What To Serve With Italian Chicken

Ah, Italian chicken – a delightful and versatile dish that’s adored by many! You’ve got the perfectly cooked, succulent chicken infused with flavors of garlic, oregano, basil, and more. It’s an impressive centerpiece for any dinner table, but what should you serve alongside it to truly make your meal shine?

Well, fear not my fellow food enthusiasts; we’re here to guide you through some fantastic accompaniments that’ll elevate your Italian chicken to even greater culinary heights.

When it comes to choosing sides for this delectable poultry dish, there are endless possibilities – after all, variety is the spice of life (and cooking). From traditional pasta dishes like spaghetti aglio e olio or fettuccine Alfredo to lighter options such as salads and vegetables bursting with flavor.

Don’t worry if you’re feeling overwhelmed; we’ve done our research and compiled a list of mouth-watering suggestions that’ll have you whipping up a memorable feast in no time. So let’s dive in and explore these scrumptious side dishes together!

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

Side Dish	Explanation
Classic Caesar Salad	The crisp lettuce and tangy dressing of a Caesar salad provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of Italian chicken.
Garlic Bread or Focaccia	Both garlic bread and focaccia are classic Italian breads that complement the heartiness of the chicken and soak up any sauces.
Spaghetti Aglio E Olio	The simplicity of spaghetti aglio e olio, with its garlic and olive oil flavors, is a perfect accompaniment to flavorful Italian chicken.
Fettuccine Alfredo	The rich and creamy sauce of fettuccine Alfredo pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and adds an extra element of indulgence.
Caprese Salad	The fresh flavors of tomato, mozzarella, and basil in a Caprese salad complement the bold flavors of Italian chicken.
Roasted Vegetables	Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, add a burst of color and nutrition to any Italian chicken dish.
Risotto Milanese	The creamy and flavorful risotto Milanese provides a comforting and satisfying side dish for Italian chicken.
Polenta	Polenta, a classic Italian cornmeal dish, is a hearty and satisfying side that pairs well with the bold flavors of Italian chicken.
Bruschetta with Fresh Tomatoes	The bright and fresh flavors of tomato and basil in a bruschetta perfectly complement the savory flavors of Italian chicken.
Pesto Pasta	The bold and herbaceous flavors of pesto are a great match for Italian chicken and make for a satisfying side dish.
Antipasto Platter	An antipasto platter with meats, cheeses, and olives provides a variety of flavors and textures that pair well with Italian chicken.
Grilled Asparagus	Grilled asparagus adds a touch of elegance to any Italian chicken dish and its smoky flavor pairs well with the chicken’s richness.
Tiramisu or Gelato	Tiramisu and gelato are classic Italian desserts that provide a sweet and indulgent finish to any Italian chicken meal.

1. Classic Caesar Salad

A Classic Caesar Salad is a delightful accompaniment to Italian chicken dishes, offering a fresh and crisp contrast to the rich flavors of your main course.

The foundation of this salad lies in its Romaine lettuce variations, which can range from baby gem or little gem lettuces for an extra tender bite, to mature hearts for more robust crunchiness. Whichever you choose, be sure to select leaves that are vibrant green with no wilted edges or brown spots.

The magic of a Caesar Salad comes alive through its unique dressing twists, all while maintaining the essence of tradition. As an Expert Chef, I recommend starting with a base made from egg yolks, Dijon mustard, garlic cloves, anchovy fillets or paste, lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce.

From here on out, the world is your oyster – why not experiment with adding white balsamic vinegar instead of traditional red wine vinegar? Or perhaps substitute capers for saltiness as opposed to anchovies?

Whatever route you take in creating your masterpiece dressing should reflect both your personal taste preferences and complementarity with the Italian chicken dish at hand.

Assembling this beloved salad follows a few simple guidelines: first toss together torn Romaine lettuce leaves alongside homemade croutons (preferably using day-old bread) and grated Parmesan cheese; then drizzle generously with your freshly-made dressing concoction before finally garnishing with additional shavings of Parmesan cheese.

Your guests will surely marvel at your culinary prowess when presented this classic side dish that brightens up any mealtime!

Now that we’ve covered one essential element of pairing with Italian Chicken dishes – it’s time to consider another timeless favorite: Garlic Bread or Focaccia.

2. Garlic Bread Or Focaccia

Of course, no Italian meal is complete without some form of bread to accompany it. While the Classic Caesar Salad might have you convinced that nothing could possibly top its deliciousness, wait until you hear about our next suggestion: Garlic Bread or Focaccia.

Trust me when I say that these two carb-loaded delights will elevate your Italian chicken dinner to dizzying new heights.

Let’s delve into the great garlic knots debate for a moment. Some may argue that they are merely an inferior version of garlic bread, but true connoisseurs know better.

With their twisted and knotted appearance, not only do these beauties carry a powerful punch of garlicky goodness in every bite, but they also add an artistic flair to your table setting.

However, if you prefer something less traditional yet equally scrumptious, consider exploring the world of focaccia variations:

1. Rosemary and Olive Oil Focaccia – A classic combination with fragrant rosemary adding depth.
2. Cherry Tomato Focaccia – Bursting with juicy cherry tomatoes baked right into the dough.
3. Caramelized Onion and Blue Cheese Focaccia – Sweet onions paired with bold blue cheese make this one unforgettable.
4. Potato and Pancetta Focaccia – Tender potatoes meet salty pancetta for a match made in heaven.

Before we move on to the subsequent section where we discuss spaghetti aglio e olio – another fantastic side dish option – let us remind ourselves why including garlic bread or focaccia (or both) should be non-negotiable at your Italian feast.

It doesn’t matter whether you lean more towards team garlic knots or fancy yourself as part of the focaccia fan club; what truly matters is embracing their ability to bring people together around a shared love for all things warm, aromatic, and satisfyingly crunchy on the outside while soft within.

So go ahead and indulge because life is too short not to enjoy the simple pleasures that these golden-brown masterpieces provide.

And with that said, let’s now turn our attention towards a pasta dish that you won’t want to miss out on.

3. Spaghetti Aglio E Olio

For Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, you’ll need some high-quality olive oil, garlic, and spaghetti.

I’d highly recommend making it with fresh garlic and extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor.

As for preparation, it’s a simple process – just cook the spaghetti, sauté the garlic in oil, and mix with the spaghetti.

Once everything is combined, the dish is ready to be served!

Ingredients

When you’re craving a simple yet satisfying Italian dish, look no further than Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. It’s an incredibly versatile meal that can be customized to suit your palate or pantry’s contents. Let’s dive into the essential ingredients and some clever ingredient substitutions for this classic pasta dish.

As an expert chef, I can attest that quality is key when it comes to mastering Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. You’ll need spaghetti (or any long pasta such as linguine or fettuccine), extra-virgin olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, salt, and freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

However, don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you; there are numerous regional variations and substitutions that work wonderfully in this recipe!

For example, if you’d like a slightly richer flavor profile, swap out the olive oil for butter or even bacon fat. If you prefer more heat in your dishes, add finely chopped Calabrian chiles instead of red pepper flakes.

One popular variation involves adding anchovies to the mix for a savory umami twist on the traditional recipe.

Additionally, lemon zest adds brightness and acidity – perfect alongside seafood options like shrimp or clams that could be served with your pasta dish.

Another way to experiment with flavors is by incorporating various herbs like basil or oregano instead of parsley. As you can see, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio offers endless possibilities for customizing its taste while staying true to its roots as a beloved Italian classic.

So go ahead and put your own spin on it – after all, cooking is about expressing yourself through delicious food!

Preparation

Now that we’ve covered the essential ingredients and some creative substitutions for Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, let’s dive into the preparation process.

As a seasoned chef, I can’t stress enough the importance of proper cooking techniques to achieve the perfect balance of flavors in this dish. Trust me; it’ll be worth every delicious bite!

Begin by boiling your spaghetti (or preferred long pasta) until al dente – this means it should still have a slight firmness when bitten.

While that’s cooking, you’ll want to heat your olive oil or chosen fat in a saucepan over medium-low heat before adding garlic slices and red pepper flakes or alternative spicy components.

Remember not to rush this step as gently sautéing these elements will bring out their full potential without burning them – think Italian marinades where slow-infused flavors are key!

Once your pasta is done, reserve some of its starchy water before draining and tossing everything together with fresh herbs and grated cheese.

The beauty of Spaghetti Aglio e Olio lies in its simplicity and adaptability, so feel free to experiment with unique pairings like seafood, vegetables, or even different types of pasta shapes.

Just keep in mind that quality ingredients and patience during preparation are crucial factors in achieving an irresistible outcome.

So go on, indulge yourself with this classic Italian dish while making it truly your own creation!

4. Fettuccine Alfredo

Ah, Fettuccine Alfredo! This classic Italian pasta dish is a perfect pairing for your Italian chicken. The combination of creamy sauce and tender noodles creates an indulgent experience that complements the flavors in your main course.

Not to mention, there are several ways to customize this side dish with various ingredients and sauces.

Ingredient	Creamy Mushroom Variation
Mushrooms	Porcini, Shiitake
Parmesan Cheese	Pecorino Romano
Heavy Cream	Mascarpone

Unconventional Sauce	Description
Pumpkin Alfredo	Rich autumnal twist on the classic
Sun-Dried Tomato	Robust flavor adds depth & character

As you explore these creamy mushroom variations and unconventional Alfredo sauces, don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of cheeses or even add some vegetables like spinach or broccoli.

Remember, the key to great cooking is personalizing it to suit your tastes!

When serving Fettuccine Alfredo alongside your Italian chicken, arrange them artfully on the plate so that they complement each other visually as well as gastronomically.

And now that we’ve discussed one delectable accompaniment let’s move our focus onto another popular option: Caprese salad.

5. Caprese Salad

Imagine, if you will, a time before the discovery of America when tomatoes were not yet part of Italian cuisine. In this world without juicy red orbs to tantalize our taste buds, it’s difficult to envision what we now know as Caprese Salad.

Yet today, with mozzarella variations and balsamic drizzle at our disposal, we can create an exquisite dish that pairs beautifully with your Italian chicken.

Caprese Salad is a delightful symphony of flavors and textures playing in perfect harmony. To enhance its emotional impact on your dining experience, consider these ingredients:

• Tomatoes: Choose ripe, sweet heirloom or vine-ripened varieties for maximum flavor.

• Cherry or grape tomatoes are excellent alternatives for a bite-sized variation.

• Mozzarella: Fresh buffalo mozzarella lends richness and creaminess.

• Burrata provides another delicious option with its soft curd center enveloping creamy stracciatella.

• Basil: Fragrant leaves add freshness and depth to the salad.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Drizzled generously over the top ensures luxurious mouthfeel.

• Balsamic Drizzle (optional): A touch adds complexity and contrast to each bite.

As an Expert Chef imparting wisdom upon eager culinary enthusiasts such as yourself, my advice is simple: invest in quality ingredients as mentioned above.

The beauty of Caprese Salad lies in its simplicity; allow the natural flavors of each component shine through by treating them with respect – no need to overcomplicate matters with excessive seasoning or additional elements.

Your guests’ eyes will widen in appreciation as they savor every forkful alongside their succulent Italian chicken dinner.

Now that I’ve whetted your appetite for this classic Italian side dish let us explore how roasted vegetables can further elevate your mealtime experience.

6. Roasted Vegetables

After you’ve enjoyed the fresh and delightful flavors of a Caprese salad, it’s time to dive into another irresistible side dish that will elevate your Italian chicken dinner – roasted vegetables.

Transform an ordinary mix of veggies into a mouthwatering, colorful veggie medley with just a few simple steps. Your taste buds will be dancing in delight as they savor every bite of these tender and flavorful garden gems.

Harness the power of sheet pan magic by roasting a variety of seasonal vegetables together for maximum flavor impact. Choose favorites such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and eggplant; toss them in olive oil along with garlic, salt, pepper, and fragrant herbs like rosemary or thyme.

Spread the seasoned vegetables onto a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil before placing them in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C). Roast until their natural sweetness emerges and caramelizes on the surface while maintaining an ideal tenderness inside – usually around 20-30 minutes depending on your chosen selection.

As our culinary journey continues alongside this sumptuous Italian feast, we’ll soon embark upon one more gastronomic adventure: risotto Milanese.

This creamy rice dish is infused with saffron threads that impart both brilliant color and incomparable flavor. Prepare yourself for yet another unforgettable course that harmoniously complements our delicious main attraction!

7. Risotto Milanese

Ah, Risotto Milanese – a classic Italian dish that truly elevates your Italian chicken experience.

Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this traditional rice preparation is the perfect accompaniment to any poultry dish.

Not only does it boast an impressive culinary history in Northern Italy, but its unique combination of ingredients also creates a memorable dining experience for anyone fortunate enough to enjoy it.

To create this exquisite side dish, you will need Arborio rice as the star ingredient; however, arborio alternatives such as Carnaroli or Vialone Nano can be used just as effectively in achieving the desired consistency.

The secret behind Risotto Milanese’s alluring golden hue lies within saffron threads – an essential component that cannot be overlooked.

If obtaining genuine saffron proves difficult due to regional availability or budget constraints, consider using turmeric powder as a suitable saffron substitute while still maintaining the signature color of this iconic risotto.

As you embark on your culinary journey crafting this luxurious masterpiece, remember that patience is key when stirring your risotto gently over low heat until each individual grain has absorbed the fragrant broth mixture fully.

Once complete, serve alongside your perfectly cooked Italian chicken and revel in the glorious symphony of flavors gracing your palate – molto delizioso!

With our tastebuds now thoroughly satisfied by Risotto Milanese’s delightful charms let us explore another fantastic option for enhancing our meal: polenta.

8. Polenta

While Risotto Milanese can bring out the essence of Italian cuisine, let’s not forget another culinary wonder from Italy – Polenta.

A versatile and delectable dish that pairs beautifully with our Italian chicken, polenta is a staple in many households across Italy. Bursting with flavors and textures adaptable to any palate preference, this creamy delight deserves its place on your dinner table.

Whipping up creamy polenta starts by choosing between cornmeal variations like fine or coarser grind; each one creates a different texture for the final product. To create imagery in the audience’s mind, visualize preparing the perfect batch of polenta:

• Begin with boiling water seasoned generously with salt.
• Gradually whisk in your choice of cornmeal, ensuring it does not clump together.
• For creamier polenta: opt for a finer grain cornmeal
• For rustic-style polenta: choose coarser ground cornmeal
• Continuously stir as the mixture thickens over medium-low heat until you achieve your desired consistency.

As an Expert Chef, I recommend serving your perfectly prepared creamy polenta alongside succulent pieces of Italian chicken. The harmonious blend of flavors will transport your taste buds straight to Tuscany without leaving home.

Allow yourself some creative freedom when plating these dishes – perhaps spoon a generous dollop of rich polenta onto a warm plate before nestling juicy morsels of chicken atop their golden bed. Garnish lovingly with sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme for an added touch of elegance.

Now that we’ve mastered pairing risotto and polenta with our Italian chicken, allow me to introduce another delightful accompaniment to elevate your dining experience further – bruschetta with fresh tomatoes awaits you next!

9. Bruschetta With Fresh Tomatoes

Bruschetta with fresh tomatoes is a delightful accompaniment to Italian chicken dishes. The vibrant flavors, textures, and colors of this classic appetizer complement the tender chicken beautifully.

When selecting tomatoes for your bruschetta, consider exploring different tomato varieties such as heirloom or cherry tomatoes, which impart a unique taste profile that can elevate the overall dish.

One key ingredient in bruschetta is basil, an aromatic herb with numerous health benefits. Basil adds depth and freshness to the dish while also providing anti-inflammatory properties, antioxidants, and essential nutrients like vitamin K.

When preparing your bruschetta, be sure to use freshly picked basil leaves for optimal flavor – it’s those subtle touches that truly make all the difference when crafting a gastronomic masterpiece.

As you assemble your flavorful bruschetta atop crusty slices of toasted bread drizzled lightly with olive oil, remember that balance is crucial: allow each component to shine without overpowering others.

This delectable appetizer will not only tantalize your tastebuds but also provide an elegant showcase for nature’s bounty through its simple yet sophisticated presentation.

Now let us delve into another scrumptious side dish option – one featuring pesto pasta – that promises equal measures of culinary delight and satisfaction.

10. Pesto Pasta

Ah, pesto pasta – the symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds as you savor each bite. The perfect complement to your Italian chicken dinner, it not only adds color and texture but also enhances the overall dining experience. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, allowing for numerous pesto variations and pasta shapes to suit your preferences.

When preparing a delightful pesto pasta side dish, consider the following options:

1. Pesto variations: Classic basil pine nut; sun-dried tomato almond; or spinach walnut.

2. Pasta shapes: Fettuccine; fusilli; or farfalle.

3. Extra ingredients: Cherry tomatoes; roasted red peppers; or crumbled feta cheese.

Each combination creates a unique flavor profile guaranteed to please even the most discerning palate.

Pairing these delectable sides with your sumptuous Italian chicken is akin to embarking on an unforgettable culinary adventure through Italy’s rich gastronomic landscape.

As our journey continues beyond Bruschetta and Pesto Pasta, we’ll soon delve into yet another mouthwatering addition designed to complete your scrumptious spread – a vibrant antipasto platter!

So grab your apron and let’s forge ahead together towards creating an exquisite feast worthy of any special occasion.

11. Antipasto Platter

An exquisite accompaniment to your Italian chicken dish would be an elegant antipasto platter, which serves as a delightful appetizer and truly sets the stage for the main course. A well-crafted antipasto platter is not only visually appealing but also tantalizes the taste buds with a variety of flavors and textures.

It’s crucial that you select top-quality ingredients when preparing this culinary masterpiece; after all, it is an introduction to the delicious meal that awaits.

For a spectacular charcuterie board, carefully choose an assortment of cured meats such as prosciutto, salami, and coppa. These should be thinly sliced and elegantly arranged on a beautiful wooden or marble serving plate.

Pair these savory delights with marinated olives in various colors and flavors – think kalamata, Castelvetrano, and Cerignola – each offering its unique taste profile.

Additionally, include palate-pleasing options like fresh mozzarella or burrata cheese garnished with basil leaves or sun-dried tomatoes alongside crusty bread or crispy breadsticks.

Now that you’ve crafted a magnificent antipasto platter brimming with sumptuous treats, consider rounding out your Italian feast with another side dish: grilled asparagus. This vibrant green vegetable offers both visual appeal and complementary flavor profiles to enhance your overall dining experience further. Not to mention, it adds an element of freshness to balance out the rich tastes found within your antipasto selections.

So without further ado, let us delve into the preparation of this delectable side dish…

12. Grilled Asparagus

Did you know that asparagus is one of the top 20 nutrient-dense foods, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention? That’s right – not only do these green stalks add a vibrant color to your plate but they also provide numerous health benefits.

Asparagus is low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins A, C, E, K, and B6. Additionally, it offers essential minerals like folate, iron, copper, and calcium.

With all these fantastic asparagus benefits on offer, there’s no reason not to incorporate this delightful vegetable into your Italian chicken meal.

Grilled asparagus makes an ideal side dish for Italian chicken due to its versatility and unique flavor profile. The smoky char from grilling enhances the natural earthiness of asparagus while adding an extra layer of complexity that complements well-seasoned poultry dishes.

Expert chefs recommend choosing firm spears with tightly closed tips when selecting fresh asparagus at the market; thinner stalks tend to be more tender than their thicker counterparts.

To prepare them for grilling, simply snap off any fibrous ends by bending each spear gently until it breaks at its natural point or cut off about an inch from the bottom end with a knife.

Lightly coat the prepared asparagus with olive oil, season with salt and pepper (or other desired spices), then grill over medium heat for approximately three minutes per side until just tender-crisp.

For those interested in exploring unique pairings further beyond grilled asparagus alone: consider combining it with additional ingredients such as cherry tomatoes and artichoke hearts sauteed in garlic-infused butter or tossing roasted red peppers into the mix for added vibrancy both visually and taste-wise!

These simple yet impactful additions can elevate your ordinary Italian chicken dinner experience into something extraordinary that will leave guests craving seconds.

So go ahead – indulge yourself by making grilled asparagus a must-have accompaniment to your Italian chicken main course. And don’t forget that after savoring such a delightful meal, there’s always room for some tiramisu or gelato to bring the perfect touch of sweetness and balance to your dining experience.

13. Tiramisu Or Gelato For Dessert

After savoring the delightful flavors of grilled asparagus alongside your Italian chicken, it’s time to indulge in a heavenly dessert that will perfectly round off the meal.

Two classic Italian desserts come to mind – tiramisu and gelato! Both are exquisite choices that offer unique tastes and textures sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Tiramisu, Italian for ‘pick me up,’ is a luscious layered dessert made from espresso-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cheese, cocoa powder, and often a splash of liqueur.

One can explore many creative tiramisu variations by incorporating different flavor profiles such as chocolate-hazelnut spread or raspberry coulis. You could even opt for serving individual portions in elegant glassware to elevate the presentation.

On the other hand, if you prefer something cold and refreshing after your main course, look no further than gelato. This velvety frozen treat boasts an array of delectable gelato flavors ranging from creamy stracciatella (chocolate chip) to fruity sorbettos like lemon or strawberry.

So whether you’re yearning for a cool scoop of artisanal gelato or craving a sumptuous slice of tiramisu that melts in your mouth, either choice would make an excellent finale to your Italian-inspired feast. The key lies in selecting high-quality ingredients and presenting them with flair – just like all great chefs do!

Buon appetito!

FAQs

Conclusion

In conclusion, the key to a perfect Italian chicken meal lies in the heartwarming combination of these delightful side dishes.

Your guests will surely be singing your praises like an aria as they indulge in the flavorsome symphony you have orchestrated.

So go ahead and treat yourself and your loved ones with this scrumptious spread that complements your Italian chicken masterpiece.

Buon appetito!