Chicken stir fry is a popular and versatile dish that can be served with a variety of side dishes to complement its flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for something classic and traditional or modern and innovative, there’s a side dish out there that’s sure to pair perfectly with your chicken stir fry. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular side dishes that go well with chicken stir fry, including their ingredients, cooking methods, and nutritional benefits.
Classic Side Dishes for Chicken Stir Fry
When it comes to classic side dishes for chicken stir fry, there are a few options that stand out from the rest. These dishes have been paired with chicken stir fry for centuries and are still popular today due to their simplicity, flavor, and nutritional value.
Steamed Rice
Steamed rice is a staple side dish in many Asian cultures and is often served with chicken stir fry. It’s a simple and comforting dish that pairs well with the savory flavors of the stir fry. To make steamed rice, you’ll need:
- 1 cup of uncooked white or brown rice
- 2 cups of water
- Salt to taste
Combine the rice and water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Egg Rolls
Egg rolls are a popular side dish in Chinese cuisine and are often served with chicken stir fry. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a great contrast in texture to the stir fry. To make egg rolls, you’ll need:
- 1 package of egg roll wrappers
- 1/2 cup of finely chopped vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts)
- 1/2 cup of cooked and shredded chicken
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 1/4 cup of sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine the chopped vegetables, cooked chicken, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a medium bowl. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface and place a tablespoon of the filling in the center. Brush the edges with water and fold the wrapper into a triangle. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Dumplings
Dumplings are another popular side dish in Chinese cuisine and are often served with chicken stir fry. They’re soft and fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside, making them a great contrast in texture to the stir fry. To make dumplings, you’ll need:
- 1 package of round wonton wrappers
- 1/2 cup of finely chopped vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts)
- 1/2 cup of cooked and shredded chicken
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 1/4 cup of sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine the chopped vegetables, cooked chicken, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a medium bowl. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface and place a tablespoon of the filling in the center. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle and press the edges together to seal. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Modern Side Dishes for Chicken Stir Fry
While classic side dishes are always a great option, modern side dishes can add a fresh and exciting twist to your chicken stir fry. Here are a few ideas for modern side dishes that pair well with chicken stir fry.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a healthy and flavorful side dish that pairs well with chicken stir fry. To make roasted vegetables, you’ll need:
- 1-2 cups of your favorite vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Spread the vegetables out in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad is a healthy and refreshing side dish that pairs well with chicken stir fry. To make quinoa salad, you’ll need:
- 1 cup of cooked quinoa
- 1 cup of chopped mixed greens
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup of cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine the cooked quinoa, chopped mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion in a medium bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
Edamame
Edamame is a tasty and protein-rich side dish that pairs well with chicken stir fry. To make edamame, you’ll need:
- 1 cup of frozen edamame
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Add the frozen edamame and cook for 3-5 minutes or until tender. Drain the edamame and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.
Nutritional Benefits of Side Dishes for Chicken Stir Fry
In addition to being delicious, side dishes for chicken stir fry can also provide a range of nutritional benefits. Here are a few examples:
Steamed Rice
Steamed rice is a good source of carbohydrates, which provide energy for the body. It’s also low in fat and calories, making it a great option for those watching their weight.
Egg Rolls
Egg rolls are a good source of protein and fiber, thanks to the vegetables and chicken filling. They’re also low in calories and fat, making them a great option for those looking for a healthier side dish.
Dumplings
Dumplings are a good source of protein and fiber, thanks to the vegetables and chicken filling. They’re also low in calories and fat, making them a great option for those looking for a healthier side dish.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium. They’re also low in calories and fat, making them a great option for those watching their weight.
Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body needs. It’s also a rich source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a great option for those looking for a healthy side dish.
Edamame
Edamame is a rich source of protein and fiber, making it a great option for those looking for a healthy side dish. It’s also low in calories and fat, making it a great option for those watching their weight.
Conclusion
Chicken stir fry is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes to complement its flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for something classic and traditional or modern and innovative, there’s a side dish out there that’s sure to pair perfectly with your chicken stir fry. By incorporating a range of side dishes into your meal, you can add variety, nutrition, and flavor to your chicken stir fry. So next time you’re cooking up a stir fry, be sure to try out one of these delicious side dishes!
What are some popular side dishes that go well with chicken stir fry?
When it comes to serving side dishes with chicken stir fry, there are numerous options to choose from. Some popular choices include steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or carrots, which provide a nice contrast in texture to the stir-fried chicken. Other options include fried rice, noodles, or dumplings, which can help to soak up the savory sauce from the stir fry. Additionally, a simple green salad or a side of pickled ginger can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the stir fry.
For a more authentic Asian-inspired meal, consider serving side dishes like edamame, miso soup, or braised bok choy. These options can add depth and variety to the meal, and can help to create a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience. Ultimately, the choice of side dish will depend on personal preference and the flavors and ingredients used in the stir fry.
How can I make my side dishes more flavorful and interesting?
To add more flavor and interest to your side dishes, consider incorporating aromatics like garlic, ginger, and onions. These ingredients can be sautéed or stir-fried with the side dish to add depth and complexity. Additionally, herbs and spices like soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili flakes can be used to add flavor and heat. For example, a simple side of steamed broccoli can be elevated by adding a drizzle of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Another way to make your side dishes more interesting is to incorporate different textures and colors. For example, a side of fried rice can be made more engaging by adding diced vegetables, nuts, or seeds. A simple green salad can be elevated by adding sliced fruits, nuts, or cheese. By incorporating a variety of textures and colors, you can create a more visually appealing and engaging side dish that complements the chicken stir fry.
What are some healthy side dish options that I can serve with chicken stir fry?
For a healthier side dish option, consider serving steamed or roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes. These options are low in calories and rich in nutrients, making them a great choice for a balanced meal. Other healthy options include brown rice, quinoa, or whole-grain noodles, which can provide sustained energy and fiber. A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can also be a healthy and refreshing option.
When preparing healthy side dishes, be mindful of added ingredients like oils, sauces, and seasonings. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce, herbs, and spices to add flavor without added salt or sugar. Additionally, choose cooking methods like steaming or roasting, which can help retain the natural nutrients and flavors of the ingredients. By making a few simple choices, you can create healthy and delicious side dishes that complement the chicken stir fry.
Can I serve cold side dishes with chicken stir fry?
Yes, cold side dishes can be a great option to serve with chicken stir fry, especially during warmer months or for a light and refreshing meal. Some popular cold side dish options include salads, such as a simple green salad or a more composed salad with mixed vegetables and proteins. Other options include cold noodle dishes, like a Japanese-style hiyashi chuka, or a cold vegetable dish, like a Chinese-style liangpi.
When serving cold side dishes, consider the flavors and textures of the chicken stir fry. A cold side dish can provide a nice contrast to the warm and savory flavors of the stir fry. Additionally, choose ingredients that can hold up to being served cold, such as cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers. By serving a cold side dish, you can create a well-rounded and refreshing meal that’s perfect for any time of year.
How can I make my side dishes more substantial and filling?
To make your side dishes more substantial and filling, consider adding protein sources like beans, lentils, or tofu. These ingredients can be added to dishes like fried rice, noodles, or stir-fries to increase the protein content and make the side dish more satisfying. Additionally, whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, or whole-grain noodles can provide sustained energy and fiber, making the side dish more filling.
Another way to make your side dishes more substantial is to add healthy fats like nuts, seeds, or avocado. These ingredients can add creaminess and richness to the side dish, making it more satisfying and filling. For example, a simple side of steamed vegetables can be elevated by adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or seeds. By incorporating protein sources, whole grains, and healthy fats, you can create more substantial and filling side dishes that complement the chicken stir fry.
Can I serve side dishes that are similar to the chicken stir fry?
Yes, serving side dishes that are similar to the chicken stir fry can be a great option, especially if you want to create a cohesive and themed meal. For example, if you’re serving a Chinese-style chicken stir fry, you could serve side dishes like egg rolls, dumplings, or fried wontons. These options can complement the flavors and ingredients of the stir fry and create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
When serving similar side dishes, consider the flavors and textures of the chicken stir fry. You can choose side dishes that have similar flavor profiles, such as soy sauce or ginger, or textures, like crispy or crunchy. Additionally, choose side dishes that can be cooked using similar methods, like stir-frying or steaming. By serving similar side dishes, you can create a cohesive and themed meal that’s perfect for special occasions or dinner parties.
How can I make my side dishes more visually appealing?
To make your side dishes more visually appealing, consider the colors, textures, and presentation. Choose ingredients that have a variety of colors, like mixed vegetables or herbs, to add visual interest to the side dish. Additionally, consider the textures of the ingredients, like crunchy or smooth, to add depth and variety. For example, a simple side of steamed broccoli can be elevated by adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chopped herbs.
When presenting the side dish, consider the garnishes and garnishing techniques. A simple garnish like a sprinkle of chopped herbs or a slice of citrus can add visual appeal to the side dish. Additionally, consider the shape and size of the ingredients, like slicing or dicing, to create a visually appealing presentation. By paying attention to the colors, textures, and presentation, you can create side dishes that are not only delicious but also visually appealing and Instagram-worthy.