Chicken Parmesan is a tasty Italian-American dish loved by many. It’s made with breaded chicken topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese.
While it’s great on its own, pairing it with the right sides can make your meal even better.
The best side dishes for chicken Parmesan add variety and balance to your plate.
You can choose from pasta, vegetables, salads, and bread options. These sides can make your meal more filling and add new flavors and textures.
With the right mix, you’ll have a complete and satisfying dinner.
1. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken Parmesan. Its crispy exterior and soft interior provide a nice contrast to the tender chicken.
The garlicky flavor complements the savory Parmesan coating on the chicken. The buttery bread also helps soak up any extra sauce on your plate.
You can make garlic bread easily at home or buy it pre-made from the store. Either way, serve it warm alongside your chicken Parmesan for a satisfying meal.
For an extra treat, sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese on top of your garlic bread before serving. This ties the flavors together even more.
2. Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is a great side dish for chicken parmesan. The crisp romaine lettuce provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy main course.
The tangy Caesar dressing adds a zesty flavor that complements the savory chicken. You can make your own dressing or use store-bought for convenience.
Add crunchy croutons for extra texture. Sprinkle some fresh Parmesan cheese on top to tie the flavors together with the chicken parmesan.
This classic salad is easy to prepare and serves as a light, tasty accompaniment to your meal. It helps balance out the heavier elements of chicken parmesan.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with chicken parmesan. You can use a mix of colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and cherry tomatoes.
Toss the chopped vegetables in olive oil, salt, and herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes.
The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables. It also gives them a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
This side dish adds vibrant colors to your plate. It also provides a healthy balance to the rich chicken parmesan.
4. Caprese Salad
Caprese salad is a perfect side for chicken parmesan. This Italian classic brings fresh flavors to your plate.
You’ll love the combination of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. The salad’s colors match the Italian flag, adding visual appeal to your meal.
Drizzle some balsamic glaze or olive oil over the salad for extra flavor. The acidity balances the rich chicken parmesan nicely.
This light side dish won’t overpower your main course. It’s easy to prepare and requires no cooking, saving you time in the kitchen.
5. Fettuccine Alfredo
Fettuccine Alfredo makes a tasty side dish for chicken parmesan. The creamy pasta complements the crispy, saucy chicken nicely.
To make it, cook fettuccine noodles and toss them with butter and parmesan cheese. Add some heavy cream for extra richness.
You can sprinkle extra parmesan on top before serving. The cheese in both dishes ties them together well.
For a lighter version, use milk instead of cream. You could also add some garlic or herbs to boost the flavor.
6. Bruschetta
Bruschetta makes a tasty side dish for chicken parmesan. You can prepare it by toasting slices of baguette and topping them with diced tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil.
Drizzle olive oil over the bruschetta for added flavor. The crispy bread contrasts nicely with the tender chicken parmesan.
The fresh tomato and herb topping also balances out the rich cheese and sauce of the main dish. Serve bruschetta alongside your chicken parmesan for an Italian-inspired meal.
7. Steamed Broccoli
Steamed broccoli is a simple yet nutritious side dish for chicken parmesan. It adds a pop of green to your plate and balances the richness of the main course.
You can season your broccoli with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. For extra flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of garlic powder.
Steaming broccoli is quick and easy. It preserves the vegetable’s nutrients and bright color. The mild taste of broccoli complements the savory chicken parmesan without overpowering it.
This healthy side dish is low in calories but high in fiber and vitamins. It’s a great way to add more vegetables to your meal.
8. Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini noodles offer a tasty, low-carb alternative to pasta with your chicken parmesan. You can easily make them by spiralizing fresh zucchini into spaghetti-like strands.
These noodles add color and nutrients to your plate. They’re packed with vitamins and minerals, making your meal healthier.
You can serve zucchini noodles raw or lightly cooked. Try tossing them with olive oil and garlic for extra flavor. They pair well with the rich taste of chicken parmesan.
For a complete meal, consider topping your zucchini noodles with some marinara sauce. This combo brings together the flavors of traditional Italian cuisine in a lighter package.
9. Risotto
Risotto makes a delicious side dish for chicken parmesan. This creamy rice dish adds a touch of elegance to your meal. You can prepare risotto with chicken broth for extra flavor.
Try adding some Parmesan cheese to your risotto. This pairs well with the cheese on the chicken. For variety, mix in some vegetables like peas or mushrooms.
Risotto takes about 20 minutes to cook. Stir it often to release the starches and create a creamy texture. The final dish should be slightly firm, not mushy.
Serve a small portion of risotto next to your chicken parmesan. The rich flavors complement each other nicely.
10. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a creamy and comforting side dish for chicken parmesan. They soak up the savory sauce and provide a smooth contrast to the crispy chicken.
You can make classic mashed potatoes with butter and milk. For extra flavor, try adding garlic or herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Want a lighter option? Use chicken broth instead of cream.
For a cheesy twist, mix in some grated parmesan. This echoes the flavors in the main dish.
Mashed potatoes are easy to prepare while your chicken bakes. They’re filling and sure to please everyone at the table.
11. Spinach Salad
A spinach salad adds a fresh and healthy element to your chicken Parmesan meal. Start with a base of crisp baby spinach leaves. Add sliced red onions and juicy cherry tomatoes for color and flavor.
Toss in some crunchy bacon bits and sliced hard-boiled eggs for extra protein. A light vinaigrette dressing works well with this salad. Try a balsamic or raspberry vinaigrette for a touch of sweetness.
You can customize your spinach salad with other toppings too. Crumbled feta cheese, sliced mushrooms, or toasted nuts are tasty options. This versatile side dish complements the rich flavors of chicken Parmesan perfectly.
12. Pesto Pasta
Pesto pasta makes a great side for chicken parmesan. The basil and garlic flavors in the pesto complement the tomato sauce on the chicken nicely.
You can use any type of pasta shape you like. Toss cooked pasta with homemade or store-bought pesto sauce. Add some grated parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
This side dish comes together quickly while your chicken parmesan is baking. The bright green color of the pesto pasta also looks appealing next to the golden chicken and red sauce on the plate.
13. Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is a tasty side dish for chicken parmesan. You can cook it quickly on the grill or a grill pan.
Brush the asparagus with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning once.
The smoky flavor from grilling complements the rich chicken parmesan. The crisp-tender texture adds a nice contrast to the crispy chicken coating.
For extra flavor, squeeze lemon juice over the grilled asparagus or sprinkle with parmesan cheese before serving.
14. Arugula Salad
Arugula salad is a tasty side for chicken parmesan. Its peppery flavor balances the rich cheese and sauce.
You can make a simple arugula salad in minutes. Toss fresh arugula with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add shaved Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
For more crunch, throw in some cherry tomatoes and toasted pine nuts. A drizzle of balsamic vinegar gives a nice tang. This light salad refreshes your palate between bites of chicken parmesan.
15. Polenta
Polenta makes a tasty side for chicken Parmesan. This cornmeal dish has a smooth, creamy texture that balances the crispy chicken nicely.
You can serve polenta soft and spoonable or let it firm up and slice it. Add some grated Parmesan cheese to the polenta for extra flavor.
The mild corn taste of polenta works well with the tomato sauce and melted cheese on the chicken. It soaks up the sauce beautifully too.
For a fancier touch, try grilling or pan-frying polenta slices until golden brown. This gives a crispy outside and soft inside.
Importance of Side Dishes
Side dishes play a key role in making chicken parmesan a complete meal. They add variety and balance to your plate.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
Side dishes bring new tastes to your chicken parmesan dinner. They can add fresh, tangy, or savory notes that complement the main dish.
A Caesar salad gives a bright, crisp contrast to the rich, cheesy chicken. Garlic bread adds extra flavor with its buttery, garlicky taste.
Bruschetta brings a burst of fresh tomato and herbs. These sides make each bite more interesting. They keep your taste buds excited throughout the meal.
Some sides can even boost the flavors in the chicken parmesan. For example, a tomato-based side can echo the marinara sauce on the chicken.
Balancing the Meal
Side dishes help create a well-rounded meal. They add nutrients that might be missing from chicken parmesan alone.
Veggie sides like sautéed spinach or zucchini fries add vitamins and fiber.
These healthier options balance out the heavier main dish. They can make you feel more satisfied without overeating.
Side dishes also add different textures to your plate. Crispy garlic bread or crunchy salad greens contrast nicely with the soft, cheesy chicken.
This mix of textures makes eating more enjoyable. It turns a simple chicken dish into a full, satisfying dinner experience.
Pairing Chicken Parmesan with Wine
The right wine can elevate your chicken Parmesan experience. Red wines are classic choices, but some white and rosé options can also complement this dish nicely.
Choosing the Right Red
Red wines pair well with chicken Parmesan due to their bold flavors.
Chianti is a top pick, with its medium body and bright acidity. Serve it at 60-65°F (15-18°C) to bring out the best flavors.
Sangiovese is another great option. Its high acidity cuts through the rich cheese and tomato sauce.
For a fuller-bodied choice, try a Barbera or Zinfandel.
When picking a red, look for ones with moderate tannins. Too much can overpower the dish. Aim for wines with cherry, plum, or herbal notes to complement the tomato sauce.
Considering White and Rosé Options
While reds are popular, don’t rule out white or rosé wines.
A crisp Pinot Grigio can refresh your palate between bites of the rich, cheesy chicken.
For a bolder white, try an oaked Chardonnay. Its buttery notes match well with the melted cheese.
Rosé wines offer a middle ground. Choose a dry rosé with good acidity to balance the dish’s flavors.
Serve white and rosé wines chilled, around 45-50°F (7-10°C). This temperature helps maintain their crispness and fruit flavors.
Remember, personal taste matters most. Try different pairings to find your favorite match with chicken Parmesan.