Pairing Guide: The Best Sides and Drinks to Enjoy with Butter Chicken and Garlic Naan

Butter chicken and Garlic naan is one of the best combos in Indian cuisine. The thought of this combo is enough to make your mouth water. The smooth, slightly spiced tomato gravy paired with warm, buttery naan creates a match made in food heaven. But what if we told you this combo could be even more delicious than you thought? Pairing it with the right sides and drinks can make it go from good to incredible.

Let us talk more about choosing the best chutneys, rice, and drinks to go with this favorite dish.

The Perfect Rice Pairing

Butter chicken and naan are already a classic pair, but adding rice on the side takes the comfort to a whole new level. The rich, mouthwatering gravy soaks into the rice, making every single bite that much more satisfying and tasty. Here are some rice options that pair beautifully:

1. Basmati Rice

Basmati rice is known as the king of rice. They are light, fragrant, and fluffy. Its long grains do not clump together, allowing the gravy to coat them perfectly. If you want to give it an extra touch, then cook it with a little ghee and cumin seeds for a subtle flavor.

2. Jeera Rice

If you want something a bit more flavorful, jeera (cumin) rice is a fantastic choice. The toasty, earthy aroma of cumin balances the richness of the butter chicken without overpowering it. It’s also super easy to make—just sauté cumin seeds in ghee before adding the rice and water.

3. Saffron Rice

Feeling fancy? A touch of saffron turns ordinary rice into something luxurious. The delicate floral aroma of saffron pairs well with the creamy butter chicken, making each bite feel indulgent.

The Best Chutneys and Dips

Chutneys bring freshness and contrast to the rich, creamy flavors of butter chicken. Here are some must-try options:

1. Mint-Coriander Chutney

Cool, herby, and slightly spicy, mint-coriander chutney is a refreshing contrast to the richness of butter chicken. Made with fresh mint, cilantro, green chilies, lemon juice, and yogurt, it adds a zesty kick that balances the dish perfectly.

2. Tamarind Chutney

If you love a hint of sweetness in your meal, tamarind chutney is the way to go. The tangy-sweet flavour complements the deep, buttery notes of the curry while also adding a bit of complexity.

3. Garlic Yogurt Dip

A simple garlic-infused yogurt dip with a sprinkle of salt and roasted cumin can be a cooling side that pairs beautifully with the spices in butter chicken. Plus, it makes a great dip for your garlic naan.

Must Have Drinks to Pair

The right drink can elevate your butter chicken experience, cutting through the richness and refreshing your palate between bites. Here are some perfect drink pairings:

1.Mango Lassi

This thick, creamy, yoghurt-based drink is a classic companion to Indian food. The natural sweetness of mango pairs well with the savoury flavours of butter chicken, while the yoghurt helps cool down any lingering spice.

2. Masala Chai

If you prefer a hot drink with your meal, a spiced masala chai can be an excellent choice. The blend of black tea, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves creates a warm, aromatic drink that complements the richness of butter chicken.

3. Sweet or Salty Lassi

Not a fan of mango? A plain sweet or salty lassi works just as well. The yoghurt-based drink helps cleanse the palate and provides a refreshing contrast to the buttery, spicy flavours of the dish.

4. Coconut Water

For a light and naturally sweet pairing, coconut water is a great option. It’s hydrating, refreshing, and helps balance out the bold spices of the meal.

5. Red Wine or Light Beer

For those who enjoy a little alcohol with their meal, a mild red wine like Pinot Noir or a light beer like a lager or wheat beer works well with butter chicken. The mild acidity in the wine or the crispness of the beer cuts through the creamy sauce and enhances the dish’s flavors.

Bonus: A Little Something Extra

Want to take your meal up a notch? Here are a few additional sides that go well with butter chicken:

1. Onion and Lemon Salad

A simple salad of thinly sliced onions, lemon wedges, and a pinch of salt brings a fresh, tangy bite that cuts through the richness of butter chicken.

2. Papad (Crispy Lentil Crackers)

Light and crunchy, papads add texture to your meal and make a great appetizer before diving into the main course.

3. Pickles (Achar)

Indian pickles, especially mango or lime pickles, bring an intense burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with butter chicken.

Final Thoughts

Butter chicken and garlic naan are already a fantastic combination, but adding the right sides and drinks can make the meal even more enjoyable. Whether it’s a bowl of fragrant rice, a refreshing chutney, or a cool lassi, each pairing enhances the experience in its own way. So the next time you sit down for this iconic dish, try some of these pairings and take your meal to the next level.