What Is Chicken Piccata Served With?
Chicken piccata is typically served with a light and complementary side dish, most commonly pasta, often spaghetti or linguine, tossed in the same luscious lemon-butter sauce.
Introduction to Chicken Piccata and Its Ideal Companions
Chicken piccata, with its bright, tangy, and buttery sauce, is a dish that sings with flavor. The beauty of this Italian-American classic lies not only in its preparation but also in how it harmonizes with carefully chosen accompaniments. Knowing what to serve alongside chicken piccata elevates the entire dining experience, creating a balanced and memorable meal. Understanding the key elements of the dish – its acidity, richness, and light texture – is crucial in selecting the perfect side dishes. We’ll explore a variety of options, from traditional pairings to more creative choices, to ensure your chicken piccata shines.
The Quintessential Pasta Pairing
Pasta is, without a doubt, the most popular and arguably the best accompaniment to chicken piccata. Its neutrality allows the vibrant flavors of the sauce to truly shine. The sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Spaghetti or Linguine: These long, thin pasta shapes are ideal for capturing the creamy, lemony sauce.
- Angel Hair (Capellini): Its delicate texture works well with the lightness of the chicken piccata.
- Consider adding pasta water: A little starchy pasta water added to the sauce helps it emulsify and better coat the pasta.
Beyond Pasta: Exploring Other Starchy Options
While pasta reigns supreme, several other starchy side dishes can complement chicken piccata beautifully.
- Rice: Plain white rice or rice pilaf provides a neutral base that soaks up the piccata sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting contrast to the tangy sauce. Consider adding a touch of garlic or herbs for added flavor.
- Polenta: Soft polenta, either creamy or grilled, provides a hearty and flavorful alternative to pasta or potatoes.
Vegetable Sides: Balancing the Richness
To balance the richness of the chicken piccata, consider serving it with a vibrant and fresh vegetable side dish.
- Asparagus: Steamed, roasted, or grilled asparagus pairs well with the lemony flavor.
- Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic and a squeeze of lemon add a refreshing crunch.
- Spinach: Wilted spinach with garlic and olive oil offers a simple and nutritious complement.
- Broccoli: Lightly steamed or roasted broccoli can provide an earthy counterpoint to the tangy sauce.
Bread and Salad: Completing the Meal
A simple crusty bread is essential for soaking up every last drop of the delicious piccata sauce. A light and refreshing salad can also enhance the overall dining experience.
- Crusty Bread: A baguette or Italian bread is perfect for mopping up the sauce.
- Simple Green Salad: A salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
- Caprese Salad: The freshness of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil complements the lemony flavors of the chicken piccata.
Wine Pairing: Choosing the Perfect Sip
The right wine can elevate your chicken piccata experience to new heights.
- Dry White Wine: Crisp, dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Vermentino are excellent choices.
- Unoaked Chardonnay: A lightly oaked or unoaked Chardonnay can also complement the dish’s richness without overpowering the lemon.
- Avoid: Red wines, especially those with strong tannins, are generally not recommended.
Table: Side Dish Options at a Glance
| Side Dish | Category | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti/Linguine | Pasta | Classic choice; ensure pasta is al dente. |
| Angel Hair Pasta | Pasta | Lighter alternative; cooks quickly. |
| White Rice | Starch | Neutral base; good for soaking up sauce. |
| Mashed Potatoes | Starch | Comforting; add garlic or herbs for flavor. |
| Asparagus | Vegetable | Steamed, roasted, or grilled; complements the lemon. |
| Green Beans | Vegetable | Sautéed with garlic; provides a refreshing crunch. |
| Simple Green Salad | Salad | Light vinaigrette; balances the richness. |
| Crusty Bread | Bread | Essential for soaking up the sauce. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I serve chicken piccata with gnocchi?
Yes, gnocchi can be a delicious alternative to traditional pasta. The pillowy texture of gnocchi soaks up the sauce beautifully. Be sure to use potato gnocchi for the best texture. Consider pan-frying the gnocchi before adding the sauce for a slightly crispy exterior.
What is the best way to reheat chicken piccata?
To reheat chicken piccata, it’s best to do so gently to prevent the chicken from drying out. Add a little broth or white wine to the pan to help maintain moisture. Reheat over low heat on the stovetop, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken tough.
Can I make chicken piccata sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the piccata sauce ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a touch of broth or white wine to loosen it up if needed. Be careful not to overheat, as the lemon juice can become bitter if cooked for too long.
What if I don’t have capers?
Capers are essential to the characteristic flavor of chicken piccata. If you absolutely can’t find them, a very small amount of finely chopped green olives can be used as a substitute, but the flavor will be significantly different. The brine and saltiness of capers are key to the dish.
Is chicken piccata gluten-free?
Traditionally, chicken piccata is not gluten-free due to the flour used to dredge the chicken. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour or cornstarch for dredging. Ensure that your pasta is also gluten-free if serving it with pasta.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted. Chicken thighs will take longer to cook than chicken breasts. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Chicken thighs can add a richer flavor to the dish.
What’s the best kind of lemon to use?
Fresh lemon juice is essential for the best flavor. Meyer lemons are a great option if available, as they are slightly sweeter and less acidic than regular lemons. Avoid using bottled lemon juice, as it lacks the bright, fresh flavor of freshly squeezed lemons.
Can I add mushrooms to chicken piccata?
Adding mushrooms can add an earthy note to the dish. Sauté the mushrooms with garlic before adding the other sauce ingredients. Cremini or button mushrooms are good choices. Just be aware that adding mushrooms will alter the classic flavor profile.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
To prevent the chicken from drying out, don’t overcook it. Cook it until it’s just cooked through, and then immediately remove it from the pan. Allowing the chicken to rest in the sauce will also help it retain moisture. Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures even cooking.
Can I make chicken piccata without wine?
While the wine adds depth of flavor, you can make chicken piccata without it. Substitute chicken broth for the white wine. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious. Adding a little extra lemon juice can help compensate for the missing acidity.
What cheese pairs well with chicken piccata?
While not traditionally added directly to the dish, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or pecorino romano cheese over the pasta or chicken can add a salty and savory note. Avoid using pre-grated cheese, as it doesn’t melt as well.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it for a few minutes to allow it to reduce. Alternatively, you can whisk together a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and add it to the sauce while simmering. Be careful not to add too much cornstarch, as it can make the sauce gluey.