What To Know
- A medley of bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and carrots roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper creates a flavorful and healthy accompaniment to chicken parmesan.
- Made from cornmeal, polenta is a versatile dish that can be served as a base for chicken parmesan or as a side on its own.
- Top it with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a simple yet satisfying accompaniment.
Chicken parmesan is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines crispy chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese. While the main event is undoubtedly delicious, choosing the perfect side dish can elevate your meal to the next level. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore a wide range of side dishes that pair perfectly with chicken parmesan, ensuring a satisfying and memorable dining experience.
1. Classic Spaghetti
Spaghetti is a timeless side dish that complements chicken parmesan’s rich flavors. Its simplicity allows the main dish to shine, while the texture of the noodles provides a delightful contrast to the crispy chicken. To enhance the taste, consider tossing the spaghetti in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs.
2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Indulge in the comforting embrace of creamy mashed potatoes, a classic pairing that provides a velvety canvas for the tangy marinara sauce. Enrich the potatoes with butter, milk, and a touch of nutmeg for an irresistible side dish that will leave you craving more.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Bring a vibrant splash of color and nutrition to your plate with roasted vegetables. A medley of bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and carrots roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper creates a flavorful and healthy accompaniment to chicken parmesan.
4. Garlic Bread
Who can resist the allure of crusty garlic bread? Dipping it into the savory marinara sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. For an extra touch of indulgence, spread a layer of melted butter and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before baking.
5. Caesar Salad
Lighten up your meal with a refreshing Caesar salad. Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a tangy dressing provide a delightful balance to the richness of chicken parmesan. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an authentic touch.
6. Baked Ziti
For a hearty and satisfying side dish, consider baked ziti. Layers of pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese are baked until golden brown, creating a comforting and flavorful accompaniment to your chicken parmesan.
7. Broccolini with Lemon
Add a touch of freshness and acidity to your meal with broccolini sautéed with lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic. The vibrant green florets provide a delightful contrast to the deep flavors of chicken parmesan.
8. Caprese Salad
Transport yourself to the Italian countryside with a vibrant Caprese salad. Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil are drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, creating a light and refreshing side dish that complements chicken parmesan perfectly.
9. Roasted Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with roasted garlic Parmesan potatoes. Cubed potatoes are roasted until golden brown, then tossed in a mixture of melted butter, roasted garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. The result is a crispy, savory, and addictive accompaniment.
10. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Indulge in a creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip. Serve it warm with crusty bread or crackers for an appetizer or side dish that will delight your guests. The rich flavors of spinach, artichoke, and Parmesan cheese pair perfectly with chicken parmesan.
11. Polenta
For a comforting and rustic side dish, opt for creamy polenta. Made from cornmeal, polenta is a versatile dish that can be served as a base for chicken parmesan or as a side on its own. Top it with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a simple yet satisfying accompaniment.
12. Eggplant Parmesan
Embrace the flavors of Italy with eggplant parmesan. Thinly sliced eggplant is coated in breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, then fried until golden brown. Serve it alongside your chicken parmesan for a delightful variation on the classic dish.
13. Stuffed Mushrooms
Add a touch of elegance to your meal with stuffed mushrooms. Large mushrooms are filled with a savory mixture of bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, then baked until tender. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms complement the richness of chicken parmesan beautifully.
14. Zucchini Fritters
For a crispy and flavorful side dish, try zucchini fritters. Shredded zucchini is mixed with flour, eggs, and herbs, then pan-fried until golden brown. Serve these fritters alongside your chicken parmesan for a delightful and healthy accompaniment.
15. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a delicious and nutritious side dish that pairs well with chicken parmesan. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven until caramelized. The slightly bitter flavor of the Brussels sprouts balances the richness of the chicken parmesan perfectly.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the perfect side dish for chicken parmesan is a matter of personal preference. With so many delicious options to choose from, you are sure to find the ideal accompaniment to elevate your meal. Whether you prefer classic spaghetti, creamy mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad, there is a side dish that will complement the flavors of chicken parmesan and create a memorable dining experience.
What You Need to Learn
Q: What is the most popular side dish for chicken parmesan?
A: Spaghetti is the most popular side dish for chicken parmesan, as its simplicity allows the main dish to shine.
Q: Are there any healthy side dishes that pair well with chicken parmesan?
A: Yes, roasted vegetables, broccolini with lemon, and roasted Brussels sprouts are all healthy side dishes that complement chicken parmesan well.
Q: Can I serve chicken parmesan with a salad?
A: Yes, a light and refreshing salad, such as Caesar salad or Caprese salad, can provide a nice balance to the richness of chicken parmesan.
