What To Serve With Butter Chicken: 33 Best Side Dish Ideas

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“What to serve with butter chicken?” here is a list of top recommendations that elevate your buttery, flavorful chicken dish! We categorize all 33 side dishes into 6 groups: bread, vegetable, soup, fried, salad, and drink – enjoy!

Naan [Bread]

Naan bread is a classic Indian dish that goes really well with butter chicken. When pondering what to serve with butter chicken, naan bread is the most common Indian side dish.

Always serve the naan warm; for an added treat, brush some melted butter over it before serving. Pairing butter chicken with naan is a taste sensation that never gets old.

Roti [Bread]

Roti is a heavenly delight straight out of Indian kitchens. Its soft, light texture combined with its warm, earthy aroma is simply irresistible. Every bite of this delicate, handmade bread offers a slight chewiness that complements any curry wonderfully.

It’s perfect for scooping up flavorful sauces or just enjoying on its own. Its subtly toasty flavor will have you reaching for more. Don’t miss out on this simple yet delicious staple in Indian cuisine!

Paratha [Bread]

Paratha is a flaky, pan-fried bread that offers a delightful crunch and buttery richness. This multi-layered bread is an excellent choice to serve with butter chicken as its crispy texture balances out the creamy, succulent chicken.

The savory, buttery goodness of paratha paired with the tangy, spiced butter chicken creates an unforgettable, delicious combo. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!

Garlic Naan [Bread]

Garlic Naan is an aromatic flatbread that is simply irresistible when paired with butter chicken. The soft, pillowy naan is infused with a hint of garlic, adding a subtle spicy kick that perfectly complements butter chicken’s rich, creamy flavors.

Plus, its slightly crispy edges and chewy interior make it perfect for sopping up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Peshwari Naan [Bread]

Peshwari Naan is a sumptuous treat filled with a sweet, enticing mixture of nuts and dried fruits. This soft, fluffy bread is slightly crisp on the edges, providing a lovely contrast of textures.

Its sweetness beautifully counterbalances the spicy, robust flavors of butter chicken. If you enjoy a hint of sweetness in your meals, Peshwari Naan with butter chicken is a combo you’ll absolutely adore!

Kulcha [Bread]

Kulcha is a mildly leavened bread that’s a delightful accompaniment to butter chicken. Its soft, fluffy interior and slightly crispy exterior make it perfect for sopping up the creamy, savory sauce.

The subtle, comforting taste of Kulcha lets the robust flavors of butter chicken shine, creating a harmonious, delicious meal. Trust us, a butter chicken meal isn’t complete without a side of Kulcha!

Basmati Rice [Rice]

Rice, especially basmati, is a common side dish to serve with many Indian curries. Butter chicken is one dish where plain basmati rice shines. The long grains of this rice make it stand out, and it absorbs the flavors of the curry beautifully. In Indian cuisine, the significance of rice is immense.

While you can choose pulao or basmati rice, the latter ensures that the rich taste of butter chicken remains the star. Cooking fluffy rice is essential for those eager to perfect their side dishes to serve with butter chicken. Whether using a traditional method or a rice cooker, ensure each grain is separate and not overly adhesive.

Cilantro Lime Rice [Rice]

Cilantro Lime Rice is a zesty side dish that brings a burst of freshness to your plate. Its light, fluffy grains are infused with tangy lime and the herbaceous notes of cilantro, creating a vibrant flavor profile.

This rice pairs beautifully with butter chicken, as its refreshing taste cuts through the richness of the creamy curry, providing a well-balanced meal. A bite of this delightful combo, and you’ll be transported to a culinary paradise!

Lemon Rice [Rice]

Lemon Rice is a colorful, tangy delight that’s sure to brighten up your butter chicken meal. Its lightly spiced, citrusy flavor stands out without overpowering the creamy, spiced butter chicken. The delicate grains of rice absorb the gravy, while the zing of lemon keeps your palate refreshed. This combination creates an exciting, flavor-packed experience that keeps you coming back for more. Try it once, and Lemon Rice will become your go-to side with butter chicken!

Samosas [Fried]

When considering what to serve with butter chicken as an appetizer, samosas are a delightful choice. These crispy pockets of goodness can either be filled with vegetables or meat. Samosas make a great butter chicken side dish, setting the stage for the main event. The crunchy texture of the samosa, contrasted with the creamy Indian butter chicken curry, offers a balanced meal experience.

And to make it even better? Chutneys. Tangy tamarind or fresh mint chutney are among the best to accompany samosas, adding an extra layer of flavor. Making samosas might seem daunting, but they’re easy to make at home with a little practice.

Pakoras [Fried]

Pakoras are crispy, golden-brown fritters that add a delightful crunch to your butter chicken meal. Their mild, savory flavor, enveloped in a spiced chickpea batter, brilliantly complements the creamy, rich butter chicken.

Pakoras add an exciting textural contrast, making your meal even more enjoyable. Try them once, and these crunchy delights will be a constant on your dining table!

Onion Bhajis [Fried]

Onion Bhajis are scrumptious, deep-fried treats that pair wonderfully with butter chicken. The sweet, caramelized onions, encased in a crisp, spiced batter, provide a sweet and tangy contrast to the creamy, spiced butter chicken. Their crispy texture and savory taste make them a must-try addition to your meal.

Vegetable Fritters [Fried]

Vegetable Fritters are bite-sized, crispy delights that add a lovely crunch and freshness to your butter chicken feast. These fritters, packed with colorful veggies in a light, crunchy batter, contrast the creamy, rich butter chicken. The subtle veggie flavors shine through, making your meal balanced and utterly delicious.

Garden Salad [Salad]

Garden Salad is a vibrant, refreshing side that complements the richness of butter chicken perfectly. The crisp, fresh veggies provide a delightful crunch, while a tangy vinaigrette adds a burst of freshness. This salad is the perfect counterbalance to the creamy, spiced butter chicken, making your meal light, balanced, and supremely satisfying.

Caesar Salad [Salad]

Caesar Salad is a classic, irresistible side that adds a crisp, refreshing touch to your butter chicken meal. The crunchy romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and savory Parmesan cheese create a taste sensation that’s both hearty and light.

Its tangy, cheesy flavors cut through the creamy richness of the butter chicken, providing a well-rounded dining experience.

Cucumber Tomato Salad [Salad]

Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing, vibrant side that pairs wonderfully with butter chicken. The juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers, dressed with a light vinaigrette, provide a delightful crunch and fresh, tangy flavors.

This salad cuts through the rich, creamy butter chicken, offering a balanced and satisfying meal. One taste of this refreshing combo, and you’ll be craving for more.

Kachumber Salad [Salad]

For those looking for a burst of freshness with their meal, kachumber salad is an ideal pick. Comprising tomatoes, onions, cucumber, and sometimes even potatoes and onions, this salad provides a crisp and tangy counterpoint to butter chicken gravy. A simple drizzle of lemon juice, combined with hints of spices like cumin and coriander, really brings out the essence of the vegetables.

While a green goddess salad might be a tempting choice, the traditional kachumber salad and its blend of vegetables with spices are tailor-made to complement the butter chicken’s richness. Its simplicity and medley of flavors work harmoniously with dishes like butter chicken, especially when adding potatoes and cauliflower to the mix.

Dal Tadka [Soup]

Dal Tadka is a comforting, hearty soup. Its creamy lentils, spiced with fragrant Indian herbs, offer a delightful contrast to the rich butter chicken. This combination creates a balanced, flavorful meal that you’ll adore.

Try Dal Tadka with butter chicken for a warming, hearty experience!

Chicken Tikka Soup [Soup]

Chicken Tikka Soup is a spicy, savory delight. Its robust flavors, infused with smoky chicken tikka and aromatic spices, intensify the creamy butter chicken.

Tomato Soup [Soup]

With its tangy freshness, Tomato Soup is a fantastic partner to butter chicken. Its vibrant, slightly sweet taste balances the creamy, rich butter chicken, creating a well-rounded meal. Savor butter chicken with Tomato Soup; you’ll appreciate this delightful contrast!

Lentil Soup [Soup]

Lentil Soup is a hearty, nutritious side with earthy flavors and a creamy texture that harmonizes with the rich, spiced butter chicken. This pairing offers a comforting, satisfying meal that’s hard to resist.

Mulligatawny Soup [Soup]

Mulligatawny Soup is an exotic, spiced soup. Its tangy apple, creamy lentils, and aromatic spices create an exciting flavor profile that complements butter chicken perfectly. Experience this delightful duo and savor the fusion of flavors!

Dal Makhani [Vegetables]

Dal Makhani is a creamy, indulgent dish that pairs beautifully with butter chicken. Its velvety black lentils, cooked with spices and cream, balance butter chicken’s rich, creamy flavors. This duo offers a hearty, satisfying meal you’ll love. Give it a whirl, and you’ll be smitten!

Palak Paneer [Vegetables]

Palak Paneer is a delightful addition to butter chicken with its creamy spinach and soft paneer. Its earthy flavors and smooth texture complement the creamy, spiced butter chicken. This combination promises a meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Aloo Gobi [Vegetables]

Aloo Gobi is a flavorful, hearty side that enhances your butter chicken meal. Its tender potatoes and cauliflower, spiced with mild Indian herbs, harmonize with the rich butter chicken. Try this comforting, robust combo, and you’ll be craving for more!

Chana Masala [Vegetables]

With its tangy chickpeas and aromatic spices, Chana Masala brings a delightful contrast to butter chicken. Its hearty, spicy flavors balance the rich, creamy butter chicken, creating a satisfying meal.

Vegetable Biryani [Vegetables]

Vegetable Biryani is a flavorful, aromatic side that pairs perfectly with butter chicken. Its fragrant basmati rice and colorful veggies, spiced with exotic Indian herbs, complement the creamy butter chicken.

Baingan Bharta [Vegetables]

Baingan Bharta, with its smoky eggplant and aromatic spices, is a wonderful accompaniment to butter chicken. Its earthy flavors and creamy texture harmonize with the rich, spiced butter chicken. Dive into this combo for a flavorful, homely experience!

Cauliflower Dry Fry [Vegetables]

Cauliflower Dry Fry is a spicy, crunchy delight that adds a lovely crunch to your butter chicken meal. Its crispy cauliflower, fried with tangy spices, offers a delicious contrast to the creamy butter chicken. This pairing creates a well-rounded, exciting meal you’ll adore.

Mushroom Masala [Vegetables]

Mushroom Masala, with its juicy mushrooms and spicy gravy, complements butter chicken beautifully. Its hearty flavors and smooth texture balance the creamy, rich butter chicken, creating a well-rounded, satisfying meal. Enjoy this delightful duo for a hearty, flavorful meal!

Mango Lassi [Drink]

The Mango Lassi is a great side to consider when pondering what to serve with butter chicken. This sweet, tangy yogurt-based drink is a delightful choice to cleanse the palate.

Masala Chai [Drink]

Masala Chai is the way to go if you want to serve something warm and comforting alongside the butter chicken. This spiced tea brewed with milk offers the warmth that pairs great with butter chicken. The creamy textures in Masala Chai mirror the creamy richness of butter chicken, making them harmonize together in a meal.

As side dishes with butter chicken offer diversity in taste and texture, Masala Chai ensures that the drink you pick does the same, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Nimbu Pani [Drink]

Nimbu Pani is a refreshing, tangy drink that wonderfully balances the richness of butter chicken. This classic Indian lemonade, with its zesty lemons and hint of mint, provides a cool, refreshing break from the creamy, spiced butter chicken.

Enjoying this citrusy delight with your butter chicken meal promises a well-rounded, satisfying dining experience. Give Nimbu Pani a try, and you’ll appreciate this delightful contrast!

What Is Butter Chicken?

Butter chicken, also known as “murgh makhani,” comes from Delhi, India. It’s a curry dish with chicken in a tomato and butter sauce that’s thick and creamy. It’s a bit like chicken tikka masala but has a more buttery sauce. If you’ve never tried it, you’ll definitely want to know what butter chicken tastes like.

What To Serve With Butter Chicken?

With its creamy and aromatic dipping sauce, butter chicken stands as the pinnacle of Indian cuisine. Yet, the key to elevating this classic dish lies in pairing it with the perfect side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Besides butter, you can cook chicken with beef to enjoy many delicious dishes.

FAQs

What’s a good side to butter chicken?

For butter chicken, great side options include rosemary bread, gluten-free loaves, cilantro-flavored rice, brown rice, small cauliflower bites, cheesy potatoes, veggies, crispy onions, crunchy tostadas, broccoli, onion fritters, soft naan, flat chapati bread, stuffed pastries, cooling cucumber dip, tangy mint sauce, and garlic-flavored sticks.

What alcohol goes with butter chicken?

For mild butter chicken, go for rich white wines like Chardonnay or Soave. But a slightly sweet wine like Riesling or Gewurztraminer is ideal if it’s spicy.

What can I eat with butter chicken instead of rice?

If not rice, think about flavored rice, green veggies, flatbread, spinach dishes, potato cauliflower mix, crispy pastries, fresh veggie salad, or lentil dishes.

Conclusion

When you’re relishing the creamy delight of butter chicken, the right side dishes can elevate your dining experience. If you’ve been wondering what to serve with butter chicken, you now have many options.

From a simple side like cucumber salad to a hearty rice dish, there’s something for every palate. Remember, eating butter chicken is an experience, and the accompaniments go great with the richness of the curry.

Whether you choose traditional Indian options or experiment with others, they can be served with any Indian dish to enhance the meal’s flavors. So the next time you whip up some butter chicken, you’ll know exactly what sides to prepare!

Reference

Wikipedia – Butter chicken – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Butter_chicken

What To Serve With Butter Chicken: 33+ Best Side Dishes To Complement Your Meal [With Pictures!]