The essence of teriyaki lies in its harmonious balance of sweet, sour, and the clarifying presence of ginger. A hint of garlic adds depth and aroma to this Japanese-inspired sauce.
Its widespread popularity is well-deserved, as it brings people back for more due to its addictive sweet and salty flavor combination. Chicken’s mild nature makes it an ideal canvas for teriyaki’s subtle nuances, which are best showcased when paired with other flavors.
Teriyaki Chicken Side Dishes: 15 Must-Try Recipes
While the main event may take center stage, it’s often the supporting actors – in this case, the savory sides – that elevate the overall dining experience. With this rich and flavorful main dish as the starting point, consider pairing it with one of these 15 carefully curated options, each expertly designed to complement its bold flavors and textures.
Asian Salad With Sesame Ginger Dressing
The perfect complement to our savory teriyaki chicken, this vibrant salad combines the crunch of celery, red pepper, and carrots without any leafy greens. The sweetness of the red onion and freshness of cilantro or parsley strike a delightful harmony before being elevated by an earthy dressing with just the right balance of sour and sweet notes. As you take your first bite, the flavors will meld together to create a thrilling sensation that will leave you craving more.
This innovative Asian-inspired salad is a masterclass in balancing bold flavors and textures, making it the ideal accompaniment to our teriyaki chicken recipe. Get ready to be hooked!
Warm Spinach Salad With Soy Dressing
Martha Stewart’s culinary expertise is undeniable, as reflected in this delectable warm spinach salad recipe. The harmonious balance of flavors and textures is a testament to her cooking prowess. Dry chicken is beautifully complemented by the earthy sweetness of sautéed spinach, while the two types of mushrooms add an exciting depth of flavor. A touch of sweetness from the carrots provides a delightful contrast.
Meanwhile, the Dijon mustard injects a satisfying spiciness that will leave your senses tingling. The incorporation of warm greens is a nod to cuisines around the world, yet often overlooked in modern cooking. Once you experience the elevated pleasure of a warmed spinach salad, it’s unlikely you’ll ever settle for a cold one again. In fact, this recipe may inspire you to start experimenting with fried ingredients and incorporating mushrooms into your salads.
Spicy Edamame Crunch Salad
Edamame’s harmonious flavor profile pairs exceptionally well with teriyaki chicken, creating a match made in heaven. To elevate this combination to new heights, consider combining it with quinoa, crunchy cabbage, nutrient-dense spinach, and sweet carrots. The resulting party of flavors will be nothing short of mouth-watering. Furthermore, the sweetness of the teriyaki chicken complements edamame’s traditional Japanese taste perfectly.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with garnishes to ensure each serving is uniquely delicious.
Sauteed Asparagus With Oyster Sauce And Garlic
Combine the earthy essence of asparagus with the pungency of garlic and the subtle sweetness of oyster sauce to create an exceptional side dish. The whole asparagus spears will not only add a pop of color but also deliver a depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients. Oyster sauce, a staple in Asian cuisine, lends a mild sweetness to the dish. In this recipe, you’ll be using two distinct sauces – oyster and teriyaki – which offer contrasting flavor profiles.
And let’s not forget the allure of asparagus, often likened to a prehistoric tree trunk, which pairs beautifully with a variety of ingredients, including teriyaki chicken.
Brussels Sprouts With An Asian flair
Innovative culinary minds can rejoice at the discovery of caramelized Brussels sprouts, a true gastronomic epiphany. When paired with teriyaki chicken, this harmonious union transcends mere mortal dishes. The subtle kick from Asian garlic chilli paste adds a tantalizing layer of complexity, leaving you in awe of its boldness. Meanwhile, the natural crispness of the Brussels sprouts provides an impeccable textural contrast that will leave your palate singing.
This transformative recipe has the potential to convert even the most skeptical of individuals into devoted fans of crispy Asian Brussels sprouts.
Sesame Ginger Broccoli
By transforming an ordinary small tree into a delectable side dish, we’ve achieved culinary magic! The result is a perfectly cooked broccoli that’s golden and crispy, with the rich umami of miso adding depth to the sauce. What started as a simple ingredient becomes an indispensable flavor enhancer once you experience its harmonious blend with broccoli.
And when it comes to pairing teriyaki chicken, serving sesame ginger broccoli on the side not only elevates the dish but also introduces new and exciting flavor profiles that will forever change the way you enjoy broccoli.
Spicy Asian Green Beans
Transform fresh green beans into a flavorful side dish in just 15 minutes! Elevate your chicken teriyaki by combining the sweetness of honey, the spicy kick of red flakes, and the tanginess of white vinegar. This unique recipe will add a much-needed boost of flavor to what might otherwise be a monotonous meal. To customize the heat level, simply adjust the amount of red pepper used in the recipe. Get the full recipe now!
Chinese Fried Rice
Large, chewy noodles and savory teriyaki chicken and vegetables in a stir-fry – a match made in heaven! However, there’s a risk: your side dish might just steal the show from your main course. This is particularly true when it comes to lo mein, which often takes a backseat to protein-rich dishes like chicken in Chinese restaurants, despite being listed as a mainstay. With this recipe, you can create a winning combination that will please everyone’s palate – even kids!
And if you’re looking for the perfect side dish to complement your meal, look no further.
Stir-fried Potatoes, Peppers, And Eggplant
Step into the vibrant world of eggplant cuisine with our innovative pan-fried eggplant dish that will elevate even the most iconic flavors, like chicken teriyaki. This mouthwatering recipe combines the richness of potato and peppers with an impressive medley of spices, perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.
Asian Corn On The Cob
Can you recall the last time you savored a mouthwatering ear of corn slathered in butter? Now, imagine elevating that experience with an Asian-inspired twist! A harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors will leave your guests begging for more. The perfect accompaniment to your teriyaki chicken, this dish is sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Roasted Carrots With Honey And Ginger
Savoring the rich, velvety texture and depth of flavor that a perfectly roasted carrot provides is an unparalleled culinary experience. When cooked in their natural state, carrots bring an undeniable earthy essence to any dish, elevating it to new heights. The result is a scrumptious side dish that will leave you craving more.
Fried Rice
While it’s common to enjoy fried rice at Chinese restaurants, this recipe is elevated by its combination of textures and flavors from the onion, vegetables, and eggs. In fact, making fried rice from scratch can be so satisfying that you’ll find yourself looking forward to leftover rice every day. Serve your teriyaki chicken on top or alongside for a traditional dinner experience.
Soba Noodles With Sesame
Buckwheat noodles, also known as soba, are an integral part of Japanese cuisine. They pair harmoniously with teriyaki chicken, elevating the dish to new heights. By incorporating green onions, soy sauce, and sesame seeds, these earthy noodles are transformed into a culinary masterpiece. What’s more surprising is the nutty flavor that emerges from the judicious use of sesame oil – a game-changer for anyone who’s never experienced its unique taste.
Just be sure not to devour it all before sitting down to enjoy your meal.
Bok Choy With Lemon And Soy Sauce
Incorporating bok choy into your teriyaki chicken dish adds a delightful Asian flair, thanks to its crunchy texture and vibrant flavor profile. The leafy green’s subtle sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory elements of the chicken, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. To elevate the dish further, try incorporating a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an added layer of brightness and acidity. This simple yet effective combination will transport your taste buds to the Far East.
Final Thoughts
Teriyaki chicken is incredibly versatile, and pairing it with a range of side dishes is a breeze. The sweet and savory flavors of the sauce complement a wide variety of cuisines, making it easy to find a match that suits your taste. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or adventurous, there’s a teriyaki chicken side dish combination out there for everyone.