What Vegetables Go with Satay Chicken? (15 Best Veggies)

Knowing what veggies go well with satay chicken can be the difference between a good meal and a great meal.

And while you may be tempted to just go with the classics (I’m looking at you, broccoli), I’m here to show you that there are so many other delicious options out there.

So, whether you’re looking for something to balance out the spice of the chicken or something to soak up the extra sauce, read on for my top 15 picks.

What Vegetables Go with Satay Chicken?

The best vegetables to pair with satay chicken are ones that will soak up the flavorful sauce. Try pairing it with rice, quinoa, or couscous, as well as roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans.

Still looking for ideas?

Then keep reading!

Here are 15 veggies that go with satay chicken:

1. Cucumber

Cucumbers aren’t packed with a ton of flavor, but they have a refreshing crunch that pairs well with a lot of different dishes.

I love them in salads, on sandwiches, and as a simple side dish.

They also pair well with satay chicken.

The cool, crisp cucumber slices are the perfect contrast to the rich, flavorful chicken.

Pro Tip: If you want more flavor in your cucumbers, try adding a sprinkle of salt or dipping them in vinegar before eating.

2. Tomato

Tomatoes add a freshness that helps to cut through the richness of the chicken and the peanut sauce.

They also help to add a bit of sweetness and acidity to the dish.

I like to use cherry tomatoes because they are small and easy to eat, but you can use any type of tomato that you like.

Pro Tip: If you’re using cherry tomatoes, cut them in half so that they are bite-sized pieces.

3. Onion

Onions add flavor like no other vegetable can.

They are often used as a base in cooking, which is why they work so well with satay chicken.

The onion’s sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory taste of the chicken and the spicy peanut sauce.

Pro Tip: If you don’t want your onions to overpower your dish, cook them until they are browned and caramelized.

This will give them a sweeter flavor that will complement the other ingredients in your dish.

4. Garlic

Garlic is the superhero of cooking.

It makes everything better, and satay chicken is no exception.

The great thing about garlic is that it’s easy to use too much or too little of it, so you can really tailor the flavor to your liking.

If you want a more subtle garlic flavor, just add a few cloves to the marinade.

If you want a garlicky kick, add a whole head of garlic.

Either way, your satay chicken will be delicious!

Pro Tip: If you’re using fresh garlic, make sure to peel it before adding it to the marinade.

Otherwise, the skins will end up in your finished dish and they’re not very pleasant to eat!

5. Corn

Corn is known for its summertime sweetness, but it’s a great year-round vegetable.

And it happens to pair really well with satay chicken.

The natural sweetness of the corn helps to offset the spiciness of the chicken, and the two flavors work together to create a dish that is both sweet and savory.

Pro Tip: If you’re using frozen corn, make sure to thaw it before adding it to your dish.

6. Potato

Adding potatoes will make sure nobody goes home hungry from your next cookout or dinner party.

They can be cooked in the same pan as the chicken, and will absorb all the delicious flavors from the satay sauce.

Plus, they’ll help to round out the meal and make it a little heartier.

Pro Tip: Cut the potatoes into small pieces so they cook through quickly and evenly.

7. Sweet potato

If regular white potatoes just don’t cut it for you, then sweet potatoes are a great alternative.

They have a natural sweetness that pairs well with the savory spices in satay chicken. Sweet potatoes can be roasted, mashed, or even made into fries.

So if you’re looking for a healthier option, give sweet potatoes a try.

Pro Tip: Cut the sweet potatoes into thin wedges so they cook through evenly.

Season them with a little salt, pepper, and cumin before roasting at 400 degrees for about 20-25 minutes.

8. Carrot

Carrots add color, texture, and sweetness to this dish, making it a perfect accompaniment to the savory satay chicken.

When choosing carrots, look for ones that are bright in color and free of blemishes.

Avoid carrots that are limp or have green leaves attached, as these are signs of age.

Pro Tip: For the best flavor, use carrots that are in season.

Carrots are typically in season from April to June and from October to December.

9. Kale

Kale has a strong flavor that can stand up to the rich, peanutty sauce in satay chicken.

Pro Tip: To make kale even more flavorful, try sautéing it with garlic before adding it to your dish.

10. Broccoli

Broccoli isn’t as boring as you think! When stir-fried with satay chicken, it takes on a delicious smoky flavor.

Plus, the two dishes share a common ingredient: garlic.

The savory flavors of both the chicken and the broccoli are enhanced by this key ingredient, making for a tasty and well-rounded meal.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for an extra kick, try adding red pepper flakes to your stir-fry.

11. Cauliflower

Cauliflower soaks up the flavors of the curry, peanut sauce, and coconut milk in this dish, making it a delicious and healthy option to pair with your satay chicken.

The cauliflower also helps to balance out the richness of the dish and adds a nice crunch.

Pro Tip: When cutting the cauliflower into florets, make sure they are all roughly the same size so that they cook evenly.

12. Beans

Beans aren’t technically a vegetable, but they are a great accompaniment to satay chicken.

They add a nutty, earthy flavor that pairs well with the grilled chicken and the peanut sauce.

Plus, they’re a good source of protein and fiber.

Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, you can use canned beans.

Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding them to your dish.

13. Eggplant

Eggplant has a funny texture, it’s almost spongy, and it soaks up flavor like no other vegetable.

This makes it the perfect accompaniment to satay chicken, which is often served with a flavorful peanut sauce.

The eggplant will soak up all the deliciousness of the sauce and complement the chicken perfectly.

Pro Tip: When choosing an eggplant, look for one that is shiny and smooth with no blemishes.

Avoid ones that are dull in color or have brown spots.

14. Mushrooms

Mushrooms are great in pretty much any dish, but they especially pair well with satay chicken.

Their umami flavor pairs perfectly with the savory peanut sauce, and their texture contrasts nicely with the chicken.

Pro Tip: If you’re using mushrooms that have been refrigerated, make sure to let them come to room temperature before cooking.

Cold mushrooms will release too much water and make your dish soggy.

15. Zucchini

Zucchini adds a freshness and lightness to this dish that helps to balance out the heavier flavors of the chicken and peanut sauce.

It also pairs well with the rice, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try grilling or roasting your zucchini before adding it to the dish.