Are you tired of the same old pasta with your chicken parmesan? Trust me, I know the feeling and it’s something many people struggle with. After thorough investigation and taste-testing, this blog post is packed full of delectable side pasta dish alternatives that perfectly complement your favorite chicken parmesan dish.
Let’s dive in to discover what goes with chicken parmesan besides pasta that can elevate your next meal beyond traditional pasta!
Key Takeaways
- Classic side dishes for chicken parmesan include Caesar salad, cheesy garlic bread, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, caprese salad, and roasted broccoli.
- Creative alternatives to pasta include zucchini noodles and eggplant Parmesan.
- Other delicious sides for chicken parmesan include roasted sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, Italian green bean salad, stuffed Italian artichokes, baked rice, polenta, roasted cauliflower, and sweet cornbread.
Classic Side Dishes for Chicken Parmesan
Classic side dishes for chicken Parmesan include Caesar salad, cheesy garlic bread, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, Caprese salad, and roasted broccoli.
Caesar Salad
Caesar salad dressing also makes a refreshing side dish to pair with chicken parmesan. Its crisp romaine lettuce tossed in tangy, creamy dressing offers a pleasing contrast against the rich, hearty flavors of the main course.
You might think it’s just an ordinary salad but its cheesy croutons and flavorful dressing can elevate the whole dining experience. Plus, Caesar salad is easy to make at home which adds convenience on busy nights.
Cheesy Garlic Bread
One of my absolute favorite side dishes to pair with chicken parmesan is the classic and indulgent cheesy garlic bread. The warm, crispy bread loaded with melted cheese and infused with garlicky goodness perfectly complements the rich flavors of the chicken parmesan.
With just a handful of ingredients like French bread, butter, minced garlic, and shredded cheese, this side dish is super simple to make but incredibly satisfying. It adds an extra layer of comfort and deliciousness to the meal.
Each bite of cheesy garlic bread provides a delightful contrast in texture and flavor that will have you coming back for more.
Cheesy garlic bread serves as a tasty vessel for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce or gooey cheese from your chicken parmesan. The combination of warm bread, melty cheese, and aromatic garlic creates an irresistible aroma that will make your mouth water even before you take a bite.
Roasted Vegetables
If you’re still wondering about what goes with chicken parmesan besides pasta, roasted veggies are the answer! Roasted vegetables are a flavorful and healthy side dish option to serve with chicken parmesan. The vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and onions, are seasoned with herbs and olive oil before being roasted to perfection in the oven.
This cooking method brings out their natural sweetness while still maintaining a slight crunch. Roasted vegetables add vibrant colors and a delicious smoky flavor that complements the rich flavors of the chicken parmesan.
They also provide added texture and nutrients to the meal, making it more balanced and satisfying. Plus, they are easy to prepare and can be customized with different seasonings according to personal preference.
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic and comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken parmesan. The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes complements the crispy chicken and rich marinara sauce.
Whether you prefer them plain, loaded with toppings like cheese and bacon, or flavored with garlic or herbs, mashed potatoes add an extra level of indulgence to your meal. They are easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Furthermore, their mild flavor makes them a versatile accompaniment that won’t overpower the flavors of the main course.
Caprese Salad
Caprese salad is a refreshing and classic side dish that pairs wonderfully with chicken parmesan. Made with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil leaves, this simple salad brings a burst of flavor to your plate.
The juicy tomatoes provide a bright and tangy element, while the creamy mozzarella adds a smooth and creamy texture. Tossed together with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, glaze, salt, and black pepper, Caprese salad offers a light and vibrant accompaniment to the rich flavors of chicken parmesan.
It’s the perfect way to incorporate some freshness into your meal while complementing the savory taste of the main course. And, you no longer have to worry about what goes with chicken parmesan besides pasta.
Roasted Broccoli
I love pairing roasted broccoli with chicken parmesan. The crispy texture and nutty flavor of the roasted broccoli complement the tender and cheesy, chicken parm just perfectly. It adds a delicious touch of green to the plate, plus it’s packed with vitamins and minerals.
Simply toss the broccoli florets in olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then roast them in the oven until they are nicely browned. The result is a tasty side dish that adds both color and nutrition to your meal.
Roasted Broccoli is an excellent choice for those looking for a healthier alternative to pasta or potatoes. It’s low in calories but full of fiber, making you feel satisfied without weighing you down.
Creative Alternatives to Pasta
Instead of traditional pasta, try using zucchini noodles or eggplant Parmesan as a delicious and healthier alternative.
Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini noodles are a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional pasta when serving chicken parmesan. These long, thin strands of zucchini provide a light and refreshing option to spaghetti noodles that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
Zucchini noodles can be made by spiralizing fresh zucchinis or found pre-packaged in many grocery stores. They can be lightly sautéed for a few minutes in olive oil until tender or enjoyed raw for added crunch.
Not only do zucchini noodles add vibrant color to the plate, but they also offer a low-carb and gluten-free option for those looking to cut back on grains. With their mild taste, zucchini noodles act as a versatile base that pairs well with the marinara, tomato sauce and gooey cheese of chicken parmesan.
Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious alternative when it comes to what goes with chicken parmesan besides pasta that pairs perfectly with chicken parmesan. Sliced eggplant is breaded and fried until crispy, then layered with marinara sauce and melted cheese.
The result is a flavorful and satisfying dish that adds a unique twist to your meal. Not only does eggplant parmesan provide a vegetarian option, but it also offers a hearty and filling side for those looking to skip the traditional pasta accompaniment.
With its rich flavors and gooey cheese topping, eggplant and parmesan chicken is sure to delight everyone at the table.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasted sweet potatoes just like roasted veggies are a perfect side dish to serve with chicken parmesan. They add a touch of sweetness and provide a hearty and satisfying element to the meal. These wonderful root vegetables can be sliced or cubed, tossed in olive oil, seasoned with salt and pepper, and then roasted until they become tender on the inside and crispy on the outside.
The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the chicken parmesan. Plus, their vibrant orange color adds visual appeal to your plate. Roasted sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants.
They make for an excellent alternative to pasta while still keeping your meal well-balanced.
In addition to being tasty and nutritious, roasted sweet potatoes are incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps involved, you can have this flavorful side dish ready in no time.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal at home, serving roasted sweet potatoes alongside your chicken parmesan will elevate the overall dining experience and satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Brussels Sprouts
When it comes to what goes with chicken parmesan besides pasta, Brussels sprouts are a flavorful and nutritious option. These small green vegetables are loaded with vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy addition to your meal.
Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delicious crispy texture to delicious sauce. The caramelized edges of the roasted sprouts complement the rich flavors of the chicken parmesan perfectly.
Whether you serve them whole or sliced in half, Brussels sprouts provide a satisfying side dish that balances out the indulgent flavors of the main course.
Italian Green Bean Salad
I love serving Italian Green Bean Salad as a side dish with chicken parmesan. It’s a refreshing and flavorful option that adds a pop of color to the plate. The crisp green beans are blanched until tender, then tossed with cherry tomatoes, red onions, and fresh basil.
A simple dressing made from olive oil, lemon and lime juice,, garlic, and Italian seasoning brings all the flavors together. This salad is light yet satisfying, providing a nice contrast to the rich and cheesy chicken parmesan.
Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time if you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for make-ahead options.
Stuffed Italian Artichokes
I love serving Stuffed Italian Artichokes as a side dish with chicken parmesan. These artichokes are packed with flavor and add a unique twist to the meal. To make them, I stuff the artichoke hearts with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs.
Then, I bake them until they are tender and golden brown. The crispy breadcrumb topping pairs perfectly with the creamy artichoke heart. It’s a delicious combination that adds an extra element of sophistication to the plate.
Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate some veggies into the meal while still keeping things interesting.
Other Delicious Sides for Chicken Parmesan
Baked Rice, Polenta, Roasted Cauliflower, and Sweet Cornbread are just a few more mouthwatering options for time when you wonder what goes with chicken parmesan besides pasta. They go absolutely great with chicken parmigiana recipe. Want to discover delicious recipe for even more delightful side dishes? Keep reading!
Baked Rice
Baked rice is a delightful alternative to pasta when serving chicken parmesan. this Italian dish adds a comforting and filling element to the meal. The rice is cooked in seasoned broth, then mixed with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs before being baked in the oven until fluffy and golden.
This side dish complements the flavors of homemade tomato sauce and the chicken parmesan perfectly and provides a satisfying texture. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time for convenience.
Baked brown rice is sure to impress your guests and make for a very hearty dish and delicious meal combination.
Polenta
Polenta is a delicious and versatile side dish that pairs well with chicken parmesan. Made from cornmeal, polenta has a creamy texture and can be served soft or firm. It adds a comforting element to the meal and complements the crispy, healthy chicken parmesan and tangy marinara sauce.
Whether you choose to serve it as a creamy base for the chicken parmesan sides or slice it into squares and pan-fry it for added crunch, polenta brings a unique twist to the traditional pasta dishes usually paired with chicken parmesan.
Its subtle flavor allows the flavors of the main course to shine while providing a satisfying carbohydrate component to complete your meal. Overall, polenta is an excellent option if you’re looking for something different than pasta but still want a tasty side dish with your chicken parmesan.
Roasted Cauliflower
Roasted cauliflower is a delicious and healthy side dish option to serve with chicken parmesan. The cauliflower florets are seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper before being roasted in the oven until they become tender and slightly caramelized.
This cooking method brings out the natural sweetness of the cauliflower while adding a crispy texture. Roasted cauliflower pairs perfectly with chicken parmesan because it provides a satisfying vegetable component that complements the savory flavors of the dish.
It also adds a touch of color to the plate, making classic italian dish visually appealing. Plus, it’s an easy side dish to prepare that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. So, no more worrying about what goes with chicken parmesan besides pasta.
Roasted Potatoes
I love serving roasted potatoes as a side dish with chicken parmesan. The crispy and golden brown exterior of the potatoes adds a satisfying crunch to every bite. They pair perfectly with the tender chicken and tangy marinara sauce.
Roasted potatoes are also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize them with your favorite herbs and spices. Whether you prefer rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, or paprika, these flavors will infuse into the potatoes as they roast in the oven.
Not only do roasted potatoes provide a delicious contrast in texture broccoli flavor to the main course, but they also offer a hearty and comforting element to your meal.
Roasted Potatoes can be easily prepared by tossing cubed or halved potatoes in olive oil, salt, pepper, and your desired seasonings. Then simply spread them out on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven until they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Broccoli Salad
I love serving broccoli salad as a side dish with chicken parmesan. It adds a refreshing and crunchy element to the meal. The combination of crisp broccoli florets, tangy red onions, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy dressing creates a flavorful balance that complements the savory chicken parmesan.
Plus, this salad is incredibly easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time for convenience.
Sweet Cornbread
I love pairing sweet cornbread with chicken parmesan. The sweetness of the cornbread complements the savory flavors of the dish perfectly. It adds a nice contrast in texture and taste, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Whether you serve it warm or at room temperature, sweet cornbread is a delicious side that adds a touch of comfort to your meal.
FAQs
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about what goes with chicken parmesan besides pasta!
1. What are some alternatives to pasta that go well with chicken parmesan?
Some alternative options to pasta that pair nicely with chicken parmesan include roasted vegetables with lemon juice, a side salad, garlic bread, or mashed potatoes.
2. Can I serve chicken parmesan with rice instead of pasta?
Yes, you can definitely serve chicken parmesan with rice as an alternative to pasta. It adds a different texture and flavor to the main dish too.
3. Are there any vegetable side dishes that complement chicken parmesan?
Yes, there are several vegetable side dishes that work well with chicken parmesan. Some popular choices include steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, roasted asparagus, or grilled zucchini.
4. What about additional toppings or sauces for chicken parmesan?
While traditional chicken parmesan is typically served with marinara sauce and melted cheese on top, you can also experiment with different toppings and sauces. Some options include adding fresh basil leaves, sliced tomatoes, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor.
Final Thoughts on Pairing Chicken Parmesan with Sides
In conclusion, there are plenty of fantastic side dishes to pair with chicken parmesan besides pasta. From classic options like Caesar salad and garlic bread to creative alternatives like zucchini noodles and roasted sweet potatoes, the possibilities are endless.
Whether you prefer traditional or healthier options, these delicious vegetable side dishes will complement the savory flavors of the chicken parmesan perfectly, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
So next time you make chicken parmesan, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and try something new!
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are plenty of delicious options to serve with chicken parmesan besides pasta. Whether you prefer classic side dishes like classic caesar salad and garlic bread, creative alternatives like zucchini noodles and roasted sweet potatoes, or other tasty options like polenta and broccoli salad, there is something for everyone.
By pairing the savory chicken parmesan with a variety of sides, you can create a well-rounded meal that will satisfy your taste buds. So go ahead and get creative in the kitchen to elevate your next chicken parmesan dinner!