What goes with butter chicken? This question often arises when preparing one of India’s most beloved dishes.
Butter chicken, with its creamy tomato-based sauce and perfectly spiced chicken, is a rich and flavorful meal that shines even brighter when paired with complementary sides.
From soft naan and fragrant basmati rice to refreshing salads and innovative fusion dishes, the right accompaniments can enhance the flavors and balance the richness of this iconic curry.
What you will find in this article:
What Goes with Butter Chicken?.. Traditional Indian Accompaniments
1. Indian Breads
- Naan: This soft, leavened bread is a classic pairing for butter chicken, perfect for scooping up the creamy curry.
- Roti and Paratha: Whole-wheat flatbreads provide a lighter alternative, balancing the dish’s richness.
- Kulcha: Stuffed Indian bread (often with spiced potatoes or onions) adds an extra layer of flavor.
2. Rice
- Basmati Rice: Its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture make it the quintessential accompaniment.
- Jeera Rice: Cumin-flavored rice adds subtle spice, complementing the robust flavors of butter chicken.
- Pulao: A mildly spiced rice dish with vegetables or nuts can add a festive touch.
3. Chutneys and Pickles
- Mango Chutney: The sweet and tangy notes of mango chutney balance the curry’s richness.
- Lime Pickle: A burst of sourness that pairs beautifully with creamy butter chicken.
- Mint Chutney: Adds a refreshing herbal element to your meal.
Western-Inspired Pairings
1. Mashed Potatoes
The buttery, creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements butter chicken while providing a Western twist. You can season the potatoes with garlic or herbs to enhance the pairing.
2. Pasta
Using butter chicken sauce as a base for pasta dishes creates an exciting fusion meal. Opt for penne or fettuccine to allow the sauce to coat every bite.
3. Garlic Bread
If you don’t have naan on hand, crispy garlic bread serves as an excellent alternative for soaking up the curry.
To understand the foundation of butter chicken’s flavor, check out What Is the Sauce in Butter Chicken Made Of?, which dives into the ingredients that make this dish so special.
Vegetables and Salads
Butter chicken pairs well with a variety of vegetables and fresh salads that add contrasting textures and flavors.
1. Vegetable Curries
- Aloo Gobi: This potato and cauliflower curry adds a mild, earthy flavor that pairs well with the boldness of butter chicken.
- Saag Paneer: Creamy spinach curry with cottage cheese is a hearty addition to your spread.
2. Simple Salads
- Kachumber Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumber, tomatoes, and onions with a squeeze of lime.
- Cucumber Salad: Try a creamy yogurt dressing for a cooling effect against the spices of butter chicken.
For more salad ideas, explore cucumber salad recipe that can complement your curry feast.
3. Stir-Fried Greens
Lightly spiced spinach or mustard greens make a healthy and flavorful side that cuts through the richness of butter chicken.
Fusion-Inspired Ideas
For those who love experimenting, fusion dishes offer creative ways to enjoy butter chicken in unexpected formats.
1. Butter Chicken Pizza
Use butter chicken sauce as a base for pizza and top it with mozzarella and tandoori chicken pieces for a fun fusion meal.
2. Butter Chicken Tacos
Stuff soft tortillas with butter chicken, fresh lettuce, and yogurt dressing for an Indian-Mexican twist.
3. Butter Chicken Wraps
Roll butter chicken in naan or flatbread with some fresh veggies for a quick, portable meal.
Beverages That Pair Well
Pairing the right beverage with butter chicken enhances the dining experience by refreshing the palate.
1. Traditional Drinks
- Lassi: This yogurt-based drink, either sweet or salted, is a classic pairing that helps cool the palate.
- Masala Chai: Spiced tea complements the warm, earthy flavors of Indian dishes.
2. Alcoholic Options
- White Wine: Light, slightly sweet wines like Riesling pair well with the spices.
- Beer: Lager or pilsner-style beers cleanse the palate between bites.
Desserts to Follow Butter Chicken
Ending your meal with a dessert provides a satisfying conclusion, especially when the dessert is chosen to balance the meal’s spiciness.
1. Indian Desserts
- Gulab Jamun: Sweet, syrup-soaked milk dumplings are a rich and traditional end to the meal.
- Kulfi: Indian-style ice cream, often flavored with cardamom or pistachios, is creamy and cooling.
2. Western Desserts
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A simple, cooling dessert to counteract the spices.
- Lemon Tart: Its zesty flavor provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of butter chicken.
FAQs About Butter Chicken Pairings
1. What’s the best bread to pair with butter chicken?
Naan is the most popular option, but roti and garlic bread are also excellent choices.
2. Can butter chicken sauce be used for other dishes?
Yes! Use it as a base for pasta, pizza, or even fusion tacos.
3. How do I balance the richness of butter chicken?
Pair it with light salads, steamed vegetables, or a yogurt-based drink like lassi.
4. What are vegetarian side options for butter chicken meals?
Vegetable curries like aloo gobi or saag paneer, as well as kachumber salad, are great choices.
5. What’s the best wine to serve with butter chicken?
A light, semi-sweet white wine like Riesling or a crisp lager works beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Butter chicken is a versatile dish that shines even brighter when paired with the right accompaniments. Whether you stick to traditional options like naan and basmati rice or explore fusion ideas like butter chicken pizza, the possibilities are endless. From creamy mashed potatoes to refreshing cucumber salads, these pairings enhance the flavors of this iconic dish while offering a variety of textures and contrasts.
With these pairing ideas, your butter chicken meal will transform into a complete culinary experience. Try mixing and matching sides to discover your perfect combination and don’t forget to serve it with a refreshing drink or dessert to round out your feast.
