What To Serve With Tandoori Chicken

If you’re looking for some delicious dishes to serve alongside your tandoori chicken, then look no further!

This article has got you covered with 15 recipes that will make your meal one to remember.

From classic accompaniments like raita and naan bread to creative sides like tandoori roasted vegetables and pomegranate salad, these recipes are guaranteed to take your tandoori chicken dinner up a notch.

Let’s explore what we can whip up!

Why These Side Dishes Goes Well With Tandoori 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 Tandoori Chicken!

Side DishReason
RaitaThe cooling yogurt-based raita complements the spiciness of tandoori chicken.
Naan BreadTraditional Indian bread that is perfect for scooping up the flavors of tandoori chicken.
Coconut RiceFragrant coconut rice balances the bold flavors of tandoori chicken.
Cucumber and Mint RaitaRefreshing combination that cools down the spiciness of tandoori chicken.
Tandoori Roasted VegetablesGrilled vegetables with tandoori flavors that pair well with tandoori chicken.
Mango ChutneySweet and tangy mango chutney adds a contrasting flavor to the smoky tandoori chicken.
Spinach and Paneer CurryCreamy and flavorful curry that complements the spices of tandoori chicken.
Mint and Coriander ChutneyAdds a burst of freshness and herbal flavor to enhance tandoori chicken.
Pomegranate SaladProvides a refreshing and tangy element that complements the smoky flavors of tandoori chicken.
SamosasCrispy and savory Indian pastries that pair well with tandoori chicken.
Onion BhajisDeep-fried onion fritters that add crunch and flavor to tandoori chicken.
Aloo GobiAloo Gobi (potato and cauliflower curry) complements the spices of tandoori chicken.
Mango LassiA sweet and creamy mango yogurt drink that helps cool down the spiciness of tandoori chicken.
Vegetable PakorasDeep-fried vegetable fritters that provide a flavorful accompaniment to tandoori chicken.
Fruit SaladA refreshing and light side dish that offers a contrast to the bold flavors of tandoori chicken.
info for Tandoori Chicken

1. Raita

Raita is a delicious accompaniment to tandoori chicken.

It’s a yogurt-based condiment that can be made with fresh ingredients like cucumber, tomato, onion, and mint.

It has a cooling effect which helps to balance the spiciness of the tandoori chicken.

Making raita is easy and quick – simply mix together plain yogurt, diced vegetables of your choice, and salt in a bowl.

For an added kick of flavor, add chopped cilantro or mint leaves.

Adjust the seasonings according to your taste and you’ll have yourself a perfect side dish for your tandoori chicken!

Raita is incredibly versatile – you could use it as a dip for samosas or pakoras, or even as a topping for your favorite grilled dishes or salads. It’s sure to bring any meal to life with its creamy texture and refreshing taste. Enjoy!

2. Naan Bread

Raita is a refreshing side dish that compliments tandoori chicken perfectly.

The cool and creamy yoghurt-based sauce is the perfect contrast to the spices in the tandoori, creating an amazing balance of flavors.

Naan

Not only does it taste great, but its cooling properties also help to ease the spiciness of the dish.

Next up: Naan bread.

This traditional Indian flatbread is a must-have when serving tandoori chicken. Here’s how to make sure it’s just right:

  • Start with a hot oven – Preheat your oven before you begin, for about 10 minutes at 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Brush with butter – For an extra layer of flavor, brush melted butter all over the naan before baking.
  • Watch carefully – Keep an eye on your naan as it bakes, and take it out once it’s golden brown and puffed up slightly.

Naan bread adds another dimension to any meal served with tandoori chicken, making it even more delicious! Serve warm for best results and enjoy every bite.

3. Coconut Rice

Coconut rice is the perfect accompaniment to tandoori chicken! This fragrant, flavorful dish is a great way to round out an Indian-inspired meal.

Not only does it offer a delightful balance of sweetness and savory flavors, but it’s also incredibly easy to make.

To prepare coconut rice, you’ll need long grain white rice and coconut milk. Begin by rinsing the rice in cold water until the water runs clear.

Coconut Rice

Then, add it to a pot along with some salt and the coconut milk. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing heat to low and simmering for about 15 minutes or until all of the liquid has been absorbed.

Once cooked through, fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

For added flavor, consider adding some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley as well as other spices like turmeric or ginger.

A sprinkle of chopped nuts can also provide a nice crunchy texture contrast!

Enjoy coconut rice alongside your tandoori chicken for an unbeatable combination of flavors and textures.

4. Cucumber And Mint Raita

Cucumber and Mint Raita is the perfect accompaniment for any tandoori chicken dish.

Its cool, creamy texture with hints of fresh mint provide a refreshing counterpoint to the explosion of flavors from the tandoori.

Raita

Here’s why it’s a must-have in your kitchen:

  • Creamy yogurt provides a smooth base that brings all the flavors together
  • Sliced cucumbers give a crunchy texture to contrast with the creamy yogurt
  • Freshly ground mint leaves bring a hint of sweetness that cuts through the spice of tandoori chicken
  • A sprinkle of roasted cumin adds an earthy nuttiness to the dish

This delicious condiment will make your taste buds dance and leave you wanting more. It’s easy to prepare, so why not add Cucumber and Mint Raita to your next tandoori feast? Your guests will thank you!

5. Tandoori Roasted Vegetables

Tandoori roasted vegetables are a perfect accompaniment to tandoori chicken.

This delectable dish combines the smoky, aromatic flavors of tandoori chicken with the earthy richness of roasted vegetables. The combination is simply divine!

Roasted Root Vegetables

I like to start with a base of carrots, potatoes and onions, but you can really use any type of vegetable that can be roasted in a hot oven.

These could include zucchini, squash, eggplant or bell peppers. You’ll need to cut the vegetables into small cubes to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.

Once your veggies are prepped, toss them in some oil and your favorite tandoori spices. I usually go for turmeric, garam masala and chili powder for a spicy kick! Then spread them out onto a baking sheet before roasting for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown and tender.

Serve these along side your tandoori chicken for an unforgettable meal!

6. Mango Chutney

Mango chutney is the perfect accompaniment to a delicious tandoori chicken meal.

Its sweet and tangy flavor is the ideal counterpoint that will have your taste buds singing with joy.

The combination of ripe mangoes, vinegar, sugar and spices creates a unique flavor that’s sure to tantalize your senses.

Making homemade mango chutney couldn’t be simpler.

All you need are some fresh or frozen mangoes, some white vinegar, a pinch of salt, and some spices for flavor like garam masala or cumin.

A few minutes of preparation time and simmering on the stovetop is all it takes to create this delicious condiment.

Whether you enjoy it as part of a full Indian dinner experience, or just as an accompaniment to your favorite grilled dishes, mango chutney is sure to delight your palate with its unique flavor profile.

From its vibrant color to its deep aroma, this flavorful condiment is an irresistible addition to any meal!

7. Spinach And Paneer Curry

Mango chutney is a delicious accompaniment to tandoori chicken, with its tangy and sweet flavor.

But if you’re looking for something more substantial, spinach and paneer curry is the perfect next course.

Paneer is a type of Indian cheese that helps to thicken the sauce and adds creaminess while spinach brings some welcome greens to the plate.

The combination of these two ingredients in a flavorful tomato and spice base is sure to satisfy any palate.

Plus, it’s easy and quick to make, so you can whip up this tasty side dish in no time.

Serve it with warm naan bread or basmati rice for a complete meal that will leave your guests wanting more!

8. Mint And Coriander Chutney

If you’re a fan of tandoori chicken, you know that it goes perfectly with a few sides to really bring out the flavor.

One side in particular that pairs well with tandoori chicken is Mint and Coriander Chutney.

This flavorful chutney is easy to make and adds an extra layer of complexity to your meal.

Mint and Coriander Chutney is packed with flavor, featuring fresh mint leaves and coriander seeds, as well as some spices like cumin, red chili powder, and salt for seasoning.

The combination of these ingredients creates an amazing blend of sweet, savory and spicy flavors.

All you need to do is mix all the ingredients together in a blender or food processor until it’s nice and smooth.

Serve this delicious chutney alongside your tandoori chicken for a truly delicious experience.

It’ll give your meal the perfect balance of flavors so you can enjoy every bite to the fullest!

9. Pomegranate Salad

Mint and coriander chutney is a classic accompaniment to tandoori chicken. Its fresh, tangy flavor helps cut through the richness of tandoori chicken.

But if you’re looking for something else to serve with your tandoori chicken, look no further than pomegranate salad!

This salad is full of vibrant flavors that pair perfectly with the smoky notes of tandoori chicken. Here are three reasons why this salad should be on your plate:

  • It’s easy to make. All you have to do is chop some vegetables, mix them in a bowl with some pomegranate arils, and dress it all up with a flavorful dressing.

  • It’s crunchy and sweet. The combination of crispy vegetables and juicy pomegranate arils makes a wonderful contrast that complements the smokiness of the tandoori chicken nicely.

  • It adds color and nutrition to your plate. Not only does it look great, but it also delivers plenty of vitamins and minerals that will help keep you healthy.

So go ahead and give this easy-to-make salad a try – your taste buds (and your health) will thank you!

10. Samosas

Tandoori chicken is a popular Indian dish that is often served with complementary side dishes.

Samosas, a type of fried pastry filled with potatoes and peas, are an excellent accompaniment to tandoori chicken.

Here’s why samosas are the perfect pairing:

TextureTasteNutrition
CrispySavoryLow-calorie
FlakySpicyHigh-protein
CrunchyTangyRich in vitamins and minerals
Soft and chewy insideHerbal notes from cumin and coriander seeds

Samosas have a versatile texture that ranges from crispy on the outside to soft and chewy on the inside.

The savory flavor balances out the tanginess of the tandoori chicken, while spicy herbal notes from cumin and coriander seeds add depth to both dishes. Nutritionally, they are low in calories yet high in protein, plus they offer rich sources of vitamins and minerals.

As such, samosas provide an ideal accompaniment to any tandoori chicken dish.

Serving samosas with tandoori chicken ensures an enjoyable meal that is delicious, balanced and nourishing. Whether you make them homemade or pick up some frozen ones at the grocery store, you can’t go wrong by adding these flavorful pastries to your plate.

11. Onion Bhajis

Samosas are a classic Indian appetizer that pair perfectly with tandoori chicken.

They’re crunchy, lightly spiced and filled with potatoes and peas, making them an ideal starter or snack.

Now, if you’re looking to take your tandoori chicken meal up a notch, then onion bhajis should definitely be on the menu.

Onion bhajis are a beloved deep-fried Indian delicacy usually served as an appetizer or side dish.

They’re made by combining chopped onions with spices, chickpea flour and other ingredients to form little patties that are then fried until golden brown and crispy.

The result is a spicy treat that adds a burst of flavor to any meal – especially when enjoyed with tandoori chicken!

What really makes these onion bhajis stand out is their texture.

The crisp outer layer gives way to an incredibly savory center – the perfect combination for a flavorful dinner experience.

Serve these treats alongside your tandoori chicken for an incredibly delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

12. Aloo Gobi

Aloo Gobi is a classic Indian dish that pairs excellently with tandoori chicken.

The hearty combination of potatoes, cauliflower, and spices creates a flavorful balance that complements the smoky flavor of the chicken.

Aloo Gobi

Preparing Aloo Gobi can be as simple or complex as you’d like — it’s easy to make a quick version for weeknight dinners or take more time to really let the flavors develop over low heat.

The best versions of Aloo Gobi start with fresh ingredients, including garlic, ginger, onions, tomatoes, and green chilies.

Spices are then added to bring out the rich flavors — cumin, turmeric, coriander, garam masala and more — depending on your taste preferences.

Once all the ingredients are in the pot and simmering away, you’ll be rewarded with an aromatic dish that will perfectly accompany your tandoori chicken dinner.

If making Aloo Gobi from scratch isn’t an option for you due to time restrictions or lack of ingredients available in your area, don’t worry!

You can easily pick up a jar of pre-made curry sauce at many grocery stores and simply add it to your vegetables for a delicious side dish in minutes.

No matter how you prepare it however, this traditional Indian recipe is sure to be a hit at any meal featuring tandoori chicken!

13. Mango Lassi

Aloo Gobi has long been a favorite accompaniment to tandoori chicken. It is a simple yet flavorful dish that adds the perfect amount of warmth to the meal.

But if you are looking for something more unique, why not try Mango Lassi? Mango Lassi is an Indian yogurt-based drink that brings a sweet and refreshing contrast to the meal. This traditional beverage is made with mango pulp, yogurt, sugar and cardamom powder.

Here’s what you need:

  • 3 cups plain yogurt
  • 2 cups mango pulp
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cardamom powder

Simply blend together all of the ingredients until creamy and pour into glasses or mugs. Stir in extra sugar or cardamom powder if desired and serve chilled with your tandoori chicken!

With its delightful combination of sweet mango, tart yogurt and fragrant spices, Mango Lassi is sure to be a hit with your guests. Enjoy!

14. Vegetable Pakoras

Tandoori chicken is an incredibly rich, flavorful dish. But it can be hard to find the perfect accompaniment that won’t be overpowered by its bold flavor.

Enter vegetable pakoras – a savory, crunchy snack that pairs perfectly with tandoori chicken.

pakoras in an air fryer - how to make pakoras in an air fryer

These delicious treats are made from fresh vegetables like carrot, onion, spinach, and potato that are lightly battered and fried until golden brown. The result is a crispy, mouth-watering appetizer that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Vegetable pakoras are ideal for adding variety to any meal, as they’d pair well with other Indian dishes such as aloo gobi or butter chicken. They can also be served as a snack on their own or even dressed up with chutneys or sauces for added flavor.TasteTexture
SavoryCrispy
TangyCrunchy
SpicyFlaky

No matter how you serve them, vegetable pakoras make a great companion to tandoori chicken and bring a unique flair to any dinner table!

15. Fruit Salad

To contrast the savory flavors of the Vegetable Pakoras, a light and refreshing Fruit Salad is an ideal accompaniment to tandoori chicken.

Begin by selecting seasonal fruits and mix them together in a large bowl. For this particular dish, we suggest combining diced apples, oranges, pears, grapes, and bananas.

To make it extra special, top your salad off with some freshly chopped mint leaves for a hint of sweetness and minty flavor.

When it comes to dressing your fruit salad, there’s no need for any store-bought dressings here! Instead, you can create a simple yet delicious dressing with only three ingredients: olive oil, honey and lemon juice. With just these three ingredients blended together perfectly you’ll have a sweet yet tart dressing that will perfectly complement the tandoori chicken!

Adding a side dish like this Fruit Salad to your meal will not only add flavor but also texture – juicy fruits to contrast the crunchy vegetables from the previous course.

This pairing makes for an incredibly tasty meal that both kids and adults alike are sure to love!

Conclusion

I hope this list of dishes to serve with tandoori chicken has provided some inspiration for your next dinner! With so many delicious options, you can’t go wrong.

From raita and naan bread to aloo gobi and vegetable pakoras, there’s something for everyone.

For a sweet finish, try a refreshing mango lassi or a colorful fruit salad.

You’ll be sure to impress your guests with a full plate of vibrant flavors. Enjoy!

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About the author

Natalie is a food enthusiast who spends all of her time trying out new recipes, testing out new appliances, and making her kitchen as awesome as possible. She is a professional writer and blogs here about her love of food & kitchen.

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