When enjoying the creamy and flavorful delight that is butter chicken, pairing it with the right side dishes can transform a simple meal into an unforgettable dining experience. From the aromatic Basmati Rice Pilaf that soaks up the rich sauce, to the refreshing Cucumber Raita that cools your palate, each side dish on this list has been carefully selected to complement the main course. Whether you’re craving something hearty like Naan Bread or looking for a lighter option like Cauliflower Rice, these 26 side dishes offer a variety of flavors and textures to suit any preference, making your meal not just nourishing but a journey through the diverse and vibrant landscape of Indian cuisine.
1. Basmati Rice Pilaf
A Classic Pairing for Butter Chicken
Basmati Rice Pilaf is a traditional side dish that complements the rich flavors of butter chicken beautifully. The fragrant basmati rice, cooked with a hint of spices like cardamom and cinnamon, provides a perfect base to soak up the creamy sauce of the butter chicken, creating a harmonious balance between the two dishes.
Versatile and Aromatic
Not only does Basmati Rice Pilaf serve as a staple accompaniment, but it also brings an aromatic presence to the table. Its versatility allows you to adjust the level of spices according to your preference, ensuring it pairs well with the butter chicken’s complexity.
A Staple in Indian Cuisine
Rice pilaf holds a place of pride in Indian cuisine, often seen at gatherings and special occasions. Its simple elegance makes it an essential dish for anyone looking to explore the authentic side of Indian dining.
2. Naan Bread
Soft, Fluffy, and Perfect for Dipping
Naan bread, with its soft and fluffy texture, is the perfect side to accompany butter chicken. It’s ideal for scooping up the rich, creamy sauce and enjoying every bit of flavor. Homemade or store-bought, naan adds a comforting, hearty element to your meal.
A Versatile Companion
Whether you prefer it plain, garlic-flavored, or buttered, naan bread is incredibly versatile and can be customized to your liking. Its slight chewiness and charred spots from the tandoor or skillet add a delightful texture contrast to the creamy butter chicken.
A Cultural Staple
Naan is more than just bread; it’s a cultural staple that has been enjoyed for centuries across South Asia. Its popularity in Indian cuisine is unparalleled, making it a must-have side dish for an authentic experience.
3. Cucumber Raita
A Refreshing Counterpart
Cucumber Raita offers a cool and refreshing contrast to the warm spices of butter chicken. This yogurt-based side dish, with grated cucumber and hints of cumin and mint, provides a soothing balance that enhances the overall dining experience.
Healthy and Light
Not only does Raita serve as a palate cleanser, but it’s also a healthy addition to your meal. The yogurt is rich in probiotics, aiding digestion, while the cucumber adds a light, hydrating element.
An Essential in Indian Dining
Raita holds an essential place in Indian meals, acting as a side dish that complements a wide range of spicy dishes. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a favorite among home cooks and chefs alike.
4. Mint Chutney
A Burst of Flavor
Mint Chutney is a vibrant, flavorful side that adds a fresh burst of flavor to butter chicken. The combination of mint, cilantro, lemon juice, and green chilies creates a zesty sauce that cuts through the richness of the butter chicken, offering a refreshing taste with every bite.
Versatile and Easy to Make
This chutney is not only easy to prepare but also highly versatile. You can adjust the levels of acidity, spice, and herbs to match your taste preferences, making it a personalized addition to your meal.
A Staple in Indian Condiments
Mint chutney is a staple condiment in Indian cuisine, appreciated for its ability to complement a wide range of dishes. Its bright green color and invigorating taste make it a popular choice at any dining table.
5. Saag Paneer
A Creamy, Spinach-Based Delight
Saag Paneer offers a creamy, spinach-based side dish that pairs wonderfully with butter chicken. The soft, mild paneer cubes nestled in a thick spinach sauce bring a delightful vegetal contrast to the meal, adding both color and a nutritional boost.
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Rich in Flavor and Nutrients
This dish is not just pleasing to the palate but also rich in nutrients. Spinach is packed with vitamins, and paneer provides a good source of protein, making Saag Paneer a wholesome choice.
An Iconic North Indian Dish
Saag Paneer is an iconic dish in North Indian cuisine, beloved for its comforting, hearty flavors. It represents the perfect blend of spices and ingredients, embodying the richness of Indian culinary traditions.
6. Tandoori Roti
A Hearty, Whole Wheat Option
Tandoori Roti is a whole wheat alternative to naan that offers a hearty, robust texture perfect for scooping up butter chicken. Baked in a tandoor or on a skillet, it has a rustic charm that complements the creamy dish well.
A Healthier Choice
Opting for Tandoori Roti means choosing a healthier side that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whole wheat flour adds a nutritious edge, making it a great choice for those looking for a more wholesome option without giving up the pleasure of a good soak-up bread for butter chicken sauces.
A Staple in Indian Meals
Tandoori Roti is a staple in Indian households, valued for its simplicity and ability to accompany a variety of dishes. Its preparation in a tandoor imparts a distinct smoky flavor that’s hard to resist.
7. Aloo Gobi
A Spiced Cauliflower and Potato Feast
Aloo Gobi, a delightful combination of cauliflower and potatoes, seasoned with aromatic Indian spices, offers a satisfying vegetarian side that stands up well next to the rich flavors of butter chicken. Its mix of textures and spices provides a comforting, hearty addition to your meal.
Versatile and Flavorful
This dish is as versatile as it is flavorful, allowing for variations in spice levels and additional ingredients like peas or carrots. Aloo Gobi can be made to suit any palate, making it a beloved choice in Indian cuisine.
A Classic North Indian Dish
Celebrated in North Indian homes and restaurants alike, Aloo Gobi is a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed through spices. It’s a must-have for anyone looking to explore the depth of Indian vegetable dishes.
8. Dal Tadka
A Luscious Lentil Curry
Dal Tadka, a luscious lentil curry tempered with spices, offers a comforting and nutritious side that beautifully complements butter chicken. Its creamy texture and rich flavor profile make it an irresistible addition, perfect for those seeking a hearty vegetarian option.
Nutrition-Packed and Comforting
Lentils are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making Dal Tadka not only comforting but also good for you. The tempering of spices enhances its taste and aroma, elevating the dish to new heights.
A Staple Across India
Dal Tadka is a staple in Indian cuisine, enjoyed for its simplicity and soul-satisfying qualities. It reflects the essence of Indian home cooking, where comfort and flavor go hand in hand.
9. Jeera Rice
A Fragrant Cumin-Flavored Rice
Jeera Rice, with its subtle aroma of cumin seeds, offers a simple yet flavorful side that pairs excellently with butter chicken. The light, fluffy grains of rice infused with cumin and other spices provide a delightful contrast to the creamy curry.
Easy to Prepare and Versatile
This dish is not only easy to prepare but also pairs well with almost any Indian curry, making it a versatile choice for any meal. Its simplicity is its strength, allowing the flavors of the main dish to shine.
A Beloved Indian Classic
Jeera Rice is a beloved classic in Indian cuisine, appreciated for its delicate flavor and the comforting warmth it brings to any meal. It’s a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking.
10. Paneer Tikka
Marinated and Grilled to Perfection
Paneer Tikka serves as a splendid vegetarian side or appetizer to accompany butter chicken. Cubes of paneer, marinated in spices and yogurt, are grilled until charred and smoky. This dish adds a wonderful texture and tangy flavor contrast to the creamy butter chicken.
A Flavorful Vegetarian Delight
The marinade for Paneer Tikka is rich in spices, including garam masala, turmeric, and cumin, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s a dish that proves vegetarian options are anything but boring.
A Popular Indian Appetizer
Paneer Tikka is a popular choice in Indian cuisine, often served as an appetizer or side. Its popularity comes from the perfect blend of spices, ease of preparation, and the delightful taste that appeals to a wide audience.
11. Mixed Vegetable Pakoras
A Crispy, Savory Treat
Mixed Vegetable Pakoras are crispy, savory fritters made from a variety of vegetables dipped in a spiced chickpea flour batter and deep-fried to perfection. They offer a delightful crunch and a burst of flavors, serving as a perfect appetizer or side for butter chicken.
A Versatile Snack
The beauty of pakoras lies in their versatility; you can use almost any vegetable you have on hand. Whether it’s onion, potato, cauliflower, or spinach, each adds its unique taste and texture to the fritters, making them a hit every time.
A Street Food Favorite
Pakoras are a beloved street food in India, known for their irresistible taste and texture. They bring the essence of Indian snack culture to your table, offering a delicious way to start your meal.
12. Kachumber Salad
A Fresh, Crunchy Companion
Kachumber Salad is a refreshing side that complements the creamy richness of butter chicken with its crisp texture and tangy flavor. This simple salad, made with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and a squeeze of lemon, adds a fresh element to balance out the meal.
Healthy and Hydrating
Kachumber is not just about taste; it’s also packed with hydration, thanks to the water-rich vegetables used. It’s a healthy addition that brings a lightness to any rich, savory dish, making your meal more balanced.
A Staple in Indian Dining
This salad is a staple across Indian households, cherished for its simplicity and the fresh, clean contrast it offers against spicy and rich dishes. It’s an essential for anyone looking to add a quick, healthy side to their meal.
13. Bhindi Masala
A Spicy Okra Delight
Bhindi Masala brings a unique texture and flavor to the table with its combination of tender okra, onions, tomatoes, and a variety of spices. This dish adds a delightful vegetal note to complement the creaminess of butter chicken, offering a spicy, satisfying crunch.
Rich in Flavor, Light on Palate
While bhindi masala is rich in flavors, it remains light on the palate, making it an excellent side dish for those looking for a healthier option. Okra is known for its health benefits, including high fiber content, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.
A Beloved Indian Recipe
Loved for its versatility and taste, Bhindi Masala is a popular dish in Indian cuisine. It showcases the skill of balancing spices with vegetables, creating a side dish that stands out for its distinctive texture and flavor profile.
14. Garlic Naan
An Aromatic Twist on Classic Bread
Garlic Naan takes the beloved naan bread to the next level with the addition of aromatic garlic and coriander. This side dish offers a soft, fluffy texture with a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the creamy butter chicken, making every bite a delightful experience.
A Flavorful, Easy-to-Make Bread
Not only does garlic naan bring an extra layer of flavor to your meal, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make at home. It serves as a wonderful way to introduce a homemade touch that elevates the entire dining experience.
A Must-Have for Garlic Lovers
For garlic lovers, this variation of naan is a must-have. It enhances the traditional naan with its garlic-infused goodness, making it a favorite choice for adding an extra dimension of taste to any Indian meal.
15. Carrot Halwa
A Sweet Contrast
Carrot Halwa, while traditionally a dessert, can serve as a unique, sweet side dish to contrast the savory flavors of butter chicken. Made from grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee, this rich, sweet dish adds an unconventional but delightful pairing for those looking to explore the full spectrum of Indian cuisine.
Rich, Nutritious, and Comforting
Despite its sweetness, Carrot Halwa is surprisingly nutritious, offering a good source of beta-carotene and other vitamins. It’s a comforting dish that warms the palate and complements the spices of the main course.
A Festive Indian Favorite
Often featured in celebrations and special occasions, Carrot Halwa is a testament to the diverse flavors of Indian cuisine. It’s a festive choice that brings joy and a touch of sweetness to any meal.
16. Palak Paneer
A Creamy Spinach and Cheese Delicacy
Palak Paneer offers a creamy, spinach-based dish that pairs beautifully with butter chicken. The soft paneer cubes are simmered in a rich, spiced spinach gravy, providing a deliciously smooth and flavorful side that complements the creamy texture of the butter chicken.
Nutritious and Flavorful
This dish not only adds a splash of color to your plate but also brings a wealth of nutritional benefits, including iron from the spinach and protein from the paneer. It’s a flavorful way to add some greens to your meal.
A Classic in Indian Cuisine
Palak Paneer is a classic dish in Indian cuisine, beloved for its comforting flavor and healthful ingredients. It embodies the art of combining vegetables with dairy to create a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
17. Peshawari Naan
A Sweet and Nutty Accompaniment
Peshawari Naan offers a delightful twist to the traditional naan bread, filled with a sweet mixture of nuts, raisins, and coconut. This version brings a unique combination of flavors that complement the spicy and savory notes of butter chicken, adding a hint of sweetness to your palate.
A Festive Choice
Often reserved for special occasions, Peshawari Naan is a festive choice that adds an element of luxury to any meal. Its filling is rich and flavorful, making each bite a celebration of taste.
Celebrated Across the Cuisine
While traditional naan is a staple, Peshawari Naan stands out for its ability to merge the boundaries between a side and a dessert. It’s a celebrated dish in many Indian restaurants and homes, offering a memorable taste experience.
18. Lemon Rice
A Zesty Side Dish
Lemon Rice brings a tangy twist to the traditional side of rice. It’s flavored with lemon juice, turmeric, and mustard seeds, offering a vibrant and zesty side that contrasts beautifully with the creamy and rich butter chicken. The brightness of the lemon and the aromatic spices refresh the palate and add a colorful lift to your meal.
Easy and Flavorful
This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packs a flavorful punch. Lemon Rice is perfect for those who appreciate a bit of tanginess in their meal, making it a delightful complement to the savory depth of butter chicken.
A Southern Indian Delight
Lemon Rice is a popular dish in Southern India, known for its bright flavor and simple ingredients. It’s a staple that adds a refreshing note to any meal, embodying the essence of South Indian cuisine with its distinctive taste.
19. Garlic Green Beans
A Crisp, Flavorful Addition
Garlic Green Beans are a simple yet delicious side dish that adds a healthy crunch to your meal. Sautéed with garlic and a hint of spice, these green beans offer a vibrant complement to the creamy butter chicken, providing a balance of textures and flavors.
Quick and Nutritious
This side dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients. Green beans are a great source of fiber and vitamins, and when paired with the aromatic flavor of garlic, they become a delightful addition to any Indian-themed meal.
Versatile and Popular
Garlic Green Beans are a versatile side dish that can easily adapt to your taste preferences. This popularity stems from their simplicity and the burst of flavor they bring, making them a favorite in both Indian and international cuisines.
20. Vegetable Biryani
A Rich, Flavorful Rice Dish
Vegetable Biryani is a splendidly aromatic and rich dish, brimming with spices, vegetables, and fragrant rice. It serves as a fantastic side dish or a vegetarian main course, offering a complex layer of flavors that beautifully complements the smooth and rich butter chicken.
A Feast for the Senses
Biryani is not just a dish; it’s a feast for the senses, with its colorful presentation, intoxicating aroma, and deep, satisfying flavors. Each bite offers a different taste, making it a captivating dining experience.
A Celebration Dish
Often reserved for special occasions, Vegetable Biryani holds a place of honor in Indian cuisine. Its preparation is considered an art, and its presence at a meal signifies a celebration of flavors and hospitality.
21. Mango Chutney
A Sweet and Tangy Accompaniment
Mango Chutney provides a sweet and tangy counterpoint to the rich and spicy flavors of butter chicken. Made from ripe mangoes, sugar, vinegar, and a blend of spices, this chutney adds a delightful complexity to your meal, balancing the savory depth of the main dish with its fruity sweetness and slight acidity.
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A Versatile Condiment
This chutney is incredibly versatile, serving as a perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Its unique flavor profile can enhance simple rice dishes, bread, or even be enjoyed on its own as a palate cleanser.
A Staple in Indian Cuisine
Mango Chutney holds a special place in Indian cuisine, appreciated for its ability to bring a sweet balance to spicy dishes. It’s a staple condiment that embodies the rich diversity of flavors found in Indian cooking.
22. Masala Corn
A Spicy, Flavorful Snack
Masala Corn is a quick and easy side dish that combines the sweetness of corn with the heat of Indian spices. This dish is perfect for adding a spicy twist to your meal, with each kernel coated in a mixture of butter, chili powder, and other spices, providing a burst of flavor with every bite.
Healthy and Satisfying
Corn is not only delicious but also provides a good source of fiber and vitamins. Masala Corn is a satisfying, healthy snack that can be enjoyed on its own or as a complement to richer dishes like butter chicken.
A Popular Street Food
In India, Masala Corn is a popular street food known for its simplicity and robust flavors. It brings the essence of Indian street cuisine to your table, offering a taste of the country’s vibrant food culture.
23. Paneer Bhurji
A Scrambled Cheese Delicacy
Paneer Bhurji is a flavorful, scrambled cheese dish made with crumbled paneer, onions, tomatoes, and a medley of spices. It offers a soft, moist texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce of butter chicken, adding a rich protein element to the meal.
Quick and Nutritious
This dish is quick to prepare, making it a convenient option for adding a protein-rich side to your meal. Paneer is high in calcium and protein, making Paneer Bhurji not only tasty but also nutritious.
A Versatile Indian Classic
Paneer Bhurji is a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit different spice levels and preferences. It’s a beloved classic in Indian households, celebrated for its comforting taste and ease of preparation.
24. Beetroot Raita
A Colorful, Healthy Side
Beetroot Raita brings a vibrant color and a sweet, earthy flavor to the table, making it a perfect complement to butter chicken. This yogurt-based side dish is mixed with grated beetroot, spices, and herbs, offering a refreshing and nutritious addition to your meal.
A Boost of Nutrients
Beetroot is known for its numerous health benefits, including improved blood flow and lower blood pressure. Combined with the probiotic qualities of yogurt, Beetroot Raita is not only delicious but also a healthful choice.
A Fusion of Flavors
The sweet flavor of beetroot mixed with the cooling effect of yogurt and the zest of spices creates a unique taste experience. This dish is a testament to the creative fusion of flavors in Indian cuisine, adding both beauty and balance to your dining experience.
25. Stuffed Paratha
A Hearty, Stuffed Bread
Stuffed Paratha is a fulfilling side that pairs excellently with butter chicken. These whole wheat flatbreads are stuffed with a variety of fillings, from spiced potatoes to paneer or even mixed vegetables, offering a hearty and flavorful addition to any meal.
Customizable and Satisfying
The beauty of Stuffed Paratha lies in its customizability; you can fill them with whatever you have on hand or prefer, making them a versatile choice for any meal. They’re satisfying and can stand up to the rich flavors of butter chicken, providing a delightful contrast in textures.
A Staple in Indian Breakfasts and Dinners
Parathas are a staple in Indian cuisine, served not just for breakfast but also for dinner. They’re loved for their flakiness, taste, and the comfort food vibe they bring to the table, making them a favorite across the country.
26. Cauliflower Rice
A Low-Carb Alternative
Cauliflower Rice offers a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional rice dishes, making it a perfect side for those looking to enjoy butter chicken without the guilt. Grated cauliflower is sautéed with a touch of spices to create a light and fluffy texture that mimics rice, offering a nutritious substitute.
Simple and Versatile
This dish is incredibly simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal time. Its versatility allows it to be flavored in various ways, making it an excellent base for soaking up the creamy sauce of butter chicken.
A Contemporary Twist
While not traditional, Cauliflower Rice has gained popularity in contemporary Indian cuisine as a health-conscious option. It represents a modern twist on classic sides, providing a delicious way to enjoy traditional flavors in a new, healthier light.
Conclusion
Exploring these 26 side dishes for butter chicken unveils the incredible diversity and richness of flavors that Indian cuisine has to offer. Each dish, with its unique taste and texture, acts as a perfect companion to the creamy and spicy butter chicken, ensuring that every bite is a harmony of flavors. From the soft and fluffy Peshawari Naan to the low-carb Cauliflower Rice, there’s a side for every taste and dietary preference. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a meal at home, incorporating any of these sides will elevate your butter chicken experience, making it not just a meal, but a celebration of culinary diversity and tradition.
