What To Serve With Butter Chicken

Who doesn’t love butter chicken?

This classic Indian dish is a favorite among many, thanks to its creamy and flavorful sauce.

But what do you serve with it?

If you’re looking for ways to make your meal complete, look no further!

We’ve got 15 great dishes that pair perfectly with butter chicken.

From traditional sides to creative accompaniments, you won’t be disappointed by these delicious options.

Whether you want something simple or something more complex, we’ve got plenty of ideas here.

With these easy-to-follow recipes and tips, you can put together an unforgettable meal.

So let’s get cooking!

Why These Side Dishes Goes Well With Butter Chicken– By Chef Natalie

To save you time, and to make your decision easy, I have built a nice chart on why these side dishes go well with Butter Chicken!

Side Dish	Why it goes well with Butter Chicken
Rice	Butter Chicken is typically served over a bed of fragrant rice, and the two dishes complement each other perfectly. The fluffy and aromatic rice provides a neutral base for the rich and flavorful Butter Chicken, allowing the sauce to be soaked up and enjoyed with every bite.
Naan	Naan is a classic Indian bread that pairs exceptionally well with Butter Chicken. The soft and pillowy texture of naan is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce and savoring the combination of flavors. Its slightly chewy and buttery nature adds a delightful element to the meal.
Raita	Raita, a yogurt-based condiment, serves as a refreshing and cooling accompaniment to the rich and spicy Butter Chicken. The creamy and tangy flavors of raita help balance the heat of the dish, while the cucumber and mint provide a refreshing contrast.
Roasted Vegetables	Roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, offer a savory and hearty side to enjoy with Butter Chicken. The caramelized edges and smoky flavors of the vegetables create a delicious contrast to the creamy sauce, adding depth and complexity to the meal.
Chana Masala	Chana Masala, a spiced chickpea dish, complements Butter Chicken beautifully. The combination of tender chickpeas in a flavorful tomato-based sauce provides a vegetarian option that complements the richness of Butter Chicken. The spices in both dishes harmonize well, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Samosas	Samosas, deep-fried pastries filled with savory fillings, are a popular accompaniment to Butter Chicken. Their crispy exterior and flavorful fillings, such as spiced potatoes and peas, add a delightful texture and taste contrast to the creamy Butter Chicken. Enjoying a bite of samosa between bites of Butter Chicken creates a harmonious blend of flavors.
Dal Makhani	Dal Makhani, a creamy and spiced lentil dish, pairs well with Butter Chicken. The rich and velvety texture of the dal complements the creamy sauce of the Butter Chicken. Both dishes have a comforting and indulgent quality, making them an excellent combination for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Papadums	Papadums are thin and crispy Indian crackers that add a delightful crunch to the meal. They provide a textural contrast to the creamy Butter Chicken and can be enjoyed on their own or as a vessel for scooping up the sauce. The light and savory flavors of papadums enhance the overall dining experience.
Rajma	Rajma, a kidney bean curry, complements Butter Chicken with its hearty and comforting flavors. The combination of creamy and spiced kidney beans with the rich and flavorful Butter Chicken creates a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
Mango Chutney	Mango chutney, with its sweet and tangy flavors, pairs exceptionally well with the savory Butter Chicken. The fruity and aromatic condiment provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Aloo Gobi	Aloo Gobi, a spiced cauliflower and potato dish, adds a vegetable-forward element to the meal. The tender cauliflower and potatoes in a flavorful sauce complement the creamy Butter Chicken, providing a balance of flavors and textures.
Cucumber Salad	A light and refreshing cucumber salad complements the richness of Butter Chicken

1. Rice

Rice is the perfect accompaniment to butter chicken, adding a light and comforting texture to an already delicious dish.

A steaming bowl of basmati rice can be cooked in no time with minimal effort, making it an ideal side for a busy weeknight dinner.

For a more luxurious experience, try cooking up some saffron-infused rice.

The fragrant aroma will take your meal to another level!

To really make your butter chicken shine, serve it with some fragrant jasmine or wild rice.

Its nutty flavor and fluffy texture are sure to be a hit with the whole family.

2. Naan

The sight of freshly baked naan is a delight.

Its golden brown color and fluffy texture is sure to make mouths water, and its delicious aroma makes it the perfect accompaniment to any Indian meal, especially butter chicken.

Naan is an Indian flatbread made with all-purpose flour, yogurt, and ghee or oil.

It can be enjoyed plain or stuffed with various ingredients such as garlic, onions, and cheese.

There are a few different ways to make naan.

You can cook it in a tandoor oven for a smoky flavor or on the stovetop in a cast-iron skillet for an equally delicious version that requires less effort.

Here are some tips to help you make perfectly cooked naan at home:

• Use full fat yogurt for best results
• Knead the dough well before rolling it out
• Keep the rolled out dough covered so it doesn’t dry out
• Cook the naan in a very hot skillet for about 2 minutes on each side until lightly charred.

Naan is an essential part of any Indian meal and pairs wonderfully with butter chicken.

It’s easy to make at home and you can enjoy it plain or stuff it with your favorite ingredients for even more flavor.

So why not give making your own naan at home a try? You’ll be glad you did!

3. Raita

Raita is a cooling accompaniment to the spicy richness of butter chicken.

The traditional Indian yogurt dish is made with cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions, all chopped finely and mixed with thick, creamy yogurt.

Fresh herbs like cilantro and mint are sometimes added for extra flavor.

The combination of cooling yogurt and fresh vegetables creates a light, refreshing contrast to the velvety creaminess of the butter chicken.

The bright flavors in raita also help to cut through the richness of the dish.

It’s often served chilled or at room temperature alongside hot foods like butter chicken.

Some people like to add sugar or honey for a touch of sweetness – but for a true authentic experience, try it without any added sugar.

Raita can be enjoyed as an individual side dish or eaten together with other sides like naan or spiced potatoes.

Whether you prefer it plain or sweetened, it’s sure to add a delicious flavor to any butter chicken meal!

4. Roasted Vegetables

The sight of a plate full of roasted vegetables is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.

Aromatic and golden, the vegetables provide a perfect balance to the creamy and indulgent butter chicken.

Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and elevates any meal.

For this particular dish, a mix of seasonal vegetables is ideal.

Think butternut squash, carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet potatoes.

To maximize flavor and ensure even cooking, cut the vegetables into slices or cubes before tossing with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.

Spread them out on a baking sheet in one layer before roasting at 400°F for 25-30 minutes or until tender and golden brown.

These roasted veggies are sure to be a hit – not only do they add color to the dish but also extra nutrition.

Enjoy with steamed rice or naan bread for a complete meal!

5. Chana Masala

Roasted Vegetables make a delicious accompaniment to butter chicken.

Their mellow sweetness and subtle crunch offer the perfect contrast to the creamy, spiced sauce of the dish.

The combination of these two elements is sure to have your guests coming back for seconds!

Chana Masala is another great side dish to enjoy with butter chicken.

This traditional Indian dish features chickpeas cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce and plenty of spices.

The bold flavors in chana masala will add even more depth and complexity to your meal, while balancing out the rich flavors of the butter chicken.

A plate of aromatic basmati rice is also a must when enjoying butter chicken.

Basmati has a unique nutty flavor that complements the savory taste of this classic Indian dish perfectly.

Plus, it’s a great way to soak up all those luscious sauces!

With roasted vegetables, chana masala, and basmati rice as part of your spread, you’re sure to have an unforgettable feast for everyone at your table.

6. Samosas

One of the most delicious side dishes to serve with butter chicken is samosas.

This savory pastry is a classic Indian dish that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds!

Here are three key reasons why you should consider serving samosas with your next butter chicken dinner:

1. Flavorful Filling – Samosas are filled with delicious vegetables, potatoes and spices. The combination of these ingredients together creates a flavor that perfectly complements the creamy butteriness of the chicken.

2. Crispy Texture – The doughy crust of a samosa provides a satisfying crunch when it’s fried or baked in the oven. This crispy texture adds an extra layer of delight for anyone enjoying your meal.

3. Variety – Samosas come in many shapes and sizes, so there’s something for everyone at the table! Whether you prefer small bite-sized ones or large ones stuffed with plenty of filling, you’re sure to find a variety that will please all your guests.

Samosas are a great way to take your butter chicken dinner up a notch and make it even more enjoyable for all who partake in it!

7. Dal Makhani

Samosas have long been a staple in Indian cuisine, but their popularity has grown exponentially in recent years.

With its crispy dough and flavorful fillings, it’s no surprise that this snack is now a favorite around the world.

But what do you serve with samosas?

Dal makhani is the perfect accompaniment to this savory starter.

This creamy dish made from black lentils and kidney beans is a popular Indian side dish that adds richness to any meal.

Simmered for hours, it gets its unique flavor from the generous use of butter and cream, making it an indulgent pairing for samosas.

Enjoy it with some warm naan bread or basmati rice to really round out the meal.

This classic Indian combo of samosas and dal makhani will transport your taste buds on an exotic journey right at home.

The combination of flavors — sweet, spicy, creamy, and crunchy — create an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more.

So go ahead, indulge yourself in a delicious fusion of flavors!

8. Papadums

Crispy, golden papadums are a classic accompaniment to butter chicken.

These crunchy disks of lentil flour are traditionally fried in oil and served piping hot.

The contrast between the creamy, mildly spiced curry and the crunchy texture of the papadums is heavenly.

As you bite into them, the delicate yet satisfyingly crisp texture will tantalize your senses and make your taste buds dance with joy.

The flavor of papadums is mild but with a hint of spicy kick from chili peppers and black pepper.

If you want to take it up a notch, try adding chopped onions or cilantro to the mix before frying.

This will add an extra layer of flavor to every bite that you take.

Papadums also pair perfectly with pickles or chutneys so be sure to have some on hand when serving them alongside butter chicken.

The perfect way to enjoy this duo? Scoop some warm butter chicken onto a plate and top it off with freshly fried papadums for a truly delicious combination that will have everyone wanting more!

Eating these two dishes together is like taking a culinary journey back in time, one that’s sure to leave lasting memories for all who partake in it.

9. Rajma

A hearty bowl of Rajma, a classic North Indian dish, is the perfect accompaniment to butter chicken.

With its rich and flavorful sauce, this warming dish is sure to brighten up any meal.

Rajma is made from red kidney beans cooked in a tomato-based onion gravy.

The fragrant spices used in the sauce, such as cumin, coriander, garlic, ginger, and garam masala add an aromatic punch of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.

Additionally, adding a touch of cream at the end gives it a creamy finish that really rounds off the flavors.

Serving Rajma alongside butter chicken creates a balanced meal with complementary flavors.

The sweetness of the tomato-based gravy pairs wonderfully with the savory richness of butter chicken’s tomato and cream sauce.

It also adds texture – the smoothness of the gravy works perfectly against the crunchy bites of butter chicken’s fried onions and cashews for added depth.

Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or something special for guests, this combination will be sure to please all palates!

10. Mango Chutney

Mango chutney is a spicy and sweet condiment that pairs well with butter chicken.

It is made from mangoes, which bring a tart sweetness to the mix, as well as spices like garlic, ginger, chili powder, and turmeric.

The mixture of tartness and spice gives the chutney an inviting flavor that complements the richness of butter chicken.

When making mango chutney at home, it’s important to use fresh ingredients that haven’t been processed or canned.

This will ensure that the flavors are at their peak when served with butter chicken.

For best results, chop the mango into small pieces before adding it to a pot along with your other spices and simmering until everything is soft and fragrant.

This flavorful condiment adds just the right amount of punch to any meal featuring butter chicken.

Its vibrant colors and bold flavors make it an excellent accompaniment for any Indian dish.

Serve alongside a bowl of warm basmati rice for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table!

11. Aloo Gobi

Aloo Gobi is a classic Indian dish that pairs perfectly with butter chicken.

It’s made with fragrant ginger, garlic, cumin, and turmeric, giving it a savory flavor that complements the creamy texture of butter chicken.

The combination of potatoes and cauliflower brings an earthy sweetness to the meal, and its wonderful crunch adds texture to the tenderness of the chicken.

Aloo Gobi is an easy side dish to make and can be cooked in a single pan on the stove or in a slow cooker.

With its balance of flavors, this side will bring out the best in your butter chicken and complete your meal.

12. Cucumber Salad

Cucumber Salad is the perfect accompaniment to butter chicken.

It’s a classic recipe that’s light and refreshing, making it a great partner for the richness of butter chicken.

This salad is simple to make and really packs in the flavor.

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Fresh cucumbers: Choose English, Persian, or Kirby cucumbers for best results.

• English cucumbers are long and thin with thin skin and few seeds.

• Persian cucumbers are small, round, and have thin skin and few seeds.

• Kirby cucumbers are short and thick with thick skin and many seeds.

• Vinegar: White wine vinegar adds a subtle acidity that pairs well with the creamy butter chicken.

• Onion: Red onion adds a bit of crunch and sweetness to the dish.

• Herbs: Fresh parsley adds color while fresh dill brings an earthy flavor to the mix.

• Salt & pepper: A pinch of each enhances all of the flavors in this dish.

This salad can be served as a side or on its own as a light lunch or dinner option.

The crispness of the cucumber combined with the sharpness of vinegar makes for an incredibly refreshing combination that works perfectly with butter chicken – creating a balanced meal that everyone will love!

13. Bombay Potatoes

Bombay potatoes are a classic side dish to serve with butter chicken.

These potatoes are cooked until they’re tender, then roasted in a tandoor oven and served with a spicy tomato-based sauce.

The combination of the creamy potatoes and the tangy sauce make this dish irresistible.

To make Bombay potatoes at home, start by boiling cubed potatoes until they’re almost done, but not mushy.

Then transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast in the oven for 10 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Meanwhile, prepare the sauce by combining diced tomatoes, garlic, ginger, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, chili powder and salt in a pan over medium heat and cook until thickened.

When the potatoes are done roasting, add them to the saucepan with the tomato mixture and stir to combine.

Serve hot with freshly chopped cilantro on top for an extra burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with butter chicken.

Enjoy!

14. Kheer

Kheer is a creamy sweet dish made with milk, basmati rice, cardamom, and nuts. It’s the perfect accompaniment to butter chicken – providing a luxurious contrast to the spiciness of this classic dish.

For those looking to experience the full flavor journey of butter chicken, kheer is an absolute must.

Kheer can be prepared in various ways – from adding saffron and rosewater for extra sweetness, to using coconut milk for an exotic twist.

Here are just a few ideas for how you can make your own:

• Add raisins and slivered almonds for crunch
• Substitute jaggery or palm sugar for regular white sugar
• Use whole spices like cinnamon and star anise in the cooking process

Served as a side or even as a dessert after dinner, kheer will bring balance to any meal featuring butter chicken. Simple yet satisfying, it’s easily cooked up in minutes and sure to impress any guest.

15. Gulab Jamun

The perfect accompaniment to butter chicken is the quintessential Indian dessert – Gulab Jamun.

These sticky, sweet dumplings are made from a mixture of khoya (milk solids) and flour and deep-fried until golden brown.

In India, these delectable treats are served at most special occasions, such as weddings, festivals, or even just family get-togethers.

Flavor	Texture	Occasion
Sweet	Soft	Weddings
	Sticky	Festivals
	Crunchy	Family Gatherings

Gulab Jamun has a unique flavor that can only be described as sweet and heavenly.

The texture is so incredibly soft and sticky – it practically melts in your mouth!

This is perhaps why it’s so popular at weddings and festivals in India; the taste alone can make any celebration feel extra special.

Of course, Gulab Jamun isn’t just for special occasions – it’s also a great way to bring everyone together during family gatherings too!

This rich, decadent dessert is sure to leave a lasting impression on everyone who tries it.

Whether you’re looking for something to enjoy after a delicious meal of butter chicken or just want an indulgent treat that will bring people together – look no further than Gulab Jamun!

Conclusion

I’ve got the perfect accompaniments for your next butter chicken feast! From classic rice and naan to more unique dishes such as chana masala and kheer, there’s something for everyone.

Plus, all of these dishes pair perfectly with the creamy curry. You won’t regret making these sides to go with your meal – I guarantee it!

They’ll bring a unique flavor and texture to the table that will have your guests asking for seconds. So don’t wait another minute – get cooking and enjoy!