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. However, the question remains: what goes good with Chicken Parmesan? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of sides, salads, pasta, and desserts that complement this beloved dish, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Classic Sides: Timeless Pairings for Chicken Parmesan
When it comes to traditional sides, there are a few options that stand out as perfect pairings for Chicken Parmesan.
Garlic Bread: A Match Made in Heaven
Garlic bread is a classic Italian-American staple that pairs perfectly with Chicken Parmesan. The crispy, buttery bread soaks up the marinara sauce, while the garlic flavor enhances the overall taste experience. To take it to the next level, try using a high-quality Italian bread, such as Ciabatta or Focaccia, and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Roasted Vegetables: A Light and Refreshing Option
Roasted vegetables provide a delightful contrast to the rich, cheesy goodness of Chicken Parmesan. Some popular options include:
- Broccoli: tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roasted to perfection
- Zucchini: sliced and roasted with garlic and lemon juice
- Eggplant: cubed and roasted with olive oil and herbs
These vegetables add a pop of color and flavor to the dish, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Sauteed Spinach: A Quick and Easy Option
Sauteed spinach is a quick and easy side dish that pairs perfectly with Chicken Parmesan. Simply heat some olive oil in a pan, add a handful of chopped spinach, and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.
Pasta: A Natural Pairing for Chicken Parmesan
Pasta and Chicken Parmesan are a match made in heaven. Here are a few pasta options that pair perfectly with this dish.
Spaghetti: A Classic Combination
Spaghetti is a classic pairing for Chicken Parmesan. The long, thin strands of pasta soak up the marinara sauce, while the chicken provides a satisfying protein component. Try adding some garlic and herbs to the pasta for added flavor.
Fettuccine: A Creamy and Rich Option
Fettuccine is a rich and creamy pasta option that pairs perfectly with Chicken Parmesan. The flat, wide noodles are coated in a creamy Alfredo sauce, which complements the cheesy goodness of the chicken.
Penetrating Pasta: A Fun and Creative Option
Penetrating pasta, such as penne or mostaccioli, is a fun and creative option for Chicken Parmesan. The tube-shaped pasta holds onto the marinara sauce, while the chicken provides a satisfying protein component.
Salads: A Refreshing Contrast to the Richness
Salads provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of Chicken Parmesan. Here are a few options that pair perfectly with this dish.
Caprese Salad: A Classic Italian Salad
Caprese salad is a classic Italian salad that pairs perfectly with Chicken Parmesan. The combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
Italian Garden Salad: A Hearty and Satisfying Option
Italian garden salad is a hearty and satisfying option that pairs perfectly with Chicken Parmesan. The combination of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion, topped with a homemade Italian dressing, provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
Desserts: A Sweet Ending to the Meal
Desserts provide a sweet ending to the meal. Here are a few options that pair perfectly with Chicken Parmesan.
Tiramisu: A Classic Italian Dessert
Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that pairs perfectly with Chicken Parmesan. The combination of ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and espresso provides a sweet and creamy ending to the meal.
Cannoli: A Sicilian Classic
Cannoli is a Sicilian classic that pairs perfectly with Chicken Parmesan. The crispy, fried pastry shells are filled with sweetened ricotta cheese, providing a sweet and creamy ending to the meal.
Panna Cotta: A Creamy and Refreshing Option
Panna cotta is a creamy and refreshing dessert option that pairs perfectly with Chicken Parmesan. The combination of sweetened cream, gelatin, and vanilla provides a sweet and creamy ending to the meal.
Wine Pairings: Elevating the Dining Experience
Wine pairings can elevate the dining experience, adding a new level of sophistication and enjoyment to the meal. Here are a few wine pairing options that complement Chicken Parmesan.
Chianti: A Classic Italian Red Wine
Chianti is a classic Italian red wine that pairs perfectly with Chicken Parmesan. The bold, full-bodied wine complements the rich flavors of the chicken and marinara sauce.
Pinot Grigio: A Crisp and Refreshing White Wine
Pinot Grigio is a crisp and refreshing white wine that pairs perfectly with Chicken Parmesan. The citrus and floral notes complement the bright, acidic flavors of the tomato sauce.
Moscato: A Sweet and Sparkling Option
Moscato is a sweet and sparkling wine option that pairs perfectly with Chicken Parmesan. The sweet, fruity flavors complement the rich, cheesy goodness of the chicken.
In conclusion, Chicken Parmesan is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides, salads, pasta, and desserts. Whether you prefer classic garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing Caprese salad, there’s something for everyone. So next time you’re in the mood for Italian-American cuisine, try pairing your Chicken Parmesan with one of these delicious options.
What is Chicken Parmesan and how does it fit into Italian-American cuisine?
Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a popular Italian-American dish that consists of breaded and fried chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This dish is a staple of Italian-American cuisine, which combines elements of traditional Italian cooking with American flavors and ingredients. Chicken Parmesan is often served in Italian-American restaurants and is a favorite among those who enjoy rich, savory flavors and satisfying portions.
The origins of Chicken Parmesan are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-20th century, when Italian immigrants adapted their traditional recipes to suit American tastes. The dish is thought to have been inspired by the Italian dish “parmigiana di melanzane,” which consists of breaded and fried eggplant slices topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. Over time, Chicken Parmesan has become a beloved dish in its own right, with countless variations and interpretations throughout the United States.
What are some popular side dishes that go well with Chicken Parmesan?
When it comes to side dishes, there are many options that complement Chicken Parmesan nicely. Some popular choices include pasta, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, and sautéed spinach. Pasta is a classic pairing, as it allows the rich flavors of the chicken and sauce to shine. Garlic bread is another popular option, as it provides a satisfying crunch and a boost of flavor. Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or zucchini, add a healthy and flavorful contrast to the dish, while sautéed spinach provides a burst of nutrients and flavor.
In addition to these options, other side dishes that go well with Chicken Parmesan include caprese salad, grilled asparagus, and Italian-style green beans. Caprese salad, which consists of sliced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken. Grilled asparagus adds a nice char and a bit of bitterness to balance out the dish, while Italian-style green beans, which are typically sautéed with garlic and herbs, provide a satisfying crunch and flavor.
What types of pasta pair well with Chicken Parmesan?
When it comes to pairing pasta with Chicken Parmesan, there are many options to choose from. Some popular choices include spaghetti, ziti, and penne. Spaghetti is a classic pairing, as its long, thin strands allow the sauce to cling nicely. Ziti, which is a type of tubular pasta, is another popular option, as it provides a nice texture contrast to the dish. Penne, which is a type of angled pasta, is also a good choice, as its ridges help to trap the sauce and flavors.
In addition to these options, other types of pasta that pair well with Chicken Parmesan include linguine, fettuccine, and rigatoni. Linguine, which is a type of long, flat pasta, provides a nice texture contrast to the dish, while fettuccine, which is a type of flat pasta made from egg and flour, adds a rich and creamy element to the dish. Rigatoni, which is a type of tubular pasta, provides a nice texture contrast and helps to trap the sauce and flavors.
What are some wine pairing options for Chicken Parmesan?
When it comes to pairing wine with Chicken Parmesan, there are many options to choose from. Some popular choices include Chianti, Pinot Grigio, and Montepulciano. Chianti, which is a medium-bodied Italian red wine, pairs nicely with the rich flavors of the chicken and sauce. Pinot Grigio, which is a crisp and refreshing Italian white wine, provides a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. Montepulciano, which is a medium-bodied Italian red wine, adds a nice depth and complexity to the pairing.
In addition to these options, other wine pairing options for Chicken Parmesan include Dolcetto, Valpolicella, and Vermentino. Dolcetto, which is a light-bodied Italian red wine, provides a nice acidity and fruitiness to the pairing. Valpolicella, which is a medium-bodied Italian red wine, adds a nice depth and complexity to the pairing. Vermentino, which is a crisp and refreshing Italian white wine, provides a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Can I make Chicken Parmesan healthier by using different ingredients or cooking methods?
Yes, there are many ways to make Chicken Parmesan healthier by using different ingredients or cooking methods. One option is to use baked chicken breasts instead of fried, which reduces the calorie and fat content of the dish. Another option is to use whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs, which adds more fiber and nutrients to the dish. Additionally, using part-skim mozzarella cheese instead of whole milk mozzarella cheese reduces the saturated fat content of the dish.
In addition to these options, other ways to make Chicken Parmesan healthier include using homemade tomato sauce instead of store-bought sauce, which reduces the sodium content of the dish. Using fresh basil instead of dried basil adds more antioxidants and flavor to the dish. Finally, serving the Chicken Parmesan with a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad adds more nutrients and fiber to the meal.
How can I elevate my Chicken Parmesan game by adding unique ingredients or flavors?
There are many ways to elevate your Chicken Parmesan game by adding unique ingredients or flavors. One option is to add some spice to the breading mixture, such as red pepper flakes or dried oregano, which adds a nice kick and depth to the dish. Another option is to use different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta cheese, which adds a tangy and creamy element to the dish. Additionally, using fresh arugula instead of basil adds a peppery and refreshing flavor to the dish.
In addition to these options, other ways to elevate your Chicken Parmesan game include using prosciutto or pancetta instead of regular bacon, which adds a salty and savory flavor to the dish. Using sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes adds a concentrated and intense flavor to the sauce. Finally, serving the Chicken Parmesan with a side of garlic and herb roasted potatoes adds a nice texture contrast and flavor to the meal.
Can I make Chicken Parmesan in advance and reheat it later?
Yes, you can make Chicken Parmesan in advance and reheat it later. One option is to bread and fry the chicken breasts ahead of time, then refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to assemble and bake the dish. Another option is to make the tomato sauce ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to use it. Additionally, you can assemble the entire dish ahead of time, then refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to bake it.
When reheating Chicken Parmesan, it’s best to use the oven instead of the microwave, as this helps to crisp up the breading and melt the cheese evenly. Simply place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat the dish, as this can cause the breading to become soggy.