Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a classic Italian-American dish that features breaded and fried chicken cutlets smothered in tomato sauce and melted cheese. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for dinner parties, weeknight dinners, and even meal prep.
However, while the chicken parm itself is delicious, finding the right sides to complement it can be challenging. In this article, we will explore some of the best side dishes that go well with chicken parm and elevate the meal to a whole new level. From classic Italian pasta dishes to healthy salads, there’s something for everyone here. So let’s get started!
Classic Side Dishes That Complement Chicken Parmigiana
Chicken Parmigiana, also known as Chicken Parmesan, is an Italian-American dish made of breaded chicken fillets topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. It is a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion. However, to make it even more satisfying, it is important to pair it with the right sides.
Classic side dishes that complement Chicken Parmigiana include pasta, garlic bread, and salad. Spaghetti or linguine with tomato sauce or Alfredo sauce is a classic choice that adds to the Italian theme of the meal. Garlic bread, with its crispy crust and buttery garlic flavor, is a popular choice that soaks up the excess sauce and cheese. Salad, with its refreshing and crunchy texture, balances out the heaviness of the dish while providing some much-needed greens.
Other classic side dishes that go well with Chicken Parmigiana include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and roasted potatoes. These sides add some variety to the meal while matching the hearty and comforting nature of the dish. Overall, it is important to choose sides that complement the flavors and textures of the main dish while adding some balance and variety to the meal.
Exploring Unconventional Pairings for Chicken Parm
If you are looking for something different to pair with your chicken parm, consider some unconventional options that can add new flavors to your meal. One option is roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers. These add a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals, and the roasted flavor pairs well with the chicken’s marinara sauce and melted cheese.
Another unconventional pairing for chicken parm is a refreshing salad with lemon vinaigrette dressing. Mix some leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices in a large bowl, sprinkle some feta cheese and almonds on top, and drizzle the lemon vinaigrette. The acidity in the dressing counterbalances the richness of the chicken parm, and the crunchy salad adds a different texture to your meal. Don’t shy away from trying new things – you might just discover a new favorite pairing with your chicken parm.
Perfect Wines to Accompany Your Chicken Parmigiana
Pairing wine with food is an art that takes practice and experimentation. Chicken Parmigiana is a classic Italian dish that is delicious on its own, but it can be elevated to a new level with the perfect wine pairing. A good rule of thumb is to match the weight and intensity of the wine with the dish you’re serving.
For a hearty Chicken Parmigiana, a full-bodied wine like a red Chianti or Barbera would be a good match. The acidity in these wines cuts through the richness of the cheese and tomato sauce, while the tannins help cleanse the palate. If you prefer a white wine, a crisp and acidic Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc can brighten up the flavors of the dish. For a more decadent pairing, you could also try a bubbly Prosecco or Champagne to add a touch of luxury to your dining experience. Whatever your preference, make sure to experiment with different wines to find the perfect match for your Chicken Parmigiana.
Adding a Twist to Your Chicken Parm with Creative Garnishes
Adding a Twist to Your Chicken Parm with Creative Garnishes
Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian favorite, and there are many ways to add a unique twist to this delicious dish. The right garnishes can make all the difference, transforming a simple meal into a flavorful masterpiece. To make your chicken parm stand out, consider adding some creative garnishes.
One option is to sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of your chicken para dish. This adds a nutty and savory undertone to the dish and enhances the cheesy flavor. Another great idea is to add some fresh basil leaves or parsley to the top of the dish before serving. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also gives the dish a touch of freshness. You can also use a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of lemon juice to create a tangy taste that balances the savory and salty flavors. With these tips, you can take your chicken parm to the next level.
Tips for Serving Chicken Parmigiana with a Delicious Salad
Chicken Parmigiana is a classic Italian dish widely loved for its crispy fried chicken and savory tomato sauce. It pairs well with a variety of sides, but serving it with a delicious salad can add a refreshing touch to the meal. Here are a few tips to help you create a mouth-watering salad to complement your Chicken Parmigiana.
Firstly, keep the salad simple and fresh with a mix of greens, such as arugula, spinach, or romaine lettuce. Add juicy cherry tomatoes, sliced bell peppers, and thinly sliced red onions for texture. You can also incorporate some Italian ingredients like olives, marinated artichokes, or roasted bell peppers to complement the flavors of the chicken. Lastly, drizzle a light vinaigrette dressing over the salad or serve it with a side of balsamic vinegar and olive oil for added tanginess. With these tips, you can easily create a delicious salad that will elevate the flavors of your Chicken Parmigiana dish.
Experimenting with Seasonal Vegetables to Enhance Your Chicken Parm
Adding seasonal vegetables to chicken parm is an easy way to elevate the dish and add some freshness and color to the plate. Choose a vegetable that complements the flavors of the chicken parm, such as roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or grilled zucchini. You can also experiment with different cooking techniques for the vegetables, such as grilling, roasting, or sautéing, to add some variety and texture to the dish.
Another way to enhance your chicken parm with seasonal vegetables is to incorporate them into the sauce. You can add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or even pumpkin puree to the tomato sauce to give it a unique twist. The vegetables will not only add flavor to the sauce, but also make it more nutritious and colorful. Whether you choose to add vegetables as a side or in the sauce, experimenting with seasonal produce is a great way to make your chicken parm more interesting and enjoyable.
Matching Your Chicken Parmigiana with the Perfect Pasta Dish.
One of the best parts about enjoying a plate of chicken Parmesan is the ability to pair it with a side of pasta. There are so many different pasta dishes that can complement the flavors of chicken Parm, making it a versatile meal that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
When it comes to selecting the perfect pasta dish to pair with your chicken Parmigiana, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to consider the sauce that’s used on both the chicken and the pasta – if you’re already enjoying a rich tomato sauce on your chicken, you might want to choose a lighter, creamier pasta dish to balance things out. Alternatively, if your chicken Parmesan is served with a creamy sauce, you might want to choose a hearty pasta like penne or rigatoni to soak up all of the flavors. Ultimately, the key is to experiment and find the perfect combination that satisfies your cravings and leaves your taste buds singing.
The Conclusion
Chicken Parmesan is undoubtedly a classic dish that is loved by people of all ages. However, selecting the right accompaniments can elevate the flavors of the dish to a whole new level. By pairing chicken Parmesan with the right sides, you can create a well-rounded meal that is satisfying and delicious.
From classic sides like garlic bread and spaghetti to more unconventional options like roasted vegetables and Caesar salad, the choices for complementing chicken Parmesan are endless. Ultimately, pairing chicken Parmesan with a side that complements its flavors and balances its richness is the key to creating a memorable dining experience. By experimenting with different sides and taking cues from this guide, you are sure to find the perfect combination that works for you.