Chicken Parmesan is a beloved Italian-American dish known for its crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, pairing it with the right side dishes, beverages, and desserts can elevate your meal to a whole new level. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what goes well with Chicken Parmesan to ensure a delightful dining experience.
What Goes Well with Chicken Parmesan?
The Best Side Dishes for Chicken Parmesan
Classic Caesar Salad
A Caesar salad is a traditional and popular side dish that complements the rich and savory flavors of Chicken Parmesan. The crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast.
Recipe for Classic Caesar Salad:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Romaine lettuce | 2 heads |
| Caesar dressing | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Croutons | 1 cup |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Black pepper | To taste |
- Chop the romaine lettuce.
- Toss with Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and croutons.
- Sprinkle with lemon juice and black pepper.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a staple side dish that pairs perfectly with Chicken Parmesan. The buttery, garlicky flavor enhances the overall meal experience.
Recipe for Garlic Bread:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Baguette | 1 |
| Butter (melted) | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Parsley (chopped) | 2 tbsp |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup |
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the baguette in half lengthwise.
- Mix melted butter, minced garlic, and parsley.
- Spread the mixture on the bread halves.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables add a savory and earthy flavor that complements Chicken Parmesan. Choose a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes for a colorful presentation.
Recipe for Roasted Vegetables:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bell peppers (sliced) | 2 |
| Zucchini (sliced) | 2 |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the vegetables with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and golden brown.
The Best Beverages for Chicken Parmesan
Red Wine
A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, pairs excellently with Chicken Parmesan. The wine’s rich and robust flavors enhance the dish’s savory notes.
Red Wine Pairing Table:
| Wine Type | Flavor Profile | Recommended Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Chianti | Medium-bodied, Fruity | Ruffino, Antinori |
| Merlot | Soft, Velvety | Chateau Ste. Michelle, Duckhorn |
| Sangiovese | Bright, Tangy | Banfi, La Braccesca |
Sparkling Water
For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime is a refreshing choice. It cleanses the palate and complements the rich flavors without overpowering them.
Sparkling Water Flavor Options:
| Brand | Flavors | Serving Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| LaCroix | Lemon, Lime, Grapefruit | Serve chilled with ice |
| Perrier | Natural, Lime, Grapefruit | Serve with a lemon wedge |
| San Pellegrino | Lemon, Orange, Blood Orange | Serve with fresh mint leaves |
The Best Desserts for Chicken Parmesan
Tiramisu
Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that pairs wonderfully with Chicken Parmesan. Its coffee and cocoa flavors provide a delightful contrast to the savory main dish.
Recipe for Tiramisu:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ladyfingers | 24 |
| Espresso (cooled) | 1 cup |
| Mascarpone cheese | 1 cup |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Cocoa powder | 2 tbsp |
| Dark chocolate (shaved) | 1/4 cup |
- Dip ladyfingers in espresso and layer in a dish.
- Whip mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, and sugar until fluffy.
- Spread a layer of the cream mixture over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat the layers.
- Dust with cocoa powder and top with shaved chocolate.
- Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Lemon Sorbet
Lemon sorbet is a light and refreshing dessert that cleanses the palate after a rich meal like Chicken Parmesan. Its tangy flavor balances the savory main course.
Recipe for Lemon Sorbet:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lemons (juiced) | 4 |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Lemon zest | 1 tbsp |
- Combine sugar and water in a saucepan and heat until sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat and add lemon juice and zest.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator.
- Freeze in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Comprehensive Pairing Guide for Chicken Parmesan
Best Side Dishes
Pasta
Pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, is an excellent side dish for Chicken Parmesan. It helps to soak up the delicious marinara sauce and adds a fulfilling carbohydrate element to the meal.
Popular Pasta Types:
| Pasta Type | Cooking Time | Sauce Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 8-10 minutes | Marinara, Alfredo |
| Fettuccine | 10-12 minutes | Alfredo, Pesto |
| Penne | 9-11 minutes | Marinara, Vodka Sauce |
Caprese Salad
A Caprese salad, made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, is a light and refreshing side dish that pairs beautifully with Chicken Parmesan. The salad’s simplicity and fresh ingredients balance the richness of the main course.
Recipe for Caprese Salad:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes (sliced) | 4 |
| Fresh mozzarella (sliced) | 8 oz |
| Fresh basil leaves | 1 bunch |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Balsamic vinegar | 1 tbsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
- Arrange tomato and mozzarella slices alternately on a plate.
- Tuck basil leaves between slices.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Best Beverages
Red Wine Pairings
Red wines with high acidity and moderate tannins are ideal for pairing with Chicken Parmesan. These wines can cut through the richness of the cheese and tomato sauce, providing a balanced and enjoyable dining experience.
Red Wine Pairing Details:
| Wine Type | Tasting Notes | Recommended Regions |
|---|---|---|
| Chianti | Cherry, Violet, Spice | Tuscany, Italy |
| Merlot | Plum, Blackberry, Vanilla | Bordeaux, France |
| Sangiovese | Cherry, Tomato, Herbs | Tuscany, Italy |
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, consider serving a sparkling lemonade or iced tea. These drinks offer a refreshing and palate-cleansing experience that complements the flavors of Chicken Parmesan.
Non-Alcoholic Beverage Ideas:
| Beverage Type | Flavor Options | Serving Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Sparkling Lemonade | Classic, Raspberry, Mint | Serve chilled with ice |
| Iced Tea | Lemon, Peach, Unsweetened | Serve over ice with lemon |
| Flavored Water | Cucumber, Mint, Berry | Serve with fresh fruit slices |
Best Desserts
Panna Cotta
Panna cotta is a creamy, custard-like dessert that pairs well with Chicken Parmesan. Its light and silky texture provides a pleasant contrast to the rich main dish.
Recipe for Panna Cotta:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Heavy cream | 2 cups |
| Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Gelatin | 1 packet |
| Water | 2 tbsp |
- Heat heavy cream and sugar in a saucepan until sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Dissolve gelatin in water and add to the cream mixture.
- Pour into molds and chill for at least 4 hours.
Cannoli
Cannoli are traditional Italian pastries filled with a sweet ricotta mixture. They provide a delightful and crunchy end to a Chicken Parmesan meal.
Recipe for Cannoli:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ricotta cheese | 2 cups |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Mini chocolate chips | 1/2 cup |
| Cannoli shells | 12 |
- Mix ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips.
- Fill cannoli shells with the ricotta mixture.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Conclusion
Pairing Chicken Parmesan with the right side dishes, beverages, and desserts can transform a simple meal into a gourmet experience. From classic Caesar salad and garlic bread to rich red wines and decadent tiramisu, each element enhances the flavors and enjoyment of your meal. Experiment with these combinations to find your perfect pairings and create memorable dining experiences for you and your guests.
FAQs
What vegetables go well with Chicken Parmesan?
Vegetables like roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes pair well with Chicken Parmesan. Their fresh and crisp textures complement the rich main dish.
Can I serve Chicken Parmesan with white wine?
While red wine is traditionally paired with Chicken Parmesan, a full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay can also complement the dish, especially if it has robust flavors.
What type of pasta works best with Chicken Parmesan?
Spaghetti, fettuccine, and penne are all excellent choices for pairing with Chicken Parmesan. These pasta types help to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.
How can I make Chicken Parmesan healthier?
To make Chicken Parmesan healthier, use whole wheat breadcrumbs, reduce the amount of cheese, and bake the chicken instead of frying it. You can also add more vegetables to the dish.
Is Chicken Parmesan suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Chicken Parmesan can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the oven or microwave, ensuring the cheese is melted and bubbly.
By following these suggestions, you can enjoy a well-rounded and delicious meal with Chicken Parmesan. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a family dinner, these pairings will ensure a delightful dining experience.