What To Serve With Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is one of the most popular Italian dishes, and it’s no wonder why.

With its delicious combination of crispy chicken, savory tomato sauce, and melty cheese, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

But what should you serve with chicken parmesan? Here are 15 side dishes that will take your dinner up a notch!

From classic Italian favorites like pasta and garlic bread to modern twists like roasted vegetables and cauliflower rice, these sides will bring out the best of your chicken parm.

No matter what your taste buds are craving, you’ll be able to find a tasty accompaniment for this beloved dish.

Keep reading to discover the perfect sides for your next chicken parmesan dinner!

Why These Side Dishes Goes Well With Chicken Parmesan– 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 Parmesan!

Side Dish	Why it goes well with Chicken Parmesan
Spaghetti	Classic pairing, spaghetti complements the tomato sauce of Chicken Parmesan.
Garlic Bread	The garlic flavor of the bread complements the flavors of the dish, and the bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce.
Roasted Vegetables	The roasted vegetables add a savory and healthy element to the meal, balancing the richness of Chicken Parmesan.
Grilled Asparagus	The slightly charred and smoky flavor of grilled asparagus pairs well with the chicken and adds a fresh and crunchy texture.
Cauliflower Rice	For those looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower rice provides a lighter alternative to traditional rice or pasta.
Roasted Potatoes	The crispy and flavorful roasted potatoes complement the richness of Chicken Parmesan and provide a satisfying side.
Roasted Broccoli	The roasted broccoli adds a touch of earthiness and texture to the dish, balancing out the flavors of the chicken.
Baked Zucchini	Baked zucchini offers a lighter option, and its mild flavor pairs well with the more robust flavors of Chicken Parmesan.
Sauteed Spinach	The tender and garlicky sautéed spinach adds a vibrant and nutritious element to the meal.
Garlic Green Beans	The garlic-infused green beans add a burst of flavor and a vibrant green color to the plate, enhancing the overall presentation.
Bruschetta	Bruschetta, with its fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic, adds a refreshing and tangy element to complement the chicken.
Polenta	Creamy and rich polenta provides a comforting and hearty side dish that pairs well with the flavorful Chicken Parmesan.
Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes	The creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and Parmesan cheese offer a decadent and indulgent accompaniment to the chicken.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes	The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances the savory flavors of the chicken and adds a delightful contrast in taste.
Caprese Salad	The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and basil in a Caprese salad provides a refreshing and light side dish option.

1. Spaghetti

Spaghetti is a classic accompaniment to chicken parmesan and a favorite for many.

Its simplicity is part of what makes it so popular – just a few ingredients and you have the perfect side dish.

The best spaghetti for this meal requires only long, thin strands of pasta boiled al dente, with a sauce of your choosing.

A traditional marinara can’t be beaten, but don’t be afraid to experiment – even pesto or Alfredo can make for an interesting pairing with the chicken parmesan.

The key to any good spaghetti is preparation.

For example, if you choose to use canned sauce, try sprucing it up by adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano with some olive oil and garlic.

You can also add finely chopped peppers and onions, mushrooms, olives or capers for more flavor and texture.

Simmering the sauce on low heat before serving helps bring all the flavors together as well.

When it comes time to serve, top your spaghetti with freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for extra flavor and presentation points – your guests will thank you!

Serve with hot garlic bread on the side for an added treat that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

2. Garlic Bread

Nothing pairs better with chicken parmesan than a side of crunchy, buttery garlic bread.

This classic comfort food is the perfect accompaniment to an Italian feast.

If you’re looking for a simple way to take your dish to the next level, this delicious recipe is sure to do the trick!

To make garlic bread, you’ll need:

• French or Italian bread loaf
• Unsalted butter or margarine
• Minced fresh garlic and/or garlic powder
• Dried oregano and/or parsley flakes
• Salt and pepper
• Baking sheet or oven-safe skillet

Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Slice the loaf in half lengthwise and spread each side with softened butter.

Sprinkle generously with minced garlic, oregano, parsley, salt and pepper.

Place both halves cut side up on a baking sheet or oven-safe skillet.

Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crisp on top.

Serve warm alongside your chicken parmesan for an unforgettable meal!

3. Roasted Vegetables

A delicious side to accompany chicken parmesan is roasted vegetables.

Roasting vegetables brings out the natural sweetness and adds a delightful complexity that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the chicken.

The best way to get started is by preheating your oven and gathering your favorite vegetables.

Be sure to clean and trim them, then arrange them on a baking sheet in an even layer and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or other herbs of your choosing.

Vegetable	Temperature	Time
Zucchini	375°F	20-25 min
Broccoli	425°F	15-20 min
Carrots	400°F	25-30 min

Once all the vegetables are prepared and seasoned, pop them into the oven for a few minutes until they turn golden brown and tender – you’ll be rewarded with heavenly aromas as they roast! Serve them hot, straight from the oven, for a truly glorious side dish that will pair perfectly with any entrée.

4. Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is a classic accompaniment to the beloved Italian dish of chicken parmesan.

It’s light, earthy flavor adds a delightful contrast to the richness of the main course.

With its vibrant green hue, this veggie side provides a welcome pop of color to your plate.

Cooking asparagus on the grill is surprisingly simple; all that’s required is a bit of olive oil, salt and pepper.

You can even add some lemon juice for an extra kick of flavor.

To prepare, simply coat your spears in the oil and seasonings before placing them on hot grates for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

This fresh and flavorful side dish offers an easy way to elevate your traditional chicken parmesan dinner.

Grilling makes it easier than ever to enjoy this classic combination – just preheat your grill, toss on some asparagus and you’re ready to go!

Enjoy your delicious meal!

5. Cauliflower Rice

Grilled asparagus and chicken parmesan are a match made in heaven.

The smoky, charred flavor of the grilled asparagus pairs perfectly with the rich, cheesy chicken parmesan.

But if you’re looking for a side dish that’s a bit lighter and adds an interesting texture to the meal, try cauliflower rice.

Here are some ways to add this nutritious side to your dinner:

1. Roast it – Preheat oven to 400°F and spread cauliflower rice over a baking sheet. Sprinkle with olive oil, salt, pepper and roast for 25-30 minutes until lightly browned.

2. Fry it – Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 cup of cauliflower rice and cook for about 5 minutes until lightly browned.

3. Steam it – Place 1 cup of cauliflower rice in a steamer basket set over boiling water for about 8 minutes until softened but not mushy.

Cauliflower rice is a delicious way to get more veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor or texture.

It’s also incredibly easy to make – just toss it with some seasonings, like garlic powder or turmeric, and you have yourself an amazing side dish that complements any entree!

So next time you want to switch up your side dishes, give cauliflower rice a try – you won’t be disappointed!

6. Roasted Potatoes

The combination of chicken parmesan and roasted potatoes is an ideal culinary partnership, one that’s sure to please the most discerning palate.

To deliver a truly superb meal, it’s important to pay attention to the presentation and flavor of these two dishes.

This combination can be prepared in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences and dietary needs.

Roasted potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be seasoned with herbs, spices, or even cheese for added flavor.

The following table provides details on the types of potatoes that can be used for roasting as well as their respective cooking times:

Type	Cooking Time (minutes)
Yukon Gold	25-35
Russet	45-55
Red Bliss	20-30

No matter which type of potato you choose to accompany your chicken parmesan, there’s no denying that this flavorful side dish pairs perfectly with the rich tomato sauce and crispy breading of the entrée.

Roasted potatoes are also delicious when served with other Italian favorites like lasagna, pizza, or eggplant parmesan.

With a little creativity, you can create an unforgettable meal that everyone will enjoy!

7. Roasted Broccoli

After the delicious roasted potatoes, it’s time to introduce another side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken parmesan: roasted broccoli.

Roasted vegetables are a great way to bring flavor to your plate without adding too much fat or calories.

Broccoli is an excellent choice for roasting.

It takes on a nutty, rich flavor when exposed to heat, and its texture becomes tender yet crisp.

To roast broccoli, simply toss florets in olive oil, season them with salt and pepper, and bake in the oven until golden brown.

This side dish is sure to impress at any dinner table.

Serve roasted broccoli alongside chicken parmesan for a balanced meal that everyone will love!

8. Baked Zucchini

Baked Zucchini is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken parmesan.

It’s a simple yet flavorful addition to the meal, and it’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

To make this dish, you’ll need zucchini, olive oil, salt and pepper, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F.

Cut the zucchini into thin slices and place them into a large bowl.

Drizzle the zucchini with olive oil and toss until they are evenly coated.

Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese before transferring them to a greased baking sheet.

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

And there you have it! Baked Zucchini is ready in under 30 minutes and is sure to be a hit at your dinner table when served alongside chicken parmesan!

Here are some benefits:

• Low in calories but high in flavor
• A great way to get kids (and adults!) to eat more vegetables
• Pairs well with many different proteins
• Easy to make and customize to your taste preferences.

9. Sauteed Spinach

Sauteed spinach is the perfect accompaniment to chicken parmesan.

It adds a vibrant, earthy flavor to the dish and is rich in essential vitamins and minerals.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be ready in just minutes.

Flavor	Time
Vibrant, Earthy	Minutes
Nutritious	Quick
Delicious	Easy

To prepare sauteed spinach, begin by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet on medium-high heat.

Once the oil is hot, add a few cloves of chopped garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant.

Then, add your washed spinach leaves to the pan and stir them around for about three minutes or until they are wilted.

Add some freshly squeezed lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

This simple yet flavorful side dish pairs perfectly with chicken parmesan, adding a bright pop of color and taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds! So don’t wait – give it a try tonight and watch as your dinner guests rave over this delicious green addition to the plate.

10. Garlic Green Beans

Garlic green beans are the perfect accompaniment to chicken parmesan.

They add crunch and flavor to round out the meal.

The key to this dish is using fresh green beans, not canned.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and adding some olive oil.

Slice a few cloves of garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Then add in the beans and stir them around for a few minutes until they start to blister and turn bright green.

To finish off the dish, season it with some salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra zing.

The result is a savory side dish that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds!

This dish brings together two simple ingredients into one delicious side: garlic and green beans.

Not only does it bring flavor and texture, but it also adds color to your plate when served alongside chicken parmesan.

Plus, it’s easy to make in just minutes!

11. Bruschetta

Garlic green beans make a delicious side dish for chicken parmesan, but if you really want to take your meal to the next level, why not try some bruschetta? This classic Italian appetizer is easy to make and can be served as part of a main meal or as an accompaniment.

Bruschetta is made with fresh tomatoes, garlic and basil on top of garlicky toast.

It’s quick and simple to prepare, and the combination of flavors makes it an ideal accompaniment for chicken parmesan.

Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients	Quantity
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Garlic cloves	2, minced
Tomatoes	2 cups, chopped
Basil leaves	10-12, chopped
Salt & pepper	To taste

Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant – about 1 minute.

Then add the tomatoes, basil leaves and season with salt & pepper.

Simmer for 8-10 minutes until all the ingredients are combined and heated through.

Toast some slices of baguette in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.

Serve the bruschetta warm with the garlic toast on the side.

The combination of flavors from this simple dish will perfectly complement your chicken parmesan dinner!

12. Polenta

Polenta is a versatile side dish that pairs well with chicken parmesan.

Its creamy texture and subtle sweetness make it an ideal accompaniment for the savory flavors of the Italian classic.

Polenta can be cooked in a variety of ways, from frying to baking and even grilling.

You can also customize the flavors by adding herbs or spices to the mixture before cooking.

For a quick, easy version, you can use instant polenta which only requires boiling water and stirring until it’s done.

Serve this comforting side dish alongside your chicken parmesan for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table.

With its simple yet satisfying flavor, polenta is sure to become a favorite part of your weeknight dinner rotation.

13. Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

Moving on from the comforting polenta, let’s turn to something with a little more bite: garlic parmesan mashed potatoes.

This delightful side dish is easy to make and pairs perfectly with chicken parmesan, as both have Italian roots.

To begin, you’ll need potatoes – Yukon golds are best here – butter, cream (or half-and-half), garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Peel and cube the potatoes before boiling them in salted water until fork tender.

Once cooked through, drain the potatoes and return them back to the pot to dry out for a few minutes before adding the remaining ingredients.

Mash together the potatoes, butter, cream (or half-and-half), garlic, and Parmesan until fully combined and creamy in texture.

Serve alongside your chicken parmesan for a delicious meal that everyone will love!

14. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Serving up the perfect side dish to accompany your chicken parmesan can make all the difference.

Roasted sweet potatoes are a wonderful option, bringing bursts of flavor and texture that make them just as memorable as the main course.

Start with prepping the potatoes by washing and drying them, before cutting them into cubes or wedges.

For added flavor, toss in olive oil and sprinkle on seasonings like garlic powder and chili flakes for a kick.

Roast in the oven at 425°F for about 25 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through so they cook evenly.

When done, you’ll have crispy-skinned potatoes that are soft and fluffy in the middle – an ideal combination of textures.

The flavors from the seasonings marry nicely with any sauce you might serve with your chicken parmesan.

And since sweet potatoes are relatively inexpensive and easy to prepare, it makes for an economical way to round out your meal:

• The taste:

• The sweetness from the potatoes

• Savory seasonings

• The texture:

• Crispy exterior

• Soft interior

• Side dishes:

15. Caprese Salad

The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the savoriness of chicken parmesan.

But to complete the meal, one should consider adding a light salad as well.

A Caprese salad is a great option, with tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and basil served on a bed of leafy greens.

This colorful dish can be both refreshing and decorative, making it an excellent accompaniment to the main entree.

Ingredients	Benefits	Taste
Tomatoes	Adds freshness	Sweet and juicy
Fresh Mozzarella	High in protein	Mild and creamy flavor
Basil Leaves	Packed with antioxidants	Strong herbal flavor

The classic Italian salad is easy to assemble and requires only a few ingredients.

Tomatoes provide a natural sweetness while fresh mozzarella adds creaminess and protein.

Basil leaves bring an extra depth of flavor to the dish, plus they’re rich in antioxidants for added health benefits.

To make it extra special, try drizzling some balsamic vinegar over your Caprese salad for a slightly tangy taste that pairs especially well with chicken parmesan.

Creating this attractive and flavorful side dish is simple yet satisfying – perfect for any occasion! From its vibrant colors to its complementary flavors, Caprese salad will take your meal up a notch and make your guests feel like they’ve stepped into an Italian restaurant.

An easy way to add flair to your table without having to spend hours in the kitchen!

Conclusion

I’ve given you 15 delicious sides to serve with your chicken parmesan.

From classic spaghetti to roasted sweet potatoes, there’s something here for everyone.

With these dishes, your meal will be outstanding.

Your guests won’t be able to resist the combination of flavors and textures!

If you’re looking for a complete dinner experience, this is it.

Serve up one or two of these sides alongside a generous helping of chicken parmesan, and you’ll have a truly memorable meal on your hands.

Bon appétit!