Chicken Parmesan, or chicken parm, is a beloved dish that combines crispy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. But what can you serve with this Italian-American favorite to make your meal truly unforgettable? Let’s dive into some perfect pairings that will complement your chicken parm perfectly!
What Goes Well with Chicken Parm?
When you’re enjoying a delicious chicken parm, the right side dishes can make all the difference. From pasta to salads, let’s explore some great options.
Classic Sides for Chicken Parm
Chicken parm is a hearty dish, so you’ll want sides that balance its rich flavors. Here are some classic choices:
Pasta
Pasta is a no-brainer when it comes to chicken parm. The textures and flavors work beautifully together.
| Type of Pasta | Description |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | Thin and light, perfect with marinara sauce. |
| Fettuccine | Flat noodles that hold sauce well, especially Alfredo. |
| Penne | Tubular pasta that captures sauce in every bite. |
Spaghetti is a traditional choice, often served with extra marinara. Fettuccine Alfredo, on the other hand, offers a creamy contrast. Penne arrabbiata brings a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with chicken parm.
Garlic Bread
Who doesn’t love garlic bread? Its crispy, buttery goodness complements the textures of chicken parm.
| Ingredient | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Butter | Rich and creamy |
| Garlic | Pungent and aromatic |
| Parsley | Fresh and slightly bitter |
Garlic bread is perfect for sopping up extra marinara sauce. It’s a simple yet satisfying side that everyone loves.
Fresh and Light Sides
Sometimes, a light and fresh side is just what you need to balance the richness of chicken parm. Here are some great options:
Caesar Salad
A Caesar salad offers a crisp, tangy contrast to chicken parm.
| Ingredient | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Romaine Lettuce | Crisp and refreshing |
| Caesar Dressing | Tangy and creamy |
| Parmesan Cheese | Savory and umami-rich |
The crunchy lettuce and creamy dressing make this salad a perfect match for chicken parm. Plus, the extra Parmesan ties everything together.
Caprese Salad
A Caprese salad is a light and colorful side that brings a burst of freshness.
| Ingredient | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes | Juicy and sweet |
| Mozzarella | Soft and mild |
| Basil | Fresh and aromatic |
| Balsamic Glaze | Sweet and tangy |
The combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is a classic. The balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish that’s delightful with chicken parm.
What Drinks Pair Well with Chicken Parm?
A good drink can elevate your chicken parm experience. Whether you prefer wine, beer, or something non-alcoholic, there are great options to consider.
Wine Pairings
Wine is a classic choice with Italian dishes. Here are some wines that go well with chicken parm:
Red Wines
| Wine Type | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Chianti | Dry with cherry and spice notes |
| Merlot | Smooth with berry flavors and a hint of chocolate |
| Zinfandel | Rich with black pepper and plum notes |
Chianti is a traditional pairing with Italian dishes. Its acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese and chicken. Merlot offers a smoother option with a touch of sweetness. Zinfandel, with its bold flavors, complements the savory marinara sauce perfectly.
White Wines
| Wine Type | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Pinot Grigio | Light and crisp with citrus notes |
| Sauvignon Blanc | Herbal and tangy with a clean finish |
Pinot Grigio is a refreshing choice that won’t overpower your meal. Sauvignon Blanc offers a herbal note that pairs nicely with the basil and other herbs in chicken parm.
Beer Pairings
If you prefer beer, there are plenty of options that pair well with chicken parm:
| Beer Type | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Pale Ale | Hoppy with a slightly bitter finish |
| Amber Ale | Malty with caramel and toasty notes |
| Pilsner | Light and crisp with a clean finish |
Pale ales offer a nice bitterness that balances the richness of chicken parm. Amber ales bring a malty sweetness that complements the marinara sauce. Pilsners, with their light and crisp profile, are a refreshing option.
Non-Alcoholic Options
For those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, there are plenty of tasty choices:
| Drink | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Sparkling Water | Fizzy and refreshing |
| Iced Tea | Light and slightly sweet |
| Lemonade | Tangy and sweet |
Sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime is a simple and refreshing choice. Iced tea, whether sweetened or unsweetened, pairs nicely with the savory flavors of chicken parm. Lemonade offers a sweet and tangy contrast that’s delightful.
What Desserts Go Well with Chicken Parm?
No meal is complete without a delicious dessert. Here are some sweet treats that pair perfectly with chicken parm:
Classic Italian Desserts
Italian desserts are a natural choice to finish off your chicken parm meal.
Tiramisu
| Ingredient | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Espresso | Rich and bitter |
| Mascarpone | Creamy and slightly tangy |
| Cocoa Powder | Bitter and slightly sweet |
Tiramisu is a rich and creamy dessert with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese. It’s a delightful way to end your meal.
Cannoli
| Ingredient | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Ricotta Cheese | Creamy and slightly sweet |
| Chocolate Chips | Rich and slightly bitter |
| Pistachios | Nutty and slightly sweet |
Cannoli are crispy pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta cheese and often topped with chocolate chips or pistachios. They’re a sweet and crunchy treat that’s hard to resist.
Light and Refreshing Desserts
If you prefer something lighter, there are plenty of refreshing options:
Lemon Sorbet
| Ingredient | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Lemon Juice | Tangy and sweet |
| Sugar | Sweet and slightly grainy |
Lemon sorbet is light, tangy, and refreshing. It’s a great palate cleanser after a rich meal like chicken parm.
Fruit Salad
| Fruit | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Berries | Sweet and slightly tart |
| Melons | Juicy and sweet |
| Citrus Fruits | Tangy and juicy |
A fresh fruit salad with a mix of berries, melons, and citrus fruits is a healthy and refreshing way to end your meal. The natural sweetness of the fruit is a perfect contrast to the savory chicken parm.
How to Enhance Your Chicken Parm Experience?
Adding a few special touches can make your chicken parm meal even more memorable. Here are some tips:
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh ingredients can make a big difference in the flavor of your dish.
| Ingredient | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Fresh Herbs | More aromatic and flavorful than dried herbs |
| Homemade Sauce | Richer and more complex than store-bought |
| Fresh Mozzarella | Creamier and more flavorful than pre-packaged |
Using fresh basil, parsley, or oregano can elevate your dish. A homemade marinara sauce will have a depth of flavor that store-bought can’t match. And fresh mozzarella cheese melts beautifully and has a wonderful, creamy texture.
Presentation Matters
How you present your chicken parm can enhance the dining experience.
| Presentation Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Garnish with Herbs | Adds color and fresh flavor |
| Use Nice Plates | Makes the meal feel more special |
| Serve with Style | Arranging sides neatly can make the meal more appealing |
Garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley adds a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serving on nice plates and arranging the sides neatly can make your meal feel more special and inviting.
Pair with the Right Music
Setting the right atmosphere with music can enhance your dining experience.
| Music Type | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Italian Classics | Sets a traditional and cozy mood |
| Jazz | Adds a sophisticated and relaxing vibe |
| Pop Hits | Keeps the atmosphere lively and fun |
Playing some classic Italian music or soft jazz in the background can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. If you prefer a more lively vibe, some upbeat pop hits can do the trick.
Conclusion
Chicken parm is a versatile and delicious dish that pairs well with a variety of sides, drinks, and desserts. Whether you prefer classic pasta and garlic bread, a fresh Caesar salad, a glass of Chianti, or a light lemon sorbet, there’s something for everyone. Using fresh ingredients, presenting your meal beautifully, and setting the right atmosphere can elevate your chicken parm experience to the next level. So, next time you make chicken parm, try some of these pairings and tips to make your meal truly unforgettable.
FAQs
What are the best side dishes for chicken parm?
The best side dishes for chicken parm include pasta (like spaghetti or fettuccine), garlic bread, and fresh salads like Caesar or Caprese. These sides complement the rich flavors of the chicken and marinara sauce.
Can I pair white wine with chicken parm?
Yes, you can pair white wine with chicken parm. Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc are excellent choices. They are light and crisp, balancing the rich flavors of the dish.
What desserts go well with chicken parm?
Classic Italian desserts like tiramisu and cannoli pair wonderfully with chicken parm. For a lighter option, try lemon sorbet or a fresh fruit salad.
How can I make my chicken parm meal more special?
Using fresh ingredients, presenting your meal beautifully, and setting the right atmosphere with music can make your chicken parm meal more special. Fresh herbs, homemade sauce, and nice plates can make a big difference.
What non-alcoholic drinks pair well with chicken parm?
Sparkling water, iced tea, and lemonade are great non-alcoholic drink options that pair well with chicken parm. They are refreshing and complement the savory flavors of the dish.