What Goes With Chicken Tikka Masala? 15 Amazing Side Dish Ideas

Chicken tikka masala is one of the most popular Indian dishes around the world. This creamy tomato-based curry features tender chunks of chicken marinated in yogurt and spices then simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce. With its complex flavors and irresistible aroma it’s no wonder chicken tikka masala has reached global fame.

But what really takes this iconic dish to the next level are the perfect side dishes. The right accompaniments can provide texture, brightness, and contrasting flavors that complement and enhance chicken tikka masala.

Don’t stop there if you want to make chicken tikka masala at home. These 15 great side dish ideas go perfectly with chicken tikka masala and will make your meal complete.

1. Basmati Rice

Fluffy basmati rice is the classic partner for chicken tikka masala. Its mild flavor and light, feathery texture won’t compete with the bold spices of the curry. Basmati rice soaks up the rich sauce beautifully, ensuring you get every last drop of flavor in each bite. For best results, cook the rice with a little butter or oil to enhance its aroma and flavor. Basmati rice is a must-have base for chicken tikka masala.

2. Naan

Chicken tikka masala goes well with warm, soft naan. This famous Indian flatbread has a lightly charred outside and a soft, chewy inside. Tear off a piece and soak it up the creamy curry sauce—you’ll be in flavor heaven. For even more flavor, choose a garlic naan or one that has other herbs and spices baked right in.

3. Samosas

For a crispy, savory appetizer, serve samosas alongside chicken tikka masala. These fried pastries are stuffed with a spiced potato filling and make a delicious starter before the main curry dish. The contrast of flaky pastry and rich filling complements the sauce-coated chicken perfectly.

4. Raita

Cool and creamy raita balances the spices in chicken tikka masala beautifully. This yogurt-based salad often contains cucumber, herbs, and spices. It provides a refreshing contrast in flavor and texture. The soothing yogurt tames the heat while the vegetables add freshness and crunch.

5. Aloo Gobi

This potato and cauliflower dish makes a great veggie side for chicken tikka masala. Cubed potatoes and cauliflower florets are simmered in an aromatic, mildly spiced tomato sauce. The combination of vegetables gives you different textures in each bite. And the spices complement those in the chicken tikka masala.

6. Dal Makhani

This hearty bean dish, dal makhani, is creamy and rich. It goes well with chicken tikka masala. Black lentils are cooked with tomatoes, spices, cream or butter until the dish is smooth and full of flavor. The mild dal makhani goes well with the chicken curry’s stronger flavors.

7. Poppadoms

Poppadoms are a crunchy snack that people will love. Serve them with chicken tikka masala. These wafer-thin lentil or chickpea flour crisps are great for scooping up because they are so light and crisp. They have different tastes, like plain or spiced. You can use them to give your chicken tikka masala a fun texture.

8. Cucumber Raita

Cooling cucumber raita provides the perfect balance for spicy chicken tikka masala. Grated cucumber and yogurt are flavored with cumin, mint, cilantro, and other spices for a refreshing salad-style side. The yogurt’s creaminess and cucumber’s crunch tame the heat beautifully.

9. Jeera Rice

For a simple rice side, jeera rice adds warm flavor to chicken tikka masala. It’s made by cooking basmati rice with cumin seeds, giving it an earthy, aromatic quality. This basic rice dish won’t overpower the rich curry but adds a subtle enhancement.

10. Palak Paneer

Creamy spinach and cheese make an indulgent vegetarian side for chicken tikka masala. Cubes of paneer cheese are simmered in a vibrant pureed spinach sauce spiced with garlic, ginger and chili. It’s rich yet mild, complementing the chicken curry.

11. Vegetable Biryani

A vegetable biryani makes a satisfying and colorful side for chicken tikka masala. Layers of basmati rice, spiced vegetables, nuts, and herbs are cooked together for a hearty one-pot meal, full of texture and flavor. It adds even more spice and aromatics to your chicken dish.

12. Tandoori Roasted Vegetables

For a simple roasted veggie side, tandoori-spiced cauliflower, carrots, or other vegetables are fantastic. Tossed in oil, yogurt, and signature Indian tandoori spices, the vegetables roast up caramelized and full of flavor. They make a hearty, colorful accompaniment for chicken tikka masala.

13. Mango Chutney

Sweet, sticky mango chutney is a beloved condiment with chicken tikka masala. Made from pureed mangoes, sugar, spices and vinegar, it boasts a syrupy texture and tropical sweet-and-sour flavor. Drizzle it over your chicken tikka masala or use as a dip for naan or poppadoms.

14. Salad with Cilantro Dressing

A simple green salad dressed in a cilantro-lime vinaigrette makes a bright, fresh side for chicken tikka masala. The zippy dressing provides a good contrast to the rich curry, while the cilantro echoes its flavor profile. Add diced cucumber, tomato or onion for extra flavor and crunch.

15. Saag Aloo

For an easy spinach side, saag aloo is the perfect pair for chicken tikka masala. Cubed potatoes are simmered in a seasoned spinach puree, often with spices like garlic, cumin and chili. The combination of spinach’s earthiness and potato’s heartiness completes the meal beautifully.

With so many tasty options, from naan and rice to refreshing salads and vegetable curries, you can create the ultimate chicken tikka masala feast. These diverse sides provide flavors, textures and colors that perfectly complement the curried chicken. With an assortment of these sides, you can take your chicken tikka masala to new heights of flavor.