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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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!

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.