Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is a popular Indian dish that consists of chicken pieces in a spiced tomato, butter and cream sauce. While the rich and creamy gravy is absolutely delicious on its own, pairing it with some sides can take the meal to the next level. Here are some of the best side dishes to serve with butter chicken.
Rice
Rice is the most classic pairing for any Indian curry dish. The plain grains perfectly soak up the flavorful sauce and provide a nice contrast to the richness of the butter chicken. Basmati rice, jasmine rice or plain long grain rice are all great options. For extra flavor, try coconut rice, jeera rice or biryani. Garlic naan also goes excellently with butter chicken.
Indian Breads
A variety of Indian breads like naan, roti, paratha or puri make excellent accompaniments for soaking up the luscious gravy. Some great options include:
- Naan – Soft, pillowy, leavened Indian flatbread baked in a tandoor. Choose from plain, garlic, cheese or butter naan.
- Roti – Whole wheat Indian flatbread cooked on a griddle. It’s nice and absorbent for the sauce.
- Paratha – Flaky, layered flatbread cooked with butter or ghee. Try aloo (potato) or paneer (cheese) stuffed parathas.
- Puri – Fried puffed Indian bread. The crisp texture contrasts nicely with the curry.
Vegetables
Serving butter chicken with a vegetable side helps balance the meal. Some good veggie options include:
- Roasted cauliflower
- Sauteed spinach
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Sauteed green beans
- Sauteed broccoli
- Roasted carrots or root vegetables
Salads
A cooling salad or raita provides fresh contrast to the rich curry. Options include:
- Cucumber raita – Chopped cucumber in yogurt with Indian spices
- Onion salad – Red onion, lemon and chaat masala
- Kachumber salad – Chopped tomatoes, onions and cilantro
- Green salad – Lettuce, tomatoes and dressing
Lentils and Legumes
Protein-rich lentil and bean dishes provide texture and make the meal more satisfying. Consider:
- Dal makhani – Creamy black lentils
- Chana masala – Spicy chickpeas
- Dal fry – Cumin spiced yellow lentils
- Rajma – Kidney beans in a tomato curry
Condiments and Sides
Chutneys, pickles, papadums and other condiments enhance the flavors. Options include:
- Mango chutney
- Lime pickle
- Papadums
- Roasted spicy cashews
- Raita
- Achar pickles
Conclusion
Butter chicken is rich and flavorful on its own, but served with sides like rice, naan, vegetables, salads, lentils and condiments, it becomes a complete Indian feast. The options are diverse, so you can pick sides based on your preferences. Some cooling raita, crunchy papadums, fragrant basmati rice and fresh naan or roti are sure to perfectly complement your butter chicken.