Chicken Tikka Masala has become a staple of global cuisine, and its savory flavors and textures make it a great dish to serve alongside other dishes.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to try something new for dinner tonight, these 15 dishes will pair perfectly with your Chicken Tikka Masala.
From traditional accompaniments like basmati rice and naan bread to more unique sides like roasted cauliflower and vegetable biryani, you’ll find a variety of delicious options that will truly complement your meal.
Why These Side Dishes Goes Well With Chicken Tikka Masala– 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 Chicken Tikka Masala!
| Side Dish | Why It Goes Well with Chicken Tikka Masala |
|---|---|
| Basmati Rice | Basmati rice is a traditional and fragrant rice that pairs perfectly with chicken tikka masala. Its fluffy texture and aromatic flavors complement the rich and spicy sauce of the dish. |
| Naan Bread | Naan bread is a classic Indian bread that is often served alongside chicken tikka masala. Its soft and chewy texture is perfect for scooping up the flavorful sauce and adding a comforting element to the meal. |
| Raita | Raita is a cooling yogurt-based condiment that helps balance the spiciness of chicken tikka masala. Its refreshing flavors and creamy texture provide a contrast to the heat of the dish and add a refreshing element to the meal. |
| Samosas | Samosas are savory pastries filled with a spiced potato and vegetable mixture. They are a popular side dish in Indian cuisine and pair well with chicken tikka masala. The crispy exterior and flavorful filling complement the main dish. |
| Onion Bhajis | Onion bhajis are deep-fried onion fritters that add a crispy and savory element to the meal. Their spiced flavors and crunchy texture provide a delightful contrast to the creamy chicken tikka masala. |
| Masala Papads | Masala papads are thin and crispy Indian crackers that are often served as an appetizer or side dish. They add a crunchy texture and a burst of flavors to the meal, complementing the richness of the chicken tikka masala. |
| Roasted Cauliflower | Roasted cauliflower offers a flavorful and healthy side dish option. Its nutty and caramelized flavors pair well with the spiced chicken tikka masala and add a satisfying texture to the meal. |
| Vegetable Biryani | Vegetable biryani is a fragrant rice dish cooked with aromatic spices and mixed vegetables. It can be enjoyed alongside chicken tikka masala, providing a flavorful and complete meal with a variety of textures and flavors. |
| Saffron Rice | Saffron rice is a luxurious and aromatic side dish that pairs well with chicken tikka masala. Its golden hue and delicate flavor add an elegant touch to the meal and complement the bold flavors of the dish. |
| Aloo Gobi | Aloo gobi is a popular Indian dish made with potatoes and cauliflower. Its spiced flavors and tender texture provide a tasty and hearty side dish that complements the flavors of chicken tikka masala. |
| Cucumber Raita | Cucumber raita is a refreshing yogurt-based condiment that pairs well with spicy dishes like chicken tikka masala. Its cool and tangy flavors help balance the heat and add a refreshing element to the meal. |
| Potato Wedges | Potato wedges are a comforting and versatile side dish that pairs well with chicken tikka masala. Their crispy exterior and soft interior provide a satisfying texture, and their mild flavor complements the bold flavors of the dish. |
| Mango Chutney | Mango chutney is a sweet and tangy condiment that adds a burst of flavors to the meal. Its fruity and spicy notes complement the chicken tikka masala and add a delightful contrast to the dish. |
| Lentil Dal | Lentil dal is a staple in Indian cuisine and makes for a hearty and flavorful side dish. Its creamy texture and spiced flavors provide a satisfying complement to the chicken tikka masala. |
| Garden Salad | A fresh garden salad offers a light and crisp side |
1. Basmati Rice
Basmati rice is the perfect accompaniment to chicken tikka masala.
This fragrant, long-grain variety of rice has a unique nutty flavor and aroma that pairs wonderfully with the rich spices found in many Indian dishes.
Basmati rice can be cooked in a variety of ways, from steaming to boiling.
Traditionally, basmati rice is boiled until fluffy and light. It should be cooked separately from the other ingredients in chicken tikka masala so that the flavors don’t get lost in the sauce.
You can enhance the flavor of your basmati rice by adding some clarified butter or ghee and a pinch of saffron for extra depth and richness. When you’re ready to serve, simply fluff up the basmati rice with a fork and spoon it onto everyone’s plates alongside their chicken tikka masala.
Add a dollop of plain yogurt or raita on top to cut through the heat and enjoy!
2. Naan Bread
Naan bread is an essential accompaniment to any Indian meal, and chicken tikka masala is no exception.
This traditional flatbread is made from a leavened dough of flour, salt, and yeast, which is then cooked in a clay oven known as a tandoor.
The result is a fluffy yet chewy texture that serves as the perfect foil for the creamy sauce of the chicken tikka masala.
When served with naan bread, it’s important to get the timing right so that each bite of tikka masala can be enjoyed with some warm and freshly-baked naan.
To achieve this, simply place the naan into the oven while you cook the curry, or heat it briefly in a pan to make sure it has that delicious smoky flavor.
To really bring out the flavors of your chicken tikka masala dish, serve it with some onion chutney or mango pickle on top of your naan bread. These condiments are sure to add an extra pop of flavor to every bite!
3. Raita
Raita is a classic accompaniment to Chicken Tikka Masala.
It’s a creamy, yogurt-based condiment that helps to cool down the spice of the masala and add a delicious tangy flavor. The most common ingredients are yogurt, cucumber, and spices like cumin and coriander.
Making raita at home is easy and inexpensive.
Simply mix together plain yogurt, diced cucumber, salt, and your favorite spices in a medium bowl. Let it sit for an hour in the refrigerator to really let the flavors meld together.
Serve chilled alongside your chicken tikka masala for an unbeatable combination of flavor and texture.
A final sprinkling of freshly chopped mint or cilantro can give your raita some extra zing that’ll really take it up a notch – perfect for those who love their food with a bit of heat!
A plate full of fragrant chicken tikka masala served with cooling raita will make any dinner special – not just because it tastes amazing but because it looks beautiful too!
4. Samosas
Raita is a cooling accompaniment that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of chicken tikka masala.
The creamy yogurt-based condiment is flavored with cucumber, cumin, and other herbs, providing a tartness that brings out the richness of the curry.
Samosas are another classic side dish that can be served with chicken tikka masala. These deep-fried pastries are filled with potatoes, peas, lentils, and spices, providing an interesting contrast to the creamy curry.
When making samosas for your chicken tikka masala dinner, there are several options available:
- Make your own samosas from scratch using pre-made dough or puff pastry sheets
- Buy pre-made frozen or store-bought samosas
- Try different varieties of samosas such as vegetable samosas or cheese and onion samosas
Serving up a plate of freshly fried samosas alongside your chicken tikka masala will make for an impressive meal. They’re easy to prepare and provide an unexpected twist on what would otherwise be a traditional Indian dinner.
With raita and samosas in tow, you’ll be sure to impress your guests!
5. Onion Bhajis
If you are looking for something to pair with the classic Indian dish, chicken tikka masala, then look no further than onion bhajis.
These savory snacks are perfect for any meal and provide a delicious accompaniment.
Onion bhajis are an Indian snack that is made from a batter of gram flour and spices.
The onions are sliced thin and then mixed with the batter before being fried in oil until golden brown. This gives them a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy flavors of chicken tikka masala.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Gram Flour | 2 cups | Sift |
| Onions | 2 | Thinly Slice |
| Turmeric | 1 tsp | Ground |
| Curry Powder | 2 tsp | Ground |
| Salt | To Taste |
The key to making these delicious treats is to get the batter just right; mixing in the right amount of flavorings and making sure it has an even consistency.
Once you have mastered this, you will be able to make perfect onion bhajis every time. They should be served hot out of the fryer with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or chutney for added flavor. Enjoy!
6. Masala Papads
Onion Bhajis are a beloved Indian classic, but if you’re looking for something to really take your chicken tikka masala up a notch, try Masala Papads. These crispy, savory snacks are made from lentil flour and flavored with spices like cumin and coriander.
They can be served as an appetizer or side dish, and they’re sure to add some zing to the meal.
Masala Papads are incredibly easy to make at home. Start by mixing together the lentil flour, salt, and spices in a bowl.
The dough should be thick enough that it holds its shape when rolled out.
Roll the dough into thin circles and fry them in hot oil until golden brown and crisp on both sides.
Serve these golden-brown snacks with a sprinkle of chaat masala or lime juice for an extra kick of flavor.
Whether you’re looking for something to munch on before dinner or an accompaniment to your chicken tikka masala, Masala Papads are sure to please your taste buds! With their crunchy texture and bold flavor, there’s no better way to round out your meal than with this Indian specialty.
7. Roasted Cauliflower
Roasted cauliflower is a great accompaniment to chicken tikka masala. It’s easy to prepare and adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
To make it, start by preheating the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut a head of cauliflower into florets, then coat them in olive oil, salt, pepper and your favorite spices.
Spread the florets on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes, flipping once midway through. The result should be soft on the inside and golden brown on the outside.
For an extra kick of flavor, try adding one or more of these ingredients while roasting:
- Freshly-grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped walnuts
- Chopped garlic
- Lemon zest
- Curry powder
These simple additions will transform roasted cauliflower into something truly special that pairs perfectly with chicken tikka masala. With its delicious savory flavor, this side dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike!
8. Vegetable Biryani
After roasting cauliflower to perfection, it’s time to move on to something a bit more complex.
Vegetable Biryani is the perfect accompaniment for Chicken Tikka Masala and is sure to bring a delightful flavor to the dinner table.
| To prepare this classic Indian dish, you’ll need some basmati rice, fresh vegetables, spices, and herbs. | Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Basmati Rice | 2 cups | |
| Vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas) | 1/2 cup | |
| Spices (cumin, coriander powder) | 1 teaspoon of each | |
| Herbs (e.g., cilantro) | Handful of leaves |
Begin by washing and soaking the rice in cold water for an hour so that it cooks evenly when boiled. Next, heat some oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and add the spices and herbs.
Cook until fragrant before adding in the vegetables and cooking until they are slightly softened.
Finally add the soaked rice and mix everything together before reducing heat to low and covering with a lid for 15 minutes or until all liquid has been absorbed by the cooked rice.
Vegetable Biryani is now ready! The fragrant aroma of freshly cooked spices combined with tender vegetables makes this dish one that will linger long after it has been served up.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create an amazing experience for your guests – one that everyone will remember fondly!
9. Saffron Rice
The saffron rice is the perfect accompaniment to a delicious chicken tikka masala dish. Its vibrant yellow hue is sure to brighten up any plate and its nutty, earthy flavor will provide an interesting contrast to the spicy curry.
A generous sprinkle of saffron gives this simple dish a luxurious feel that will impress even the most discerning of guests.
To make saffron rice, start by washing the rice thoroughly and soaking it in cold water for 30 minutes. This helps to release some of the starch, resulting in light and fluffy grains when cooked.
Then, drain the water and add it to a pot with butter or oil and lightly sauté for a few minutes until lightly browned.
Add boiling water and bring everything to a simmer before adding ground saffron along with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer on low heat until all the liquid has been absorbed, remove from heat, fluff with a fork and serve hot alongside your chicken tikka masala!
Saffron rice is an easy-to-make side dish that pairs perfectly with any spicy Indian curry.
Its nutty flavor and beautiful golden color will add something special to your meal without taking too much effort or time – what more could you ask for? Serve hot alongside your favorite chicken tikka masala recipe – you won’t be disappointed!
10. Aloo Gobi
Aromatic and savory, Aloo Gobi is an Indian dish made from potatoes and cauliflower.
The combination of spices and herbs used to season the dish offer a unique flavor that is sure to tantalize the taste buds.
To prepare the dish, potatoes are cooked in oil until lightly golden brown, then cauliflower is added along with onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, turmeric, coriander powder and chili powder. The ingredients are combined until they are cooked through and fragrant.
The beautiful medley of flavors created by this classic combination of ingredients make Aloo Gobi a perfect accompaniment to any chicken tikka masala.
Whether served as an entree or side dish, it can be enjoyed with steamed basmati rice or naan bread for a truly satisfying meal.
Adding a simple garnish of fresh cilantro brings out the full flavor of this wonderful Indian dish.
For those who enjoy a well-rounded meal packed with flavor and spice, Aloo Gobi is just the thing to complete their plate alongside chicken tikka masala. A flavorful journey awaits those who give it a try.
11. Cucumber Raita
Cucumber Raita is an undeniably essential accompaniment to any serving of Chicken Tikka Masala.
It’s a simple yet sublime dish that adds a vibrant, cooling contrast to the warm, spiced flavors of the tikka masala, while providing a creamy base to the palate.
A basic raita combines cucumber and yogurt with a few herbs or spices for extra flavor – anyone can make it with minimal effort.
But don’t be fooled by its simplicity; crafting a raita that’s balanced and full of flavor is an art form in itself.
A great raita relies on quality ingredients – use thick yogurt for a luscious texture and freshly ground spices such as cumin, coriander and black pepper for maximum flavor.
Sliced cucumbers add crunch and coolness that cuts through the heat from the tikka masala brilliantly, but if you’re feeling adventurous try adding diced apples or even pomegranate seeds for extra texture and sweetness.
When it comes to creating your own Cucumber Raita masterpiece, don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients until you find what works best for you – just be sure to keep it simple so as not to overpower your chicken tikka masala!
12. Potato Wedges
Ah, potato wedges – the perfect side dish to bring out the flavor of chicken tikka masala.
The combination of the savory and slightly spicy sauce with the golden-brown and crispy potatoes is a match made in heaven.
Potato wedges are surprisingly easy to make at home. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and then trim your potatoes into wedges.
Toss them in oil before spreading them on a baking sheet, so that they’re evenly coated and won’t stick together.
Sprinkle with salt and pepper and bake for around 25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
The result? Perfection! Enjoy your homemade potato wedges alongside your delicious chicken tikka masala for a truly satisfying meal.
13. Mango Chutney
Mango chutney is a great accompaniment to chicken tikka masala. It adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish, creating a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
The chutney is made with fresh mangos, herbs, spices, and sugar.
All of these ingredients combine to create the perfect complement to any meal.
The mangoes used in the chutney give it a unique tropical flavor that pairs perfectly with the spiciness of the tikka masala. The combination of sweetness and spice makes for an incredibly delicious meal that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds!
The herbs and spices add layers of complexity and depth to the dish as well, making it even more enjoyable than it already is.
Mango chutney can be served hot or cold depending on preference.
If served hot, it can help cut through some of the heat from the tikka masala, while if served cold it can provide a refreshing contrast in temperature that helps bring out more of the flavors in the dish.
Whichever way you choose to serve this delightful condiment, you’ll be sure to love the taste!
14. Lentil Dal
Mango chutney is a sweet and tangy condiment, perfect for adding a bit of zing to any dish.
Its fruity flavor pairs especially well with chicken tikka masala, making it a great accompaniment for this spicy favorite.
The perfect compliment to mango chutney is lentil dal. This hearty legume dish is packed with protein, fiber and other essential nutrients. It’s also incredibly tasty and full of flavor – the perfect way to balance out the heat from the tikka masala.
When served together, these two dishes make a delicious combination:
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The sweet-tart taste of the mango chutney complements the creamy texture of the dal, creating an explosion of flavors in your mouth that will leave you wanting more.
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The contrast between the subtle sweetness and spiciness of both dishes creates an exciting culinary experience that can’t be beat.
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The combination of textures – crispy chicken tikka accompanied by soft lentils – makes each bite as satisfying as it is flavorful.
For an unforgettable meal, try serving up some chicken tikka masala with a side of mango chutney and lentil dal – your taste buds will thank you!
15. Garden Salad
Accompanying the traditional and flavorful Indian dish of Chicken Tikka Masala is a garden salad, creating an ideal balance of texture, color, and flavor.
With this combination of ingredients, diners can experience a range of tastes, from the tender and savory spiced chicken to the crisp and refreshing vegetables in the salad.
A variety of vegetables can be used to make a garden salad that will pair perfectly with Chicken Tikka Masala.
Tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, peppers, and lettuce are all great options for creating a fresh and vibrant dish.
Adding some crunchy croutons or roasted seeds can also help to give the salad some extra depth.
To bring out the flavors even more, consider adding some herbs like basil or oregano or drizzling over some olive oil or vinaigrette.
Not only is this combination delicious but it’s also healthy too – making it an ideal choice for those looking for nutritious yet tasty meals.
Conclusion
We’ve reached the end of our list of 15 dishes to serve with chicken tikka masala.
From fragrant basmati rice to crunchy onion bhajis, there’s something for everyone.
All of these accompaniments come together to make a delicious and satisfying meal.
I hope you enjoy exploring these flavors and textures as much as I do.
With this combination, you can create an Indian feast that your friends and family will love.
Bon appetit!
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