What To Serve With Chicken Parmesan: Best Side Dishes

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When I was a kid, the smell of crispy chicken in tomato sauce and cheese was amazing. The chicken parmesan was a big hit in my family. It’s a mix of savory, cheesy, and indulgent flavors that always make me happy.

As an adult, I’ve found that the best part of chicken parmesan is the side dishes. They can be classic Italian or something new and light. In this article, we’ll look at the top side dishes for chicken parmesan. They make every bite a joy to eat.

Key Takeaways

Chicken parmesan is a beloved Italian-American dish that gained widespread popularity across the United States and beyond.
There are countless side dish options to serve with chicken parmesan, ranging from traditional pasta and garlic bread to fresh salads and roasted vegetables.
The side dishes you choose can greatly enhance the overall flavor and balance of the meal, catering to various dietary preferences and tastes.
Pasta, salads, and garlic bread are among the most popular and classic accompaniments for chicken parmesan.
Roasted vegetables and low-carb alternatives provide healthy and flavorful options for those seeking a lighter meal.

Understanding Chicken Parmesan: A Classic Italian-American Dish

Chicken Parmesan is a favorite in Italian-American cuisine. It has won over many for decades. It started in the 1930s or 1940s with Italian immigrants in the Northeast. Now, it’s found in cookbooks and restaurants everywhere.

Origins and Evolution

The chicken parmesan recipe comes from Southern Italy. There, breaded and fried chicken cutlets were a treat. Italian immigrants in the U.S. made it their own, adding tomato sauce and melted cheese.

By the 1950s, chicken Parmesan was a big hit in the U.S. It was on menus and in homes across the country.

What Makes a Perfect Chicken Parmesan

A great chicken Parmesan has the right mix. The breading should be crispy and golden. The chicken inside must be juicy and full of flavor. The tomato sauce should be rich, and the cheese should melt beautifully.

Traditionally, chicken was deep-fried. But now, baking or air-frying are popular choices. They offer a healthier way to enjoy this classic dish.

“Chicken Parmesan is the ultimate comfort food, a perfect marriage of crispy chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and melted cheese. It’s a dish that truly embodies the spirit of Italian-American cuisine.”

Chicken Parmesan

Classic Pasta Accompaniments

Pasta is a top pick for a side dish with chicken parmesan. Long pasta like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine works well. Their long shape and texture go great with the chicken. For something heartier, try penne or rotini.

Pasta dishes add a lot to chicken parmesan. You can toss pasta with olive oil and herbs. Or, pair it with marinara sauce for extra flavor. Some recipes even mix chicken parmesan into the pasta, like in chicken parmesan lasagna or chicken parmesan casserole.

Looking for a low-carb option? Zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash are great. They offer a base for chicken parmesan without the carbs.

Pasta Variety	Why It Works
Spaghetti	Commonly served with chicken parmesan in restaurants due to its long strands that soak up the sauce.
Linguine, Bucatini, or Angel Hair	These thin, long pasta shapes are perfect for absorbing a smooth tomato sauce.
Rigatoni	The thick, tubular shape matches the heft of chicken parmesan.
Farfalle (Bowtie)	The fun shape and manageable size makes this pasta a great choice for serving chicken parmesan to children.
Rotini	The corkscrew shape complements chunky tomato sauce and the breadcrumb-coated chicken.

Choosing any pasta will make your chicken parmesan dish even better. It’s a classic choice that’s sure to please.

pasta with chicken parmesan

Fresh and Light Salad Options

Pairing salads with chicken parmesan aims to balance flavors. You can choose from classic Caesar salad to Mediterranean-inspired options. These salads are perfect with your chicken parmesan feast.

Caesar Salad Variations

The creamy Caesar salad is a great match for chicken parmesan. It has crisp lettuce, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons. Try a Caesar salad with grilled chicken or Caesar pasta salad for a twist.

Italian-Style Green Salads

An Italian-style green salad is another excellent choice. It has fresh greens, juicy tomatoes, and zesty balsamic vinaigrette. Add olives, peppers, and shredded Parmesan cheese for more flavor.

Mediterranean Inspired Salads

For a lighter option, try a Caprese salad with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. Or, go for a Greek salad with romaine, feta, olives, and lemon-oregano dressing. These salads’ bright flavors balance the chicken parmesan.

Caesar salad

“A well-crafted salad can truly elevate the entire dining experience when paired with a dish as delicious as chicken parmesan.”

Garlic Bread and Italian Breads

When you serve chicken parmesan, the best side is garlic bread. It matches the chicken and tomato sauce’s rich taste. You can try cheesy garlic bread or homemade focaccia to pair with bread with chicken parmesan.

Cheesy garlic bread is a favorite. You can use store-bought bread or biscuits for a quick fix. Fresh garlic and whole milk mozzarella cheese make it extra tasty.

For a taste of Italy, try focaccia or ciabatta bread. They’re perfect with chicken parmesan and add a nice texture. You can even make cheesy monkey bread for a fun twist.

Choosing any garlic bread recipes or Italian bread will make your meal better. They’ll enhance the taste of your chicken parmesan.

garlic bread

“Garlic bread is the unsung hero of the Italian-American table. It’s the perfect partner for chicken parmesan, soaking up every drop of that delicious tomato sauce.” – Chef Giada De Laurentiis

What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan: Essential Side Dishes

Choosing the right side dishes can make your chicken parmesan meal even better. You can pick from classic Italian sides or try something new. Let’s look at some top picks that go great with this Italian-American favorite.

Traditional Italian Side Dishes

Italian cuisine has many side dishes that go well with chicken parmesan. Sautéed spinach is a favorite for its bright color and taste. Braised greens like kale or Swiss chard are also great, packed with nutrients and flavor. Roasted bell peppers add a sweet and smoky touch.

Modern Accompaniments

Today, you can also find new side dishes to go with chicken parmesan. Quinoa is a tasty, healthier option instead of pasta or rice. Jasmine or cauliflower rice are also good for those watching their carbs. Roasted veggies like zucchini, eggplant, and asparagus bring freshness to the table. For a cozy feel, try mashed potatoes or creamy polenta.

Whether you stick with traditional Italian sides or try something new, the goal is to enhance the chicken parmesan. With so many choices, you can create a meal that’s both delicious and memorable.

Chicken parmesan sides

“The side dishes you serve with chicken parmesan can make all the difference in creating a harmonious and satisfying meal.”

Roasted Vegetable Sides

Roasted vegetables are a great side dish for chicken parmesan. They add fresh, vibrant flavors to the meal. Plus, they complement the savory chicken nicely.

Popular choices include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, and root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions. For a sweet twist, try roasting acorn squash with brown sugar and maple syrup.

For a Mediterranean flavor, roast eggplant or zucchini with herbs and olive oil. These sides can roast in the oven with the chicken, making meal prep easy.

Roasted Vegetable Recipes

Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Lemon
Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan
Maple Roasted Acorn Squash
Herb-Roasted Eggplant and Zucchini
Mixed Roasted Root Vegetables

To roast veggies perfectly, toss them in oil, season well, and spread on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F (200°C) until tender and caramelized, about 20-30 minutes.

roasted vegetables

Adding these roasted vegetable sides to your chicken parmesan meal boosts flavor and nutrition. They make a satisfying and healthy dinner when paired with vegetables with chicken parmesan.

Low-Carb Vegetable Alternatives

Looking for low-carb sides for your Chicken Parmesan? Vegetable-based options are both tasty and healthy. Try zucchini noodles (or “zoodles”) or spaghetti squash for a pasta-like feel. Cauliflower is also great, whether riced, mashed, or roasted into steaks.

Zucchini Noodles and Squash Options

Zucchini noodles are a great low-carb choice for Chicken Parmesan. Use a spiralizer or julienne peeler to make zucchini into noodle-like strands. Serve them with marinara sauce or alongside the chicken.

Spaghetti squash is another good option. It has a stringy texture like traditional pasta.

Cauliflower-Based Sides

Cauliflower is versatile in low-carb dishes. You can rice it for a fluffy base or mash it for a creamy side. Roasting cauliflower steaks or florets with mozzarella and marinara sauce makes a tasty, vegetarian dish.

low-carb sides

These vegetable alternatives let you enjoy Chicken Parmesan without too many carbs. Choose zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or cauliflower-based sides for a delicious, low-carb meal.

Wine Pairings and Beverages

Make your chicken parmesan meal even better with the right drink. Italian wines are perfect for this dish. Try red wines like Chianti, Barbera, and Sangiovese. They match well with the tomato sauce and cheese.

White wine lovers might enjoy a crisp Pinot Grigio or a refreshing Vermentino. For something bubbly, Prosecco is great. You can also try Italian sodas, iced tea, or lemony sparkling water.

Wine Type	Recommended Pairings	Flavor Profile
Light Red Wines	Pinot Noir, Gamay	Red berry, earthy notes
Medium Red Wines	Merlot, Chianti, Barbera	Dark fruits, spice
White Wines	Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc	Citrus, orchard fruits, buttery/oaky
Rosé Wines	Provence Rosé, Pinot Noir Rosé	Red berry, melon, citrus

Think about the wine’s flavor, body, and acidity when pairing it with chicken parmesan. Light to medium-bodied wines with moderate tannins are best. They let the dish’s flavors stand out. Remember to chill white wines and rosés a bit, and keep medium red wines slightly cooler.

“A Barbera, with its high acidity and low tannins, is a stellar match for chicken parmesan as it harmonizes with the tomato-based sauce.”

Whether you like red, white, or sparkling, the right wine can make your chicken parmesan better. Try different Italian wines to find your favorite pairing. Enjoy the delicious flavors of this classic dish.

Quick and Easy Side Dishes

When making a classic chicken parmesan dish, you’ll want some quick and easy side dishes. Luckily, there are many easy side dishes and quick accompaniments ready in no time.

Steamed broccoli or green beans are great for a speedy veggie option. Just toss them with butter, garlic, and seasoning for a tasty side. You can also use microwavable rice or quinoa packets for easy grains.

For a fresh salad, try pre-made salad kits or Caesar salad mixes. They offer instant freshness. Or, go for frozen garlic bread or breadsticks for a classic Italian pairing.

These easy side dishes and quick accompaniments make your chicken parmesan dinner easy. You’ll have more time to enjoy the meal.

“Chicken parmesan is loved by adults and kids everywhere. It’s a classic Italian-American dish that never goes out of style.”

Healthy Side Dish Options

Pairing chicken parmesan with light, nutritious sides is key. Choose vegetables that are grilled, roasted, or sautéed. This brings out their natural flavors and contrasts nicely with the breaded chicken.

Light and Nutritious Choices

A simple tomato and cucumber salad or steamed green beans can refresh your meal. For a heartier side, try roasted Brussels sprouts with olive oil and garlic. Quinoa or farro add fiber and protein, making the meal complete.

Vegetable-Forward Sides

Use fresh produce to make vegetable-forward sides. Try grilled portobello mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or sautéed spinach. They add color and nutrients. A citrus salad with oranges and fennel offers a tangy contrast to the chicken.

Healthy Side Dish	Calorie Content
Garlic Mashed Cauliflower	74 calories per 1/2 cup serving
Sauteed Spinach and Mushrooms	76 calories per 3/4 cup serving
Zucchini and Mushroom Bake	83 calories per 2/3 cup serving
Roasted Radishes	88 calories per 2/3 cup serving
Parmesan-Roasted Broccoli	144 calories per 2 broccoli pieces serving

Adding these healthy sides and nutritious accompaniments makes your meal balanced and satisfying. They enhance the flavors of classic chicken parmesan.

Seasonal Side Dish Recommendations

Pairing chicken parmesan with seasonal side dishes can elevate your meal. Using fresh, locally-sourced seasonal vegetables makes your meal memorable. It celebrates the season’s bounty.

In spring, try asparagus, peas, or artichokes for a vibrant touch. Summer brings grilled zucchini, tomato salads, or corn on the cob for a refreshing contrast. Fall offers roasted squash, Brussels sprouts, and hearty greens for comfort. Winter is perfect for roasted root vegetables, braised kale, or a warm lentil salad.

Seasonal fruits also make great salad companions. They add a bright, refreshing touch to chicken parmesan. With creativity and a focus on peak produce, you can enhance your dining experience.

“Embracing seasonal produce is not only delicious, but it also supports local agriculture and reduces our environmental impact.” – Registered Dietitian, Jane Doe

Focus on fresh, locally-sourced seasonal vegetables for your side dishes.
Experiment with a variety of preparation methods, from roasting and grilling to sautéing and air-frying.
Incorporate seasonal fruits into salads for a refreshing contrast.
Adjust your side dish selections throughout the year to reflect the changing seasons.

By embracing the bounty of the seasons, you can create seasonal sides that complement chicken parmesan. They also showcase nature’s best offerings.

Make-Ahead Side Dishes

Preparing side dishes ahead of time can change how you cook. You can make everything from classic pasta salads to healthy grain dishes. These prep-ahead sides and make-ahead recipes make cooking easier without losing flavor or quality.

Pasta salad is a simple make-ahead dish. You can choose from Italian or Mediterranean styles. These salads get better with time, adding flavor as they sit.

Quinoa salads are also great. They add protein and fiber, making your meal complete.

Coleslaw is another good choice for a crunchy side. It gets better as the flavors mix. Roasted veggies are also easy to prepare ahead of time. Just reheat them when it’s time to eat.

Marinated salads, like Greek or Italian antipasto, get better with time. Soups, like minestrone or Italian wedding soup, are also good to make ahead. They’re easy to reheat when you’re ready.

Using these prep-ahead sides and make-ahead recipes saves time. You can enjoy your Chicken Parmesan without stress.

“Advance preparation is the key to a seamless and delicious meal. With a little forethought, you can have a range of flavorful side dishes ready to go, allowing you to savor every moment of your Chicken Parmesan experience.”

Restaurant-Style Accompaniments

Make your chicken parmesan better by adding sides like restaurant chefs do. Start with bruschetta or stuffed mushrooms to get you ready. Then, try an antipasto platter with olives and marinated veggies for a real Italian feel.

For the main dish, add a pasta course. Choose gnocchi in brown butter sauce or ravioli in cream sauce. These sides balance the chicken parmesan’s strong flavors.

Finish with a classic Italian dessert, like tiramisu or panna cotta. These desserts turn a simple chicken parmesan into a full meal. It’s like dining in Italy, right at home.

Appetizer	Pasta Course	Dessert
Bruschetta	Gnocchi in Brown Butter Sauce	Tiramisu
Stuffed Mushrooms	Ravioli in Cream Sauce	Panna Cotta

With these sides, your chicken parmesan becomes a fancy meal. It shows off the best of restaurant sides and gourmet accompaniments.

“The gnocchi in brown butter sauce was a revelation – it perfectly complemented the bold flavors of the chicken parmesan, creating a harmonious and satisfying meal.” – Food Critic, New York Times

Conclusion

Chicken parmesan is a versatile dish that goes well with many sides. You can make a complete and satisfying meal with it. Try classic pasta, garlic bread, or healthier options like roasted veggies and salads.

Think about what you like, what’s in season, and how long it takes to make. Don’t be afraid to try new combinations. This way, you’ll find your favorite “chicken parmesan dinner menu.”

Chicken parmesan is great for a quick dinner or a special meal for guests. Its crispy crust, tender chicken, and rich sauce make it a favorite. It’s loved by people of all ages and is enjoyed worldwide.

So, when you have chicken parmesan, explore different sides to make your meal even better. Bon appétit!

FAQ

What are some classic pasta accompaniments for chicken parmesan?

Spaghetti, linguine, and fettuccine are great choices. You can also try bowtie pasta, penne, or rotini. Serve with marinara sauce or olive oil and herbs.

What type of salads pair well with chicken parmesan?

Caesar salad and Italian green salads are perfect. Try a Caprese or Greek salad for a Mediterranean twist.

What types of bread go well with chicken parmesan?

Garlic bread is a favorite. Try cheesy pull-apart garlic bread or English muffin garlic cheese bread. Homemade focaccia or ciabatta are also great.

What are some traditional Italian side dishes for chicken parmesan?

Sautéed spinach and braised greens are classic. Roasted bell peppers are also great. For something new, try quinoa, jasmine rice, or cauliflower rice.

What are some healthy vegetable-based side dishes for chicken parmesan?

Roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus are tasty and healthy. Zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, and cauliflower rice are low-carb options.

What types of wine pair well with chicken parmesan?

Chianti, Barbera, or Sangiovese red wines are perfect. Pinot Grigio or Vermentino white wines also complement the dish well.

What are some quick and easy side dish options for chicken parmesan?

Steamed veggies and microwaveable rice or quinoa are quick. Pre-made salad kits and frozen garlic bread or breadsticks are also easy.

How can I adapt side dishes to the seasons?

Use seasonal produce. Asparagus and peas in spring, grilled zucchini and tomato salads in summer. Roasted squash and Brussels sprouts in fall, hearty greens and root veggies in winter.

Can I make side dishes in advance for chicken parmesan?

Yes, many can be made ahead. Pasta salads, quinoa salads, roasted veggies, and marinated salads are all good choices.

What are some restaurant-style side dish ideas for chicken parmesan?

Start with bruschetta or stuffed mushrooms. Offer an antipasto platter with olives and marinated veggies. Add a small pasta course and finish with an Italian dessert for a complete meal.

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What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan: Best Side Dishes