What To Serve With Chicken Tikka Masala (20 Best Side Dishes)

Satisfy your cravings for Indian cuisine with a delicious bowl of chicken tikka masala. This hearty and flavorful dish is a staple in British homes. It’s a perfect blend of tender chicken thighs, spicy curry sauce, and creamy sauce.

And what makes it even better? The perfect side dishes to go with it.

Discover the best side dishes to serve with chicken tikka masala and elevate your chicken tikka dinner to the next level. From basmati rice to roasted cauliflower, these sides will complement the Indian flavors of the masala recipe perfectly.

Let’s dive in and explore the perfect sides for your next chicken tikka masala feast.

1. Cucumber salad

Cucumber salad is a refreshing and light side dish that complements the bold flavors of chicken tikka masala.

Its crisp and cool texture offers a refreshing contrast to the rich and spicy masala sauce. Plus, the tangy and creamy Greek yogurt dressing is a perfect complement to the spicy dish.

Not only is cucumber salad a delicious side dish for chicken tikka masala, but it’s also a great option for those following a gluten-free diet. So, next time you make this easy chicken tikka masala recipe, don’t forget to whip up a batch of cucumber salad to serve alongside it.

We love: Creamy Cucumber SaladCreamy Cucumber Salad (by Budget Bytes)

2. Roasted cauliflower

Roasted cauliflower is a great side dish to serve with chicken tikka masala.

The turmeric-roasted cauliflower adds a pop of color and a delicious flavor to your meal. Plus, it’s a great way to add some extra veggies to the meal.

Whether you’re a fan of Indian food or just looking for a flavorful and healthy side dish, this cauliflower dish is sure to please the whole family.

We love: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower (by Dishing Out Health)

3. Bombay potatoes

Bombay potatoes are a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken tikka masala.

These flavor-packed potatoes are cooked in a tomato-based sauce, making them a natural complement to the tomato sauce used in chicken tikka masala. The chili powder adds a subtle kick of spice that balances out the creaminess of the dish.

Bombay potatoes are a delicious and unique addition to any Indian-inspired meal.

We love: Easy Bombay Potatoes (Restaurant Style) (by The Fiery Vegetarian)

4. Kachumber salad

Kachumber salad is the perfect side salad for any Indian-inspired main meal. This refreshing Indian salad is made with diced tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, and cilantro, all tossed in a tangy and flavorful dressing.

The cool and crisp kachumber salad provides a great contrast to the spicy and rich chicken tikka masala. It also helps to balance out the heavy cream and butter used in the dish.

And the best part? This salad is super easy to make and requires simple ingredients like tomato paste, garlic cloves, and vegetable oil. It’s the perfect accompaniment to your favorite Indian dishes, whether it’s chicken tikka masala or butter chicken.

We love: Kachumber Salad – Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad Recipe (by Vegan Richa)

5. Saag aloo

Saag aloo, a popular Indian dish, is a delicious side to serve with chicken tikka masala. This vegetarian dish consists of potatoes and spinach cooked in a flavorful blend of spices.

The combination of spicy, creamy chicken tikka masala and fragrant potatoes with greens in saag aloo is a match made in heaven.

This dish is easy to make and can be served with steamed basmati rice or whole wheat chapati for a complete and satisfying main course.

We love: Easy Saag Aloo (Spinach and Potato Curry) (by Olive & Mango)

6. Jeera rice

Jeera rice is the perfect side dish to serve with chicken tikka masala.

This flavorful rice dish is made by cooking white rice with cumin seeds (jeera), giving it a fragrant and slightly nutty taste that pairs perfectly with the spicy and creamy chicken tikka masala. It’s a great way to add some variety to your usual white rice side.

To make jeera rice, simply cook white rice as usual and add in cumin seeds while it simmers. It’s a simple and delicious side dish that will take your chicken tikka masala to the next level.

We love: Jeera Rice Recipe (Cumin Rice) (by Swasthi’s Recipes)

7. Garlic naan

Garlic naan is a classic side dish to serve with chicken tikka masala. This fluffy and flavorful bread is a staple in Indian cuisine and complements the spicy and creamy flavors of chicken tikka masala perfectly.

You can either make your own garlic naan or grab store-bought ones for convenience. Either way, the combination of soft bread and garlicky goodness will take your chicken tikka masala dish to the next level.

We love: Homemade Garlic Naan (by Host The Toast)

8. Tarka dal

Tarka dal is another amazing Indian recipe to serve with chicken tikka masala.

But what makes tarka dal the ideal accompaniment to this flavorful chicken dish? The savory lentil dish adds texture and an earthy flavor to the meal, making every bite a delicious experience.

Its an inexpensive way to bulk up your tikka masala and create a balanced and satisfying meal.

We love: Easy Dal Tadka (Tarka Daal) (by Veggie Desserts)

9. Chana masala

Chana masala is the perfect Indian side for chicken tikka masala. This chickpea dish is packed with bold flavors and spices like garam masala, cumin, and coriander, which complement the rich and creamy chicken tikka masala.

The combination of these two dishes creates a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. The chana masala adds a hearty and protein-rich element to the meal, making it a satisfying comfort food.

For a complete Indian dining experience, serve this dish with some plain basmati rice, a yogurt-based side dish like raita, and a kachumber salad. You can also pair it with some store-bought tandoor oven-baked naan for a delicious meal that will transport you to the streets of India.

We love: Creamy Chana Masala (by Olive & Mango)

10. Indian Cabbage stir-fry

Cabbage stir fry is a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken tikka masala. The crunchy texture of the cabbage is a great contrast to the creamy and rich chicken tikka masala.

Make this easy recipe is made with fragrant spices, such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric to add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.

Cabbage stir fry also comes together quickly, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner. Simply stir-fry the cabbage in a hot pan with some oil, garlic, and spices, and it will be ready in no time.

Not only does cabbage stir fry go well with chicken tikka masala, but it also pairs well with other Indian dishes like biryani or butter chicken. Give this side dish a try and take your meal to the next level!

We love: Indian Fried Cabbage (by Allrecipes)

11. Halloumi fries

Crispy, salty, and oh-so-delicious—halloumi fries are the perfect side dish to serve with chicken tikka masala. This dish made with fried halloumi cheese is a great complement to the spicy and flavorful Indian dish.

Serve immediately after frying or baking for the best texture and flavor.

Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian side or just love all things food, these halloumi fries are sure to hit the spot. Plus, they’re a great alternative to traditional rice or potatoes recipes.

We love: The Crispiest Halloumi Fries (by Beat the Budget)

12. Mango chutney

I adore Indian chutney! And mango chutney is right up there on the favorites list. The sweet and spicy fruit chutney is also amazing served with chicken tikka masala.

This delicious Indian condiment is a great way to add an extra layer of flavor to the meal. And, it’s the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes, from deep-fried chicken wings to roasted cauliflower and aloo gobi. Why not make a double batch?

We love: The BEST Mango Chutney Recipe (by Live Eat Learn)

13. Spicy vegetable samosas

Spicy vegetable samosas are one of the best sides to serve with chicken tikka masala. These Indian-inspired pastries are packed with a delicious filling of potatoes, peas, and spices, making them a flavorful and satisfying accompaniment to the rich and creamy chicken dish.

The slight heat from the samosas adds a welcomed kick to the meal, while the crispy exterior and soft interior provide a nice textural contrast.

Plus, samosas are easy to make at home or can be found frozen and ready to cook in an air fryer, making them a convenient and tasty addition to any meal.

Experiment with different spices and fillings to find your favorite recipe. You can’t go wrong with spicy vegetable samosas as a delicious side to enjoy with chicken tikka masala.

We love: Potato and pea samosas made with filo pastry (by Searching for Spice)

14. Grilled vegetables

Grilled vegetables are the perfect side dish to serve with chicken tikka masala. Not only does it add a pop of color to the meal, but it also provides a healthy and flavorful option to balance out the rich and spicy chicken dish.

Using a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and mushrooms adds a delicious char and smoky flavor to the dish. It’s a great way to add some variety to your Indian cuisine-inspired dinner.

This easy recipe for grilled vegetables is a flavor-packed and nutritious side dish that is sure to be a hit with everyone at the dinner table.

We love: Grilled Vegetables (with Best Marinade) (by Valentina’s Corner)

15. Vegetable biryani

Vegetable biryani is another great dish to serve alongisde chicken tikka masala. This classic Indian rice dish is packed with flavor and pairs beautifully with the spicy and rich tomato-based sauce of the chicken tikka masala.

So, the next time you’re wondering how to spice up simple long-grain rice, don’t forget about vegetable biryani to turn any meal into a feast.

We love: Restaurant style Vegetable Biryani (by Cook With Manali)

16. Garlic stir-fried green beans

Add some healthy greens to the table with garlic stir-fried green beans. The simple yet flavorful side is delicious with chicken tikka masala, especially if you add some toasted cumin seeds to the dish.

Not only is this dish gluten-free, but it is also a great option for those who are looking for a low-carb alternative to the traditional rice dish that often accompanies Indian meals.

With its simplicity and versatility, garlic stir-fried green beans are a great addition to any meal and are sure to be a hit with the whole family.

We love: Garlic Green Beans (by Peal With Zeal)

17. Aloo gobi

Aloo gobi is a delicious and traditional Indian side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken tikka masala. This flavorful cauliflower and potato dish is a staple in Indian cuisine and adds a great balance to the spiciness of the chicken tikka masala.

The turmeric roasted cauliflower in aloo gobi is adds a vibrant color to your plate. Plus, the tangy lemon juice and fragrant spices make this side dish a favorite for many.

With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, aloo gobi is a great side to go with your chicken tikka masala. Serve it with steamed basmati rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

We love: Aloo Gobi (Indian Spiced Potatoes and Cauliflower) (by Slimming Eats)

18. Chapati

Chapati is a must-have side dish when serving chicken tikka masala.

This traditional Indian flatbread is made from flour, water, and oil, and is a staple accompaniment to any curry dish. Its soft and pliable texture is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce of chicken tikka masala, while its mild flavor complements the fragrant spices in the dish.

Plus, making chapati is relatively easy and quick, making it a convenient addition to your meal. So, next time you’re making chicken tikka masala, don’t forget to whip up some chapati to complete the experience.

We love: Roti/Chapati (Indian Flat Bread) (by Jo Cooks)

19. Mushroom and pea pilaf

Mushroom and pea pilaf may not be a traditional choice, but it’s a delicious side dish to serve with chicken tikka masala.

This flavorful rice dish is a great complement to the fragrant spices and rich flavors of the chicken tikka masala. The combination of tender mushrooms and sweet peas adds a satisfying texture and burst of freshness to every bite.

Serve alongside some garlic naan for a complete and delicious Indian meal.

We love: Teriyaki Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms and Peas (by Melissa’s Southern Style Kitchen®)

20. Raita

If you’re looking for the perfect condiment to cool down your chicken tikka masala, look no further than raita.

This delicious Indian condiment is a cooling yogurt-based sauce that pairs perfectly with the rich and spicy flavors of chicken tikka masala. The tanginess of the yogurt helps to balance out the heat of the dish, making it a refreshing addition to your meal.

Plus, raita is incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients, including yogurt, cucumber, and spices like cumin and coriander. It’s also a versatile side dish that can be used as a dip for naan bread or to add a creamy element to your rice.

We love: Easy Raita | The Modern Proper (by The Modern Proper)

21. Mint and cilantro chutney

You already know I adore Indian chutney. But mint and cilantro chutney may just be my favorite. It’s also my favorite condiment to serve with chicken tikka masala.

The mint and cilantro give a burst of freshness, while the tangy yogurt and spicy green chilies add a kick of flavor. It’s the perfect balance to the creamy and flavorful chicken tikka masala.

Plus, this chutney is super easy to make – just blend together the fresh herbs with some spices and shredded coconut and serve in a small bowl. You can even make it ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for whenever you need a tasty condiment to lift your favorite comfort food.

We love: Cilantro Mint Chutney (by Feasting At Home)

I hope this list of delicious sides gives you inspiration for your next chicken tikka masala meal! Don’t forget to share your favorite recipe or side dish in the comments below. Happy cooking!