Chicken Parmesan is a beloved dish that has been pleasing palates for years. This Italian-American classic features juicy chicken breast that is breaded, fried, and smothered in rich tomato sauce before being baked to perfection with melting mozzarella cheese. The warm, comforting flavors of this hearty meal make it a mainstay on many home-cooked menus across the nation.
But what do you eat with this delicious entree? There are countless options, but some pairings might surprise you. From classic pasta to unconventional sides, the perfect accompaniment can make all the difference in a meal. In this article, we explore some popular and unexpected choices to help you elevate your Chicken Parmesan game.
The Traditional Accompaniments of Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan is a delicious Italian-American dish consisting of breaded chicken cutlets topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese. It is an incredibly popular dish that can be found in many Italian restaurants around the world. The flavor of Chicken Parmesan is best complemented by traditional Italian accompaniments.
The most popular traditional accompaniments of Chicken Parmesan include spaghetti or other pasta, garlic bread, and a side salad. The spaghetti is usually cooked al dente and served with a generous amount of tomato sauce and grated Parmesan cheese. The garlic bread is made by toasting bread and spreading it with garlic butter, then serving it alongside the chicken cutlet. The side salad is usually made of lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers, dressed with a simple vinaigrette to provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the Chicken Parmesan. Other traditional accompaniments include steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus that add a healthy, colorful touch to the dish.
Unconventional Pairings for Chicken Parmesan
When it comes to pairing chicken parmesan with sides, most people tend to stick to the classic options like spaghetti, garlic bread, or salad. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, there are a plethora of unconventional pairings that can take your chicken parmesan meal to the next level.
One such option is roasted root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips. The natural sweetness of the veggies complements the tanginess of the tomato sauce, while the slightly crispy texture provides a satisfying contrast to the juicy chicken. Another unconventional option is sautéed spinach with garlic and pine nuts. Not only is spinach packed with nutrients, but its slightly bitter flavor and tender texture creates a delicious contrast with the savory chicken and melted cheese. So next time you’re making chicken parmesan, don’t be afraid to step outside the box and try something new.
The Best Wine to Pair with Chicken Parmesan
Pairing the right wine with your Chicken Parmesan can take your meal to a whole new level. Generally, a medium-bodied red wine such as Chianti Classico, Valpolicella, or Pinot Noir is a perfect match. The acidity in the wine cuts through the rich and crispy chicken and tomato sauce, while the tannins balance out the saltiness of the parmesan cheese.
If you prefer a white wine, try pairing Chicken Parmesan with an Italian white wine like Pinot Grigio or Vermentino. These wines have crisp acidity that complements the tangy tomato sauce and also heightens the aroma and flavor of the grated parmesan cheese. The buttery and light nature of the white wine also creates an excellent balance with the heaviness of the chicken and cheese, making it a perfect and refreshing partner to a hearty and comforting meal like Chicken Parmesan.
Simple Salad and Vegetable Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken Parmesan
When it comes to serving chicken parmesan, the addition of a simple salad and vegetable side can really take the meal to the next level. Not only do these sides add some color and crunch to your plate, but they can also help to balance out the richness of the chicken and cheese.
One classic side dish to pair with chicken parmesan is a simple green salad. A mix of crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy chicken. Alternatively, you could try a Caesar salad for a more decadent option with a creamy dressing. Similarly, roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini can provide a healthy, flavorful counterpoint to the indulgent chicken parmesan. Try tossing the veggies in some olive oil, salt, and pepper for an easy yet tasty side dish.
Delicious Bread Options to Complement Your Chicken Parmesan
When it comes to chicken parmesan, it’s important to have the right bread option to complement this classic Italian food. One of the most popular bread options to pair with chicken parmesan is garlic bread. It’s warm, crispy, and buttery, and it’s a great way to soak up the tomato sauce from the chicken. You can also add a sprinkle of parmesan and herbs for extra flavor. Another option is focaccia bread. It is robustly flavored and has a soft, pillowy texture that pairs well with the chicken parmesan.
If you want a healthier option, you can try whole-grain bread or sourdough bread. Whole-grain bread is packed with fiber and protein, which is good for your digestive system and overall health. Sourdough bread, on the other hand, has a tangy flavor that complements the rich tomato and cheesy taste of the chicken parmesan. Whichever bread option you choose, make sure it’s fresh and warm so that you can enjoy it to the fullest. With these delicious bread options, your chicken parmesan dinner will be a complete feast.
Soup and Pasta Dishes to Enjoy Alongside Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that is loved by many. It consists of breaded chicken breast topped with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. To make the most out of your chicken parmesan meal, consider pairing it with a delicious soup or pasta dish.
For a hearty and filling meal, try pairing your chicken parmesan with a bowl of minestrone soup. This classic Italian soup is made with a hearty combination of vegetables, beans, and pasta, and is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Pasta dishes like spaghetti or fettuccine alfredo also make great pairings with chicken parmesan. These pasta dishes perfectly complement the flavor of the chicken parmesan and make for a satisfying and delicious meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or having a cozy night in, pairing your chicken parmesan with soup or pasta dishes is sure to be a winning combination.
Sweet Desserts to End Your Chicken Parmesan Meal on a High Note
After indulging in a savoury Chicken Parmesan dish, it’s time to treat your sweet tooth to a delightful dessert. It’s an excellent way to round off your meal and leave a lasting impression. Some of the best sweet desserts to complement your Chicken Parmesan include Chocolate lava cake, Tiramisu and Panna Cotta.
Chocolate Lava Cake is rich and gooey, with its hot melted chocolate centre. It pairs well with Chicken Parmesan as it contrasts the savoury chicken flavours with sweet and smooth chocolate goodness. Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that has a creamy and light texture. Its coffee and cocoa flavours complement and enhance the taste of Chicken Parmesan. Lastly, Panna Cotta, made of cream and sugar, is a perfect delicacy that brings a silky smooth richness to contrast the savoury umami flavours of the chicken dish.
In conclusion, sweet desserts are an excellent way to complete your Chicken Parmesan meal. Choose one of these delectable desserts, and you’re sure to end your meal on a high note with a happy belly.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, chicken parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that is enjoyed by many. The dish consists of breaded chicken breasts topped with tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. While it can be served on its own, there are many delicious sides that can be paired with chicken parmesan to make a complete meal.
Some popular sides to serve with chicken parmesan include pasta, vegetables, garlic bread, and salad. Each of these sides brings a unique flavor and texture to the dish, making it even more satisfying to eat. Overall, chicken parmesan is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or special occasions.