Have you ever whipped up a gorgeous Asian chicken salad only to wonder, “What the heck should I serve with this?” I’ve been there too! After making my favorite tangy, crunchy chicken salad loaded with mandarin oranges and those crispy wonton strips, I always felt like something was missing from the meal.
Well, I’ve done all the experimenting for you, and I’m excited to share my favorite side dishes that perfectly complement Asian chicken salad. Whether you’re serving it for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even at a party, these pairings will take your meal to the next level!
Why You Should Serve a Side Dish with Asian Chicken Salad
Before diving into the specific sides. let’s talk about why pairing something with your Asian chicken salad is a good idea
- Adds variety to your meal with different flavors and textures
- Makes the meal more filling and satisfying
- Helps balance nutrients (adding carbs or healthy fats to a protein-rich salad)
- Creates a more complete dining experience
My friend Janet always says, “A good meal is like a symphony – you need different instruments playing together!” And she’s right. Asian chicken salad has bold flavors that can be enhanced with the right accompaniment.
Best Side Dishes for Asian Chicken Salad
1. Steamed Jasmine Rice
Jasmine rice is my go-to side for Asian chicken salad Its fragrant and fluffy texture provides a neutral base that balances the bold, tangy flavors in the salad The aromatic quality of jasmine rice makes it much more interesting than plain white rice.
I like to prepare mine with a little butter and salt – simple but effective! It soaks up any extra dressing from the salad too, which is always a bonus.
2. Vegetable Spring Rolls
These crispy little packages are the perfect complement to Asian chicken salad! The contrast between the fresh salad and the crunchy spring rolls creates a delightful textural experience.
You can make them at home with rice paper, fresh veggies, and herbs, or pick up some frozen ones from the store (I won’t tell anyone!). Serve with a side of sweet chili sauce for dipping.
3. Fried Rice
Fried rice is another fantastic option that turns your Asian chicken salad into a complete meal. It’s super versatile – you can add veggies, eggs, or whatever you have in your fridge.
Pro tip: Make the rice the day before and refrigerate it overnight. Cold rice fries up much better than freshly cooked rice! I learned this the hard way after several mushy fried rice disasters.
4. Edamame
For a super simple but effective side, you can’t go wrong with edamame. These vibrant green soybeans are packed with plant-based protein and fiber. Just steam or boil them, sprinkle with a bit of sea salt, and you’ve got a nutritious side dish in minutes.
My kids love popping the beans out of the pods – it makes eating fun and interactive!
5. Miso Soup
A small bowl of miso soup provides a warm, comforting contrast to the cool, crisp Asian chicken salad. Made with fermented soybean paste, miso soup is rich in probiotics and helps with digestion.
I like to add tofu, seaweed, and scallions to mine for extra flavor and nutrition. It’s light enough that it won’t overpower your main dish but substantial enough to round out the meal.
6. Sesame Noodles
Cold sesame noodles coated in a creamy sesame sauce add a delightful textural element to your meal. The nuttiness of the sesame complements the Asian flavors in your chicken salad.
These can be made ahead of time and served chilled, making them perfect for meal prep or entertaining. I sometimes add julienned cucumbers and carrots to mine for extra crunch.
7. Dumplings
Whether steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, dumplings are always a crowd-pleaser! Their soft, flavorful filling provides a nice contrast to the crisp elements in your salad.
You can make them from scratch if you’re feeling ambitious, but store-bought frozen dumplings work great too. Just serve them with a simple dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of sesame oil.
8. Cucumber Salad
A light cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing is a refreshing side that won’t compete with your main dish. The invigorating and crunchy texture of cucumbers provides a cooling effect that pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of Asian chicken salad.
I like to slice my cucumbers super thin using a mandoline and let them marinate in the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving.
9. Egg Drop Soup
This classic Chinese soup is light yet satisfying. The silky egg ribbons floating in a savory broth create a comforting dish that complements the fresh elements of your salad.
It’s also incredibly quick to make – just 10 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re short on time but still want something homemade.
10. Fruit Skewers
For a refreshing and colorful addition to your meal, try fruit skewers! Fruits like pineapple, strawberries, and melon provide a sweet counterbalance to the savory notes in your Asian chicken salad.
These are especially nice in the summer months when fresh fruit is abundant. Plus, they add a gorgeous pop of color to your table!
11. Kimchi
If you’re a fan of bold flavors, kimchi is an excellent choice. This fermented Korean side dish adds a spicy, tangy kick that enhances the overall dining experience.
The probiotics in kimchi are great for gut health too! Just a small portion on the side is enough to add interest to your meal without overwhelming the other flavors.
12. Seaweed Salad
Seaweed salad offers an invigorating and nutritious contrast with its unique texture and vibrant taste. Seasoned with sesame oil and rice vinegar, this Japanese dish provides a refreshing side that’s packed with minerals.
I find the slightly crunchy, slightly slippery texture of seaweed salad pairs beautifully with the crispness of Asian chicken salad.
13. Pickled Vegetables
Pickled veggies add a tangy and crunchy element to your meal. Common options include cucumbers, carrots, daikon radish, and cabbage.
The acidity cuts through the richness of any dressing on your chicken salad, creating a balanced bite. Plus, they’re super easy to make ahead and keep in the fridge for whenever you need them!
14. Green Tea
While not a side dish per se, green tea is the perfect beverage to serve with Asian chicken salad. It’s refreshing, helps aid digestion, and complements the flavors in your meal perfectly.
Serve it hot or cold depending on the season and your preference. I like to brew a big batch and keep it in the fridge for a cool, refreshing drink with my salad.
15. Lo Mein Noodles
Lo mein noodles have a chewy texture that pairs wonderfully with Asian chicken salad. They can be flavored with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and other seasonings to complement the flavors in your salad.
You can make them as simple or as complex as you like – add veggies, protein, or keep them plain as a simple carb component to your meal.
16. Fried Plantains
For something a little different, try serving fried plantains with your Asian chicken salad! The sweetness of ripe plantains creates an interesting contrast with the savory elements of your salad.
Make sure to use ripe plantains (when the skin is almost black) for the best flavor and sweetness. I like to fry mine in small batches to ensure they cook evenly.
17. Coconut Curry Soup
A light coconut curry soup brings rich and aromatic warmth to the table. The creamy coconut milk base with fragrant curry spices creates a comforting companion to your fresh salad.
This is especially nice during colder months when you want something warming alongside your salad. The combination of hot soup and cool salad creates a lovely temperature contrast.
18. Curried Couscous
Curried couscous is a versatile side that’s easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with Asian chicken salad. The curry flavor complements the Asian elements in your salad without overwhelming them.
I like to add raisins, almonds, and scallions to my couscous for added texture and flavor. It’s a hearty side that helps make your salad into a complete meal.
How to Choose the Perfect Side Dish
When deciding what to serve with your Asian chicken salad, consider these factors:
- Flavor balance: If your salad is spicy or has strong flavors, choose a milder side dish
- Texture contrast: Pair crunchy salads with softer sides like rice or noodles
- Temperature: Consider serving something warm with your cool salad
- Occasion: More elaborate sides for special occasions, simpler ones for weeknight dinners
- Your preferences: Ultimately, choose what you and your guests will enjoy!
FAQ About Serving Asian Chicken Salad
What bread goes well with Asian chicken salad?
Light, airy baguettes provide a nice crunchy contrast to the salad. Ciabatta or whole wheat bread work well for heartier options. For a touch of sweetness, challah or brioche are excellent choices.
What wine pairs well with Asian chicken salad?
For salads with vinaigrette dressings, try Riesling or Pinot Gris. If your salad has a creamier dressing, Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc work well. For heartier versions with grilled chicken, a light red like Beaujolais Nouveau can be wonderful.
What dressing is best for Asian chicken salad?
Traditional Asian dressings typically include soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and sometimes a touch of honey or sugar. Ranch, thousand island, and vinaigrette are common Western alternatives. Peanut dressing adds a creamy, nutty element that many people love.
Final Thoughts
Asian chicken salad is already delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right side dish can transform it into an extraordinary meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something light like cucumber salad or more substantial like fried rice, there’s a perfect companion for your Asian chicken salad.
I hope these suggestions inspire you to try new combinations! Remember, cooking should be fun and experimental – don’t be afraid to mix and match to find your personal favorite pairing. And if you discover a great combination I haven’t mentioned, I’d love to hear about it!
Now I’m off to make some spring rolls to go with the Asian chicken salad waiting in my fridge. Bon appétit!
What is Chinese Chicken Salad?
Chinese chicken salad typically consists of mixed greens, shredded napa cabbage, and shredded chicken breast and can include lots of other ingredients. Among the most popular choices are mandarin oranges, slivered almonds, green onions, carrots, sesame seeds, Chow Mein noodles, and crispy wonton strips. It’s often served with an Asian dressing that includes ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, fresh ginger, and rice vinegar.
There are tons of different ways to customize this basic salad recipe, and you can feel free to toss in your favorite ingredients and create your own unique version. You can also cook your own chicken or save time and use a store-bought rotisserie chicken. If you’re looking for a good recipe to start with, I love this easy and incredibly tasty Chinese Chicken Salad recipe.
Now if you’re looking for some great side dishes and appetizers to make a complete meal, we’ve got all kinds of delicious options for you. This versatile main dish pairs well with soups, dumplings, rice dishes and more. We’ve even got ideas for desserts and wine pairings. Read on for our favorite ideas for what to serve with Chinese chicken salad.
Dumplings are first on our list of great side dishes for your Chinese chicken salad. They’re a classic Asian comfort food that adds some delicious and satisfying carbs to the light and healthy salad. You can get the meat, seafood, or vegetarian varieties, and all would be delicious with your salad. You can make your own dumplings if you’re feeling ambitious, but you’ll also find lots of great pre-made options at the grocery store.
Rice is another comforting and carb-filled dish that works well with Chinese chicken salad. Fried rice is a classic choice – it typically contains many of the same flavors as you’ll find in your chicken salad, and it’s quick and easy to prepare. If you’ve never made your own before, this Easy Egg Fried Rice is a great simple recipe to try.
But you can also keep your rice dishes simple and go with plain steamed white rice – or choose a brown or jasmine rice variety. Add a dash of soy sauce or sesame oil, and you’ve got a simple and satisfying side dish.
Noodle dishes are another staple in Asian cuisine, and they’d be a great addition to your Chinese chicken salad dinner. Like rice and dumplings, they add some comforting carbs that are a nice contrast to the light and crisp salad.
Serve some vegetarian or chicken Lo Mein noodles, a cold sesame noodle dish, or any Asian-inspired noodle dish. I love these Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Noodles or this Asian Noodle Bowl with Grilled Shrimp. Another great option would be ramen noodles. There are tons of easy ramen recipes out there, and the homemade variety really blows the packaged stuff away.
Soup and salad are a classic combination, and the warmth of the soup provides a nice contrast to the cool and fresh salad. For that reason, we love all varieties of chicken soup to pair with your salad. Chicken noodle and chicken rice soup would both be great choices, or look for an Asian inspired choice like wonton, miso, or egg drop soup. Any of these options would be a perfect way to round out your Chinese chicken salad dinner.