If you’re wondering what to serve with chicken teriyaki that isn’t just plain rice, you’re in the right place.
Hi, I’m Chef Josie Thompson, and today I’m sharing my favorite chicken teriyaki sides — the ones that actually enhance the meal, not just fill the plate. Whether you’re grilling juicy teriyaki thighs, tossing sweet wings in glaze, or meal-prepping chicken bowls, these side dishes are here to upgrade your dinner game.
From fresh veggies and crispy potatoes to Japanese-inspired picks, I’ll walk you through six of the best side dishes for chicken teriyaki, each tested in my own kitchen.
Check out our popular air fryer version for quick teriyaki dishes anytime:
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Table of Contents
What Goes Good with Teriyaki Chicken Besides Rice?
Flavor Balance: Why Teriyaki Needs a Complement
Teriyaki chicken is sweet, salty, and savory — it hits all the bold notes. That means your sides should do one of two things: either balance the richness, or enhance the umami without overpowering it.
Here’s why rice isn’t the only option:
- It’s mild, yes, but also a little… expected.
- Other sides can introduce texture (crunch!), color, or freshness.
- Some can even stretch the dish into a full meal without adding carbs.
That’s where smart chicken teriyaki sides come in. From vibrant slaws to roasted vegetables, you can build a plate that’s as satisfying as it is creative.
Whether you’re preparing grilled chicken, wings, or a stir-fry bowl, having the right chicken teriyaki sides can turn a simple dish into a complete experience packed with flavor, color, and balance.
Creative Non-Rice Sides to Try
When I want to shake things up, these are my go-to non-rice pairings:
| Side Dish Idea | Why It Works with Teriyaki |
|---|---|
| Garlic sesame noodles | Slurpable, savory, and a little nutty |
| Asian cucumber salad | Cool, crunchy, and refreshing |
| Roasted edamame | Adds protein and salty crunch |
| Sweet potato mash | Sweetness echoes the glaze beautifully |
| Stir-fried mushrooms | Earthy, meaty flavor balances sweetness |
These side dishes don’t just sit next to your chicken — they elevate it.
I especially love pairing teriyaki with sesame noodles on a weeknight. Toss in some greens, and it becomes a full, balanced meal.
Don’t miss our favorite method for sticky, saucy chicken thighs that pair beautifully with any of these:
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
What Veggies Go With Teriyaki Chicken?
Stir-Fry Options and Steamed Veggies
When it comes to building delicious chicken teriyaki sides, veggies are the go-to stars. They bring in freshness, crunch, color, and contrast — exactly what teriyaki dishes need to stay balanced.
My favorite cooked veggie sides include:
| Veggie | Best Method | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Broccoli | Steamed or stir-fried | Absorbs the glaze and adds crunch |
| Snap peas | Quick sauté | Naturally sweet and crisp |
| Carrots | Julienned or steamed | Adds subtle sweetness and color |
| Baby bok choy | Sautéed with garlic | Light, earthy, and flavorful |
| Bell peppers | Roasted or grilled | Adds smokiness and color pop |
These veggies pair beautifully with the sticky-sweet teriyaki glaze, soaking up flavor without stealing the spotlight.
If you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping ahead, go for a sheet pan stir-fry — toss all veggies in sesame oil, season lightly, and roast at 400°F for 15–18 minutes. It’s one of my favorite ways to keep chicken teriyaki sides simple yet flavorful.
According to MyPlate.gov, a balanced meal includes vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein — making veggie-loaded chicken teriyaki sides a smart choice for both flavor and health.
Raw Veggie Slaws and Pickles That Pair Well
Not every veggie needs to be cooked. Raw options offer a crunchy contrast to warm teriyaki chicken.
Try these no-cook sides:
- Asian-style cabbage slaw with sesame dressing
- Pickled cucumbers or daikon radish
- Carrot ribbon salad with rice vinegar and honey
- Edamame salad with lime and chili flakes
Raw veggie sides are especially great for teriyaki chicken bowls, grilled skewers, or summer dinners.
Looking for inspiration? Try another colorful dish packed with umami and veggie goodness:
Teriyaki Chicken Wings Air Fryer
These fresh and fast options keep your meal light without sacrificing flavor. When planning your chicken teriyaki sides, think balance, texture, and freshness — your plate will thank you!
Potatoes to Go With Teriyaki Chicken
Roasted vs Mashed: What Works Best
Let’s be honest — potatoes go with everything. And yes, that includes teriyaki chicken. As a chef, I always look for side dishes that add comfort and contrast, and potatoes do just that.
For the best chicken teriyaki sides, I usually recommend roasted over mashed. Why?
- Roasted potatoes hold up better to glaze and sauces
- They offer crispy edges that contrast with juicy teriyaki
- You can season them lightly with garlic and sesame oil to echo the Asian flavor profile
But that doesn’t mean mashed is off the table. A simple wasabi mashed potato or garlic-ginger mash gives a creamy base that plays well with the sweet-savory notes of the chicken.
Asian-Inspired Potato Side Dishes
Looking for something a little more creative? These are my go-to potato-based chicken teriyaki sides when I want to go beyond the basics:
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Sesame soy baby potatoes | Savory, sticky, and umami-rich |
| Sweet potato fries | Slightly sweet, crispy, and caramelized |
| Miso butter potatoes | Earthy, creamy, and balanced |
| Japanese potato salad | Creamy with pickled crunch |
Sweet potatoes in particular are a natural fit — their caramelized edges enhance the glaze beautifully. Plus, they’re kid-approved and nutrient-packed.
Learn more about how Asian spices and sauces turn basic sides into bold flavors:
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken
When you need a hearty companion for your entrée, potatoes bring texture, flavor, and versatility to your chicken teriyaki sides.
What to Serve With Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
Hearty Pairings for Juicy Dark Meat
Teriyaki chicken thighs are rich, tender, and loaded with flavor. The dark meat is naturally juicier, which means your side dishes should be able to hold their own.
When I build out chicken teriyaki sides for thighs, I look for bold, hearty options — ones that complement the glaze and add balance to the meal. Here are some of my favorites:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Coconut rice | Creamy and subtly sweet |
| Garlic green beans | Fresh, crunchy, and slightly bitter |
| Udon noodles | Thick, chewy, and perfect for sauce |
| Kimchi fried rice | Spicy, funky, and balances sweetness |
| Roasted asparagus | Savory and structured, adds contrast |
Coconut rice in particular adds a subtle richness that softens the tangy-sweet flavor of teriyaki. For a bolder plate, go with kimchi fried rice — the fermented kick adds a whole new dimension.
Sides That Soak Up the Glaze
One of the best parts of serving chicken thighs is that flavorful juice and teriyaki glaze that collects at the bottom of the dish. That’s gold — and your side should be ready to soak it up!
Here’s what I recommend:
- Stir-fried soba noodles tossed with sesame oil
- Baked polenta slices for something different
- Japanese milk bread toasted with butter — trust me on this one
- Brown rice and lentils for added fiber and texture
These hearty chicken teriyaki sides turn your plate into something memorable, satisfying, and surprisingly balanced.
Don’t miss our creamy comfort pick that pairs well with saucy meats:
pineapple teriyaki chicken meatballs – 5 Easy Recipes You’ll Love
What Goes Well With Teriyaki Sauce
Neutral Sides to Highlight the Sauce
Teriyaki sauce is the star of the plate — sweet, salty, sticky, and packed with umami. So when you’re choosing sides, think of them as supporting actors. They should highlight the sauce, not compete with it.
That’s why some of the best chicken teriyaki sides are mild and simple in flavor. They create a perfect backdrop and allow the glaze to shine.
Try these neutral but satisfying sides:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Steamed white rice | Classic for a reason — it absorbs sauce beautifully |
| Japanese soba noodles | Light buckwheat flavor, doesn’t overpower |
| Steamed tofu cubes | Protein-rich and absorbs sauce like a sponge |
| Sauteed cabbage | Light, tender, slightly sweet when cooked |
| Plain quinoa | Earthy and protein-packed, balances sweetness |
These choices aren’t boring — they’re intentional. Their simplicity gives the teriyaki glaze the attention it deserves.
Fusion-Style Additions (Wraps, Tacos, & More)
Now, let’s have some fun.
If you love a little creativity in your kitchen like I do, teriyaki sauce can go global. Here are some of my favorite fusion-style chicken teriyaki sides and formats:
- Teriyaki chicken tacos with cabbage slaw and creamy sriracha
- Lettuce wraps filled with meat, pickled carrots, and scallions
- Teriyaki chicken bao buns — fluffy, pillowy, and unforgettable
- Flatbread pizzas with teriyaki drizzle and mozzarella
- Grain bowls with farro, kale, and sesame dressing
Fusion sides let you explore bold ideas while keeping the soul of the dish intact.
So whether you’re sticking with a classic or trying something unexpected, the key to great chicken teriyaki sides is harmony. Match the intensity of the sauce — or give it space to shine.
What to Serve With Teriyaki Chicken Wings
Game-Day Ideas
Teriyaki chicken wings are sweet, sticky, and totally addictive — a real crowd-pleaser for game nights, potlucks, and casual gatherings. But to keep things exciting (and balanced), you need side dishes that go beyond just napkins and wet wipes.
When building out chicken teriyaki sides for wings, I focus on bold contrast — sweet, spicy, crunchy, or creamy. It’s all about creating a full experience, not just finger food.
Here are a few favorites:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Spicy Asian coleslaw | Crunchy, tangy, and cools the heat |
| Crispy wonton chips | Light, salty crunch |
| Garlic parmesan fries | Bold, cheesy, balances sweetness |
| Scallion pancakes | Chewy, savory, perfect for soaking sauce |
| Kimchi fried rice | Tangy, spicy, and texture-rich |
These sides turn wings into a real meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, a well-chosen selection of chicken teriyaki sides makes all the difference in flavor and balance.
Crunchy, Fresh, or Creamy Pairings
Wings already bring the sticky and saucy — so your sides should either cool the plate down or add some snap.
Here are a few “refreshing” ideas I turn to often:
- Asian cucumber salad with sesame and vinegar
- Cold soba noodle salad with scallions and sesame oil
- Avocado-lime slaw — creamy, citrusy, and unique
- Quick pickled carrots & radish for crunch
- Edamame hummus and veggie sticks — healthy and fun
These fresh takes are especially good with grilled or air-fried wings. Plus, they bring color, texture, and balance to the plate — a must-have in any lineup of chicken teriyaki sides.
FAQs
What is a good side for Teriyaki Chicken?
A good side for teriyaki chicken balances the sweetness of the glaze. Think roasted vegetables, sesame noodles, or fresh cucumber salad. One of my favorite chicken teriyaki sides is a crunchy Asian slaw — it cools the plate while adding texture.
What do you have with teriyaki?
With teriyaki, I love pairing steamed rice, sautéed bok choy, or spicy fried rice. Fusion sides like teriyaki tacos with slaw or soba noodle salads are also great twists. The key is picking flavors that enhance the sauce without overpowering it.
What goes well with Teriyaki Chicken on the grill?
Grilled teriyaki chicken is smoky and flavorful — so pair it with grilled pineapple, sesame sweet potatoes, or a chilled soba salad. These chicken teriyaki sides match the intensity of the grill while balancing sweetness and saltiness.
What vegetables go well with chicken and rice?
You can never go wrong with broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, or edamame. These veggies are light but flavorful, and they bring crunch and color to your plate. Add a drizzle of sesame oil or teriyaki glaze for extra flavor.
What vegetables with teriyaki chicken?
Stir-fried green beans, steamed bok choy, and roasted carrots are perfect. I often do a sheet-pan veggie roast with garlic and sesame oil — quick, easy, and ideal for any chicken teriyaki sides lineup.
What are Japanese side dishes?
Traditional Japanese sides include miso soup, pickled vegetables, steamed rice, and seaweed salad. They’re light, balanced, and designed to complement rich mains like teriyaki chicken. Try adding tsukemono (Japanese pickles) or cold soba noodles to your meal.
Conclusion
When it comes to building the perfect plate, don’t settle for just plain rice. The right chicken teriyaki sides can turn a simple meal into something bold, balanced, and totally unforgettable.
Whether you’re grilling wings, cooking thighs, or meal-prepping bowls, you now have six of the best chicken teriyaki sides to choose from — roasted veggies, crispy potatoes, fusion noodles, and more. Each one is designed to highlight the sticky-sweet glaze while bringing something new to the table.
As always, the key is balance. Keep it fresh, keep it simple, and let the sauce shine.
According to the USDA Food Data Central, vegetables like broccoli and sweet potatoes are nutrient-rich choices that balance the richness of teriyaki chicken — making them excellent chicken teriyaki sides.
I’m Chef Josie Thompson, and I hope these pairings inspire your next meal. Now go make your teriyaki plate the best it can be — and enjoy every bite.