Picture this: you’ve just cooked up a delicious teriyaki chicken dish, but you’re wondering what to serve alongside it to take your meal to the next level.
While teriyaki chicken is undeniably tasty on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate your dining experience and add a variety of flavors and textures to your plate.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 side dishes that perfectly complement teriyaki chicken, from classic options like steamed rice to more unique choices like grilled pineapple or cucumber salad.
These sides will satisfy your taste buds and provide a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress.
So, let’s dive in and discover the best side dishes to serve with your next teriyaki chicken feast!
Tasty Side Dishes to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken
1. Steamed White Rice
Steamed white rice is a simple yet versatile side dish that perfectly highlights the flavors of teriyaki chicken.
Its neutral taste allows the sweet and savory notes of the teriyaki sauce to shine through, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| White rice | 1 cup |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
How to Make Steamed White Rice
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- In a pot, combine 1 cup of rice with 1 1/2 cups of water and a pinch of salt (if desired).
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let the rice stand, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
2. Fried Rice
Fried rice is a hearty and flavorful side dish that makes excellent use of leftover rice.
The stir-frying process adds texture and a slight crispiness to the rice, making it a satisfying complement to teriyaki chicken.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked rice | 2 cups |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, onions) | 1 cup |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Sesame oil | 1 tsp |
How to Make Fried Rice
- In a large skillet or wok, heat some oil over medium-high heat.
- Scramble the eggs in the pan, then remove and set aside.
- Add more oil if needed, then stir-fry the mixed vegetables until tender-crisp.
- Add the cooked rice and stir-fry for a few minutes until heated through and slightly crispy.
- Stir in the scrambled eggs, soy sauce, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Mix well and cook for another minute or two.
3. Pineapple Fried Rice
Pineapple fried rice is a delightful twist on traditional fried rice, offering a sweet and savory interplay of flavors.
The juicy pineapple chunks add a refreshing, tropical touch to the dish, making it a vibrant side for teriyaki chicken.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked rice | 2 cups |
| Pineapple chunks | 1 cup |
| Curry powder | 1 tsp |
| Soy sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Optional: Shrimp or cashew nuts | 1/2 cup |
How to Make Pineapple Fried Rice
- In a large skillet or wok, heat some oil over medium-high heat.
- Stir-fry the pineapple chunks until slightly caramelized, then remove and set aside.
- Add more oil if needed, then stir-fry any additional ingredients (like shrimp or cashews) until cooked through.
- Add the cooked rice, curry powder, and soy sauce. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the rice is heated through and well-coated with the seasonings.
- Stir in the caramelized pineapple and mix well.
4. Butter Rice
Butter rice is a rich and creamy side dish that pairs wonderfully with teriyaki chicken.
The luxurious texture of the butter-coated rice adds an indulgent touch to your meal, making it a comforting and satisfying accompaniment.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 1 cup |
| Butter | 3 tbsp |
| Optional: Garlic or herbs | To taste |
How to Make Butter Rice
- Cook the white rice according to package instructions or your preferred method.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add minced garlic or herbs, if desired, and cook until fragrant.
- Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and pour the melted butter mixture over the rice.
- Gently fold the butter into the rice until evenly distributed.
5. Steamed Broccoli
Steamed broccoli is a simple, nutritious side dish that adds vibrant color and a healthy touch to your teriyaki chicken meal.
Steaming helps preserve the broccoli’s nutrients and bright green hue, making it an appealing and wholesome choice.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Broccoli | 1 head |
| Salt | To taste |
| Optional: Sesame dressing or toasted sesame seeds | For garnish |
How to Make Steamed Broccoli
- Wash the broccoli florets and cut them into even-sized pieces.
- Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil.
- Place the broccoli in a steamer basket and set it over the boiling water. Cover the pot with a lid.
- Steam the broccoli for 4-6 minutes, or until tender-crisp and vibrant green.
- Remove the steamer basket and season the broccoli with salt and pepper, if desired.
6. Asian Slaw
Asian slaw is a refreshing and crunchy salad that offers a delightful contrast to the tender teriyaki chicken.
The tangy dressing and crisp vegetables make it a perfect choice for adding freshness and texture to your plate.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cabbage (green, red, or a mix) | 1/2 head, shredded |
| Carrots | 2, shredded |
| Green onions | 3, chopped |
| Vinegar | 1/4 cup |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Sesame oil | 1 tbsp |
| Honey or sugar | To Taste |
| Sesame seeds | (optional) |
How to Make Asian Slaw
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onions.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey or sugar to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss well to coat evenly.
- Let the slaw sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Just before serving, sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired.
7. Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus is an elegant and simple side dish that pairs beautifully with teriyaki chicken.
The roasting process enhances the natural flavors of the asparagus, resulting in a tender yet slightly crisp texture that complements the main course.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Asparagus | 1 bunch |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Optional: Balsamic reduction | For garnish |
How to Make Roasted Asparagus
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Wash the asparagus and trim off the woody ends.
- Place the asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss the asparagus to coat evenly with the oil and seasonings.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until tender-crisp and lightly caramelized.
8. Stir-Fried Vegetables
Stir-fried vegetables are a quick and healthy side dish that adds color, texture, and nutrients to your teriyaki chicken meal.
The high-heat cooking method retains the vegetables’ crispness and vibrant hues, making them an attractive and tasty addition to your plate.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bell peppers | 1 cup, sliced |
| Snap peas | 1 cup |
| Mushrooms | 1 cup, sliced |
| Onions | 1 medium, sliced |
| Soy sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Sesame oil | 1 tsp |
| Garlic and ginger | (optional) |
How to Make Stir-Fried Vegetables
- Wash and chop your chosen vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat a small amount of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
- If using, add minced garlic and ginger to the hot oil and stir-fry for about 30 seconds.
- Add the hardest vegetables (like carrots or onions) and stir-fry for a minute or two.
- Gradually add the softer vegetables (like bell peppers or snap peas) and continue stir-frying until all vegetables are tender-crisp.
- If desired, add a splash of soy sauce or stir-fry sauce for extra flavor.
9. Soba Noodle Salad
Soba noodle salad is a light and refreshing side dish that perfectly complements the umami-rich flavors of teriyaki chicken.
Made from buckwheat flour, soba noodles have a delicate, slightly nutty taste that pairs well with a variety of vegetables and dressings.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Soba noodles | 200 g |
| Cucumber | 1, julienned |
| Radishes | 5, thinly sliced |
| Green onions | 1 sliced |
| Light dressing (Soy sauce, Honey or sugar, Sesame seeds (optional) | To taste |
How to Make Soba Noodle Salad
- Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions, then rinse under cold water and drain well.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked soba noodles with the prepared vegetables.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey or sugar to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the noodle and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to coat evenly.
- Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired.
10. Udon Noodles
Udon noodles are thick, chewy Japanese noodles made from wheat flour.
Their satisfying texture and neutral flavor make them an excellent side dish for teriyaki chicken, as they absorb the flavors of the sauce and broth they are served with.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Udon noodles | 200 g |
| Scallions | 3, chopped |
| Nori | 1 sheet, shredded |
| Dashi | 2 cups |
How to Make Udon Noodles
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the udon noodles according to package instructions.
- Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- If desired, heat the udon noodles in a hot dashi broth for added flavor.
- Serve the noodles hot, garnished with sliced green onions and nori seaweed strips, if desired.
11. Ramen
Ramen is a Japanese noodle soup that consists of wheat noodles served in a savory broth, often topped with various ingredients such as sliced pork, boiled eggs, and vegetables.
As a side dish for teriyaki chicken, ramen offers a comforting and flavorful accompaniment that can make your meal more substantial and satisfying.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ramen noodles | 1 pack |
| Broth (chicken, pork, or vegetable-based) | 4 cups |
| Boiled eggs | 2 |
| Green onions | 3, chopped |
| Nori seaweed strips | 2 sheets |
| Other toppings as desired (e.g., bamboo shoots, corn, spinach) | Optional |
How to Make Ramen
- Prepare the broth according to your recipe or package instructions.
- In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions.
- Drain the noodles and divide them among serving bowls.
- Pour the hot broth over the noodles and add your desired toppings, such as boiled eggs, green onions, nori seaweed, and any other ingredients.
12. Japanese-style Potato Salad
Japanese-style potato salad is a creamy and tangy side dish that offers a delightful twist on the classic Western potato salad.
The addition of ingredients like Japanese mayonnaise and rice vinegar creates a unique flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with teriyaki chicken.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes, peeled and diced | 3 medium |
| Carrots, finely diced | 1 medium |
| Cucumbers, thinly sliced or diced | 1 small |
| Hard-boiled eggs, chopped | 2 |
| Japanese mayonnaise | 1/4 cup |
| Vinegar or mustard | 1 tsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
How to Make Japanese-style Potato Salad
- Boil the diced potatoes and carrots until tender, then drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, carrots, cucumbers, and chopped hard-boiled eggs.
- Add Japanese mayonnaise, rice vinegar or mustard, salt, and pepper to the vegetable mixture.
- Gently fold the ingredients together until well-coated and creamy, taking care not to mash the potatoes.
- Chill the potato salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
13. Edamame
Edamame, or immature soybeans, is a simple and healthy side dish that adds a pop of color and nutrition to your teriyaki chicken meal.
Rich in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, edamame is a tasty snack or side that can be enjoyed hot or cold.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh or frozen Edamame pods | 2 cups |
| Salt | To taste |
How to Make Edamame
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the edamame pods.
- Cook the edamame for 3-5 minutes, or until tender.
- Drain the edamame and sprinkle with salt, if desired.
14. Seaweed Salad
Seaweed salad is a refreshing and nutritious side dish that adds a unique crunchy texture and oceanic flavor to your teriyaki chicken meal.
Made with various types of seaweed, this salad is low in calories and high in minerals, making it a healthy choice for those looking to add more variety to their diet.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dried seaweed mix (such as wakame, hijiki, or kombu) | 1/2 cup |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Sesame oil | 1 tbsp |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tbsp |
| Sugar (optional) | 1 tsp |
| Sesame seeds (optional) | 1 tsp |
How to Make Seaweed Salad
- Rehydrate the dried seaweed mix according to package instructions, typically by soaking in cold water for several minutes.
- Drain the rehydrated seaweed and squeeze out excess water.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sugar (if using) to create a dressing.
- Toss the seaweed with the dressing until well-coated.
- Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired.
15. Miso Soup
Miso soup is a soothing and light Japanese soup that serves as a perfect companion to richer dishes like teriyaki chicken.
Made with a savory dashi broth and fermented soybean paste (miso), this soup is warming, comforting, and packed with umami flavor.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Miso paste | 3 tbsp |
| Dashi (Japanese soup stock) or vegetarian alternative | 4 cups |
| Tofu | 1/2 block |
| Scallions | 2, chopped |
How to Make Miso Soup
- In a saucepan, bring the dashi or vegetarian broth to a simmer.
- In a small bowl, whisk a portion of the hot dashi with the miso paste until smooth.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir the miso mixture into the saucepan, taking care not to let the soup boil, as this can affect the flavor of the miso.
- Add the diced silken tofu to the soup and let it warm through for a minute or two.
- Serve the miso soup hot, garnished with sliced scallions.
16. Sushi Bake
Sushi bake is a fun and creative twist on traditional sushi, presenting the flavors of sushi in a deconstructed casserole form.
This dish is perfect for group settings or parties, as it allows guests to assemble their own sushi-inspired creations using nori sheets and various toppings.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked Sushi rice | 2 cups |
| Japanese Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup |
| Cream cheese | 1/4 cup |
| Cooked seafood (crab or salmon) | 1 cup |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Nori sheets | cut into squares |
| cucumber slices, avocado, tobiko (flying fish roe), or furikake seasoning | Optional toppings |
How to Make Sushi Bake
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, mix the cooked sushi rice with a bit of soy sauce and spread it evenly in a baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix the Japanese mayonnaise, cream cheese, and cooked seafood until well combined.
- Spread the seafood mixture over the sushi rice in the baking dish.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve the sushi bake hot with nori sheets and desired toppings on the side.
17. Teriyaki Glazed Mushrooms
Teriyaki glazed mushrooms are a rich and savory side dish that showcases the deep umami flavor of mushrooms enhanced by a sweet and sticky teriyaki glaze.
This simple yet flavorful side perfectly complements the flavors of teriyaki chicken, making it an excellent addition to your meal.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake, oyster, or cremini), sliced | 2 cups |
| Teriyaki sauce(homemade or store-bought) | 1/3 cup |
| Optional: Green onions or sesame seeds | For garnish |
How to Make Teriyaki Glazed Mushrooms
- In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
- Pour the teriyaki sauce over the mushrooms and stir to coat evenly.
- Continue cooking the mushrooms until the sauce reduces and forms a glossy glaze on the mushrooms, about 3-5 minutes.
- Garnish with sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
18. Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad is a nutritious and protein-rich alternative to traditional grain-based side dishes.
This light and refreshing salad features fluffy quinoa, colorful vegetables, and a zesty dressing, making it a perfect companion to teriyaki chicken for those seeking a healthier option.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked Quinoa | 1 cup |
| Bell peppers | 1/2 cup, chopped |
| Cucumbers | 1/2 cup, chopped |
| Tomatoes | 1/2 cup, chopped |
| Dressing (Salt, Pepper, Lemon Juice, Olive Oil) | To taste |
| Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) | To taste |
How to Make Quinoa Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled quinoa with the chopped vegetables and fresh herbs.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a light dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to coat evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Health and Nutritional Benefits of Each Side Dish
| Side Dish | Nutritional Benefits |
|---|---|
| Steamed White Rice | Low in fat, gluten-free, gentle on digestion, quick source of energy. |
| Fried Rice | Provides vitamins like Vitamin A and iron, protein from eggs. |
| Pineapple Fried Rice | Adds vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants, boosts immune system and aids digestion. |
| Butter Rice | Source of Vitamin A and fatty acids, important for brain and skin health. |
| Steamed Broccoli | High in dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, supports immune health and reduces inflammation. |
| Asian Slaw | Packed with vitamin K and anthocyanins, helps with mental function and concentration. |
| Roasted Asparagus | Rich in folate, vitamins A, C, E, and K, improves digestive health due to high fiber content. |
| Stir-Fried Vegetables | Low in calories, high in dietary fiber and vitamins, depending on vegetables used. |
| Soba Noodle Salad | Great source of manganese and thiamine, promotes cardiovascular health. |
| Udon Noodles | Provides energy, source of selenium which is crucial for thyroid function. |
| Ramen | Offers collagen, protein, and various micronutrients depending on toppings. |
| Japanese-style Potato Salad | Good source of vitamin C, potassium, dietary fiber, maintains blood sugar levels. |
| Edamame | Rich in protein, iron, and calcium, essential for muscle and bone health. |
| Seaweed Salad | Excellent source of iodine, important for thyroid functions, high levels of vitamins A and C. |
| Miso Soup | Rich in essential minerals, vitamins B, E, K, folic acid, and supports digestive health. |
| Sushi Bake | High in omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health and cognitive function, depending on seafood used. |
| Teriyaki Glazed Mushrooms | Low in calories, high in selenium, potassium, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin D. |
| Quinoa Salad | Rich in protein, contains all nine essential amino acids, complete protein source. |
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect side dishes for your teriyaki chicken can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary.
From classic options like steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables to unique choices like Japanese-style potato salad and seaweed salad, there’s a side dish to suit every taste and occasion.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match these sides to create a well-rounded, flavorful meal that showcases the sweet and savory notes of the teriyaki sauce.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of ramen, a refreshing cucumber salad, or a creative twist like sushi bake, these side dishes will complement your teriyaki chicken perfectly.
So, the next time you’re planning a teriyaki chicken feast, refer to this list and choose the sides that speak to you – your taste buds will thank you!
