Chicken parmesan, also known as chicken parmigiana, is a classic Italian-American dish that brings together crispy breaded chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Itโs a hearty, flavorful meal, but choosing the right sides can elevate the experience from good to extraordinary. In this article, weโll explore what to serve chicken parmesan with, offering ideas for pasta, bread, vegetables, and more. Whether youโre hosting a dinner party or just looking to upgrade your weeknight meal, this guide will provide you with plenty of delicious options.
Understanding the Flavor Profile of Chicken Parmesan
Before diving into side dishes, itโs important to understand the flavor profile of chicken parmesan. This dish has a rich, savory foundation due to the combination of crispy fried chicken, tomato-based marinara sauce, and a generous amount of melted mozzarella and parmesan. These bold flavors call for sides that either complement or balance the richness.
Chicken parmesan is typically served hot, with a crispy exterior and a moist interior, along with tangy tomato sauce and creamy cheese. This creates a hearty meal, which means the side dishes should either provide a light contrast or reinforce the comfort food vibes.
Classic Italian Sides for Chicken Parmesan
When thinking about what to serve chicken parmesan with, classic Italian sides are the go-to option. These sides complement the Italian origins of the dish and offer a cohesive dining experience.
Pasta
Pasta is one of the most common sides served with chicken parmesan. It adds heartiness to the meal and soaks up the extra marinara sauce.
- Spaghetti: A classic choice. Its long strands are perfect for absorbing the sauce.
- Fettuccine: Slightly wider and more substantial, fettuccine adds a luxurious touch.
- Penne: The tube shape holds onto sauce, making each bite flavorful.
Tip: You can keep the pasta simple with marinara sauce or switch it up with a garlic butter sauce or pesto for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread brings crunch and flavor to the table. Its crispy texture complements the tender chicken, while the garlic adds a nice punch of flavor.
- Traditional Garlic Bread: Classic Italian-style bread brushed with garlic butter and toasted to perfection.
- Garlic Knots: A fun and chewy alternative thatโs great for dipping into marinara sauce.
Garlic bread is also perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the chicken parmesan.
Caesar Salad
A Caesar salad adds a refreshing, crisp contrast to the richness of chicken parmesan. The combination of romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing balances the dish.
Caprese Salad
Caprese salad, with its combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, provides a light and fresh contrast to the heavier chicken parmesan. The tangy balsamic glaze drizzled over the salad cuts through the richness of the cheese and chicken.
Starches and Grains to Serve With Chicken Parmesan
If youโre looking for alternatives to pasta, there are plenty of other starches and grains that pair well with chicken parmesan.
Rice Dishes
Rice is an excellent choice if you want a lighter side.
- Garlic Butter Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with garlic and butter, providing a subtle flavor that doesnโt overpower the chicken.
- Risotto: Creamy risotto, especially mushroom or parmesan risotto, adds richness and texture.
- Wild Rice: A healthier option, wild rice provides a nutty flavor and a chewy texture that pairs well with the crispy chicken.
Polenta
Polenta is another Italian staple that works well with chicken parmesan. Its creamy texture balances the crispy breading on the chicken, and the corn-based flavor complements Italian cuisine.
- Creamy Polenta: Soft and smooth, it acts as a neutral base for the bold flavors of chicken parmesan.
- Crispy Polenta Fries: For a fun twist, serve crispy polenta fries for added crunch.
Quinoa or Couscous
For a lighter and healthier alternative, consider serving quinoa or couscous. These grains offer a nutty flavor and are packed with nutrients, making them a great option for those looking to balance the meal.
Vegetables That Pair Well With Chicken Parmesan
Balancing the rich flavors of chicken parmesan with vegetables is a great way to add nutrition and freshness to the meal.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky, hearty element to the meal.
- Zucchini: The mild flavor of zucchini complements the bold flavors of chicken parmesan.
- Bell Peppers: Sweet and slightly charred bell peppers add color and depth to the plate.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with a crispy outer layer and tender inside provide a great textural contrast.
Steamed or Sautรฉed Greens
For a lighter option, steamed or sautรฉed greens such as spinach, kale, or Swiss chard are a perfect match for chicken parmesan. These greens add a slightly bitter contrast that balances the richness of the dish.
Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus adds a smoky, slightly charred flavor that complements the cheesy and tangy chicken parmesan. Its crisp texture makes it a popular side.
Creative and Unique Sides for Chicken Parmesan
If youโre looking to get creative, here are some unique sides that will surprise and delight your guests.
Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles)
For those on a low-carb or keto diet, zucchini noodles (or zoodles) are an excellent alternative to pasta. Theyโre light, refreshing, and can be served with a variety of sauces.
Cauliflower Mash
Cauliflower mash is a lighter, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes. Its creamy texture complements the crispy chicken, making it a great side for those looking to reduce their carb intake.
Pasta Salad
Pasta salad, especially one with an Italian dressing, offers a tangy and refreshing side dish option. The cold pasta salad provides a nice contrast to the hot chicken parmesan.
Bread and Rolls to Accompany Chicken Parmesan
Bread is a must-have side for chicken parmesan, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Ciabatta: A soft, chewy bread with a crisp crust, ideal for dipping in marinara.
- Baguette: French baguette offers a crunchy exterior and soft interior.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls add warmth and a touch of sweetness.
- Breadsticks: A classic crispy choice for dipping into marinara sauce.
Salad Options to Serve With Chicken Parmesan
Salads are a refreshing and healthy side to balance the rich flavors of chicken parmesan.
Greek Salad
Greek salad, with its combination of tangy feta cheese, cucumbers, and olives, offers a light and refreshing side that pairs well with the savory chicken parmesan.
Arugula Salad
Arugulaโs peppery flavor pairs beautifully with a light lemon vinaigrette, cutting through the richness of the chicken and cheese.
Mixed Green Salad
A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can cleanse the palate and add a fresh element to the meal.
Wine Pairings for Chicken Parmesan
Pairing wine with chicken parmesan enhances the dining experience.
Red Wine
The bold flavors of chicken parmesan pair perfectly with red wine. Choose a Chianti, Sangiovese, or Barbera to enhance the savory and tomato-based aspects of the dish.
White Wine
For those who prefer white wine, a Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay offers a lighter contrast to the meal.
What Sauces and Dips Can Be Served with Chicken Parmesan?
Marinara Sauce
A classic choice that is essential for dipping bread or adding extra flavor to your pasta.
Pesto
A fresh, herbaceous pesto made from basil, pine nuts, and parmesan adds a different layer of flavor.
Creamy Alfredo
For those who prefer a creamier side sauce, alfredo or a garlic butter sauce provides a luxurious contrast.
Dessert Ideas to Follow Chicken Parmesan
End your meal on a sweet note with these Italian-inspired desserts.
- Tiramisu: A rich, coffee-flavored dessert that pairs well with a hearty Italian meal.
- Gelato: Light and refreshing, a scoop of gelato is the perfect finish.
- Panna Cotta: Creamy and light, panna cotta offers a sweet and subtle contrast to the savory chicken parmesan.
Conclusion
There are countless options when it comes to what to serve chicken parmesan with. Whether youโre looking for classic Italian sides like pasta and garlic bread, or creative alternatives like zoodles and quinoa, the key is to find sides that complement and balance the rich flavors of the dish. Experiment with different combinations and create a meal that suits your taste and style.
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