Introduction
When it comes to preparing an Asian chicken weeknight dinner, choosing the right sides can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you are serving a classic teriyaki chicken, spicy kung pao, or sesame ginger chicken, the sides you pair can enhance the flavors and create a well-rounded dining experience. In this article, we will explore various sides for Asian chicken weeknight dinner that are not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare.
With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these side dishes will help you create a delightful dinner that the whole family will enjoy. From fragrant rice to vibrant vegetable stir-fries, let’s dive into the perfect accompaniments for your Asian chicken.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
45 minutes
Servings:
4 servings
Ingredients:
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for salad)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for salad)
- 1 teaspoon honey (for salad)
Instructions:
- Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, add rice and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until cooked.
- In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add snow peas, red bell pepper, and broccoli florets. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and serve it alongside the stir-fried vegetables.
- For the cucumber salad, combine sliced cucumber, soy sauce, olive oil, and honey in a bowl. Toss well and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve the Asian chicken on a plate with jasmine rice, vegetable stir-fry, and a side of cucumber salad for a complete meal.
Side Dish Ideas
Now that we have a basic recipe, let’s explore additional side dish ideas that can complement your Asian chicken weeknight dinner. Each of these options is designed to bring out the best flavors while keeping the preparation quick and simple.
1. Garlic Fried Rice
Garlic fried rice is a fantastic alternative to plain jasmine rice. Made with leftover rice, this dish is quick to whip up. Simply sauté garlic in a bit of oil, add the rice, and toss in some peas and carrots for color. Season with soy sauce and sesame oil for extra flavor.
2. Asian Slaw
An Asian slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a zesty dressing can add crunch and freshness to your meal. Combine shredded cabbage and carrots with a dressing of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Toss in some chopped peanuts for added texture.
3. Stir-Fried Bok Choy
Bok choy is a great green vegetable that pairs well with Asian flavors. Quickly stir-fry bok choy with garlic and a splash of soy sauce until just tender. The result is a healthy and vibrant side that complements any chicken dish.
4. Edamame
Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt is a simple yet satisfying side. It’s a great source of protein and can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any weeknight dinner.
5. Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad
Cucumbers can be transformed into a refreshing salad by combining them with vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil. This sweet and sour cucumber salad is light and balances out the richness of the chicken dish.
6. Miso Soup
Miso soup can be a warming side to accompany your meal. It is simple to make by dissolving miso paste in hot water and adding tofu, seaweed, and green onions. This soup is comforting and enhances the overall dining experience.
7. Vegetable Spring Rolls
Fresh vegetable spring rolls filled with crunchy vegetables and served with a peanut dipping sauce can add an exciting element to your dinner. They are light and refreshing, providing a wonderful contrast to the savory chicken.
8. Asian-Inspired Quinoa Salad
Quinoa is an excellent alternative to rice and can be tossed with Asian-inspired ingredients like bell peppers, green onions, and a soy-sesame dressing for a nutritious and filling side dish.
9. Kimchi
Kimchi, a fermented Korean dish made from seasoned vegetables, can add a spicy kick to your dinner. Its tangy flavor pairs beautifully with the savory notes of Asian chicken, making it a great addition.
10. Grilled Vegetables
Lastly, grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus tossed with a bit of sesame oil can create a smoky and flavorful side that complements the dish beautifully.
FAQ
What are good sides for Asian chicken?
Good sides include garlic fried rice, Asian slaw, stir-fried bok choy, and cucumber salad. These options enhance the flavors of the chicken and provide a balanced meal.
Can I make these sides ahead of time?
Yes, many of these sides can be made ahead. For example, garlic fried rice and Asian slaw can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Are these sides healthy?
Absolutely! Most of these sides are packed with vegetables and whole grains, making them nutritious options that complement your Asian chicken.
How can I customize these side dishes?
Feel free to customize any of the side dishes based on your preferences. You can add different vegetables, adjust seasonings, or incorporate proteins to make them more substantial.
Conclusion
Incorporating the right sides for your Asian chicken weeknight dinner can turn a simple meal into a feast. With these delicious options, you can mix and match to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you choose to stick with classic rice and veggies or try something new like spring rolls or quinoa salad, your dinner is sure to impress. Happy cooking!
