What to Serve with Chicken Parmigiana?
Chicken Parmigiana, a classic Italian-American dish, is a crowd-pleaser. A juicy breaded and fried chicken cutlet topped with melted mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce, served with a side of pasta or a green salad, is a match made in heaven. But what else can you serve with this beloved dish to elevate the meal and satisfy your guests’ taste buds? In this article, we’ll explore some delicious options to consider.
Sides that Pair Well with Chicken Parmigiana
Savory Options
- Spaghetti Aglio e Olio: A classic Italian pasta dish made with spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and sometimes red pepper flakes. It’s a simple yet flavorful option that complements the richness of the chicken parm.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or eggplant can provide a nice contrast in texture and flavor to the crispy chicken. Simply toss the veggies with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender.
- Garlic Bread: A classic Italian staple, garlic bread is a natural pairing with chicken parm. Simply butter slices of bread, sprinkle with minced garlic, and bake until crispy.
Fresh and Crunchy Options
- Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
- Crisp Garlic Knots: These knots of garlic buttery goodness are easy to make and add a fun crunch to the meal.
- Steamed Asparagus: Asparagus is a natural pairing with the rich flavors of chicken parm. Simply steam it until tender and serve with a squeeze of lemon.
Pasta Alternatives
- Rigatoni alla Vodka: For a twist on traditional spaghetti, try pairing your chicken parm with rigatoni and a creamy vodka-infused tomato sauce.
- Penne with Marinara and Ricotta: Another pasta option, penne with marinara and ricotta cheese provides a creamy and comforting contrast to the crispy chicken.
- Ziti with Meatballs: For a heartier option, try pairing your chicken parm with ziti and homemade meatballs.
Additional Tips and Tricks
- Consider Your Audience: When serving chicken parm, consider your audience and tailor your sides accordingly. For a more casual gathering, a simple green salad and garlic bread may be sufficient. For a special occasion, consider more elaborate options like rigatoni alla vodka.
- Keep it Simple: While it’s tempting to get creative with sides, remember that sometimes simplicity is the best option. A well-made chicken parm can hold its own without a lot of extra fanfare.
- Make it a Family Affair: Chicken parm is a great dish to make with kids, as they can help with breading and frying the chicken. Make it a fun family activity and enjoy the fruits of your labor together.
Conclusion
Chicken Parmigiana is a beloved dish that can be elevated with a variety of sides. From savory options like spaghetti aglio e olio to fresh and crunchy options like green salad and garlic knots, there’s something for everyone. By considering your audience and keeping it simple, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that will impress your guests. So next time you’re serving chicken parm, don’t be afraid to get creative and try something new!