What to Serve with Tandoori Chicken: 33 Delicious Ideas

Are you ready to dive into a delicious adventure that will make your taste buds dance joyfully? If you’re curious about what to serve with tandoori chicken, you’re in for a real treat!

As a fervent food enthusiast and dedicated home cook, I’ve devoted years to mastering the art of creating the ultimate tandoori chicken feast.

Today, I’m excited to share my knowledge and guide you in discovering the ideal side dishes, accompaniments, and flavors that will elevate your tandoori chicken experience.

Understanding Tandoori Chicken: The Star of Your Plate

Before we dive into the mouthwatering world of side dishes, let’s take a moment to appreciate the star of the show – tandoori chicken. This traditional Indian dish is a masterpiece that has captured hearts and stomachs worldwide. If you’re curious about what goes with tandoori chicken, keep reading for some fantastic ideas!

What Is Tandoori Chicken?

Tandoori chicken is a classic Indian dish that gets its name from the tandoor, a traditional clay oven used for cooking.

The chicken is marinated in a flavorful mixture of yogurt and spices, then skewered and grilled to perfection. The result? Juicy tandoori chicken with a smoky char and bold flavors that will make your taste buds sing.

Fun Fact: The distinctive red color of tandoori chicken often comes from adding Kashmiri red chili powder or food coloring in the marinade.

Flavor Profile of Tandoori Chicken

The flavor of tandoori chicken is a complex symphony of tastes and aromas. Here’s what makes it so special:

• Tangy: The yogurt marinade adds a subtle tang to the meat.
• Spicy: A blend of spices like chili powder, cumin, and coriander kicks it.
• Smoky: The high heat of the tandoor (or your oven) imparts a delicious smokiness.
• Savory: Ginger, garlic, and garam masala contribute to its savory depth.
• Slightly sweet: Some recipes include a touch of sweetness to balance the spices.

Rice Dishes  For Tandoori Chicken

Lemon Rice

Lemon rice is a zesty and refreshing dish perfect with tandoori chicken. The citrusy flavor of lemon juice and the aroma of basmati rice create a delightful contrast to the spicy chicken. This rice dish is also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a quick and delicious meal.

Kashmiri Fruit Pulao

Kashmiri Fruit Pulao is a unique rice dish that combines sweet dried fruits and savory spices. This sweet and savory delight features ingredients like raisins, cashews, and saffron, creating a rich and aromatic side dish. The sweetness of the fruits balances the heat of the tandoori chicken, making it a delightful combination.

Kabuli Chana Pulao (Chickpea Pilaf)

Kabuli Chana Pulao, or chickpea pilaf, is a hearty and nutritious rice dish that pairs wonderfully with tandoori chicken. The chickpeas add a nutty flavor and a protein boost, while the fragrant spices blend seamlessly with the chicken’s marinade. It’s a satisfying and wholesome option that complements the meal perfectly.

Mushroom Pulao

Mushroom Pulao is an earthy and flavorful rice dish that pairs beautifully with tandoori chicken. The mushrooms add a meaty texture and a rich, umami flavor that complements the smoky spices of the chicken. It’s a great way to add depth and variety to your meal.

Vegetable Pulao

Vegetable pulao is a medley of mixed vegetables and fragrant spices, creating a vibrant and nutritious side dish. Its variety of textures and flavors makes it a perfect complement to the bold taste of tandoori chicken. It’s a versatile and healthy option that adds a burst of freshness to your meal.

Peas Pulao

Peas Pulao is a simple yet flavorful rice dish that’s both colorful and nutritious. The peas add a pop of color and a slight sweetness, balancing the spicy flavors of the tandoori chicken. It’s a light and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Saffron Rice

Saffron Rice is an aromatic and visually appealing side dish that’s perfect with tandoori chicken. The vibrant yellow color and distinct flavor of saffron make this rice dish a luxurious addition to your meal. It’s an elegant and flavorful choice that enhances the overall dining experience.

Vegetable Sides  For Tandoori Chicken

Air Fryer Cauliflower Steaks 

Air Fryer Cauliflower Steaks are a modern and healthy twist on traditional sides. These steaks are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the juicy tandoori chicken. They’re a great way to add a healthy and delicious side to your meal.

Cauliflower Manchurian

Cauliflower Manchurian is an Indo-Chinese fusion dish that offers a tangy and spicy bite. The crispy cauliflower coated in a savory sauce makes for a delightful side dish that pairs well with the smoky flavors of tandoori chicken. It’s a unique and flavorful option that’s sure to impress.

Stuffed Green Bell Peppers

Stuffed Green Bell Peppers filled with spiced vegetables or grains add a burst of color and flavor to your meal. The peppers provide a sweet and slightly tangy taste that complements the bold spices of tandoori chicken. They’re a visually appealing and tasty side dish.

Vegetable Spring Rolls

Vegetable Spring Rolls are light and crispy, perfect for adding a refreshing contrast to your tandoori chicken. Filled with a mix of fresh vegetables, these rolls provide a crunchy texture and a burst of flavor that balances the richness of the chicken. They’re a fun and delicious side dish.

Aloo Gobi

Aloo Gobi is a classic Indian dish made with potatoes and cauliflower, cooked with aromatic spices. This flavorful curry pairs wonderfully with tandoori chicken, offering a comforting and satisfying side dish. The combination of tender potatoes and cauliflower creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Saag

Saag is a creamy spinach dish rich in flavor and nutrients. Its smooth and velvety texture pairs well with the bold flavors of tandoori chicken, providing a refreshing contrast. Saag is a nutritious and delicious side dish that complements the meal perfectly.

Potato Dishes for Tandoori Chicken

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a perfect side dish for tandoori chicken. The seasoning adds a burst of flavor that complements the smoky spices of the chicken. They’re indulgent and delicious, ideal for any occasion.

Aloo Chaat

Aloo Chaat is a tangy and spicy street food-style potato dish that’s bursting with flavor. Combining spices, lemon juice, and fresh herbs creates a zesty side dish that pairs beautifully with tandoori chicken. It’s a fun and flavorful addition to your meal.

Bombay Potatoes

Bombay Potatoes are a well-spiced and aromatic potato dish perfect with tandoori chicken. The blend of spices, such as cumin, turmeric, and chili powder, adds depth and richness to the potatoes, making them a satisfying and flavorful side dish.

Indian Cottage Cheese (Paneer) Sides for Tandoori Chicken

Hariyali Paneer Tikka

Hariyali Paneer Tikka is made by marinating paneer cubes in a green herb and spice mixture and then grilling them to perfection. The fresh and vibrant flavors of the marinade complement the smoky tandoori chicken beautifully, making it a perfect side dish.

Paneer Fingers

Paneer Fingers are crispy and golden, making them a great finger food option. They’re seasoned with spices and fried to perfection, providing a delicious and crunchy side dish that complements the bold flavors of tandoori chicken.

Paneer Kabab

Paneer Kababs are grilled paneer cubes seasoned with a blend of spices, creating a rich and flavorful side dish. The smoky and spicy paneer pairs wonderfully with tandoori chicken, adding a protein-rich and satisfying element to your meal.

Refreshing Salads and Dips to Balance Tandoori Chicken

Green Coriander Chutney

Green Coriander Chutney is a fresh and tangy dip made with cilantro, mint, and spices. It’s a cool and herby accompaniment that enhances the flavors of tandoori chicken, providing a refreshing contrast to the spicy dish.

Onion Raita

Onion Raita is a cooling yogurt dip made with chopped onions, cumin, and mint. It helps balance the heat of tandoori chicken and adds a creamy, refreshing element to your meal. It’s a must-have side dish for any tandoori chicken feast.

Kachumber Salad

Kachumber Salad is a simple and refreshing salad made with chopped vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. The light and tangy dressing adds a burst of flavor, making it a perfect side dish to balance the bold taste of tandoori chicken.

Cucumber Raita

Cucumber Raita is a classic yogurt dip made with grated cucumbers, mint, and spices. It’s a cooling and refreshing side dish that helps balance the heat of tandoori chicken, providing a creamy and soothing contrast.

Bread Options to Serve with Tandoori Chicken

When serving tandoori chicken, several delicious bread options can complement its bold flavors. Here are some great choices:

• Naan Bread: This soft, fluffy Indian bread is perfect for scooping up spicy chicken. You can enjoy it plain or flavored with garlic or herbs. It’s a classic accompaniment that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of tandoori chicken.
• Tandoori Chicken Naan Buns: These are a creative twist, featuring naan bread filled with spicy tandoori chicken and topped with garlic butter. They combine the flavors of tandoori chicken with the texture of naan, making for a delightful handheld option.
• Roti or Chapati: These simple, everyday Indian breads are versatile and pair well with any dish. They provide a light and chewy complement to the tandoori chicken, making them perfect for scooping up sauces and enjoying the meal to the fullest.
• Gluten-Free Bread: If you need a gluten-free option, serving tandoori chicken with gluten-free bread can accommodate dietary restrictions while still allowing everyone to enjoy the meal.

These bread options not only enhance the dining experience but also provide a satisfying way to enjoy the flavorful tandoori chicken.

Refreshing Drinks to Pair with Tandoori Chicken

Complement tandoori chicken with cooling lassi, tangy Indian-inspired cocktails, or warming chai tea. These drinks perfectly balance the dish’s bold flavors.

• Lassi Variations: Traditional Indian yogurt drink available in flavors like mango, rose, and salty. It’s refreshing and helps balance the heat of the tandoori chicken.
• Indian-Inspired Cocktails: Drinks such as mango mojito or spicy tamarind margarita add a fun and flavorful twist to your meal. These cocktails blend sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors that complement the dish perfectly.
• Chai Tea: This spiced tea consists of black tea, milk, and spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger. It is delightful when served with tandoori chicken and provides a soothing and warming beverage experience.

Desserts to Follow Tandoori Chicken

Finish your meal with traditional Indian sweets, light fruit-based desserts, or innovative fusion treats for a delightful contrast to the spicy main course.

• Traditional Indian Sweets: Sweets like gulab jamun, jalebi, and rasgulla are rich and flavorful, offering a delightful contrast to the spicy main course.
• Light Fruit-Based Desserts: Options like mango sorbet or fresh fruit salad provide a refreshing and healthy end to your meal.
• Fusion Dessert Ideas: Creative desserts like cardamom-spiced chocolate mousse or saffron panna cotta combine traditional Indian flavors with modern dessert techniques for a unique finish.

Balancing Flavors: Crafting a Balanced Tandoori Chicken Meal

Creating a well-rounded meal with tandoori chicken balances flavors, textures, and colors. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect balance:

• Combining Spicy, Cool, and Neutral Flavors: I always pair the bold and spicy tandoori chicken with cooling dips, refreshing salads, and neutral sides like rice or bread. This combination creates a harmonious dining experience.
• Texture Considerations: Texture is crucial for a satisfying meal. I like to combine crispy sides like vegetable spring rolls or air fryer cauliflower steaks with creamy dips and tender meats to enhance the overall meal.
• Color on the Plate: A visually appealing meal often tastes better. Adding colorful sides like saffron rice, kachumber salad, and beetroot raita makes the plate look vibrant and adds various flavors and nutrients to the meal.

For the best tandoori chicken recipe, you can check out this easy recipe guide. It’s a great guide to making juicy, flavorful tandoori chicken at home.

Tips for Serving Tandoori Chicken on Different Occasions

From casual family dinners to elegant dinner parties and outdoor barbecues, tandoori chicken is a versatile dish that fits any occasion:

• Casual Family Dinners: For casual family dinners, keep the sides simple and comforting. Pair tandoori chicken with basmati rice, naan, and a fresh salad. This combination is easy to prepare and perfect for a relaxed, family-friendly meal.
• Dinner Parties: Impress your guests with various sides and drinks for dinner parties. Serve tandoori chicken with a selection of pulao, vegetable sides, and paneer dishes. Add some Indian-inspired cocktails and a few traditional desserts for a complete and festive meal.
• Outdoor Barbecues: Tandoori chicken is perfect for outdoor barbecues. Serve it with grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, and refreshing dips like raita and chutney. Add some cold lassi or chilled cocktails to keep your guests cool and satisfied.

Conclusion

In this guide, we’ve explored a variety of delicious sides to serve with tandoori chicken. From traditional Indian rice dishes and flavorful vegetable sides to refreshing salads and indulgent desserts, there’s something for every taste and occasion.

Experiment with different combinations to create your perfect tandoori chicken meal, and don’t be afraid to try new and exciting pairings. 

With the right sides, you can elevate your tandoori chicken experience and enjoy a truly memorable meal.

FAQs: What to Serve with Tandoori Chicken