17 Delicious Side Dishes to Enjoy With Chapati

Royal Paneer (Shahi Paneer)

Paneer is a fresh cheese widely used in Indian cooking. This popular dish features paneer smothered in a rich, creamy tomato gravy. Reviewer Kirsten shared, "I've been searching for a recipe that actually tastes authentic, and this is the closest I've found! It was amazing. I plan to add more crushed red pepper next time for extra spice. So happy to finally discover a keeper!"

Vegetarian Korma

Reviewer Tibbadee says, "If I could give this recipe more than five stars, I would!" This creamy vegetable korma is packed with potatoes, carrots, jalapeños, cashews, green peas, and bell peppers, all simmered in a fragrant, flavorful sauce. Some reviewers suggest substituting coconut milk for the heavy cream for a different twist.

Chicken Makhani (Indian Butter Chicken)

This comforting dish features chicken in a rich, spiced tomato sauce—an ideal match for soft chapati. Reviewer MariyaC shares, "This was absolutely delicious! My Pakistani in-laws are very particular about traditional dishes, but this one has quickly become a new favorite!"

Saag Paneer

This traditional Indian dish features cubes of paneer cooked with spinach. It's a perfect vegetarian option to pair with chapati for a satisfying meal. Reviewer JimFromKodai says, "Our family and guests agree, it tastes just as good as what we enjoy at our favorite Indian restaurant."

Shrimp Curry

This seafood curry is packed with bold flavors, including cumin, ginger, and cilantro, creating a rich and aromatic experience. Prepare this delightful curry in just 30 minutes with this amazing recipe.

• See our entire collection of Curry Recipes here

Aloo Phujia

Pair this simple and flavorful potato side dish with chapati for a quick Indian meal, perfect for busy weeknights. Recipe creator CHRISTYJ shares, "Spicy potatoes, tomatoes, and onions with a real Indian kick! It's very spicy, so be ready!"

Chicken Korma

"This mild Northern Indian dish features chicken cooked in a rich, creamy sauce made with onions, garlic, ginger, and cashews. Add extra chili or cayenne for a spicier kick," says recipe creator Trina.

Easy Vegetarian Kofta Curry

Koftas are spiced meatballs, typically served in a rich gravy or sauce. This version features vegetarian balls, offering a lighter, meat-free alternative to the classic Indian recipe. Reviewer Patty Wiley shares, "I’d give this 6 stars if I could! It was incredible, and I’ll definitely make it again!"

• 15 Creative Curry Recipes

Indian Eggplant - Bhurtha

"This classic North Indian (Punjabi) Bhurtha is made with eggplant and tomatoes, flavored with cumin, turmeric, garlic, and ginger," says recipe creator SimmiG.

Red Split Lentils (Masoor Dal)

This red lentil dal can be enjoyed right away or stored in the freezer for quick weeknight meals. Recipe creator Katie says, "Indian-inspired lentils that the whole family, even babies, will love. Once the dal and rice reach the perfect consistency, it’s ready to eat or freeze. Just make sure the mixture is completely cool before freezing. I use ice cube trays and small glass bowls with lids for storage."

Spicy Vegan Potato Curry

Reviewer Katy shares, "The blend of spices is absolutely perfect, delivering a rich, authentic flavor with just the right amount of heat—enough to spice things up but not overwhelm! And like any good curry, it tastes even better the next day."

Alicia's Aloo Gobi

"This is by far the easiest and most delicious curry I’ve ever made. It’s my personal twist on Aloo Gobi, a classic dry Indian dish with potatoes and cauliflower. The addition of coconut milk gives it the perfect sauciness—my favorite part of any curry. Serve it with basmati rice or, even better, with roti, naan, or pita bread," says recipe creator Alicia.

Red Lentil Curry

This rich, hearty curry pairs perfectly with a lighter dish like chapati. Recipe creator Emma Maher says, "Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list; this is actually a simple dish to prepare."

• See more Lentil Recipes here

Chana Masala (Savory Indian Chickpeas)

In this traditional Indian dish, chickpeas are cooked with tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices, creating a delicious vegetarian meal. Reviewer Lil Liz shares, "I eat at Indian restaurants frequently, and this dish definitely competes with the chana masala I've had there."

Indian Vegetable Bhaji Recipe

This side dish is perfect for those who prefer their curries on the drier side. Recipe creator NP says, "Bhaji is a dry fry, so don't add water, and you'll truly enjoy the drier version of an Indian curry. It pairs wonderfully with breads like naan or paratha, or with rice and daal (Indian lentil soup)."

Cucumber Raita

In Indian cuisine, raita is a cooling dish often served to balance spicy foods. It's also perfect for enjoying with chapati on a hot day. Made with cucumber, fresh mint, and Greek yogurt, this dish is a refreshing treat.

Dal Makhani (Indian Lentils)

"Have you ever gone to an Indian restaurant and wondered how they make those delicious lentils? I used to dislike lentils until I discovered Indian cuisine. I spent a lot of time researching how they made them, combining different recipes and techniques from videos, and eventually, I came up with this recipe, which I believe is pretty close," says recipe creator SOGOLONDJATA.

• See our entire collection of Indian Side Dish Recipes here