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What to Serve with White Rice? 13 Best Side Dishes

You know what’s always sitting there in your pantry, patiently waiting to tag along with just about any dish? It’s our good friend, white rice.

We all love its simplicity and versatility, right? We mean, who hasn’t scrambled to whip up a meal only to say, “Oh yeah, I’ll just throw it over some rice!”

White rice is like that supportive best friend, always there for us, ready to soak up the flavors of whatever it’s paired with. The possibilities with white rice are limitless.

Whether we’re feeling some spicy brilliance or keeping it cool with some mild savory sides, there’s a perfect companion out there just waiting to team up with our favorite carb. So, what’s on the menu today?

Top 13 Side Dishes for White Rice

Here are some of our favorite side dishes to serve with white rice:

1 – Teriyaki Chicken

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Teriyaki Chicken {Easy 15 Minute Recipe} - Cooking Classy
Teriyaki Chicken {Easy 15 Minute Recipe} – Cooking Classy
This Teriyaki Chicken recipe will quickly become a new favorite! In this one pan recipe, bite size chicken breasts pieces are sautéed in a skillet then coated with an easy and delicious teriyaki sauce. Perfect recipe for busy weeknights!
Check out this recipe

Teriyaki Chicken, the sidekick we all need. We’ve got savory and sweet all mixed into one. These flavors cling to white rice like a best friend at a party.

Imagine juicy chicken pieces bathed in teriyaki sauce, pairing up beautifully with our pantry staple.

Sprinkle sesame seeds or throw in some green onions for extra zing. Easy to whip up and a hit every single time.

2 – Spicy Korean Beef Bulgogi

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Spicy beef bulgogi (Maeun-sobulgogi: 매운소불고기)
Spicy beef bulgogi (Maeun-sobulgogi: 매운소불고기)
Bulgogi is thin, sliced marinated meat quickly cooked over heat. This spicy bulgogi is easy to make and quick to grill at the table, so everyone can enjoy it together. As a bonus we finish the meal with spicy fried rice!
Check out this recipe

Beef Bulgogi knocks it out with rich, spicy flavors. It’s savory and slightly sweet.

Marinated thin beef slices make magic happen. Toss them on a grill or pan until crispy edges form.

Best paired with white rice, of course. The tender meat and sticky rice combo? Winning.

We like adding sesame seeds for an extra crunch. Extra sauce? Yes, please!

Try green onions on top. Adds freshness and color.

Effortless dish preparation for a quick meal. Get ready to spice up the dinner table.

3 – Butter Chicken

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Butter Chicken
Butter Chicken
The BEST Butter Chicken recipe you will ever make! A chef recipe, easy to make and you can get all the ingredients at the grocery store!!
Check out this recipe

Butter Chicken, oh the joy for our taste buds! Rich, smooth, with a spiced punch. It’s like a warm hug in a dish. We can use tomatoes, cream, and a hint of butter to bring magic.

Pair with naan or rice, there’s no wrong choice. We always sprinkle cilantro on top—gives those herbs a final say. Mix it, sauce it well, have an extra napkin! Because Butter Chicken means yummy mess all around.

4 – Thai Green Curry

Thai Green Curry. It’s vibrant, a little spicy. This sauce knows how to treat taste perfectly. Coconut milk, green chili, veggies. It’s creamy and fragrant.

We prefer chicken or tofu. Soaks up the goodness easily. Simple magic with basil leaves, lime zest.

Serve it with rice, a no-brainer. Enjoy the calm balance of flavors. Ensure to blend your spices well for a full taste experience.

Experiment by adding your favorite veggies. It’s satisfying and hearty every time.

5 – Honey Garlic Shrimp

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20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp – Sally’s Baking Addiction
This healthy honey garlic shrimp is ready in 20 minutes. Serve with brown rice and vegetables or over a salad.
Check out this recipe

Shrimp with a kick, that’s what! A quick marinade transforms shrimp into tangy wonders. We mix honey, garlic, soy—simple but dreamy.

The shrimp cook fast in a hot pan. So juicy! We add a squeeze of lime for a zingy finish. This dish pairs brilliantly with white rice. A sprinkle of sesame seeds? Definitely.

It’s our go-to for an easy weekday treat. Simple, sweet, and just a touch garlicky. Plus, cleanup’s a breeze!

6 – Szechuan Stir-Fried Vegetables

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Sizzlin’ Spicy Szechuan Stir-Fry
This Sizzlin’ Spicy Szechuan Stir-Fry is quick and easy to make with beef, chicken, shrimp or tofu. Feel free to make it as spicy or mild as you prefer!
Check out this recipe

So, who’s up for some flavor-packed veggies? We are! Szechuan stir-fried veggies are an easy, spicy treat. You get a mix of crunch and zest.

The secret lies in its powerful sauce. Garlic, soy sauce, and Szechuan peppercorns transform humble veggies. Use any favorites; broccoli, bell peppers.

They cook quickly in a hot pan. A splash of soy adds umami magic. For extra kick, throw in some chili paste. Garnish with green onions.

It’s simple, quick, and all about flavor.

7 – Coconut Lentil Curry

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Creamy Coconut & Red Lentil Curry – From My Bowl
This creamy Coconut & Red Lentil Curry is ready in 30 minutes and you only need 8 ingredients to make it! A cozy, hearty, and flavorful dinner.
Check out this recipe

Coconut Lentil Curry, oh how it hits the table running. It’s creamy, earthy, and downright cozy. We toss in lentils, coconut milk, and spill a bit of turmeric for color. Swap in any veggie you find.

Simmering is the game; let flavors mesh. Goes real well with rice, no surprise. Sprinkle some fresh cilantro, give it that final touch. Comfort in a spoonful, and leftovers taste even better. Curry night’s never bland with this delight around.

8 – Braised Pork Belly

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Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou/红烧肉)
Tender, gelatinous and aromatic, Chinese red braised pork belly is scrumptious and comforting. This recipe shows you how to cook it effortlessly.
Check out this recipe

Guess what’s shaking up our taste buds with savory bliss? Braised Pork Belly. It’s rich, soft, and unbelievably tasty. We cook it long and slow in soy sauce, giving it major flavor points.

A quick sear before braising makes the crust divine. Simple spices, a dash of vinegar, and you’ve got magic. Use a pot or slow cooker, as they work wonders. Serve with rice for a hearty combo. Try adding boiled eggs—trust us, it’s a must-try.

9 – Eggplant in Garlic Sauce

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Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce
Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce
The eggplant is grilled until crispy and smoky, and then cooked in a rich savory garlic sauce. This vegan dish is very satisfying, both as a side or a main dish served over rice or noodles. {Gluten-Free Adaptable}
Check out this recipe

We savor the smooth, rich eggplant texture. Garlic brings the heat, without overwhelming. A fusion of simple ingredients packs flavors. Adjust the garlic to your liking.

Stir-fry quickly; the secret lies here. Balanced soy and vinegar create magic. A dash of sesame oil elevates taste. Prep work is minimal, trust us. Experience makes perfect; be patient.

Focus on freshness in components, results matter. Pair with rice, the sidekick we need. Eggplant absorbs flavors beautifully. Enjoy its simplicity every time.

10 – Lemon Garlic Salmon

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Lemon Garlic Salmon Recipe | The Mediterranean Dish
This lemon garlic salmon recipe is ready in less than 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner recipe everyone will love.
Check out this recipe

Oh, here comes the superstar—Lemon Garlic Salmon! The texture is buttery with zesty lemon hints. Garlic adds that mild kick we all appreciate. Quick to make in a flash! A tingle of lemon zest should be enough.

Rub with olive oil for that silky finish. We suggest cooking until that flaky beauty appears. Sesame seeds top it off with style. Serious flavor meets fun, all in one plate. Pair with rice, because they’re practically BFFs, right?

11 – Sweet and Sour Tofu

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Sweet and Sour Tofu Recipe (Vegan)
This Sweet and Sour Tofu is one of my favourite comfort foods ever of my favourite takeout! The tofu is a perfect texture and the sauce is delicious!
Check out this recipe

Sweet and Sour Tofu keeps it simple yet exciting. Crispy tofu meets tangy-sweet sauce—it’s that simple. We toss tofu into a quick stir-fry, coat in sauce for a sticky finish. Bell peppers and pineapple add freshness.

We like it with hot rice, they pair well. Use corn starch for extra tofu crispness. Stir-fry hot and fast, tofu stays crispy. Forget extras, focus on tofu goodness. A quick splash of sesame oil works, too.

12 – Beef and Broccoli

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Beef and Broccoli with the Best Sauce (VIDEO)
Beef and Broccoli with the Best Sauce (VIDEO)
Beef and Broccoli is an easy, 1-pan, 30-minute meal loaded with fresh broccoli, tender beef, and the best stir fry sauce. How to make Broccoli Beef Stir Fry
Check out this recipe

We’re all about this pairing. Savory beef and crunchy broccoli make a stunning duo. Quick sizzle in a hot pan does it.

Soy sauce and garlic elevate the flavors effortlessly. Incredible flair in under 30 minutes. Broccoli maintains its crunch.

Try adding fresh ginger if you’re adventurous. It’s a great way to mix things up. A scoop of this on rice is bliss. Not pretending to be flashy, just solid and satisfying.

Experiment with different veggies for fun.

13 – Ginger Soy Glazed Chicken Wings

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Soy Garlic Ginger Chicken Wings
Soy Garlic Ginger Chicken Wings
Soy garlic ginger chicken wings are a sticky, sweet and flavorful appetizer with a kick! The perfect party or Super Bowl recipe that everyone loves.
Check out this recipe

Craving a punchy snack? Our Ginger Soy Glazed Chicken Wings are finger-licking good. We marinate wings in a sweet ginger soy mix. The glaze caramelizes perfectly.

Bake or fry, both do justice. We prefer baking for less mess. Simple ingredients, stellar taste. Don’t skip the sesame seeds. Adds a nutty crunch! Pair with a cool drink.

We always end with sticky fingers. Chicken wings just have a fuss-free vibe. Enjoy them any day, every day. Casual, delicious, unforgettable!

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