Chicken Parmigiana, with its crispy chicken, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese, is a beloved comfort food classic. But what are the best side dishes to serve alongside this Italian-American favorite? Choosing the right accompaniments can elevate your Chicken Parmigiana from a simple dinner to a truly satisfying and well-rounded meal. Whether you’re aiming for a traditional Italian feast or a lighter, healthier option, there are plenty of delicious choices to consider.
Chicken Parmigiana served with pasta, showcasing a classic pairing
When thinking about What To Serve With Chicken Parmigiana, consider balancing the richness of the main course with lighter, brighter flavors and textures. The ideal side dish will complement the hearty nature of the chicken parm without overpowering it. Let’s explore some fantastic options that will make your Chicken Parmigiana dinner a resounding success.
Classic Pasta Pairings: A Taste of Italy
For many, Chicken Parmigiana and pasta are inseparable. This iconic duo is a staple in Italian-American cuisine for a reason – they simply taste fantastic together. The pasta soaks up the flavorful tomato sauce from the chicken, creating a harmonious and comforting combination.
Spaghetti: The Undisputed Champion
Spaghetti is perhaps the most traditional and widely loved pasta to serve with Chicken Parmigiana. Its long, thin strands are perfect for twirling and scooping up the sauce and cheesy goodness from the chicken. A simple spaghetti aglio e olio (garlic and oil) or spaghetti with a light tomato sauce will complement the richness of the parmigiana beautifully without being too heavy.
Linguine: A Wider Noodle for More Sauce
Linguine, slightly wider and flatter than spaghetti, offers a heartier bite and can hold even more sauce. This makes it an excellent choice for those who love a saucier pasta dish alongside their Chicken Parmigiana. Consider linguine with pesto or a light cream sauce for a delightful variation.
Penne: Ridges that Grab the Flavor
Penne, with its cylindrical shape and ridged surface, is another popular choice. The ridges are designed to capture and hold onto sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Penne tossed with a simple marinara or a spicy arrabiata sauce provides a wonderful textural contrast to the breaded chicken.
Fresh and Vibrant Salads: Lighten the Meal
If you’re looking to balance the richness of Chicken Parmigiana or simply want a lighter meal, a fresh salad is an excellent choice. A well-chosen salad can provide a refreshing contrast and add valuable nutrients to your dinner.
Classic Caesar Salad: A Timeless Choice
A Caesar salad, with its crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese, is a sophisticated and satisfying side. The slight bitterness of the romaine and the tanginess of the dressing cut through the richness of the Chicken Parmigiana, creating a balanced and elegant meal.
Simple Green Salad with Vinaigrette: Fresh and Zesty
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing and healthy option. Use mixed greens, spinach, or arugula as your base, and add in some crisp vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers. A lemon vinaigrette or Italian dressing will complement the Italian flavors of the Chicken Parmigiana without being too heavy.
Caprese Salad: Italian Simplicity
For an authentically Italian salad, consider a Caprese salad. This simple yet flavorful salad features fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze. The freshness of the ingredients and the bright flavors are a perfect counterpoint to the richness of the Chicken Parmigiana.
Marinara sauce with tomatoes and spices simmering, illustrating a key component of Chicken Parmigiana
Vegetable Sides: Nutritious and Delicious
Adding vegetables to your Chicken Parmigiana meal is a fantastic way to boost its nutritional value and add variety to your plate. Roasted, steamed, or sautéed vegetables can provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized Goodness
Roasted vegetables bring out their natural sweetness and develop a delightful caramelized char. Consider roasting vegetables like:
- Broccoli: Roasted broccoli florets become tender-crisp and slightly nutty.
- Asparagus: Roasted asparagus spears are delicate and flavorful.
- Bell Peppers and Onions: Roasted bell peppers and onions become sweet and smoky.
- Zucchini and Eggplant: Roasted zucchini and eggplant offer a hearty and satisfying side.
Toss your chosen vegetables with olive oil, herbs like oregano and thyme, salt, and pepper before roasting for a flavorful and healthy side dish.
Steamed or Sautéed Greens: Quick and Healthy
Steamed or sautéed greens are a quick and easy way to add a nutritious side to your Chicken Parmigiana. Options like:
- Spinach: Sautéed spinach with garlic and olive oil is a classic and simple side.
- Broccolini: Steamed or sautéed broccolini is tender-crisp and slightly sweet.
- Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with almonds or garlic are a flavorful and crunchy option.
These greens provide essential vitamins and minerals and offer a pleasant contrast to the richness of the main dish.
Bread and Starches: Hearty Companions
If you’re looking for even more substantial side dishes, bread and starches can be excellent additions to your Chicken Parmigiana meal.
Garlic Bread: The Perfect Carb
Garlic bread, with its buttery, garlicky flavor and crispy crust, is a classic accompaniment to Italian-American dishes. It’s perfect for soaking up extra marinara sauce and adding a comforting carbohydrate element to your meal.
Creamy Polenta: Italian Comfort Food
Creamy polenta is a delightful Italian comfort food that pairs beautifully with Chicken Parmigiana. Its smooth, creamy texture and mild flavor provide a wonderful backdrop for the rich and savory chicken. You can serve polenta simply with Parmesan cheese or enhance it with herbs or roasted vegetables.
Risotto: Elegant and Flavorful
For a more elegant and sophisticated side, consider risotto. A creamy Parmesan risotto or a vegetable risotto would be a luxurious and flavorful accompaniment to Chicken Parmigiana. The richness of the risotto complements the chicken while adding a touch of refinement to the meal.
Chicken cutlet being coated in breadcrumbs, highlighting the crispy texture of Chicken Parmigiana
Conclusion: Creating Your Perfect Chicken Parmigiana Meal
Choosing what to serve with Chicken Parmigiana is all about creating a balanced and satisfying meal that suits your taste and preferences. From classic pasta pairings to fresh salads, nutritious vegetables, and hearty starches, there are countless delicious options to explore.
Whether you opt for the traditional spaghetti and marinara, a refreshing Caprese salad, or roasted vegetables for a healthier twist, the right side dishes will enhance your Chicken Parmigiana experience and make your meal truly memorable. Experiment with different combinations to discover your favorite pairings and enjoy the delicious versatility of this Italian-American classic.
