Chicken teriyaki is a classic dish that combines sweet and savory flavors with tender chicken. While the chicken itself is delicious, the right sides, sauces, and drinks can make your meal even better. Whether you’re preparing chicken teriyaki at home or enjoying it at a restaurant, choosing the right accompaniments creates a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
In this guide, we will explore various traditional Japanese sides, healthy vegetable options, creative twists, and drinks that pair perfectly with chicken teriyaki. Additionally, we’ll include some frequently asked questions to help you get the most out of your teriyaki meal.
Traditional Japanese Sides for Chicken Teriyaki
Japanese cuisine focuses heavily on balance. In fact, pairing the rich flavors of chicken teriyaki with light, complementary sides ensures a well-rounded dining experience. Let’s start by looking at some classic side dishes that enhance the flavors of chicken teriyaki.
- Rice: Without a doubt, rice is the most traditional side dish served with teriyaki. White rice, brown rice, or even sushi rice are all excellent choices. Rice has a neutral flavor that absorbs the rich teriyaki sauce, making it a perfect companion for the sweet and savory chicken.
- Miso Soup: Another classic is miso soup. This light soup is made from fermented soybean paste and is full of umami flavor. When paired with chicken teriyaki, the savory taste of miso soup helps balance the sweetness of the teriyaki glaze. If you’re curious, learn more about the health benefits of miso soup.
- Pickled Vegetables (Tsukemono): In Japanese cuisine, pickled vegetables play a big role in adding a refreshing contrast to rich dishes. Pickles like cucumber, daikon, or ginger cleanse the palate between bites. Moreover, their tangy and slightly sour taste contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of chicken teriyaki. You can read more about the tradition of pickled vegetables here.
- Seaweed Salad: For a light and nutritious side, consider serving seaweed salad. Made with wakame or nori, this dish offers a slight crunch and a refreshing taste that balances the richness of chicken teriyaki. The subtle sea flavor, paired with a tangy sesame dressing, complements the main dish without overpowering it.
Popular Vegetables to Serve with Chicken Teriyaki
In addition to traditional sides, vegetables are a fantastic option for balancing the rich flavors of chicken teriyaki. Vegetables not only add texture and nutrition but also bring color and freshness to your plate. Here are some of the most popular vegetable sides to pair with teriyaki.
- Grilled Broccoli: One of the most common vegetables served with chicken teriyaki is broccoli. Grilled or steamed, broccoli adds a slight bitterness that cuts through the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce. Plus, its crisp texture offers a pleasant contrast to the tender chicken.
- Asparagus: Another great option is asparagus, especially when it’s grilled. The fresh, earthy flavor of asparagus pairs nicely with the bold flavors of chicken teriyaki. The slightly crunchy texture adds depth to the meal, making it both satisfying and healthy.
- Sauteed Spinach: If you’re looking for a lighter option, sauteed spinach is a simple and nutritious side. Spinach, when lightly cooked with a touch of garlic, brings an earthy flavor that balances the savory-sweet glaze of the chicken. Its soft texture also adds variety to the meal.
- Green Beans: For those who prefer a crunchier side, green beans are a fantastic choice. Whether steamed or stir-fried, green beans offer a crisp bite that contrasts well with the soft chicken. Their slightly sweet flavor also enhances the overall dining experience.
- Stir-fried Vegetables: For a colorful and flavorful option, a mix of stir-fried vegetables is perfect. Bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and onions stir-fried in a light sauce bring a variety of textures and flavors to the table. The vegetables not only add freshness but also make the meal visually appealing.
Carbohydrate-Based Side Dishes
If you want a more filling meal, carbohydrate-based sides are the way to go. These options help absorb the rich teriyaki sauce and add a hearty element to your dish. Here are some carbohydrate-based sides that pair wonderfully with chicken teriyaki.
- Noodles: Both soba (buckwheat noodles) and udon (thick wheat noodles) are excellent choices when serving chicken teriyaki. These noodles absorb the sauce well and offer a chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken. They’re hearty, making them perfect for a more substantial meal.
- Fried Rice: If you’re in the mood for something a little more indulgent, fried rice is a great option. Prepared with scrambled eggs, soy sauce, and mixed vegetables, fried rice brings a rich, savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the teriyaki glaze.
- Japanese Sweet Potatoes: Japanese sweet potatoes, known for their natural sweetness, pair perfectly with chicken teriyaki. Their starchy texture provides a comforting balance to the savory chicken, while their sweet flavor enhances the dish.
- Quinoa or Couscous: For a lighter, modern twist, you can try serving quinoa or couscous alongside your chicken teriyaki. These grains are healthier alternatives to rice and offer a fluffy texture that absorbs the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
- Potato Wedges or Fries: Finally, if you’re in the mood for something different, crispy potato wedges or fries can provide a fun fusion element to your meal. The starchy, crispy texture of the potatoes pairs surprisingly well with the sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.
Healthy Sides for Chicken Teriyaki
If you’re looking for lighter or healthier options, don’t worry. There are plenty of side dishes that are both nutritious and delicious. These healthy sides pair well with the bold flavors of chicken teriyaki without adding too many extra calories.
- Zucchini Noodles: One of the best low-carb alternatives to traditional noodles is zucchini noodles or “zoodles.” They are light, fresh, and perfect for soaking up the flavorful teriyaki sauce without the heaviness of regular noodles.
- Cauliflower Rice: Another popular low-carb option is cauliflower rice. This healthier substitute for rice absorbs the teriyaki sauce just as well while keeping the meal light. Plus, it’s packed with fiber and nutrients.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the umami-rich teriyaki glaze. Their slightly crispy edges provide a satisfying texture, making them a perfect side dish.
- Grilled Eggplant: Smoky, tender, and savory, grilled eggplant is a great option for those looking for a unique and healthy side. The eggplant’s rich flavor and meaty texture make it an excellent companion to the sweet and savory chicken teriyaki.
When serving chicken teriyaki with healthy sides like broccoli, you can also try this delicious and easy teriyaki chicken and broccoli recipe, which adds even more nutrients to your meal.
Unique and Creative Sides for Chicken Teriyaki
For those looking to add some creativity to their meal, consider these unique and exciting sides. They’ll not only surprise your guests but also take your chicken teriyaki dinner to the next level.
- Kimchi: For a bold, spicy contrast, consider serving kimchi with your chicken teriyaki. This fermented Korean side dish adds complexity and heat to the meal. Its tangy, spicy flavor is a great complement to the sweet glaze of the chicken.
- Sushi Rolls: Sushi rolls can be a fun and unexpected side to serve with chicken teriyaki. Simple rolls like cucumber or avocado rolls add a fresh and light contrast to the rich chicken dish. It’s a creative fusion that’s sure to impress.
- Cucumber Salad: If you’re looking for something light and refreshing, a simple cucumber salad is a great choice. Tossed in a light soy sauce or rice vinegar dressing, the cucumber’s cool, crisp texture balances out the strong flavors of the teriyaki sauce.
- Tempura Vegetables: For a crispy side dish, tempura vegetables are a delicious choice. Lightly battered and fried, vegetables like sweet potatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers add a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with chicken teriyaki.
If you’re wondering when to apply teriyaki sauce during cooking, read this helpful guide on whether teriyaki sauce goes on before or after cooking to perfect your dish.
Perfect Sauces and Dips to Pair with
Sometimes, the right sauce or dip can elevate a meal to new heights. While chicken teriyaki is flavorful on its own, adding a dipping sauce can enhance the experience. Here are some sauces that pair wonderfully with the dish.
- Soy Sauce and Ginger Dipping Sauce: A simple soy sauce and ginger-based dipping sauce can add an extra layer of flavor to your meal. The ginger’s sharpness contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the teriyaki glaze, making each bite more exciting.
- Wasabi Mayonnaise: For those who love a spicy kick, wasabi mayonnaise is a fantastic option. This creamy dip adds both heat and richness, balancing the sweetness of the chicken teriyaki.
- Ponzu Sauce: If you’re looking for something lighter and tangier, ponzu sauce is a great choice. This citrusy soy-based sauce brings a refreshing element to the meal, cutting through the richness of the teriyaki glaze.
- Sesame Dressing: Creamy and nutty, sesame dressing works as both a dip and a salad dressing. Its subtle sweetness and nuttiness complement the chicken teriyaki, making it a versatile addition to your meal.
Drinks
A well-paired drink can enhance your meal even further. Whether you prefer something alcoholic or non-alcoholic, here are some options that go perfectly with chicken teriyaki.
- Green Tea: Green tea is a classic choice in Japanese cuisine. Its light, slightly bitter flavor helps cleanse the palate between bites of the sweet and savory chicken. For more on pairing green tea with meals, check out this guide to green tea and Japanese food.
- Sake: Another traditional option is sake, a Japanese rice wine. Its smooth, slightly sweet taste complements the rich flavors of the teriyaki sauce.
- Non-Alcoholic Options: If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with lime or a refreshing ginger tea. These drinks help cleanse the palate without overpowering the meal.
FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions about pairing sides with chicken teriyaki:
- What vegetables go well with chicken teriyaki?
Vegetables like broccoli, green beans, and asparagus work well. Stir-fried or grilled vegetables add both flavor and texture to the meal. - Can you pair teriyaki chicken with pasta?
Yes! Noodles like soba or udon are excellent choices. They absorb the sauce well, making them a hearty addition. - What are some low-carb sides for chicken teriyaki?
Cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or grilled vegetables like eggplant and Brussels sprouts are great low-carb options. - What drinks pair best with chicken teriyaki?
Green tea, sake, and Japanese beers are classic options. For non-alcoholic choices, try sparkling water or ginger tea. - Can I serve teriyaki chicken with sushi?
Absolutely! Simple sushi rolls like cucumber or avocado rolls can make a great side.
Conclusion
Pairing the right sides with chicken teriyaki can transform your meal into a delightful dining experience. Whether you choose traditional sides like rice and miso soup or try more creative options like sushi rolls and kimchi, the right accompaniments will enhance the flavors of the dish. Experiment with different vegetables, grains, sauces, and drinks to create a well-balanced meal that everyone will enjoy.
The next time you prepare chicken teriyaki, try out these suggestions and elevate your dining experience!