what to serve with orange chicken besides rice

2 min read 23-12-2024

what to serve with orange chicken besides rice

Meta Description: Tired of rice with your orange chicken? This article explores 15+ creative and delicious alternatives, from noodles and veggies to salads and more! Discover the perfect side dishes to elevate your next orange chicken meal.

Orange chicken is a beloved dish, but sometimes you crave a change of pace from the usual rice accompaniment. Luckily, there are tons of fantastic alternatives that can complement the sweet and savory flavors of orange chicken perfectly. This article explores 15+ delicious side dishes that will take your orange chicken game to the next level.

Noodle Nirvana: Beyond the Usual Rice

Noodles offer a delightful textural contrast to the tender chicken.

1. Lo Mein Noodles:

The savory, slightly sweet sauce of lo mein complements orange chicken beautifully. The soft noodles soak up the extra sauce, adding extra flavor.

2. Egg Noodles:

These classic noodles provide a hearty base, and their smooth texture contrasts the orange chicken's crispy exterior. Consider tossing them in a light sesame oil dressing.

3. Udon Noodles:

Thick and chewy udon noodles are incredibly satisfying. Their sturdy texture stands up well to the richness of the orange chicken. A simple soy sauce-based dressing enhances the overall experience.

4. Chow Mein Noodles:

Crispy chow mein noodles offer a fun textural contrast. Their crispiness balances the tender chicken, preventing the dish from feeling too heavy.

Fresh & Vibrant Vegetable Sides

Fresh vegetables add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the orange chicken.

5. Stir-fried Broccoli:

Simple yet effective, stir-fried broccoli offers a healthy and delicious side. The slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the sauce.

6. Sesame Green Beans:

The slightly sweet and nutty sesame flavor enhances the orange chicken's flavor profile without overwhelming it.

7. Roasted Asparagus:

Roasted asparagus adds a sophisticated touch. Its slightly charred flavor complements the orange chicken perfectly.

8. Steamed Bok Choy:

Bok choy's delicate flavor and soft texture provide a refreshing contrast. Consider lightly sautéing it with garlic for extra flavor.

Salads and Other Refreshing Sides

Sometimes a lighter side is the perfect accompaniment.

9. Asian Slaw:

A crunchy Asian slaw, with its vibrant vegetables and tangy dressing, cuts through the richness of the orange chicken. Use a mix of shredded carrots, cabbage, and a ginger-sesame dressing.

10. Cucumber Salad:

A simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame oil provides a cooling contrast to the warm orange chicken. The refreshing taste cleanses the palate between bites.

11. Pineapple Salsa:

The sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple salsa pair surprisingly well with orange chicken. The acidity helps to balance the richness of the dish.

Hearty and Filling Alternatives

These options offer substance and satisfy those looking for a more substantial side.

12. Quinoa:

A healthy alternative to rice, quinoa adds a nutty flavor and substantial texture.

13. Sweet Potato Fries:

The natural sweetness of sweet potato fries complements the orange chicken's sauce beautifully.

14. Fried Rice (without chicken):

A simple vegetable fried rice provides a familiar yet slightly different accompaniment.

15. Naan Bread:

Warm naan bread can be used to scoop up the delicious orange chicken sauce.

Elevating Your Orange Chicken Experience

Choosing the right side dish can significantly enhance your orange chicken experience. Consider the textures and flavors you want to complement and contrast with the main dish. Experiment with different options to find your perfect pairings! Remember that the best side dish is the one you enjoy the most!

What are your favorite sides for orange chicken? Share your suggestions in the comments below!