Chicken Francese is an Italian-inspired dish that’s both delicious and versatile.
Prepared with a buttery, lemony sauce, it’s a classic main course that can be served in a variety of ways.
Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party or just want to switch up your family’s weekly routine, this roundup of 15 dishes to serve with Chicken Francese has something for everyone.
With recipes ranging from pasta to potatoes, there’s sure to be something that will please even the pickiest eater at the table.
So let’s get cooking!
Why These Side Dishes Goes Well With Chicken Francese– By Chef Natalie
To save you time, and to make your decision easy, I have built a nice chart on why these side dishes go well with Chicken Francese!
| Side Dish | Why it goes well with Chicken Francese |
|---|---|
| Roasted Potatoes | The crispy and flavorful roasted potatoes provide a satisfying and hearty accompaniment to the light and tangy flavors of Chicken Francese. |
| Cheesy Risotto | The creamy and cheesy risotto adds a rich and indulgent element that pairs well with the tender and citrusy chicken. |
| Mushroom Risotto | Mushroom risotto offers earthy flavors that complement the chicken and provide a hearty and comforting side dish. |
| Garlic Bread | The garlic bread adds a burst of flavor and a crunchy texture, making it an ideal accompaniment to Chicken Francese. |
| Sauteed Spinach | The garlicky sautéed spinach adds a vibrant and nutritious element to the meal, balancing the richness of the chicken. |
| Roasted Asparagus | The roasted asparagus adds a fresh and crisp component to the dish, complementing the light and tangy flavors of Chicken Francese. |
| Roasted Brussels Sprouts | The roasted Brussels sprouts offer a nutty and slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the citrusy chicken and adds a delightful contrast to the meal. |
| Roasted Carrots | Roasted carrots provide a natural sweetness and a vibrant color to the plate, enhancing the overall presentation and pairing well with the chicken. |
| Fried Rice | Fried rice offers a flavorful and satisfying side dish that adds an Asian-inspired twist to the meal, complementing the chicken with its savory elements. |
| Baked Ziti | Baked ziti, with its cheesy and tomato-based flavors, provides a comforting and hearty accompaniment to the chicken, creating a satisfying combination. |
| Fettuccine Alfredo | The creamy and indulgent fettuccine Alfredo pairs well with the tender and tangy chicken, offering a classic and rich side dish option. |
| Penne Alla Vodka | Penne alla vodka provides a creamy and flavorful pasta option that complements the chicken and adds a touch of indulgence to the meal. |
| Quinoa Pilaf | Quinoa pilaf offers a nutritious and protein-packed side dish that adds a light and wholesome element to the meal, balancing the richness of the chicken. |
| Orzo Salad | The refreshing orzo salad, typically made with fresh herbs and vegetables, provides a light and tangy side dish that complements the flavors of Chicken Francese. |
| Couscous with Vegetables | Couscous with vegetables offers a flavorful and versatile side dish that pairs well with the chicken and adds a satisfying grain component to the meal. |
1. Roasted Potatoes
Roasted potatoes are an ideal companion to chicken francese.
These golden cubes of goodness are easy to prepare, yet they add a delicious crunch and flavor that can’t be beaten.
To make them, simply preheat the oven to 400°F and toss cubed potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper and garlic powder until they’re coated evenly.
Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil, then roast for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown.
Serve them while they’re hot for maximum enjoyment! Roasted potatoes are a classic side dish that enhances the flavor of chicken Francese perfectly – no meal is complete without them!
2. Cheesy Risotto
Cheesy Risotto is an excellent accompaniment to Chicken Francese.
This creamy, comforting Italian classic is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
The key to making a truly delicious risotto lies in selecting the right ingredients.
For this particular recipe, it’s important to choose a creamy cheese like parmesan or gouda that will melt and bind together the other components.
The next step is getting the consistency just right.
Adding stock gradually while stirring constantly ensures a creamy texture without being too watery or stodgy.
As you stir, you’ll notice the rice beginning to break down and thicken up as it absorbs all of those delicious flavors.
Finally, when your risotto is perfectly cooked, adding fresh herbs at the very end of cooking enhances its flavor significantly and makes for an even tastier dish!
Serve with your Chicken Francese for a classic Italian meal that’s sure to satisfy you.
3. Mushroom Risotto
Mushroom risotto is the perfect accompaniment to chicken francese.
This Italian-style rice dish is creamy and comforting, making it an ideal side to the mild flavors of this classic Italian entree.
The earthy mushrooms add a satisfying umami flavor that pairs perfectly with the lemon sauce that’s often served over chicken francese.
To make mushroom risotto, you’ll need shallots, butter, Arborio rice, white wine, vegetable broth, Parmesan cheese and mushrooms like cremini or shiitake.
Begin by sautéing the shallots in butter until softened and then add the rice.
Pour in the white wine and stir until it’s absorbed into the mixture.
Then add just enough hot broth to cover the rice and let simmer until it’s absorbed.
Continue this process for about 20 minutes until the liquid is gone and you have a creamy texture.
Finally, stir in Parmesan cheese and mushrooms before serving with your chicken francese.
This flavorful side dish is sure to be a hit at any dinner party – especially when paired with popular chicken francese!
With its creamy texture, earthy flavors and hints of bright lemon from the sauce on top of your protein, this meal will have everyone asking for seconds!
4. Garlic Bread
Nothing quite adds to a meal like the crunch of garlic bread.
Its golden-brown exterior, with hints of herbs and spices, creates an inviting aroma that has been known to make mouths water.
Not only does this side dish add a burst of flavor, but it’s a quintessential comfort food that never fails to please.
When served alongside chicken francese, garlic bread can take the Italian classic to the next level.
The combination is both savory and delightful:
- The buttery garlic bread enhances the flavors in the chicken francese
- It offers a balance between its creamy texture and zesty flavor
- The combination creates a unique experience that must be tasted to be believed
- With every bite, you’ll be taken on a culinary journey that will leave your taste buds wanting more
Garlic bread is easy to prepare and pairs well with countless dishes.
Whether you choose to serve it as an appetizer or as part of your entrée, it promises to be a crowd pleaser every time.
5. Sauteed Spinach
Sauteed Spinach is a delicious and nutritious accompaniment to Chicken Francese.
It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that make it a great addition to any meal.
To make the perfect sautéed spinach dish, start by heating up some olive oil in a large pan on medium-high heat.
Once hot, add in a couple cloves of minced garlic and let them cook for about one minute before adding in your washed and chopped fresh spinach.
You’ll want to cook the spinach until it’s wilted and tender, which will take about 3-5 minutes depending on how much you’re making.
Once cooked, season your sautéed spinach with salt and pepper to taste, as well as a squeeze of lemon juice for an added kick of flavor.
This simple side dish goes perfectly with Chicken Francese and can easily be doubled or tripled to serve multiple people.
The combination of flavors is sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
Plus, this side dish takes very little time or effort to make—it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want something healthy but don’t have hours spent in the kitchen.
For this reason, Sauteed Spinach makes the perfect companion for Chicken Francese and many other poultry dishes.
Enjoy this tasty side dish any night of the week!
6. Roasted Asparagus
A classic accompaniment to chicken francese is roasted asparagus.
This fresh and flavorful vegetable can easily take center stage on a plate, bringing crunchy texture and a hint of bitterness to each bite.
Crisp yet tender, roasted asparagus is the perfect complement to the creamy lemon caper sauce of chicken francese.
The key to making delicious roasted asparagus lies in proper preparation.
Start by selecting firm spears that are bright green in color with tightly closed tips.
Trim off the woody ends if needed and toss the asparagus with some olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for about 15 minutes at 400°F.
An added bonus is that it’s also an easy side dish to make ahead of time: simply roast the spears ahead then briefly reheat them when you’re ready to serve your meal.
This simple side dish looks elegant when served alongside chicken francese and pairs wonderfully with potatoes or grains such as quinoa or couscous.
If desired, top it with shavings of parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra boost of flavor.
Roasted asparagus is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with Chicken Francese.
Not only are these nutrient-packed vegetables delicious, but their preparation is also incredibly simple and quick.
To make Roasted Brussels Sprouts at home, here’s what you’ll need:
- A pound of Brussels sprouts
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and preparing a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Wash the Brussels sprouts and cut off any discolored outer leaves before halving them lengthwise.
Toss the prepared sprouts in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated before transferring them to the baking sheet.
Roast for about 15 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through cooking time for even browning.
Serve alongside Chicken Francese and enjoy!
8. Roasted Carrots
Roasted Carrots are the perfect accompaniment to Chicken Francese.
They can be prepped ahead of time and tossed in the oven while the chicken cooks, making them an easy and flavorful side dish.
To make them, simply toss carrots with olive oil, salt and pepper, then spread on a baking sheet.
Roast for about 30 minutes until tender, stirring once or twice during cooking.
The roasted carrots will become sweet and savory at the same time – you may even find that they’re more delicious than the chicken!
To add an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs like oregano or basil before serving.
For a special touch, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
These simple yet delicious roasted carrots are sure to add a unique flavor to your Chicken Francese dinner that everyone will enjoy!
Enjoy as is or pair with additional sides like mashed potatoes or sautéed greens for a complete meal.
9. Fried Rice
From the oven-roasted carrots to the sautéed chicken francese, this meal is filled with flavor.
Now it’s time to add some texture and crunch to the mix.
Fried rice is the perfect accompaniment for this Italian classic, as its savory notes will stand up nicely against the dish’s bright lemon and garlic flavors.
To make fried rice worthy of a restaurant menu, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add both oils and swirl them around until evenly distributed.
Add in the onion, garlic and salt and cook until fragrant and softened—about 3 minutes.
Then, add in your rice and stir continuously until every grain is coated with oil—this should take about 4 minutes.
Finally, pour in two cups of water and bring to a boil before reducing the heat to low and cooking for 15 minutes or until all of the liquid has been absorbed.
Serve alongside your chicken francese for an unforgettable dinner!
10. Baked Ziti
Baked Ziti is an Italian classic that pairs perfectly with chicken Francese. This dish is a comfort food favorite, made with a delicious tomato sauce, al dente ziti pasta, and gooey mozzarella cheese.
The flavors in the sauce blend together with the chicken Francese to create a heavenly combination that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Every bite of Baked Ziti is packed with flavor as you sink your teeth into tender noodles and savory sauce.
A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top adds an extra layer of richness and makes this dish even more irresistible.
If you’re looking for a side dish that will make your Chicken Francese shine, then Baked Ziti is definitely the way to go.
It’s easy to prepare, flavorful, and sure to be a hit at any dinner table.
So don’t wait any longer – give this Italian classic a try today!
11. Fettuccine Alfredo
Fettuccine Alfredo is a delicious Italian dish that pairs perfectly with chicken Francese.
It’s a creamy pasta dish with a timeless flavor and irresistible texture.
Here are four reasons why you should make it as part of your meal:
It’s simple to make – only three ingredients are needed: fettuccine, butter, and Parmesan cheese.
It’s versatile – you can easily customize the dish by adding mushrooms, garlic, or cream for a richer flavor.
It’s ready in minutes – simply boil the fettuccine until al dente, then mix in the butter and Parmesan cheese and stir until creamy.
It has an unforgettable taste – Fettuccine Alfredo is an iconic Italian dish that will leave your guests wanting more!
It’s no wonder this comforting classic is so popular; Fettuccine Alfredo makes an excellent accompaniment to chicken francese and will be sure to please even the pickiest of eaters!
So why not give it a try tonight?
Your family will be delighted!
12. Penne Alla Vodka
Penne alla Vodka is an Italian pasta dish that pairs perfectly with Chicken Francese.
This decadent dish is made with a creamy tomato-based sauce, vodka and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
The sauce has just the right amount of sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, and the vodka adds a subtle hint of spice.
To make Penne alla Vodka, start by boiling penne pasta in salted water until it’s al dente. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
Then add crushed tomatoes and vodka to the pan and bring to a simmer.
Add salt and pepper to taste then stir in cream or half-and-half and simmer for about 10 minutes.
Finally, turn off the heat and stir in freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese before adding cooked penne pasta.
Penne alla Vodka is a rich, creamy dish that will leave your guests wanting more
! Its combination of tomatoes, garlic, vodka and cheese makes it an ideal pairing for Chicken Francese – they’ll complement each other perfectly!
Serve this delicious dish as part of your next dinner party – you won’t regret it!
13. Quinoa Pilaf
For an elegant, yet simple side dish to accompany chicken Francese, look no further than a quinoa pilaf.
This zesty dish is a delightfully tasty way to take advantage of the superfood quinoa and its many health benefits.
It blends perfectly with the flavors of the chicken francese and is sure to impress any dinner guest.
To make this incredible quinoa pilaf, you will need:
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Once it’s hot, add the uncooked quinoa and stir for one minute.
Pour in the vegetable broth, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Increase the heat to high and bring it up to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover with a lid.
Allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes until all liquid has been absorbed by the quinoa.
Fluff with a fork before serving your delicious quinoa pilaf alongside your scrumptious chicken francese!
This lovely quinoa pilaf can be served with additional seasonings depending on your preference – try adding some dried herbs or diced vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for an extra flavor boost!
Enjoy!
14. Orzo Salad
Orzo salad is a classic side dish that pairs beautifully with chicken francese.
Orzo, a type of pasta shaped like grains of rice, is one of the most versatile ingredients in any kitchen.
It can be used in salads, soups, and main dishes alike, making it a great option to have on hand for any recipe!
The beauty of this dish is that it can easily be tailored to your tastes.
To start, cook the orzo according to package directions and let cool completely before adding other ingredients.
For the dressing, mix together olive oil, lemon juice and minced garlic for a bright yet savory flavor.
From there you can add vegetables such as cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for additional color and crunch.
| If desired, top off your orzo salad with feta cheese or olives for an added layer of flavor. All these components come together to create a delicious side that will perfectly complement your chicken francese. Serve chilled or at room temperature for an easy yet impressive accompaniment! | Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orzo | 1 cup | Cook according to package directions | |
| Olive Oil | 3 tablespoons | Use extra virgin olive oil if possible | |
| Lemon Juice | 2 tablespoons | Freshly squeezed preferable but bottled works too | |
| Garlic Clove (minced) | 1 clove | Finely mince the garlic before adding to the dressing mixture | |
| Cherry Tomatoes (halved) | ½ cup | Use any variety you prefer; cherry tomatoes work best here since they’re small and sweet |
Cucumbers (diced) ¼ cup Use any cucumber you have on hand; English cucumbers are milder in flavor Feta Cheese (crumbled) ¼ cup Optional topping; feta adds a nice salty bite Olives (sliced) ¼ cup Optional topping; olives provide another layer of saltiness
15. Couscous With Vegetables
The perfect accompaniment to chicken francese is couscous with vegetables. Not only does it provide an excellent source of savory flavor, but it also adds a richness to the dish that will leave your guests wanting more.
Here’s how to make it:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add 1 cup of couscous and stir until combined, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, prepare a variety of vegetables such as peppers, onions, carrots and mushrooms for sautéing in olive oil.
Once the couscous is cooked, drain any excess liquid from the pot and add in the sautéed vegetables along with some garlic and herbs for added flavor.
Serve alongside your chicken francese for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Conclusion
I hope this list of sides to serve with chicken francese has given you some ideas.
Whether you’re looking for something savory or a bit more indulgent, there’s something here for everyone.
From the classic garlic bread and roasted potatoes, to more modern options like quinoa pilaf and orzo salad, your dinner guests are sure to be impressed!
So why not give one of these dishes a try tonight?
You won’t regret it!
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