Introduction to Chicken Parmesan Pairings
Chicken Parmesan is a classic and beloved dish in Italian-American cuisine. Featuring a crispy breaded chicken cutlet covered in rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella or Parmesan cheese, it’s a comforting, flavorful meal enjoyed by many. Whether served at a family dinner, a casual gathering, or a special occasion, this dish is incredibly versatile and appeals to a wide range of palates.
Here is our Chicken Parmesan Recipe
But while chicken Parmesan can easily stand alone as a main course, the right side dishes can boost the meal to new heights, creating a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience. Pairing side dishes with chicken Parmesan involves balancing flavors and textures to complement the richness of the chicken and the boldness of the sauce. The right sides can provide variety, add nutrients, or lighten the meal, making it more enjoyable and digestible.
In this guide, we’ll Discover a wide array of side dishes that can be served with chicken Parmesan, from classic pasta pairings to fresh salads, roasted vegetables, and more. Whether you’re preparing a traditional Italian-inspired dinner or looking for something unique, we’ll help you find the best accompaniments for your chicken Parmesan. If you’re in search of the ultimate chicken Parmesan recipe, this classic chicken parmigiana guide is a must-read. For those looking to keep their meal on the lighter side, look at these healthy alternatives for sides.
Part 1: Classic Pasta Pairings
When it comes to chicken Parmesan, pasta is one of the most common and beloved side dishes. The combination of crispy chicken, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese naturally pairs with different types of pasta. The richness of the chicken Parmesan and the texture of the pasta create a balanced meal that is both filling and satisfying.
1.1 Traditional Spaghetti
The traditional spaghetti with marinara sauce is undoubtedly one of the most popular and timeless pairings for chicken Parmesan. Spaghetti is light, long, and tender, offering a perfect base to soak up the delicious tomato sauce from the chicken Parmesan. The simplicity of spaghetti complements the more complex flavors of chicken Parmesan, allowing each component of the meal to shine without overwhelming the palate. The slightly acidic tomato sauce helps to balance the richness of the chicken and cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese over the spaghetti. This small addition Heightens the dish, making it both visually appealing and more flavorful. Traditional spaghetti and marinara make for a classic Italian pairing that transports you straight to the heart of Italy.
1.2 Fettuccine Alfredo
If you’re looking for a richer, creamier option, fettuccine Alfredo is an excellent pairing with chicken Parmesan. The creamy Alfredo sauce, made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, offers a luxurious contrast to the tomato-based marinara sauce on the chicken. Fettuccine Alfredo is thick and velvety, providing a delightful textural contrast to the crispy chicken cutlet.
This pairing works well because the Alfredo sauce’s mild, buttery flavor complements the tangy marinara sauce without overpowering the dish. Together, they create a balance between richness and acidity that makes for an indulgent dining experience. For a more flavorful twist, you can add some garlic or fresh herbs to the Alfredo sauce. The creamy pasta combined with crispy chicken offers a textural and flavor contrast that is sure to please.
1.3 Penne Arrabbiata
For those who enjoy a spicy kick in their meals, penne arrabbiata is the perfect pairing with chicken Parmesan. Arrabbiata sauce is known for its bold, fiery flavors, combining tomatoes, garlic, and red chili peppers. The word “arrabbiata” translates to “angry” in Italian, a reference to the spiciness of the sauce. When paired with chicken Parmesan, the spicy sauce adds an exciting twist that Improves the entire meal.
Penne, with its ridged texture and tubular shape, holds the spicy sauce well, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. The heat from the arrabbiata sauce contrasts nicely with the cheesy, savory chicken Parmesan, making this an exciting and bold combination. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, this pairing is a great way to add depth and variety to the meal.
1.4 Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles)
For a low-carb, gluten-free option, zoodles (zucchini noodles) are an excellent alternative to traditional pasta. Made from spiralized zucchini, zoodles have a light and fresh flavor that pairs well with the richness of chicken Parmesan. Zoodles offer a healthier alternative to carb-heavy pasta without sacrificing texture or taste.
For a healthier alternative, zoodles are a great option that adds a fresh, low-carb twist. You can also try this Chickpea Pasta as a high-protein alternative for those looking for more fiber and protein.
One of the great things about zoodles is that they absorb the flavors of the chicken Parmesan sauce beautifully, allowing you to enjoy all the traditional flavors of the dish in a lighter, more health-conscious way. Zoodles are perfect for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake or simply add more vegetables to their diet. When lightly sautéed with garlic and olive oil, zoodles become a flavorful and satisfying side dish that complements the crispy chicken and tangy marinara sauce.
Part 2: Vegetables as Sides
Vegetables are a fantastic way to lighten up the hearty flavors of chicken Parmesan. Whether you choose roasted, sautéed, or steamed vegetables, they can add freshness, crunch, and nutrition to your meal. Here are some of the best vegetable sides to pair with chicken Parmesan.
2.1 Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus is a flavorful and nutritious side that pairs wonderfully with chicken Parmesan. When asparagus is roasted, it develops a slightly charred, caramelized flavor that complements the rich, cheesy notes of the main dish. The tender yet slightly crispy texture of roasted asparagus adds a pleasant contrast to the crispy chicken cutlet.
For added flavor, you can drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and sprinkle it with Parmesan cheese before roasting. This simple yet elegant vegetable side dish enhances the meal without overpowering the main course. The earthy flavors of asparagus work well with the tangy marinara sauce and savory chicken, providing a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Roasted asparagus adds a crunchy and flavorful side that pairs wonderfully with chicken Parmesan. find out more vegetable-based dishes with this Arlington Chicken Salad Recipe for healthy meal ideas.
2.2 Garlic Roasted Broccoli
Another excellent vegetable side dish for chicken Parmesan is garlic roasted broccoli. Broccoli is a versatile vegetable that takes on a wonderful flavor when roasted with garlic and olive oil. The slightly crispy, golden edges of the broccoli, combined with the bold flavor of garlic, create a side dish that is both healthy and delicious.
Garlic roasted broccoli provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts well with the tender chicken Parmesan. The bold, savory flavor of the garlic complements the richness of the cheese and tomato sauce, while the broccoli adds a fresh, vegetal note to the meal. This simple yet flavorful side is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a great way to add more vegetables to your dinner table.
2.3 Sauteed Spinach with Garlic
If you’re looking for a lighter, healthier side dish, sautéed spinach with garlic is an excellent choice. Spinach is packed with nutrients, and when sautéed with garlic and a drizzle of olive oil, it transforms into a flavorful and satisfying side that pairs well with chicken Parmesan. The slight bitterness of spinach is balanced by the sweetness of garlic, creating a savory, earthy flavor that complements the richness of the main dish.
This side dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknight dinners. Sauteed spinach is also low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to your meal. The tender, wilted spinach provides a soft texture that contrasts nicely with the crispy chicken and gooey cheese.
2.4 Green Beans Almondine
Green beans almondine is a classic French side dish that features tender green beans sautéed in butter and topped with toasted almonds. This side dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, with the crisp-tender green beans and the crunchy, nutty almonds providing a satisfying contrast to the rich chicken Parmesan.
The butter used to sauté the green beans adds a rich, savory flavor, while the almonds provide a nutty, crunchy element that Enriches the dish. The mild flavor of the green beans allows the bold flavors of the chicken Parmesan to shine, while still adding a fresh, light component to the meal.
2.5 Italian Roasted Vegetables
A medley of Italian roasted vegetables is another fantastic option to serve with chicken Parmesan. This side dish typically includes vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, all roasted to perfection with olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, while the olive oil and herbs add depth of flavor.
The vegetables can absorb some of the marinara sauce from the chicken Parmesan, creating a cohesive and flavorful meal. The variety of textures and flavors in the roasted vegetables provides a delightful contrast to the crispy chicken and creamy cheese, making this a well-rounded and satisfying side dish.
Part 3: Salads That Complement Chicken Parmesan
Adding a fresh salad to your chicken Parmesan meal is a great way to lighten the meal and introduce vibrant flavors and textures. Salads can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory notes of the main dish, while also adding a burst of color and nutrients to the table.
3.1 Caesar Salad
The Caesar salad is a classic choice when it comes to pairing with chicken Parmesan. This salad, featuring crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a tangy Caesar dressing, provides a refreshing and light counterbalance to the richness of the main dish. The creamy, garlicky dressing adds bold flavor, while the croutons offer a satisfying crunch.
A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese ties the salad together, creating a cohesive Italian-inspired meal. The sharpness of the cheese and the acidity of the dressing help cut through the richness of the chicken Parmesan, making the meal feel lighter and more balanced.
3.2 Arugula Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Balsamic Glaze
For a lighter, more delicate salad option, consider an arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and balsamic glaze. The peppery flavor of the arugula is balanced by the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes and the tangy balsamic glaze, creating a salad that is both fresh and flavorful.
The lightness of this salad provides a refreshing contrast to the heavier chicken Parmesan, while the balsamic glaze echoes the acidity of the marinara sauce, tying the meal together. The simplicity of this salad allows the bold flavors of the chicken Parmesan to shine, while still adding a fresh and vibrant element to the meal.
3.3 Caprese Salad
A Caprese salad, featuring fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, is another great choice to serve with chicken Parmesan. This simple salad highlights the flavors of fresh, high-quality ingredients, providing a bright and refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy main dish.
The creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes pair well with the crispy chicken and tangy marinara sauce, while the basil adds a burst of herbaceous flavor. Drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, a Caprese salad is a light and elegant side that complements the flavors of chicken Parmesan without overwhelming the dish.
3.4 Fennel, Radish, and Grapefruit Salad
For a more unique and refreshing salad option, try a fennel, radish, and grapefruit salad. The crisp, slightly anise-flavored fennel pairs beautifully with the peppery radishes and the tart, juicy grapefruit. This salad offers a mix of bold flavors and textures, making it a standout side dish for chicken Parmesan.
The citrusy grapefruit helps cut through the richness of the main dish, while the crisp fennel and radishes add a refreshing crunch. This salad is a great option for those looking to add a burst of bright, fresh flavors to their meal.
3.5 Italian Chopped Salad
An Italian chopped salad, featuring ingredients like olives, red onions, cucumbers, and Italian dressing, is a hearty and flavorful addition to a chicken Parmesan meal. The bold, briny flavors of the olives and the sharpness of the red onions provide a great contrast to the rich, cheesy main dish.
This salad is packed with flavor and texture, making it a satisfying and well-rounded side. The variety of ingredients in the chopped salad ensures that every bite is different, providing a dynamic and flavorful addition to your chicken Parmesan meal.
Part 4: Bread as a Side Dish
No Italian meal is complete without a delicious bread side, and chicken Parmesan is no exception. Bread serves as the perfect vehicle for mopping up the rich marinara sauce, and its warm, comforting flavor complements the main dish beautifully. Here are some great bread options to serve with chicken Parmesan.
4.1 Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic side dish for chicken Parmesan, offering a rich, buttery, and garlicky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory main dish. The crispy, golden exterior of the garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch, while the soft, buttery interior soaks up the flavorful marinara sauce from the chicken Parmesan.
Garlic bread is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a convenient side for busy weeknight dinners. You can enhance the flavor of the garlic bread by sprinkling it with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, adding an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
Garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to mop up the rich marinara sauce. If you love bread-based sides, you might also enjoy this Himmel Chicken Schnitzel Recipe for a more hearty meal.
4.2 Focaccia Bread
For a more herby, flavorful bread option, consider serving focaccia bread with your chicken Parmesan. Focaccia is an Italian flatbread that is infused with olive oil, rosemary, and sea salt, giving it a rich, savory flavor that complements the bold flavors of the main dish.
Focaccia is soft and chewy on the inside with a slightly crispy exterior, making it the perfect bread for dipping into the marinara sauce. The rosemary and olive oil in the bread echo the Italian flavors of the chicken Parmesan, creating a cohesive and flavorful meal.
4.3 Breadsticks with Parmesan
Soft, chewy breadsticks topped with Parmesan cheese offer a delicious and cheesy alternative to traditional garlic bread. These breadsticks are perfect for dipping into the marinara sauce and provide a satisfying contrast to the rich chicken Parmesan.
Breadsticks are a crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs well with just about any Italian meal. The addition of Parmesan cheese on top of the breadsticks ties the flavors together, making this a great option for those who can’t get enough cheese with their meal.
4.4 Cream Cheese Biscuits
For a richer, creamier bread side, cream cheese biscuits provide a slightly sweet and fluffy alternative to garlic bread. These biscuits are soft and tender, with a rich, buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken Parmesan.
Cream cheese biscuits add an extra layer of indulgence to the meal, making them a great option for special occasions or when you’re in the mood for something a little more luxurious. Their light, fluffy texture contrasts nicely with the crispy chicken and creamy cheese in the main dish.
Part 5: Unique and Uncommon Side Dishes
If you’re looking to get creative with your chicken Parmesan pairings, consider serving some unique and uncommon side dishes that will impress your guests and add a new dimension to the meal. Here are some exciting options to try.
5.1 Polenta Fries
Polenta fries are a fun and unique side dish that pairs wonderfully with chicken Parmesan. Made from creamy polenta that has been chilled, sliced, and fried to crispy perfection, these fries offer a crunchy exterior and a soft, creamy interior.
Polenta fries are a great alternative to traditional potato fries, offering a more Italian-inspired twist. The rich, cheesy flavor of the polenta complements the chicken Parmesan beautifully, while the crispy texture provides a satisfying contrast to the tender chicken.
5.2 Risotto
Risotto is a creamy, luxurious rice dish that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of chicken Parmesan. Made with Arborio rice, butter, and Parmesan cheese, risotto offers a smooth, velvety texture that complements the crispy chicken and tangy marinara sauce.
The creamy, cheesy flavor of the risotto ties the meal together, creating a cohesive and indulgent dining experience. For added flavor, you can incorporate ingredients like mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes into the risotto, adding depth and complexity to the dish.
5.3 Stuffed Mushrooms
Mushrooms stuffed with breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs provide a savory, bite-sized side dish that pairs wonderfully with chicken Parmesan. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms contrasts nicely with the richness of the chicken, while the cheesy filling ties the flavors together.
Stuffed mushrooms are a great option for entertaining, as they are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. Their small size makes them perfect for snacking, and their bold flavor ensures that they won’t be overshadowed by the main dish.
Stuffed mushrooms offer a savory and bite-sized option to pair with chicken Parmesan. For more creative appetizers, check out this Easy Bibibop Copycat Chicken Recipe for a flavor-packed addition to your table.
5.4 Italian Farro Salad
An Italian farro salad with sun-dried tomatoes, feta, and fresh herbs is a hearty, grain-based side that adds a healthy and flavorful element to your chicken Parmesan meal. Farro is a nutty, chewy grain that holds up well to bold flavors, making it a great base for a salad.
The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and fresh herbs in this salad provides a burst of flavor that complements the richness of the chicken Parmesan. This salad is both satisfying and nutritious… Making it a great option for those looking to add more whole grains to their diet.
5.5 Garlic Butter Shrimp
For a surf-and-turf inspired side dish, garlic butter shrimp is an excellent pairing with chicken Parmesan. The succulent shrimp, cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce… Adds a luxurious element to the meal and pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken cutlet.
Garlic butter shrimp is a great option for seafood lovers who want to add variety to their meal. The garlicky, buttery flavor of the shrimp complements the rich.. Savory notes of the chicken Parmesan, creating a harmonious and indulgent dining experience.
Part 6: Wine and Beverage Pairings
No Italian-inspired meal is complete without the perfect beverage pairing. Wine, in particular, can enhance the flavors of the dish and create a well-rounded dining experience. Here are some great wine and beverage pairings to serve with chicken Parmesan.
6.1 Red Wines: Chianti, Sangiovese, and Pinot Noir
Red wines such as Chianti, Sangiovese, and Pinot Noir are classic pairings for chicken Parmesan. These wines have a good balance of acidity and tannins.. Which help to cut through the richness of the cheese and tomato sauce in the main dish.
Chianti, in particular, is a fantastic choice because of its bold, fruity flavors and high acidity. The wine’s natural acidity helps to cleanse the palate between bites, making each bite of chicken Parmesan taste even better. Pinot Noir,.. With its lighter body and red fruit flavors, is another great option for those who prefer a more delicate wine.
6.2 White Wines: Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio
For those who prefer white wine, a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio can offer a crisp… Refreshing pairing that contrasts the heaviness of the dish. Chardonnay, with its buttery notes and rich texture, complements the creamy cheese and crispy chicken.. While Pinot Grigio offers a lighter, more acidic option.
Pinot Grigio’s bright acidity and citrusy notes provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken Parmesan.. Making it an ideal choice for a lighter, more balanced meal. Both of these wines enhance the flavors of the dish without overwhelming the palate.
6.3 Sparkling Water and Non-Alcoholic Options
If wine isn’t your beverage of choice, a simple sparkling water infused with lemon is a great non-alcoholic option. The effervescence of sparkling water helps to cleanse the palate.. While the lemon adds a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the bold.. Rich flavors of chicken Parmesan.
For a more festive option.. You can serve Italian sodas or a sparkling grape juice to add a fun, celebratory element to the meal. These beverages offer a sweet.. Fruity contrast to the savory main dish, making them a great choice for those who prefer non-alcoholic options.
Part 7: Italian-Inspired Desserts
No meal is complete without a sweet ending, and chicken Parmesan is no exception. Here are some Italian-inspired desserts that pair beautifully with this savory dish.
7.1 Tiramisu
Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that features layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cocoa powder. The rich, creamy flavors of tiramisu provide a perfect contrast to the savory chicken Parmesan.. While the coffee adds a bold… Energizing finish to the meal.
The sweetness of the tiramisu complements the tangy tomato sauce and rich cheese in the main dish, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Tiramisu is a great choice for those who love coffee-flavored desserts and want to end their meal on a high note.
7.2 Cannoli
Cannoli are crispy, fried pastry shells filled with sweet, creamy ricotta cheese. These bite-sized treats are a great way to end your chicken Parmesan meal on a sweet note without feeling overly full.
The crispy pastry and creamy filling provide a delightful contrast in textures.. While the sweetness of the ricotta complements the savory flavors of the chicken Parmesan. Cannoli are a great option for those who prefer a lighter, more delicate dessert.
7.3 Gelato
For a simple and refreshing dessert, gelato is an excellent choice. This Italian ice cream is known for its rich, creamy texture and bold flavors. Whether you choose classic flavors like chocolate or pistachio, or something more adventurous like lemon or hazelnut.. Gelato provides a cool and refreshing contrast to the warm, savory chicken Parmesan.
Gelato’s smooth, creamy texture and intense flavor make it a satisfying way to end your meal. The cold, refreshing nature of gelato helps to cleanse the palate after a rich meal,.. Making it a great choice for dessert.
7.4 Panna Cotta
Panna cotta is a creamy.. Custard-like dessert that is lightly flavored with vanilla and topped with fresh fruit or a sweet sauce. This elegant dessert is light and refreshing, making it the perfect way to end a heavy meal like chicken Parmesan.
The smooth, silky texture of panna cotta provides a satisfying contrast to the crispy chicken.. While the sweetness of the fruit or sauce adds a burst of flavor. Panna cotta is a sophisticated dessert that will impress your guests and leave them feeling satisfied without feeling overly full.
Part 8: FAQs from the “People Also Ask” Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about what goes well with chicken Parmesan, based on common searches:
8.1 What vegetables go well with chicken Parmesan?
Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, and zucchini are great options to pair with chicken Parmesan. Their earthy flavors and crispy textures provide a nice contrast to the rich, cheesy main dish.
8.2 Is chicken Parmesan served with pasta traditionally?
Yes, chicken Parmesan is traditionally served with pasta, often spaghetti or fettuccine. The pasta helps to soak up the marinara sauce, making it a natural pairing for this dish.
8.3 What wine pairs best with chicken Parmesan?
Red wines like Chianti, Sangiovese, and Pinot Noir are great pairings for chicken Parmesan. Their acidity helps to cut through the richness of the cheese and tomato sauce… Enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
8.4 Can chicken Parmesan be made healthy?
Yes, chicken Parmesan can be made healthier by using whole wheat breadcrumbs, baking the chicken instead of frying it.. And serving it with low-carb sides like zoodles or roasted vegetables.
8.5 What sauce should I serve with chicken Parmesan?
Marinara sauce is the classic choice for chicken Parmesan.. But you can also serve it with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a richer, creamier version of the dish.
8.6 Are there any gluten-free options for sides?
Yes, there are many gluten-free options for sides, including zoodles, roasted vegetables, and gluten-free pasta.
8.7 What appetizer should I serve with chicken Parmesan?
Appetizers like stuffed mushrooms, garlic bread, or a simple Caesar salad are great options to serve before chicken Parmesan.
8.8 Is chicken Parmesan Italian or Italian-American?
Chicken Parmesan is an Italian-American dish, inspired by the Italian dish “Parmigiana.” It has become a popular staple in Italian-American cuisine.
8.9 What are healthy side dishes for chicken Parmesan?
Healthy side dishes for chicken Parmesan include roasted vegetables, sauteed spinach, zoodles, and a light arugula salad.
8.10 How do you keep chicken Parmesan crispy with sides?
To keep chicken Parmesan crispy.. Sserve it with sides that don’t add too much moisture, such as roasted vegetables or a simple salad. Avoid overly saucy sides that could make the chicken soggy.
Conclusion
When it comes to serving sides with chicken Parmesan, the options are truly endless. Whether you prefer classic pasta pairings.. Fresh salads, or unique sides like polenta fries and stuffed mushrooms, there’s something for everyone. The key is to balance the richness of the chicken parmigiana with lighter, fresher sides to create a well-rounded meal.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and textures.. And feel free to mix and match sides to suit your taste and dietary preferences. From roasted asparagus to creamy risotto.. You can create the perfect chicken parmigiana meal that will satisfy and delight your family and guests.