Chicken parmesan, a classic Italian-American dish, has been a staple in many restaurants and households for decades. The combination of crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese is a match made in heaven. While pasta is a traditional pairing for chicken parmesan, it’s not the only option. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of sides and explore some delicious alternatives to pasta that will elevate your chicken parmesan game.
Vegetable Sides: A Healthy and Tasty Option
Vegetables are a natural pairing with chicken parmesan, and there are many options to choose from. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Roasted Vegetables
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in vegetables, which complements the savory flavors of chicken parmesan. Some popular roasted vegetables that pair well with chicken parmesan include:
- Broccoli: A classic choice, broccoli is a staple in many Italian households. Simply toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and crispy.
- Zucchini: This summer squash is a great choice for roasting. Slice into rounds or strips, toss with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, and roast until tender and lightly browned.
- Brussels Sprouts: These tiny cabbage-like vegetables are a favorite among foodies. Cut in half, toss with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, and roast until tender and caramelized.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilling adds a smoky flavor to vegetables that pairs perfectly with the crispy exterior of chicken parmesan. Some popular grilled vegetables that pair well with chicken parmesan include:
- Eggplant: Slice into rounds or strips, brush with olive oil, and grill until tender and lightly browned.
- Bell Peppers: Green, red, or yellow, bell peppers are a great choice for grilling. Slice into strips, brush with olive oil, and grill until tender and lightly charred.
- Onions: Whether you prefer sweet onions or red onions, grilling brings out their natural sweetness. Slice into rings or strips, brush with olive oil, and grill until tender and lightly caramelized.
Sauteed Vegetables
Sauteing is a quick and easy way to cook vegetables that pairs well with the rich flavors of chicken parmesan. Some popular sauteed vegetables that pair well with chicken parmesan include:
- Spinach: This leafy green is a staple in many Italian households. Simply heat some olive oil in a pan, add a handful of spinach, and cook until wilted.
- Mushrooms: Whether you prefer button, cremini, or shiitake, mushrooms are a great choice for sauteing. Slice into strips, heat some olive oil in a pan, and cook until tender and lightly browned.
- Green Beans: These crunchy beans are a great choice for sauteing. Slice into strips, heat some olive oil in a pan, and cook until tender and lightly browned.
Salads: A Refreshing Option
Salads are a great way to cut the richness of chicken parmesan. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Caprese Salad
This classic Italian salad is a staple in many restaurants and households. Simply slice some fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, and dress with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Italian-Style Salad
This hearty salad is a great way to pair with chicken parmesan. Simply combine some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion, and top with a homemade vinaigrette.
Wedge Salad
This classic salad is a great way to pair with chicken parmesan. Simply combine some iceberg lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion, and top with a homemade blue cheese dressing.
Other Options: Think Outside the Box
While vegetables and salads are a natural pairing with chicken parmesan, there are many other options to consider. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Polenta
This creamy cornmeal dish is a staple in many Italian households. Simply cook some polenta according to package instructions, and top with your favorite sauce or cheese.
Risotto
This creamy rice dish is a great way to pair with chicken parmesan. Simply cook some Arborio rice according to package instructions, and top with your favorite sauce or cheese.
Garlic Bread
This classic Italian staple is a great way to pair with chicken parmesan. Simply butter some bread, sprinkle with minced garlic, and bake until crispy.
Conclusion
Chicken parmesan is a classic dish that can be paired with a variety of sides. While pasta is a traditional pairing, there are many other options to consider. From roasted vegetables to salads, and from polenta to garlic bread, there’s something for everyone. So next time you’re in the mood for chicken parmesan, think outside the box and try something new. Your taste buds will thank you!
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Roasted Broccoli | Toss broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and crispy. |
| Grilled Eggplant | Slice eggplant into rounds or strips, brush with olive oil, and grill until tender and lightly browned. |
| Sauteed Spinach | Heat some olive oil in a pan, add a handful of spinach, and cook until wilted. |
| Caprese Salad | Slice some fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, and dress with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. |
| Polenta | Cook some polenta according to package instructions, and top with your favorite sauce or cheese. |
In conclusion, chicken parmesan is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides. Whether you prefer vegetables, salads, or something more comforting like polenta or garlic bread, there’s something for everyone. So next time you’re in the mood for chicken parmesan, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and try something new. Your taste buds will thank you!
What is Chicken Parmesan and how does it taste?
Chicken Parmesan is a popular Italian-American dish that consists of breaded and fried chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. The combination of crispy exterior, juicy interior, and rich flavors of the sauce and cheese creates a delicious and satisfying taste experience.
The flavors in Chicken Parmesan are well-balanced, with the tanginess of the marinara sauce complementing the savory flavor of the chicken and the creaminess of the melted mozzarella cheese. The breading on the chicken adds a satisfying crunch to each bite, making it a dish that is both comforting and indulgent.
What are some popular side dishes that go well with Chicken Parmesan?
Some popular side dishes that go well with Chicken Parmesan include pasta, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, and a green salad. Pasta is a classic combination, as it allows the flavors of the marinara sauce to shine. Garlic bread is another popular option, as it complements the rich flavors of the dish.
Other options like roasted vegetables or a green salad provide a lighter contrast to the richness of the Chicken Parmesan. Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, or eggplant can be seasoned with herbs and spices to enhance their flavor, while a green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the heavy dish.
Can I pair Chicken Parmesan with other types of bread?
Yes, you can pair Chicken Parmesan with other types of bread besides garlic bread. Some options include Italian bread, ciabatta, or even a crusty baguette. Each of these breads has a unique texture and flavor that can complement the dish in different ways.
For example, Italian bread has a softer texture and a milder flavor that won’t overpower the Chicken Parmesan, while ciabatta has a slightly crispy crust and a more robust flavor that can stand up to the rich flavors of the dish. A crusty baguette can add a nice textural contrast to the meal.
How can I make Chicken Parmesan healthier?
There are several ways to make Chicken Parmesan healthier. One option is to bake the chicken instead of frying it, which can reduce the calorie and fat content of the dish. You can also use whole wheat breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs to add fiber and texture to the breading.
Another option is to use a lighter sauce, such as a homemade tomato sauce made with fresh tomatoes and herbs, instead of a store-bought marinara sauce that may be high in sugar and salt. You can also reduce the amount of cheese used in the recipe or use a lighter cheese option, such as part-skim mozzarella.
Can I pair Chicken Parmesan with other types of protein?
Yes, you can pair Chicken Parmesan with other types of protein, such as eggplant or portobello mushrooms. These options can provide a vegetarian or vegan alternative to the traditional chicken dish. The breading and sauce can be applied to the eggplant or mushrooms in the same way as the chicken, creating a similar flavor and texture profile.
Other options like shrimp or scallops can also be used, providing a seafood twist on the classic dish. The key is to choose a protein that can hold up to the breading and sauce, and that has a flavor profile that complements the other ingredients in the dish.
How can I make Chicken Parmesan more substantial?
There are several ways to make Chicken Parmesan more substantial. One option is to add some sautéed vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor. You can also add some beans, such as cannellini or kidney beans, to the sauce for added protein and fiber.
Another option is to serve the Chicken Parmesan with a side of roasted potatoes or a hearty grain, such as quinoa or brown rice. These options can provide sustained energy and satisfaction, making the dish more filling and substantial.
Can I make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time. One option is to prepare the breading and sauce ahead of time, and then assemble and bake the dish just before serving. This can save time and reduce stress during meal preparation.
Another option is to cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time, and then reheat them just before serving. This can be a convenient option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Just be sure to reheat the dish to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.