Parmesan chicken, with its crispy, cheesy coating, is a versatile dish that pairs well with a wide array of sides. But finding the best accompaniments depends on your desired flavor profile and culinary preferences. This guide explores some of the top choices, addressing common questions people have about what to serve alongside this popular meal.
What are the best sides for parmesan chicken?
The best sides for parmesan chicken complement its rich, savory flavor without overpowering it. Think dishes that offer contrasting textures and tastes, balancing the richness of the chicken. Here are some standout options:
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Pasta: A classic pairing! A simple spaghetti aglio e olio, creamy fettuccine alfredo, or a vibrant pesto pasta provide delicious counterpoints to the parmesan chicken. The pasta absorbs the flavorful juices, creating a satisfying meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts offer a healthy and flavorful contrast to the richness of the chicken. Their slightly charred sweetness balances the salty parmesan perfectly.
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Rice: A simple side of rice, whether white, brown, or wild, provides a neutral base that absorbs any leftover delicious parmesan sauce. Consider adding herbs or lemon zest for extra flavor.
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Salad: A fresh salad adds a light and refreshing element to the meal, cutting through the richness of the parmesan chicken. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a more substantial Caprese salad works well.
What kind of vegetables go with parmesan chicken?
Almost any vegetable can complement parmesan chicken, depending on your preferred taste and cooking method. Here are some popular choices:
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Roasted Vegetables: As mentioned earlier, roasting brings out the natural sweetness of vegetables, creating a delicious side dish.
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Steamed Vegetables: Steamed vegetables retain their nutrients and offer a lighter, healthier option. Broccoli, green beans, and peas are all excellent choices.
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Sautéed Vegetables: Quickly sautéing vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions creates a flavorful and slightly crispy side.
What are some healthy side dishes for parmesan chicken?
While parmesan chicken itself isn't the healthiest dish, you can easily balance it with nutritious side options:
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Quinoa or Brown Rice: These are healthier alternatives to white rice, offering more fiber and nutrients.
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Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: These are low in calories and packed with vitamins and minerals.
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Large Green Salad: A large green salad with a light vinaigrette provides essential vitamins and fiber.
What goes well with breaded parmesan chicken?
Breaded parmesan chicken has a particularly crispy exterior, which calls for sides that offer contrasting textures and flavors:
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Creamy Sauces (in moderation): A light creamy sauce, like a lemon-garlic sauce, complements the breading without being overly heavy.
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Fresh Salads: The crispness of the salad contrasts beautifully with the crispy chicken.
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Roasted or Sauteed Vegetables: These provide a textural and flavor contrast.
What side dishes pair well with baked parmesan chicken?
Baked parmesan chicken often has a slightly softer texture than its breaded counterpart. This allows for sides with bolder flavors and textures:
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Roasted Potatoes: Roasted potatoes add a hearty and comforting element to the meal.
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Pasta with a Robust Sauce: A tomato-based pasta sauce or a creamy mushroom sauce adds depth and flavor.
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Hearty Salads with Interesting Dressings: A salad with a balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy ranch dressing adds a nice contrast.
By carefully selecting your side dishes, you can elevate your parmesan chicken experience, creating a balanced and truly delicious meal. Remember to consider the texture, flavor profile, and overall nutritional balance to make the best choice for your palate and dietary needs.
