The allure of chicken parmesan is undeniable – its crispy exterior giving way to tender, juicy flesh, smothered in a rich marinara sauce and melted cheese, is a culinary combination that never fails to delight. As much as I adore this beloved dish on its own, it often requires a trusty sidekick to elevate the overall dining experience. This is where things get interesting, as there are countless options to pair with chicken parmesan without overpowering its star quality.
After some careful consideration, I’ve narrowed down my top 16 favorite sides that complement this Italian-American classic perfectly.
Blistered Green Beans With Pickled Shallots And Toasted Breadcrumbs
The sheer delight of this crunchy, salty side dish is undeniable. While I’ve never been particularly fond of green vegetables – a trait I’m afraid to have passed down to my children – they devour this treat without hesitation. The added pop of color also elevates the overall visual appeal of the dish. When paired with the rich marinara sauce and crispy chicken parm, the tangy and salty flavors meld together in perfect harmony.
French Fries
French fries are often the unsung heroes of the meal, but they’re a crucial component nonetheless. They pair well with an array of dishes, possess unparalleled flavor, and garner universal approval. As a plate filler, they excel in complementing rather than upstaging the main event – like your delectable chicken parm. If you prefer a quicker solution, frozen options are readily available.
However, if you’re willing to invest a bit more time, this recipe yields an unparalleled taste experience that will forever alter your perception of fries. The only potential pitfall is that once you’ve savored these handcrafted delights, it’s unlikely you’ll ever be able to settle for store-bought alternatives again.
Mushroom & Pea Pasta
When it comes to pairing chicken parmesan with pasta, the options are endless. However, this particular combination stands out from the rest due to its harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The addition of vegetables not only adds a pop of color but also provides a nutritious twist on the classic dish.
Caesar Salad
For those seeking to avoid carb overload, a light salad can be a suitable alternative. A caesar salad in particular pairs harmoniously with the main course, as its tangy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. However, it’s the garlicky anchovy paste that truly elevates this dish, injecting a savory and umami flavor profile that complements the other components.
Additionally, the crunchy croutons add a satisfying textural element, further enhancing the overall dining experience.
Baked Eggplant & Yoghurt Salad
When summer’s heat becomes unbearable, I turn to a classic comfort dish: chicken parm. But there’s more to my perfect summer meal than just this Italian staple. The sweet spot for me is when it’s paired with creamy baked eggplant and a refreshing yoghurt salad. It’s a match made in heaven! The thick and creamy salad provides the ultimate complement to the crispy, juicy chicken, while its tangy flavor adds an extra layer of complexity.
Together, they create a symphony of flavors that leaves me wanting more.
Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
At first, I was taken aback when served cauliflower mash – my initial hesitation was understandable. Why not just stick with traditional mashed potatoes? What’s wrong with a classic? The doubts swirled in my mind as I gazed at the unfamiliar dish. But one bite was all it took to win me over. The flavors exploded on my palate, revealing a garlicky goodness that was both familiar and excitingly new. The texture was spot-on, mimicking mashed potatoes without the carb load.
Paired with your favorite chicken dish, this surprising side will have you reaching for seconds, thirds, maybe even fourths – it’s that good!
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a culinary delight that’s hard to resist. While we may not be able to count the number of people who dislike garlic bread, it’s safe to say that most of us share a love for this simple yet flavorful treat. The perfect combination of crunchy crust and soft interior makes it irresistible, especially when paired with the rich flavors of butter and garlic.
It’s no wonder that garlic bread is often served alongside popular dishes like chicken parmesan, where it serves as the ultimate accompaniment to mop up any remaining marinara sauce.
Mashed Potatoes
When it comes to satisfying side dishes that leave a lasting impression, few options can rival the classic comfort of mashed potatoes. After experimenting with numerous recipes, I’ve found one that stands out as my absolute favorite – and it’s incredibly simple. This recipe boasts a mere four ingredients, yet manages to deliver on texture, flavor, and indulgent richness. The result is a dish so divine, you’ll want to make room for seconds (and maybe even unbutton your pants a notch or two).
Waffles
The notion of pairing chicken parmesan with waffles might seem unconventional at first, but bear with me as I make the case for this unexpected combination. For those who share a love for fried chicken and waffles, you’ll understand my enthusiasm for this innovative twist. This dish harmoniously blends the classic flavors of fried chicken and waffles with the added richness of marinara sauce and melted cheese, creating an unexpectedly delicious synergy.
Brown Rice
The classic combination of chicken and rice is hard to beat, which may be why we see so many creative dishes featuring this duo. When paired with chicken parmesan, any type of rice will do, but the addition of brown rice takes things to the next level. This recipe offers a chewy, affordable, and healthy option for those looking to balance their meal without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
For an added layer of complexity, consider adding sautéed mushrooms to the rice – the earthy flavors meld together in harmony, creating a truly satisfying taste experience.
Romaine And Celery Salad With Buttermilk Ranch Dressing
If you’re looking for a refreshing accompaniment to your chicken parmesan, look no further than this delightful romaine and celery salad. While the salad itself is a flavorful treat, it’s the garlicky ranch dressing that truly elevates the dish. This creamy condiment packs a punch without sacrificing healthiness, making it a guilt-free pleasure. As you indulge in this tasty side, don’t worry about sacrificing room for the main event – the star of the show will still shine through.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to chicken parmesan, the possibilities for sides are endless. The crispy fried chicken pairs well with a wide range of potato options and vegetables alike. Ultimately, the choice between these depends on the type of meal you’re aiming for. If you’re in the mood for something comforting and filling, a hearty potato dish is a great way to go. However, if you’re looking for a lighter option, vegetables or rice make excellent alternatives.
And for those feeling adventurous, waffles offer a unique and tasty twist that’s sure to please.
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.