Tandoori chicken is an iconic dish known for its fiery red color and smoky, spiced aroma. Marinated in yogurt, infused with Indian spices, and cooked in a traditional clay oven or grill, it’s a centerpiece that stands on its own. But to turn it into a truly memorable meal, the next question arises: what to eat with tandoori chicken?
Whether you’re planning a dinner party, a weeknight meal, or a festive feast, pairing tandoori chicken with the right sides elevates the experience. The goal is to complement its spice, balance the flavors, and provide a contrast in texture or temperature.
Naan and Other Indian Breads
Start with the classics. Tandoori chicken pairs beautifully with naan — the soft, pillowy bread baked in a tandoor just like the chicken itself. Its subtle flavor and chewiness are ideal for scooping up every juicy bite.
Other great options include in What to Eat with Tandoori Chicken:
- Garlic naan: Adds a flavorful punch.
- Butter naan: Rich and slightly sweet, balances spice.
- Roti or chapati: Whole wheat alternatives for a lighter feel.
- Lachha paratha: Flaky and layered, adds texture.
The warm bread acts as a vessel, picking up drippings and adding warmth to every mouthful.
Flavored Rice Dishes What to Eat with Tandoori Chicken
Rice is a natural companion, especially when you want to create a full plate. If you’re asking what to eat with tandoori chicken to make it hearty, rice is the answer.
Try these varieties:
1. Jeera Rice
It balances the complexity of the chicken and is quick to prepare.
2. Peas Pulao
Mild, slightly sweet, and visually appealing with green peas, this rice dish contrasts well with tandoori spices.
3. Lemon Rice
If you’re after something tangy, lemon rice adds zest.
4. Biryani
A bit unorthodox, but a mild chicken or vegetable biryani can act as an elegant side, especially for festive meals. Use less masala to avoid overpowering the chicken.
Cooling Yogurt-Based Sides
Tandoori chicken is known for its heat. To counter it, you need cooling elements. Yogurt is the natural antidote to spice and helps keep the palate refreshed.
1. Cucumber Raita
Shredded cucumber mixed with chilled yogurt, cumin powder, and mint. It’s creamy, refreshing, and quick to make.
2. Boondi Raita
Tiny fried gram flour balls soaked in seasoned yogurt.
3. Mint Yogurt Dip
It enhances the smoky flavor of the chicken while keeping the spice in check.
Grilled and Roasted Vegetables
Looking for something more colorful and healthy? Roasted or grilled vegetables provide a perfect match. Their charred edges echo the grilled tandoori texture.
- Bell peppers and onions: Tossed in olive oil, cumin, and paprika.
- Zucchini and eggplant: Lightly spiced and grilled.
- Carrots and sweet potatoes: Their sweetness offers balance to the spicy chicken.
You can roast them alongside the chicken for minimal effort and a harmonious flavor profile.
Indian-Style Salads
Sometimes, all you need is a crunch. Indian-style salads are fresh, vibrant, and flavorful.
1. Kachumber Salad
A mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cucumber, and coriander with lemon juice and black salt. It’s zesty and hydrates the palate.
2. Carrot and Peanut Salad
Grated carrots tossed with roasted peanuts, lemon juice, and mustard seeds. It’s crunchy, tangy, and unique.
These salads add raw textures and bright notes that contrast with the smokiness of tandoori chicken.
Pickles and Chutneys
No Indian meal is complete without condiments. Wondering what to eat with tandoori chicken to elevate its depth? Try these:
- Green chutney (hari chutney): Made with mint, coriander, and green chili.
- Tamarind chutney: Sweet, sour, and thick. Ideal if you enjoy complex flavor layers.
- Mango pickle (achaar): Spicy and intense, great for spice lovers.
- Onion relish: Sliced onions soaked in vinegar, salt, and chili powder.
Just a spoonful of these can transform each bite.
Lentils and Dal
A hearty lentil dish can round out the meal while keeping it wholesome. Dal is comforting, rich in protein, and pairs well with the spices of tandoori chicken.
Popular options include:
- Dal Makhani: Creamy black lentils, slow-cooked with butter and cream. It adds richness to the meal.
- Masoor Dal: Red lentils with a tomato base — light and tangy.
Serve with rice or roti to build a balanced and filling meal.
Indo-Western Fusions
Let’s get creative. If you’re experimenting with global flavors and still wondering what to eat with tandoori chicken, try some modern combinations:
1. What to Eat with Tandoori Chicken and Sliders
Mini buns stuffed with tandoori chicken, lettuce, and a spiced mayo. Great for parties.
2. Tandoori Chicken Pizza
Use naan as a base. Top with chicken, mozzarella, red onions, and green chutney.
These fusion recipes keep things exciting and offer a new take on an old favorite.
Beverages That Complement What to Eat with Tandoori Chicken
Let’s not forget drinks. Tandoori chicken is bold, so drinks that cool or cleanse the palate are essential.
- Mango Lassi: Sweet, creamy, and slightly tangy.
- Masala Chaas (Spiced Buttermilk): Salty, refreshing, and filled with herbs.
- Coconut water: Hydrating and neutral in flavor.
- Sweet lime soda: Fizzy and light, it helps cut the richness.
If you’re serving alcohol, go for:
- Light lagers or wheat beers
- Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc
- Sparkling rosé or dry cider
Avoid overly heavy or sweet drinks—they can clash with the spices.
Dessert Pairings That Work With What to Eat with Tandoori Chicken
After a flavorful main like tandoori chicken, desserts can be tricky. You want something that won’t overpower but will leave a satisfying end.
- Gulab Jamun: Soft, sweet, and melts in your mouth.
- Rasmalai: Cool, milky, and subtly flavored.
- Kulfi: Indian-style ice cream, often infused with saffron or pistachio.
- Fruit custard or mango mousse: Light and fruity options that refresh.
Desserts offer that sweet contrast and balance the fiery experience with something cooling and gentle.
What to Eat with Tandoori Chicken Combos You’ll Love
If you’re short on time but want a complete experience, try these meal ideas:
Family Dinner Combo What to Eat with Tandoori Chicken:
- Tandoori chicken
- Garlic naan
- Dal Tadka
- Cucumber raita
- Pickled onions
Fusion Friday:
- Tandoori chicken wraps
- Masala fries
- Green chutney
- Sweet lime soda
Comfort Meal What to Eat with Tandoori Chicken:
- Tandoori chicken
- Jeera rice
- Mint yogurt dip
- Mango lassi
Each of these brings together different textures, temperatures, and flavors — exactly what makes a meal satisfying.
Tandoori chicken may be the star of the show, but it’s the supporting sides that create a truly memorable spread. Whether you stick to tradition or explore modern twists, knowing what to eat with tandoori chicken makes all the difference in elevating the entire dining experience.