Chicken Marsala, with its rich, savory mushroom and wine sauce, is a beloved Italian-American classic. But what are the best side dishes to serve alongside this flavorful main course to create a complete and satisfying meal? The good news is that Chicken Marsala is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of accompaniments. Whether you’re aiming for a comforting, carb-heavy feast or a lighter, vegetable-focused spread, there are countless options to elevate your Chicken Marsala dinner.
A close-up shot showcases the rich, golden-brown Chicken Marsala with mushrooms and parsley, ready to be served, emphasizing its appetizing appearance.
Classic Pasta Pairings
Let’s start with the classics. Pasta is a natural partner for Chicken Marsala, and for good reason. The creamy, flavorful sauce beautifully coats pasta, making each bite a delight.
- Buttered Egg Noodles: As mentioned in the original recipe, buttered egg noodles are a fantastic and traditional choice. Their soft texture and subtle flavor allow the Chicken Marsala to shine. A simple toss with butter, parsley, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese is all you need.
- Linguine or Fettuccine: These long, flat pasta shapes are excellent for capturing the Marsala sauce. Linguine, slightly thinner, offers a delicate bite, while fettuccine, wider and heartier, provides a more substantial base.
- Pappardelle: For a more elegant and rustic feel, consider pappardelle. These wide, ribbon-like noodles have a wonderful texture and hold up beautifully to rich sauces like Marsala.
Delightful Vegetable Side Dishes
To balance the richness of Chicken Marsala, consider serving it with some vibrant and flavorful vegetable side dishes.
- Roasted Asparagus: Asparagus, with its slightly bitter and earthy notes, provides a lovely counterpoint to the savory Marsala sauce. Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness and tender-crisp texture. A drizzle of olive oil, salt, pepper, and perhaps a squeeze of lemon are all you need.
- Sautéed Spinach with Garlic: Simple yet satisfying, sautéed spinach with garlic is a quick and healthy side dish that complements Chicken Marsala perfectly. The mild flavor of spinach allows the main course to remain the star, while the garlic adds a touch of aromatic complexity.
- Broccoli Rabe (Rapini): For those who enjoy a slightly bitter and more robust vegetable, broccoli rabe is an excellent choice. Sautéed with garlic and olive oil, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, it provides a flavorful and texturally interesting contrast to the Chicken Marsala.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: In the cooler months, roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes offer a warm and comforting side dish. Their natural sweetness and earthy flavors harmonize beautifully with the savory Marsala sauce.
An overhead shot showcasing a plate of Chicken Marsala with a generous serving of sauce, alongside buttered noodles, parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese, highlighting a classic serving suggestion.
Fresh and Flavorful Salads
A fresh salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of Chicken Marsala, cleansing the palate and adding a touch of lightness to the meal.
- Simple Green Salad with Italian Vinaigrette: A classic green salad with a simple Italian vinaigrette is always a welcome addition. The crisp lettuce and tangy dressing cut through the richness of the Marsala sauce, providing a refreshing element.
- Caesar Salad: While perhaps not traditionally Italian, a Caesar salad is a popular and satisfying choice. The creamy dressing, Parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons offer a different texture and flavor profile that works surprisingly well with Chicken Marsala.
- Italian Chopped Salad: For a more substantial salad, consider an Italian chopped salad. Loaded with vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and perhaps some salami or cheese, it provides a flavorful and colorful side dish that can almost be a meal in itself.
Bread and Other Starchy Sides
Don’t forget the bread! Crusty bread is essential for soaking up every last drop of that delicious Marsala sauce.
- Crusty Italian Bread: A simple loaf of crusty Italian bread, sliced and served warm, is the perfect accompaniment to Chicken Marsala. It’s ideal for mopping up the sauce and enjoying every bit of flavor.
- Risotto: For a more indulgent and elegant side dish, consider risotto. A creamy Parmesan risotto or mushroom risotto would pair beautifully with Chicken Marsala, creating a truly decadent Italian feast.
- Creamy Polenta: Similar to risotto but even simpler to make, creamy polenta provides a soft and comforting base for Chicken Marsala. Its mild flavor allows the Marsala sauce to take center stage.
- Mashed Potatoes: While perhaps not strictly Italian, creamy mashed potatoes are another comforting and crowd-pleasing option. Their smooth texture and buttery flavor complement the savory Marsala sauce wonderfully.
A beautifully plated Chicken Marsala dish, garnished with fresh parsley and served over buttered noodles, ready to be enjoyed, emphasizing its restaurant-quality presentation.
Complete Your Chicken Marsala Meal
Ultimately, the best side dish for Chicken Marsala depends on your personal preferences and the occasion. Whether you opt for classic pasta, vibrant vegetables, a refreshing salad, or comforting bread, the key is to choose sides that complement the rich flavors of the main course and create a balanced and satisfying meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own perfect pairings to enjoy with this timeless Italian-American dish.
