What to Serve with Tikka Masala (17 Best Side Dishes)

Wondering what to serve with tikka masala? I have you covered!

Tikka masala features tender chicken swimming in creamy and spicy tomato sauce.

And it deserves the perfect accompaniments to complete your dining experience. 

From fragrant rice to crispy naan bread and refreshing chutney recipes, all of these tempting sides will elevate your meal.

This selection will take your tikka masala experience to new heights. Explore these recipes and create a satisfying feast!

1. Garlic Naan Bread

Garlic naan bread boasts a soft, buttery texture and a punchy flavor. 

It’s addictive and better than what you find at most Indian restaurants!

And it’s the ideal sidekick for tikka masala since you can use it to soak up every bit of that rich sauce. 

2. Basmati Rice

Basmati rice is an aromatic long-grain rice with a delightful nutty flavor. 

Its name is derived from “bas” meaning “aroma,” and “mati,” meaning “full of.” And it perfectly captures its essence. 

It’s the ideal starchy companion to soak every bit of saucy, flavorful tikka masala.

3. Raita

Raita offers a cooling contrast to the spiciness of tikka masala. 

This yogurt-based delight features a harmonious blend of herbs and spices. 

It’s refreshing and perfect for taming the heat in spicy dishes. 

Serve this with spicy tikka masala to keep your tongue from burning!

4. Palak Paneer 

This beloved Indian recipe stars tender paneer cubes in a luscious spinach sauce. 

The creamy sauce offers a refreshing contrast to the bold spices of tikka masala. 

The tender, chewy paneer cubes also provide an interesting textural contrast.

5. Red Lentil Dal

Red lentil dal is a hearty vegetarian recipe perfect with tikka masala. 

This curry is rich in protein and combines red lentils with aromatic spices. 

Its earthy and slightly spicy profile goes well with the bold flavors of tikka masala.

Together, they create a wholesome Indian feast.

6. Cucumber Salad

This cool and crisp cucumber salad pairs perfectly with tikka masala. 

It’s a simple blend of fresh cucumbers, red onions, and a sweet, tangy dressing. 

Its refreshing flavor complements the spicy tikka masala, creating a harmonious balance.

7. Mango Chutney

Mango chutney is a delightful condiment to add flavor to your tikka masala.

It’s a sweet, tangy blend of mangoes, ginger, garlic, red chilies, and spices. 

Its sweetness complements the heat of tikka masala perfectly.

Trust me, this sticky, flavorful concoction will enhance your dining experience. 

8. Aloo Gobi

This classic Indian recipe combines potatoes and cauliflower with tomatoes and aromatic spices. 

The pairing of starch and vegetables makes it a satisfying dish.

Serve it with tikka masala for an extra hearty meal!

9. Vegetable Biryani

Vegetable biryani features layers of long-grain basmati rice and a rich masala sauce. 

Packed with nuts and vegetables, it’s a hearty and satisfying vegetarian recipe. 

Combining rice, spices, and veggies creates the ultimate Indian side dish.

10. Bombay Potatoes

Bombay potatoes, or Bombay aloo, features potatoes, onions, and a blend of spices. 

A quick 30-minute oven roast results in irresistibly crispy and spicy potatoes. 

They’re the perfect starchy accompaniment to pair with a protein-rich tikka masala.

11. Roasted Cauliflower

Pair your tikka masala with roasted cauliflower, a chameleon of the veggie world. 

When roasted, it turns a beautiful golden, boasting a nutty, toasty flavor. 

Just olive oil, salt, and pepper for a side to stand up to any main. 

12. Kachumber Salad

Kachumber salad is the crisp, refreshing sidekick your tikka masala needs. 

Chopped cucumber, tomato, and onion combine in a zesty dance of lemon and spices. 

It’s like a fresh burst of flavor with every bite. 

The cool crunch cuts through the rich tikka, balancing every spoonful.

13. Sang Aloo

Saag aloo, a vibrant mix of potatoes and spinach, is your tikka masala’s best mate. 

Its creamy sauce clings to each potato, offering a hearty complement to the rich tikka. 

Together, they create a harmony of flavors. Try this recipe and let the duo delight you!

14. Samosas

Samosas are perfect pyramids of joy. They’re a match made in heaven with tikka masala. 

Each bite of flaky pastry reveals a spiced potato center that’s anything but ordinary. 

They pack a flavor punch, creating a delightful contrast with the creamy tikka.

15. Halloumi Fries

Halloumi fries are the crispy, golden delight your tikka masala has been waiting for. 

This firm, grilled cheese transforms into irresistible sticks with a satisfying chew. 

They bring a fun element to the meal, offering a crunchy contrast to the smooth tikka. 

16. Poori Curry

Poori masala is a comfort classic, pairing puffed bread with a mild potato curry. 

The soft potatoes and subtle spices offer a soothing contrast to rich tikka. 

This duo brings a delightful texture play, making every bite a balanced treat. 

17. Dal Tadka (Spiced Lentil Gravy)

Dal tadka is a lentil dish seasoned with smoky flavors. 

Its comforting warmth pairs perfectly with the robust tikka masala. 

The dal’s smoothness complements tikka’s richness, as well. 

This popular dish brings familiar flavors that enhance your meal. It’s a simple addition, but it’ll make your dinner a feast.