Butter chicken, a popular Indian dish, is loved by people all around the world. It is a creamy, flavorful dish that is made by marinating chicken in a mixture of spices, yogurt, and cream, before being cooked in a tomato-based gravy. But while this dish is delicious on its own, many people wonder what goes well with butter chicken.
There are many options to choose from when it comes to pairing butter chicken with sides, drinks, and desserts. Some people prefer to serve it with rice, naan, or roti, while others enjoy it with a side salad or vegetable dish. In this article, we will explore the different options for sides and drinks that can be served with butter chicken, as well as some desserts that can complement the rich and decadent flavors of this dish.
The Traditional Pairings: Naan and Rice
Butter chicken is a popular Indian dish enjoyed around the world, and the traditional pairings for it are naan and rice. Naan is a type of Indian flatbread that is soft and fluffy, and it is perfect for soaking up the rich tomato-based gravy of the butter chicken. Naan is usually cooked using a tandoor, a traditional Indian oven that gives it a slightly charred and smoky flavor.
Rice, on the other hand, is a staple in Indian cuisine, and it is the perfect accompaniment to butter chicken. The mild flavor of the rice helps to balance out the spiciness of the dish, allowing you to savor every bite of the succulent chicken in the savory gravy. Whether you enjoy plain rice or biryani, this classic pairing is sure to leave you satisfied and wanting more.
A Twist on Classics: Butter Chicken Pizza and Tacos
If you’re tired of the classic butter chicken curry, why not switch things up with some innovative recipes like butter chicken pizza and tacos? These fusion dishes are a delicious twist on classic recipes and make for a perfect meal for any occasion.
Butter chicken pizza is a delicious fusion of Indian and Italian cuisine, where creamy butter chicken is used as a topping. The pizza is prepared with a tomato-based sauce, shredded chicken, onion, and green peppers, and is then topped off with a generous amount of melted mozzarella cheese. The result is a mouth-watering dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings for both pizza and butter chicken. Similarly, butter chicken tacos are a great way to add an Indian twist to your tacos. The soft tortillas are filled with chunks of butter chicken, onions, and tomatoes, and topped off with dollops of sour cream, cilantro, and lime juice. The creamy and spicy flavors blend together perfectly to give you a delicious and unique dish that you won’t be able to resist.
South Indian Influence: Butter Chicken with Dosa or Idli
South Indian cuisine is very popular in India, and dosa and idli are two of the most loved dishes of this cuisine. The crispy and savory dosa with its filling of spiced potato and onion makes a perfect accompaniment to the rich and creamy butter chicken. The contrast of flavors and textures enhances the overall taste of the meal. The sauce of the butter chicken mixes with the crispy dosa to create a delicious and unique flavor experience that is truly satisfying.
Similarly, idli, which is a steamed rice cake, has a mild flavor that complements the rich and spicy butter chicken. The soft and fluffy texture of the idli goes well with the thick and creamy sauce of the butter chicken. The combination of these two dishes is not only tasty but also a great way to experience the different flavors and textures of Indian cuisine. Overall, if you love South Indian food, then trying butter chicken with dosa or idli is a must-try culinary adventure.
Healthy Options: Greens and Butter Chicken Salad
If you’re looking for a healthy option to pair with butter chicken, a greens and butter chicken salad is a great choice. This salad combines the rich flavors of the spicy chicken with fresh and crisp greens for a satisfying meal that won’t leave you feeling guilty.
To make the salad, start with a bed of mixed greens, such as spinach, arugula, or lettuce. Add sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions for some additional crunch and color. Top with pieces of cooked butter chicken and add a sprinkle of toasted almonds or cashews for some extra texture and flavor. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette dressing or yogurt sauce to complete the dish. This salad is an excellent way to get in some greens and protein while still enjoying your favorite butter chicken dish.
International Pairings: Butter Chicken and Italian Pasta
When it comes to pairing butter chicken with other international cuisines, Italian pasta is a great option. The creamy tomato-based sauce of the butter chicken blends well with the savory taste of pasta, creating a flavor explosion in your mouth.
There are several types of pasta that go well with butter chicken. We recommend using penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti to complement the dish. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the sauce plays a vital role in this pairing. So, using a flavorful pasta sauce such as marinara or arrabbiata is recommended. All in all, this is a pairing that one must try when looking for a unique and delicious meal combination.
Fusion Flavors: Butter Chicken and Burritos
When it comes to fusion cuisine, the possibilities are endless. Butter chicken and burritos may sound like an odd pairing, but when you think about it, the flavors complement each other quite well. The rich, creamy tomato-based gravy of butter chicken is the perfect filling for a burrito. Add in some fluffy rice and fresh cilantro, and you have yourself a delicious fusion dish that will have your taste buds dancing.
To make butter chicken burritos, simply cook the butter chicken as you normally would and add the mixture to a warm tortilla. Top it off with some rice, beans, cheese, and your favorite garnishes, and wrap it up tightly. This quick and easy meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests. The blend of Indian and Mexican flavors is sure to impress even the most discerning palate. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other fusion flavors too – you never know what delicious combination you might come up with!
Perfect Wine and Beer Pairings with Butter Chicken
When it comes to pairing wine and beer with Butter Chicken, it can be quite tricky. The flavor profile of butter chicken is complex, with a rich and creamy sauce and bold Indian spices. But fear not, there are a variety of wine and beer options that will complement this dish perfectly.
For wine, opt for a bottle of bold, full-bodied red wine such as Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Pinot Noir. These wines can stand up to the strong flavors of Butter Chicken while still bringing their own unique notes to the table. If you prefer white wine, look for a Riesling or Gewürztraminer that have slight sweetness and can balance the spiciness of butter chicken. For beer, try a crisp and refreshing Indian Pale Ale (IPA) since its bitterness will balance the richness of the dish. Also, a light Belgian-style beer like a Saison or a Tripel, it’s a perfect match for the butter chicken, cut through the richness and bring a touch of spice to the dish.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, the rich and buttery flavor of butter chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Whether you prefer a carb-heavy accompaniment like rice or naan bread, or opt for something healthier like a salad or vegetable dish, there are plenty of options to choose from that will complement this classic Indian dish.
Whether you decide to go traditional or experiment with something new, the key to finding the perfect pairings for butter chicken is to keep the flavors and textures balanced. By doing so, you can create a meal that is both satisfying and harmonious, making it the perfect choice for a cozy night in or a dinner party with friends. So go ahead and get creative – with so many delicious options to choose from, the possibilities are endless!