What to Serve with Mandarin Orange Chicken – 9 Side Dishes You’ll Love

Finding the right side dish to serve with mandarin orange chicken can be a daunting task. Trust me; I know from experience – it’s so hard to think about something that really complements the dish’s flavors.

Plus, I wanted to make a side dish that would impress my guests, but I didn’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. So I turned to Google for help. And boy, did it deliver! After reading through several articles and forums, I’ve compiled a list of dishes that go well with mandarin orange chicken.

Here are some of the best side dishes to serve with mandarin orange chicken.

What to Serve with Mandarin Orange Chicken

1. Steamed rice
2. Vegetable rice
3. Noodles
4. Salad
5. Stir-fried vegetables
6. Soup
7. Sauteed Korean cucumber
8. Grilled potatoes
9. Steamed broccoli

Steamed rice

Steamed rice is the perfect side dish for mandarin orange chicken. There are a few reasons why this classic Asian meal goes well with plain white rice.

First, it is quick and easy to prepare. Steamed rice can be made in just a few minutes by boiling water and adding rice.

Second, steamed rice is a blank canvas that allows the flavors of the mandarin orange chicken to shine through. The simple, subtle flavor of steamed rice does not compete with the chicken, making it the perfect accompaniment to this dish.

Finally, steamed rice is a classic side dish for many Asian meals. It has been eaten with chicken for centuries, and there is a reason why this tradition has endured. Steamed rice is the perfect way to round out any Asian-inspired meal.

Vegetable rice

Vegetable rice is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that goes well with mandarin orange chicken.

To make it, simply stir-fry your favorite chopped vegetables in a little oil until they’re tender. Then add cooked rice and a splash of soy sauce, and fry until the rice is hot and coated with the sauce. Finally, add an egg and scramble everything together.

The result is a flavorful and filling side dish that pairs perfectly with mandarin orange chicken. Plus, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables.

So next time you’re making mandarin orange chicken, be sure to include vegetable rice on the menu.

Noodles

Noodles are a versatile food that can be made from rice flour or egg, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can be served plain or with a variety of sauces, and they can be cooked in different ways.

Noodles are a good choice for a side dish because they cook quickly. Additionally, they can be easily customized to match the flavors of the main dish. For example, if you are serving mandarin orange chicken, you could choose to use noodles that are flavored with ginger and scallion.

Noodles are an easy way to add flavor and texture to any meal. Just make sure not to add too much oil when boiling them.

Salad

Salad is a perfect side dish for mandarin orange chicken because it is light, crunchy, and full of raw vegetables and fruits. The sweetness of the mandarin oranges is offset by the sharpness of the onion, while the apples add a refreshing crunch. This balance of flavors makes salads a perfect accompaniment to mandarin orange chicken.

In addition, the raw vegetables and fruits in the salad help to cleanse the palate and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavor of the chicken.

Salad is an ideal side dish for mandarin orange chicken because it enhances the flavors of the dish and helps to create a well-rounded meal.

Stir-fried vegetables

Stir-fried vegetables are the perfect side dish for mandarin orange chicken. They are quick and easy to make, and they can be seasoned to taste.

The natural flavors of the vegetables complement the sweetness of the chicken, and the crunchy texture provides a contrast to the tender meat.

Stir-fried vegetables are a classic side dish for mandarin orange chicken, and they are sure to please even the most discerning palate. So next time you’re looking for a delicious and healthy side dish, be sure to give stir-fried vegetables a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Soup

Soup is often eaten as a main dish, but it can also be a delicious and healthy side dish. It goes well with mandarin orange chicken, especially if it is hot and full of flavor. The soup can also be made with the discarded chicken bones from the mandarin chicken, which makes it a healthy and nutritious option.

Soup is a versatile dish that can be made with many different ingredients, so it is easy to find a recipe that goes well with mandarin orange chicken. It is an affordable and easy-to-make side dish that will complement any meal.

Sauteed Korean cucumber

Sautéed Korean cucumber is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that pairs perfectly with mandarin orange chicken.

The cucumbers are thinly sliced and then sautéed in sesame oil until they are slightly browned. To finish, the cucumbers are seasoned with sea salt and sesame seeds. The result is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that complements the sweet and savory flavors of mandarin orange chicken.

Sautéed Korean cucumber is also a healthy option, as it is low in calories and fat. So next time you are looking for a simple and tasty side dish, give Sautéed Korean cucumber a try.

Grilled potatoes

Grilled potatoes are the perfect side dish for mandarin orange chicken. They are creamy and cheesy, and only take 20 minutes to make. I prefer mozzarella, but you can use any other type of cheese you love most (I recommend avoiding edam though). Just be sure to grate it before you put it on the potatoes.

The potatoes should be cooked all the way through before you add the cheese; otherwise, they will not melt properly. Once the cheese is melted, serve the potatoes hot. Enjoy!

Steamed broccoli

Steamed broccoli is the perfect side dish for mandarin orange chicken. It’s lighter and more refreshing than rice but still has enough substance to stand up to the hearty flavors of the chicken.

I like to top my steamed broccoli with sesame seeds and chopped red chili for a little extra flavor. The combination of sweet mandarin oranges, savory chicken, and fresh broccoli is irresistible. Plus, it’s healthy and easy to make. What more could you ask for in a meal?

Frequently Asked Questions

Are mandarin chicken and orange chicken the same?

No, mandarin chicken is a type of orange chicken. Mandarin chicken is made with a sweet and sour sauce that is similar to what you would find on a takeout orange chicken dish. It is also sweeter than orange chicken but more flavorful.

What is the difference between mandarin chicken and General Tso’s chicken?

While both dishes are made with chicken that is coated in a sauce, mandarin chicken is typically sweeter than General Tso’s chicken. General Tso’s chicken is also spicier and has a more savory flavor.

Is mandarin orange chicken authentic Chinese food?

While mandarin orange chicken is a popular dish in China, it is not considered to be authentic Chinese food. Mandarin orange chicken was actually created in the United States, and it is a fusion of American and Chinese flavors. However, that does not mean that it is not delicious. I am sure that you will love this dish!

Conclusion

If you are looking for a delicious and healthy side dish to serve with mandarin orange chicken, be sure to try stir-fried vegetables. Soup is also a great option, as it can be made with the discarded chicken bones from the mandarin chicken.

If you are looking for something a little bit more adventurous, sautéed Korean cucumbers or grilled potatoes are great options. And for a lighter side dish, steamed broccoli is the perfect choice. No matter what you choose, your guests will be impressed with your culinary skills.