Chicken Parmesan is a much-loved dish, known for its crispy breaded chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese. Deciding what to serve alongside it can elevate your meal to a new level. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or a special gathering, the right side dishes can complement and enhance the flavors of your chicken parmesan.
To create a balanced and satisfying meal, it’s important to choose side dishes that pair well with the rich taste of chicken parmesan. From fresh salads to hearty vegetables, there are plenty of options that can round out your dinner and delight your taste buds.
1) Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic side dish that pairs wonderfully with chicken Parmesan.
The crispy crust and soft, buttery center complement the rich flavors of the chicken and cheese. You can make garlic bread at home with just a few ingredients: bread, garlic, butter, and parsley.
To start, slice a loaf of French or Italian bread. Spread a mixture of softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley over each slice.
Bake the bread in the oven at 375°F until it becomes golden brown and crispy. Serve it hot for the best taste.
This simple yet tasty side can elevate your meal and please any crowd.
2) Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is a classic choice to pair with chicken parmesan. The crisp romaine lettuce provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken dish.
You can use fresh ingredients to make the salad. Start with crunchy romaine lettuce. Add croutons for extra texture. Grated Parmesan cheese will complement the flavors of the chicken.
The dressing is key. A traditional Caesar dressing has garlic, lemon juice, anchovies, and Parmesan cheese. Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving.
Consider topping the salad with optional extras. Some ideas include sliced cherry tomatoes or grilled bacon bits.
A well-made Caesar salad balances nicely with chicken parmesan. It keeps the meal light but flavorful.
3) Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a delicious and healthy side that pairs well with chicken parmesan.
To prepare them, trim the base and remove the loose outer leaves. Cut each sprout in half.
Toss the Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet, cut side down, for even roasting.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan and garlic on the sprouts for added flavor.
Roast them at 400°F for about 20-30 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown.
Roasted Brussels sprouts offer a crunchy texture that complements the tender chicken parmesan.
4) Baked Ziti
Baked ziti is a fantastic choice to serve with chicken parmesan. It’s hearty, delicious, and complements the flavors of the chicken dish.
To make baked ziti, cook the pasta until just shy of al dente. This helps ensure it doesn’t get too soft when baked.
Combine the cooked pasta with marinara sauce and diced cooked chicken. This makes the dish more flavorful and ties it together with the chicken parmesan.
Layer the pasta mixture in a baking dish with cheese like mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta for a creamy and gooey texture.
Bake at 375°F until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This gives the dish a perfect, golden-brown top layer.
You can also sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for added flavor and color. This simple garnish enhances the presentation.
Baked ziti is easy to prepare and its warm, cheesy goodness is sure to be a hit at the table. The combination of pasta, sauce, and cheese make it a comforting side dish.
5) Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a rich side dish that pairs wonderfully with Chicken Parmesan. Its creamy texture and mild flavor complement the savory taste of the chicken.
You can start by sautéing fresh spinach with a bit of garlic and onion. This adds an extra layer of flavor. Once the spinach is wilted, you mix in some heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese.
The combination of spinach, cream, and cheese creates a velvety dish that’s hard to resist. Make sure to season with salt and pepper to taste. This side dish is quick to prepare and adds a touch of indulgence to your meal.
6) Pesto Pasta
Pesto pasta makes a flavorful and vibrant side for chicken Parmesan. The fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan in the pesto sauce add a wonderful depth of flavor.
You can use any pasta shape like spaghetti, penne, or fusilli. The pasta should be cooked al dente for the perfect texture.
To enhance the dish, try adding cherry tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, or a sprinkle of Parmesan on top. These additions will bring extra color and taste.
The bright, herbaceous notes of pesto contrast nicely with the rich, cheesy chicken Parmesan. It offers a pleasing balance that complements your meal.
7) Caprese Salad
Caprese salad is a fresh and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with Chicken Parmesan.
It features ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil. You can add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor.
This salad is very easy to make. Just layer the tomato slices and mozzarella, and then scatter the basil leaves on top.
A light sprinkle of salt and pepper can enhance the flavors even more. If you want, a splash of olive oil adds richness to the dish.
Caprese salad adds a refreshing element to your meal. Its simple ingredients make it a healthy choice.
8) Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs wonderfully with chicken parmesan. The creamy texture of the potatoes nicely complements the crispy and savory chicken.
You can make mashed potatoes easily with just a few ingredients. Simply boil the potatoes until they are soft, then mash them with butter and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Adding some garlic or cheese to your mashed potatoes can enhance the flavor even more. Garlic adds a subtle kick, while cheese makes the potatoes extra creamy and rich.
Mashed potatoes work well because they soak up the sauce from the chicken parmesan, giving you a delicious combination in each bite. You can also add a few fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of color and extra taste.
9) Broccoli Rabe
Broccoli rabe is a fantastic side dish for chicken Parmesan. Its slightly bitter taste pairs well with the rich flavors of the main dish. This green vegetable is also a great way to add some extra nutrients to your meal.
To prepare broccoli rabe, start by trimming the ends and washing it thoroughly. Blanch it in boiling water for a couple of minutes, then transfer it to an ice bath to keep its vibrant color.
After blanching, sauté the broccoli rabe in olive oil with garlic and red pepper flakes. This adds a nice kick and enhances its flavor. Cooking it until tender yet crisp ensures a pleasant texture.
Broccoli rabe works well because it balances out the cheesy, saucy chicken Parmesan. It also adds a beautiful green color to your plate. Serve it warm alongside your chicken and enjoy the mix of flavors.
10) Ratatouille
Ratatouille is a classic French vegetable dish that pairs wonderfully with chicken parmesan.
Made with tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers, ratatouille offers a fresh and vibrant flavor. The vegetables are usually sautéed with garlic and herbs like thyme and basil, bringing out a rich, savory taste.
This side dish is not only delicious but also a healthy option. It’s packed with vitamins and nutrients from the various vegetables. Plus, its lightness complements the rich and cheesy chicken parmesan without overwhelming it.
Ratatouille can be served warm, at room temperature, or even cold. This flexibility makes it a versatile choice for any meal. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, ratatouille provides a beautiful and flavorful complement to your chicken parmesan.
You can even cook it in advance, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Simply reheat when you’re ready to serve. This way, you save time without sacrificing taste.
11) Lemon Roasted Asparagus
Lemon roasted asparagus is a fresh and tangy side dish. It pairs perfectly with chicken parmesan because the citrus flavor cuts through the richness of the cheese.
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Add minced garlic, lemon zest, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Toss everything to coat the asparagus evenly. Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
Bake in the oven for 8-10 minutes until the asparagus is tender but still crisp. The result is a bright and flavorful side dish that adds a touch of elegance to your meal.
12) Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are a delectable side dish that pairs wonderfully with chicken parmesan. These bite-sized delights can be filled with a variety of ingredients like cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, and herbs.
The earthy flavor of mushrooms complements the rich, savory taste of chicken parmesan. The stuffed mushrooms add a nice textural contrast to the meal.
Preparing stuffed mushrooms is simple. Remove the stems, stuff the caps with your favorite filling, and bake until tender. You can experiment with different fillings like cream cheese and spinach or sausage and parmesan.
These stuffed mushrooms not only enhance the flavor profile of your main dish but also add a touch of elegance to your dinner table.
13) Risotto
Risotto makes an excellent side dish for chicken Parmesan. The creamy texture of risotto pairs well with the crispy, savory flavors of the chicken.
You can enhance your risotto by adding a variety of ingredients. Mushroom risotto adds an earthy taste, while a lemon risotto brings a refreshing zing.
To make a basic risotto, you’ll need Arborio rice, broth, and Parmesan cheese. Slowly cook the rice in the broth, adding cheese at the end for a creamy finish.
Include some fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add brightness. A dash of white wine can deepen the flavors.
Serve your risotto warm alongside the chicken Parmesan for a comforting and satisfying meal.
14) Olive Tapenade
Olive tapenade is a delightful addition to your chicken parmesan meal. Made from finely chopped olives, capers, garlic, and olive oil, it brings a medley of flavors that complements the rich taste of chicken parmesan.
You can serve olive tapenade with crispy pita chips or crostini. These crunchy bites offer a great contrast to the soft and cheesy texture of the chicken.
Another idea is to spread the tapenade directly onto the chicken. This adds a savory, salty layer that enhances each bite.
Pair the tapenade with other sides like grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes to create a well-rounded meal. The flavors mingle together beautifully, offering a fresh and satisfying experience.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan is not only delicious, but it can also provide several nutritional benefits when made with quality ingredients.
Protein Content:
Chicken breast, the main component, is an excellent source of lean protein. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair.
Vitamins and Minerals:
Chicken is rich in B vitamins, such as B6 and B12, which are important for brain health and energy production. It also contains zinc and iron, which are vital for immune function and red blood cell production.
Healthy Fats:
When using olive oil for cooking, you can add healthy monounsaturated fats to your diet. These fats are known to support heart health.
Tomato Sauce Benefits:
Tomato sauce adds a boost of nutrients. It’s rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage. Tomato sauce also provides vitamin C and potassium.
Cheese Nutrients:
The cheese in Chicken Parmesan offers calcium, which is crucial for bone health, and protein. Opt for part-skim mozzarella to reduce saturated fat intake.
Low Carbohydrates:
Chicken Parmesan can fit into a low-carb diet if you skip breading or use whole-grain or low-carb breadcrumbs. This makes it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Customization:
You can enhance the nutritional profile by adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. These add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to your meal.
By being mindful of ingredient choices, Chicken Parmesan can be part of a balanced, nutritious diet. Make healthier swaps when necessary to maximize its health benefits.
Preparing Chicken Parmesan for Optimal Flavor
Creating the best Chicken Parmesan involves selecting high-quality ingredients, using effective cooking techniques, and pairing it with the right wine. Each factor contributes to a delicious and memorable meal.
Choosing Quality Ingredients
For Chicken Parmesan, choosing fresh and high-quality ingredients is key. Start with bone-in, skinless chicken breasts. They should be firm and have a slight pink hue. Get Italian-style bread crumbs or make your own by grinding stale bread with Italian herbs.
Use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese instead of pre-shredded ones. Fresh mozzarella is creamier and melts better. Authentic marinara sauce with ripe tomatoes and fresh basil can elevate the dish.
Quality olive oil is also essential for frying. Extra virgin olive oil adds a distinct flavor.
Cooking Techniques and Tips
Properly preparing and cooking the chicken is crucial. First, pound the chicken breasts to even thickness. This helps them cook uniformly.
Seasoning the meat with salt, pepper, and sometimes Italian seasoning ensures flavor throughout.
Bread the chicken by dipping it first in flour, then beaten eggs, and finally, bread crumbs. This triple coating forms a crisp, golden crust.
Fry until golden brown using medium heat to avoid burning.
After frying, bake the chicken with marinara sauce and cheese at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese melts and the chicken is fully cooked.
Pairing Chicken Parmesan with Wine
Wine pairing enhances the dining experience. For Chicken Parmesan, a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese works well. These wines balance the tangy marinara and rich cheese flavors.
Avoid overly tannic wines. For a lighter option, a Pinot Noir offers a smooth complement.
If you prefer white wine, try Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay. These wines have enough acidity to cut through the richness of the dish.
Always serve the wine slightly chilled to enhance its flavors and provide a refreshing contrast to the warm cheese and sauce.
