Chicken Parmesan is a tasty Italian-American dish loved by many. It’s made with breaded chicken cutlets covered in tomato sauce and melted cheese.
While it’s great on its own, adding the right side dishes can make your meal even better.
You can choose from many side dishes to go with your Chicken Parmesan. Some options include pasta, salads, vegetables, and bread.
These sides can add new flavors and textures to your plate. They can also help balance out the rich taste of the main dish.
1. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a tasty side dish for chicken parmesan. It’s easy to make and adds flavor to your meal.
You can buy it pre-made or make it at home.
To make garlic bread, start with a loaf of French or Italian bread. Slice it lengthwise and spread butter mixed with minced garlic on each half. Sprinkle on some parsley for extra flavor.
Toast the bread in the oven until it’s golden brown and crispy. The smell of garlic will fill your kitchen. Serve it warm alongside your chicken parmesan for a satisfying meal.
2. Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken parmesan. The crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing balance out the rich, cheesy main course.
You can customize your Caesar salad with various toppings. Add croutons for extra crunch or shaved parmesan for more cheese flavor. Some people like to include grilled chicken or bacon bits too.
The dressing is key to a good Caesar salad. You can make it from scratch or use a store-bought version. Either way, its creamy texture and zesty taste complement the chicken parmesan nicely.
This light and refreshing side dish helps prevent your meal from feeling too heavy. It’s a great choice when you want to add some greens to your plate.
3. Roasted Brussel Sprouts
Roasted brussel sprouts make a tasty side dish for chicken parmesan. They add a nice contrast in texture and flavor to the meal.
To prepare them, toss brussel sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes.
The roasting process brings out the natural nutty flavor of brussel sprouts. It also gives them a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
For extra flavor, try sprinkling some grated Parmesan cheese over the sprouts before serving. This adds a savory, crispy crust that complements the chicken parmesan nicely.
4. Pasta Primavera
Pasta primavera is a light and colorful side dish that pairs well with chicken parmesan. You can make it with your choice of pasta shapes and a mix of fresh vegetables.
Common ingredients include bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and cherry tomatoes. Toss the pasta and veggies in a light sauce made from olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
This dish adds a fresh and vibrant element to your meal. The vegetables provide a nice contrast to the rich and cheesy chicken parmesan.
You can customize pasta primavera based on seasonal produce or your preferences. It’s a versatile side that complements the main course without overpowering it.
5. Balsamic Glazed Carrots
Balsamic glazed carrots add a sweet and tangy flavor to your chicken parmesan meal. You can easily make this side dish by roasting carrots with a mixture of balsamic vinegar and honey.
The carrots become tender and caramelized, complementing the rich flavors of the chicken. Their natural sweetness pairs well with the savory parmesan coating.
To prepare, toss sliced carrots with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey. Roast them in the oven until they’re soft and slightly charred. The glaze will thicken as it cooks, coating the carrots in a delicious syrupy layer.
This colorful side dish not only tastes great but also adds visual appeal to your plate. It’s a simple way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal.
6. Caprese Salad
Caprese salad is a perfect match for chicken parmesan. This Italian classic brings fresh flavors to your plate.
You’ll love the mix of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. The salad’s light taste balances the rich chicken dish nicely.
For extra flavor, drizzle some balsamic glaze over your caprese. You can also add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Serve this salad cold for a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken parmesan. It’s an easy side that looks great and tastes even better.
7. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes make a perfect side for chicken Parmesan. They add a creamy, comforting element to your meal.
To make them, boil peeled potatoes until tender. Mash them with butter, milk, and roasted garlic cloves. Add salt and pepper to taste.
For extra flavor, mix in some grated Parmesan cheese. This ties the side dish to the main course. The smooth texture of the potatoes balances out the crispy chicken coating.
Serve a generous scoop next to your chicken Parmesan. The garlic flavor complements the tomato sauce and melted cheese on top of the chicken.
8. Steamed Broccoli
Steamed broccoli is a simple yet tasty side dish for chicken parmesan. It adds a pop of green color to your plate and provides a healthy balance to the rich main course.
To prepare it, cut broccoli into florets and steam for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp. Season with a sprinkle of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
You can also toss the steamed broccoli with a bit of olive oil and garlic for added taste. This side dish is quick to make and packed with vitamins and fiber.
9. Antipasto Platter
An antipasto platter is a great side dish to serve with chicken parmesan. You can create a mix of Italian appetizers on one plate.
Include a variety of cured meats like salami and prosciutto. Add some cheeses such as mozzarella and provolone.
Don’t forget olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted red peppers for extra flavor. You can also add some fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices.
This colorful platter gives your guests options to nibble on before or during the main course. It’s an easy way to add more Italian flair to your meal.
10. Mediterranean Couscous
Mediterranean couscous makes a tasty side for chicken parmesan. This light and fluffy dish brings bright flavors to your plate.
Mix cooked couscous with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions. Add crumbled feta cheese for a salty kick. Toss in some olives and fresh herbs like parsley and mint.
Dress the couscous with olive oil and lemon juice. The citrusy dressing complements the rich chicken parmesan nicely. This refreshing side adds color and texture to your meal.
You can serve Mediterranean couscous warm or chilled. It’s quick to make and pairs well with many main dishes.
11. Sautéed Spinach
Sautéed spinach is a quick and easy side dish for chicken parmesan. You can prepare it in just a few minutes while your chicken is cooking.
Start by heating olive oil in a pan. Add minced garlic for extra flavor. Toss in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. The bright, green color and mild taste of spinach complement the rich chicken parmesan nicely.
This healthy side adds nutrients to your meal without overpowering the main dish. It’s a light option that balances out the heavier chicken and cheese.
12. Panzanella Salad
Panzanella salad is a tasty Italian bread salad that pairs well with chicken parmesan. It’s made with chunks of crusty bread, juicy tomatoes, and fresh vegetables.
The salad is dressed with olive oil and vinegar, giving it a tangy flavor. The bread soaks up the dressing and vegetable juices, becoming soft but still keeping some crunch.
Panzanella offers a light, refreshing contrast to the rich and cheesy chicken parmesan. Its bright flavors and varied textures complement the main dish nicely.
You can customize your panzanella with ingredients like cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions. Adding some fresh basil leaves gives it an extra Italian touch.
13. Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini noodles make a great low-carb side for chicken parmesan. You can easily make them by spiralizing fresh zucchini into spaghetti-like strands.
Toss your zucchini noodles with olive oil and garlic for a simple side. For more flavor, try adding pesto or a light vinaigrette.
These noodles pair well with the rich taste of chicken parmesan. They add a fresh, light element to balance out the heavier main dish.
You can serve zucchini noodles raw or lightly cooked. Either way, they’ll add color and nutrients to your meal.
14. Crispy Polenta
Crispy polenta makes a great side dish for chicken parmesan. It’s a tasty change from pasta or potatoes. You can make polenta ahead of time and chill it.
Cut the chilled polenta into shapes. Fry or bake the pieces until they’re crispy on the outside. The inside stays soft and creamy.
Crispy polenta adds nice texture to your meal. It soaks up sauce well too. Season it with herbs or cheese for extra flavor. This side dish is filling and goes well with the rich chicken parmesan.
Understanding Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines crispy breaded chicken with tangy tomato sauce and melted cheese. It’s a comforting meal with rich flavors and textures.
History and Origin
Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, has roots in Italian-American cuisine. It evolved from eggplant parmigiana, a traditional southern Italian dish. Italian immigrants to the United States adapted the recipe, replacing eggplant with chicken.
The dish gained popularity in the mid-20th century as Italian-American restaurants became more common. It quickly became a staple on menus across the country. Today, you can find Chicken Parmesan in many Italian restaurants and home kitchens.
Key Ingredients
Chicken Parmesan relies on a few essential components:
- Chicken breast: Pounded thin and breaded
- Breadcrumbs: For a crispy coating
- Parmesan cheese: Mixed into the breading and sprinkled on top
- Tomato sauce: Adds tangy flavor
- Mozzarella cheese: Melted on top for gooey goodness
The chicken is typically pan-fried until golden, then topped with sauce and cheese. It’s often baked to melt the cheese and blend the flavors. You can serve it over pasta or with various side dishes to complete the meal.
Pairing Sides With Chicken Parmesan
Choosing the right sides enhances your chicken parmesan meal. The key is to balance flavors and textures for a satisfying dining experience.
Balancing Flavors
Pick sides that complement the rich, savory taste of chicken parmesan. Garlic bread adds a buttery, aromatic element. Its crispy exterior and soft interior create a nice contrast.
Try a fresh tomato bruschetta. The bright, acidic tomatoes cut through the heavy cheese and sauce. Drizzle olive oil on top for extra flavor.
A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing offers a light, tangy counterpoint. The crispness of lettuce refreshes your palate between bites of chicken.
For a bolder option, serve pesto pasta. The herbal notes pair well with the chicken’s Italian flavors.
Complementary Textures
Mix up textures to keep your meal interesting.
Creamy spinach adds a velvety smoothness. Season it with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Roasted vegetables provide a firm bite and caramelized taste.
Try zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a Mediterranean flair.
Crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch.
Season them with herbs like rosemary or thyme to match the chicken’s Italian theme.
For a lighter crunch, make a cucumber and tomato salad.
The cool, crisp veggies balance the warm, soft chicken parmesan.