetness and slightly crisp texture will add a fresh and vibrant element to your meal.
Teriyaki Chicken with Teriyaki Glazed Salmon
For a truly teriyaki-focused feast, pair your teriyaki chicken with teriyaki-glazed salmon. This combination is ideal for seafood lovers who want to experience the full depth of teriyaki flavors. The sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce glazes both the tender chicken and the succulent salmon, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The combination of the two proteins ensures a diverse and well-rounded meal that will satisfy even the most discerning palate.
Soups
Miso Soup
Miso soup is a traditional Japanese soup made with fermented soybean paste, tofu, and seaweed. It’s a staple in Japanese cuisine and pairs wonderfully with teriyaki chicken. The umami-rich miso broth adds depth and complexity to your meal, while the tofu and seaweed provide a contrasting texture. Sip on the warm miso soup between bites of the teriyaki chicken for a comforting and authentic dining experience.
Egg Drop Soup
Another fantastic option is egg drop soup. This Chinese soup is incredibly easy to make and offers a delicate and comforting addition to your teriyaki chicken meal. The silky and flavorful broth, combined with the wisps of beaten egg, creates a light and soothing soup that complements the bold flavors of the teriyaki chicken. The simple yet satisfying combination will leave you feeling warm and nourished.
Hot and Sour Soup
If you’re craving a soup with a bit of kick, hot and sour soup is a great choice to pair with teriyaki chicken. This Chinese soup features a balance of spicy and tangy flavors, making it a perfect counterpoint to the savory and sweet notes of the chicken. This soup typically includes ingredients such as tofu, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and vinegar, creating a truly invigorating and flavorful experience.
Corn Chowder
For a comforting and creamy soup, consider serving teriyaki chicken with corn chowder. The creamy richness of the chowder complements the bold flavors of the chicken, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. The sweetness of the corn adds a delightful contrast to the savory teriyaki chicken, while the creamy broth envelops your taste buds with warmth and comfort. Enjoy each spoonful of this delicious combination.
Appetizers
Edamame
Edamame, young soybean pods, are a classic Japanese appetizer that goes well with teriyaki chicken. These pods are usually boiled or steamed and lightly salted, creating a satisfying snack or appetizer. The mild and slightly sweet flavor of the edamame complements the bold flavors of the teriyaki chicken, offering a delightful contrast. Pop the steamed edamame out of their pods and enjoy them as an appetizer before your main meal.
Potstickers
Potstickers, also known as gyoza, are a popular Asian appetizer and a fantastic choice to start your teriyaki chicken meal. These dumplings are typically filled with a savory mixture of ground meat and vegetables, pan-fried to perfection. The crispy bottom and tender filling create a delightful combination of textures, while the savory flavors pair harmoniously with the teriyaki chicken. Serve them with a dipping sauce of your choice for an explosion of flavors.
Crispy Spring Rolls
Crispy spring rolls are a crunchy and flavorful appetizer that perfectly complements teriyaki chicken. These deep-fried rolls are typically filled with a mixture of vegetables, meat, and sometimes noodles, creating a satisfying and texturally diverse appetizer. The crispiness of the spring rolls adds a delightful contrast to the tender and juicy chicken, creating a combination that will tantalize your taste buds. Pair them with a dipping sauce of your choice for an extra burst of flavor.
Chicken Satay
For those who enjoy grilled skewers, chicken satay is an excellent appetizer to kickstart your teriyaki chicken meal. These marinated chicken skewers are typically grilled or cooked over an open flame for a smoky and flavorful experience. The savory and slightly sweet taste of the chicken satay complements the teriyaki chicken beautifully, providing a fantastic depth of flavors. Dip the skewers in peanut sauce or teriyaki sauce for an irresistible combination.
Fruits
Pineapple Slices
The natural sweetness and acidity of pineapple make it a fantastic fruit to pair with teriyaki chicken. Fresh pineapple slices, whether grilled or served raw, add a tropical touch to your meal. The tanginess of the pineapple beautifully balances the savory flavors of the teriyaki chicken, creating a delightful contrast. Enjoy a refreshing bite of pineapple in between bites of the juicy chicken for a burst of fruity goodness.
Mango Salad
To bring a burst of vibrant flavors to your teriyaki chicken meal, consider serving a tangy and refreshing mango salad. Combining the sweetness of ripe mangoes with the crunch of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and red onions, this salad creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Tossed with a zesty lime dressing, the mango salad provides a refreshing and tropical element to your plate.
Watermelon Cubes
Watermelon is a summer favorite that adds a refreshing touch to any meal, including teriyaki chicken. The juicy and sweet watermelon cubes offer a burst of hydration and a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the chicken. Cool and refreshing, watermelon is not only a delicious fruit but also a great source of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy and tasty addition to your meal.
Fresh Berries
For a lighter and more delicate fruit option, a bowl of fresh berries is a perfect choice to serve alongside teriyaki chicken. Whether it’s strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of all three, the sweet and juicy berries provide a delightful burst of freshness and natural sweetness. The vibrant colors and intense flavors of the berries complement the savory teriyaki chicken beautifully, creating a visually appealing and delicious combination.
Drinks
Iced Green Tea
Iced green tea is a classic and refreshing beverage that pairs wonderfully with teriyaki chicken. The slight bitterness of the green tea helps cleanse the palate and balance out the richness of the chicken. The cold and crisp nature of the iced green tea provides a refreshing contrast to the warm and savory flavors of the teriyaki chicken. Sip on this traditional Asian beverage while enjoying your meal for a truly authentic experience.
Lychee Lemonade
For a sweeter and more citrusy option, lychee lemonade is a fantastic choice to serve with teriyaki chicken. The tropical and floral notes of lychee complement the tanginess of the lemonade, creating a refreshing and thirst-quenching drink. The sweetness of the lychee and the tartness of the lemonade add a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the teriyaki chicken. Garnish with a sprig of mint for an extra burst of freshness.
Sake
For a more sophisticated and traditional choice, sake is an excellent option to pair with teriyaki chicken. This Japanese rice wine offers a unique and complex flavor profile that can enhance the overall dining experience. The light and delicate flavors of sake harmonize with the bold and savory teriyaki chicken, creating a wonderful combination of tastes. Savor each sip of sake while enjoying your meal for an authentic Japanese dining experience.
Plum Wine
Plum wine, also known as umeshu, is a sweet and fruity Japanese wine that pairs wonderfully with teriyaki chicken. Made from plums, sugar, and alcohol, this wine offers a pleasant balance of sweetness and acidity. The fruity and floral flavors of plum wine complement the rich and savory teriyaki chicken, creating a delightful combination of tastes. Sip on the chilled plum wine as you savor your meal for a truly unique and enjoyable dining experience.
In conclusion, there is a wide array of dishes and beverages that can be served alongside teriyaki chicken. Whether you prefer refreshing salads, savory sides, or delightful desserts, there is sure to be a combination that suits your taste. Experiment with different flavors and textures to create a well-rounded and satisfying teriyaki chicken meal that will leave you craving more. Cheers to a delicious dining experience!
