Chicken Romano, otherwise known as Chicken Parmesan or Chicken Parmigiana, is undoubtedly a well-loved dish that satisfies comfort food cravings with its enticing flavors and tantalizing textures.
This mouthwatering Italian classic is where seasoned and breadcrumb-coated chicken cutlets are fried to perfection and served with a delicious lemon-butter sauce. It’s no wonder that Chicken Romano is a dinner staple for many families.
But what to serve with Chicken Romano? Look no further! In this blog post, we will explore sumptuous side dishes that perfectly complement the flavors and textures of Chicken Romano, taking your meal from good to spectacular.
Get ready to wow your family and friends with these tasty and inspired options.
What is chicken romano? What does chicken romano taste like?
Chicken Romano is an Italian-style chicken dish that features a combination of egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and white wine in the sauce. The chicken itself is typically lightly floured and then fried or sautéed.
The result is a savory, cheesy flavor with a slight hint of garlic and acidity from the white wine. It can be served on its own or over pasta for a full meal. Some people also like to top it with additional grated cheese or herbs such as parsley. Chicken Romano is usually relatively easy to make at home and makes a great addition to any dinner menu!
27 sides to serve with Chicken Romano
1. Classic Spaghetti Marinara
You can never go wrong with the classic spaghetti marinara. This traditional side dish will undoubtedly complement the flavors of your Chicken Romano, creating an unparalleled symphony of flavors on your plate.
If you want to elevate this classic, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the sauce or even sautéed mushrooms and onion for added depth. Freshly grated parmesan cheese on top is always a good idea, too!
2. Garlic Bread Extravaganza
What better to serve with Chicken Romano than a slice of warm, crusty garlic bread? The buttery richness of freshly baked garlic bread is the perfect balance to the vibrant tomato sauce and gooey cheese adorning your chicken.
Homemade garlic bread is easy to make; all you need is a good-quality baguette, butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt. Toast or bake to perfection, and watch your dinner guests swoon.
3. Roasted Vegetable Medley
Lighten up your Chicken Romano by adding some color with a vibrant roasted vegetable medley. Choose your favorite seasonal vegetables, toss them in a little olive oil, salt, pepper, and your preferred herbs, and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized.
For added texture and flavor, throw in some crispy chickpeas for an extra crunch! Not only is this an easy and healthy side dish option, but it also adds a refreshing contrast to the rich Chicken Romano.
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4. Creamy Risotto
Elevate your Chicken Romano pairing game with a delectable creamy risotto! Whether it’s a simple parmesan risotto or a luxurious lemon and asparagus version, the creamy texture and rich flavors will satisfy your palate and leave you wanting more.
You could also get more experimental with options such as mushroom and spinach risotto, incorporating more ingredients to keep things interesting while perfectly complementing your main dish.
5. Caesar Salad with a Twist
Almost everyone loves a Caesar salad, and it just so happens to be the perfect side dish for Chicken Romano!
The crisp lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons create an irresistible symphony of textures and flavors that pair excellently with your main course. But why not take it up a notch?
Consider adding some grilled shrimp, avocado, or even unexpected ingredients like quinoa or roasted butternut squash to give your salad a fresh makeover.
6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a creamy and flavorful addition to your Chicken Romano dinner; garlic mashed potatoes add a beautiful contrast to the crispiness of the chicken.
Start by boiling your favorite variety of potatoes until they are tender. Then, mash them with a bit of butter, cream, and plenty of minced garlic.
For an elevated twist, you may also stir in some roasted garlic or grated Parmesan cheese for a more indulgent experience. The velvety texture and robust flavors in garlic mashed potatoes make this side dish an instant hit.
7. Sautéed Green Beans and Cherry Tomatoes
Light and colorful, a side of sautéed green beans and cherry tomatoes offer a fresh counterpoint to the rich flavors of Chicken Romano.
Simply sauté green beans in olive oil with a touch of garlic until crisp-tender, and then toss with halved cherry tomatoes, a splash of balsamic vinegar, and some chopped basil just before serving.
Know More: Perfect Side Dishes to Complement Your Chicken Wings
This summer-inspired dish not only looks beautiful on the plate but also brings a burst of freshness to your meal.
8. Sicilian Caponata
For a true taste of Italy, consider serving Chicken Romano with Sicilian Caponata – a sweet and sour eggplant relish with Mediterranean flavors.
This dish combines tender chunks of eggplant with tomatoes, onions, olives, capers, and a touch of sugar and vinegar, all simmered together until rich and flavorful.
Pairing Chicken Romano with Caponata highlights the Italian essence of the meal, making it a perfect option for a special occasion or themed dinner party.
9. Creamy Polenta
Creamy polenta, an Italian staple made from coarsely ground cornmeal, pairs wonderfully with Chicken Romano, offering a soft, comforting contrast to the crispy chicken.
Cook the polenta following your preferred recipe, making sure to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
For added flavor, stir in a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese and some chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil.
Serve the Chicken Romano atop a bed of creamy polenta for a delightful Italian-inspired meal.
10. Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower
If you’re seeking a tasty and nutritious accompaniment to your Chicken Romano, look no further than roasted broccoli and cauliflower. This dynamic duo offers a balance of flavors and textures, making them a guilt-free and delicious option.
Simply toss florets of broccoli and cauliflower in olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese; then, roast until tender and golden brown.
The nutty, caramelized flavor of the roasted vegetables pairs beautifully with the lemon-butter sauce of the Chicken Romano, ensuring every bite is divine.
11. Roasted Potatoes
Roasted potatoes are an excellent accompaniment to grilled chicken romano.
The combination of garlic, rosemary, oregano and other herbs creates an earthy flavor that stands up nicely against the peppery notes of the chicken.
Also Read: What to Serve with Roasted Potatoes
12. Salad
A simple green salad makes for a light and refreshing side dish for chicken romano. It provides a healthy balance to the heavier flavors of the dish and can be dressed up with tasty additions like croutons or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
13. Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf is a great option if you are looking for something lighter than pasta or potatoes as a side dish for their chicken romano.
It has a mild flavor that is subtly enhanced by herbs like saffron or basil, which provide an interesting contrast to the spiciness of the dish without overpowering its flavor.
14. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are easy to make and provide an array of colors and textures to complement your chicken Romano.
Bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant and mushrooms all pair nicely with chicken romano’s smoky flavor profile while adding some important nutrients to your meal as well.
15. Artichokes
Artichokes have a naturally sweet taste that offsets the bolder flavors in chicken romano quite nicely; they make for a sophisticated yet simple side dish when paired with this classic Italian entrée. Try adding lemon juice or garlic butter to give it even more depth of flavor!
16. Focaccia
Focaccia is a delicious option when you need something carb-heavy but still want something flavorful along with your chicken romano. Served warm from the oven, these bread are great complements to any meal—especially one as richly flavored as chicken romano!
17. Broccoli Rabe
Broccoli rabe has an intense bitterness that provides an interesting counterpoint to the spiciness of this signature Italian entrée; its subtle nutty overtones also blend in nicely with any poultry-based dish such as this one!
This vegetable can be served either raw or cooked, depending on your preference. Both versions will bring out different layers of flavor in your dinner plate!
18. Arugula Salad
If you are looking for something slightly more adventurous than traditional lettuce salads alongside your chicken romano, try replacing it with some arugula instead!
Arugula offers peppery tones similar to rockets, along with bolder flavors like radicchio. This leafy green adds lots of character without overwhelming your palate like some other salad greens might do!
19. Roasted Asparagus
Asparagus is an incredibly versatile vegetable that pairs well with just about anything—from breakfast omelets right through to hearty dinners such as Chicken Romano!
Roasting brings out its sweetness perfectly while adding nutty notes, too—it’s definitely worth giving this recipe a try next time you cook up this favorite Italian entree!
20. Baked Zucchini Sticks
Baked Zucchini Sticks are a crispy delight and always popular among young diners, but why not offer them as part of your adult supper too?
With minimal effort required (just dip them into beaten eggs, then roll them in Parmesan cheese before baking), they provide nutritious support without detracting from all those fabulous Italian spices featured in Chicken Romano!
21. Sauteed Spinach
Spinach isn’t everyone’s favorite veggie, but sautéing helps bring out its natural sweetness while tempering any bitterness associated with it—the perfect pairing then with our star ingredient here—chicken romano—our family loves it every time we whip up this classic recipe together!
22. Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasting root vegetables like carrots along with some garlic not only adds flavor to your dinner plate but also helps bring out their natural sweetness.
This is perfect when combined with other robust flavors in dishes such as chicken romano! The result? Complete meal perfection!
23. Sweet Potato Fries
Who doesn’t love fries? Whether it’s regular potato fries or something more creative such as sweet potato fries, this side dish is the perfect way to please everyone at the dinner table. Fried or baked, these golden treats are a great accompaniment to any main course – including chicken romano!
24. Tomato Bruschetta
Bruschetta can be served either as an appetizer or a side dish, depending on your preferences.
With classic ingredients such as tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil, it’s a great way to get everyone at the table excited about dinner.
Top with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost with chicken romano!
25. Salad Caprese
Combine the classic flavors of tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil in a salad caprese for a unique twist on a traditional side dish.
Drizzle with some olive oil and balsamic vinegar for an added zing that pairs perfectly with chicken romano! Enjoy!
26. Italian Vegetable Soup
If you want something light yet tasty to eat before their main course, why not prepare a traditional vegetable soup? With ingredients such as carrots, celery, onion, garlic and tomato puree, this is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. (Recipe)
Serve it up with some freshly baked Italian bread for a meal that pairs perfectly with chicken romano!
27. Zucchini Noodles
If you are trying to cut down on carbs, zucchini noodles are an excellent option. Spiralize or julienne the vegetable and then sauté it lightly in some garlic and olive oil for a side dish that’s both healthy and delicious! It won’t overpower the flavors of your chicken romano, either. Enjoy!
What are the best flavors to go with chicken romano?
Chicken Romano is a delicious Italian dish that pairs well with a variety of flavors. For a classic Italian flavor combination, try serving it with fresh basil, oregano, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
You can also add some heat to the dish by topping it off with crushed red pepper flakes or freshly diced jalapenos. To bring out the richness of the chicken, try pairing it with flavorful tomatoes like Roma or cherry tomatoes.
If you’re looking for something more decadent, top off your Chicken Romano with creamy mozzarella cheese and serve it up over a bed of linguine. The possibilities are endless when it comes to making Chicken Romano.
How do you jazz up a chicken romano?
There are a few ways to take your chicken romano up a notch in terms of flavor. One way is to try adding different herbs and spices to the dish for an extra kick. For example, you could add red pepper flakes, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, rosemary or basil to the dish for more flavor complexity.
You can also change the type of cheese used in the recipe. Experiment with different varieties such as Parmesan, Asiago, mozzarella or Gouda cheese – each will give your dish its own unique flavor profile.
Another way to elevate this classic Italian dish is by adding some vegetables to it. Try diced bell peppers, mushrooms or olives; these will add both flavor and color. You can also try adding some diced tomatoes or tomato sauce to the dish for extra moisture.
Finally, you can further enhance the flavors of your chicken romano by using a flavorful marinade before cooking it. This will help to tenderize the meat while infusing it with delicious herbs and spices.
Try combining olive oil, garlic, rosemary and oregano in a bowl and letting your chicken soak up all those amazing flavors before cooking! Enjoy your new take on this classic Italian favorite!
How do you display chicken romano on a platter?
To display chicken romano on a platter, start by arranging the cooked chicken pieces onto the platter. Sprinkle shredded cheese and crumbled bacon over the top of the chicken. Drizzle with melted butter, olive oil, or your favorite Italian dressing for added flavor.
Top with freshly chopped parsley and diced tomatoes for a colorful garnish. Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables. Enjoy!
Wrap Up on What to serve with Chicken Romano
Transform your Chicken Romano dinner from simple to sensational by incorporating these versatile and delectable side dishes.
From creamy garlic mashed potatoes to Mediterranean-inspired Sicilian Caponata, these options are designed to impress your taste buds and expand your culinary horizons.
So why not make your next Chicken Romano meal one to remember by trying out one or more of these delightful sides? Buon appetito!
FAQs
How many chicken romano per person?
This depends on how much chicken you want to serve. A good rule of thumb is about 3-4 ounces of cooked chicken per person. For example, if you were serving four people, you would need about 12-16 ounces of cooked chicken romano.
However, suppose you are feeding a larger group. In that case, it may be best to increase the amount of chicken accordingly for optimal satisfaction.
Additionally, you might want to consider providing side dishes or salads with your dish to help round out the meal and make sure everyone is satisfied. Bon Appetit!
What do Italians serve with parmigiana?
Traditionally, parmigiana is served with a simple side salad or a light pasta dish. Many Italians also serve the dish with toasted bread on the side as a way to soak up any sauce remaining in the pan. Some people even enjoy parmigiana as an appetizer or snack, eaten cold with just some crusty Italian bread!
If you prefer something heartier, it can be served alongside roasted vegetables or potatoes. Another popular accompaniment for parmigiana is risotto—a classic Italian rice dish that often comes flavored with mushrooms and herbs.
How many servings is chicken parmesan?
Chicken parmesan typically serves four people. Depending on the size of the chicken breasts and the amount of cheese used, the servings may vary. It’s a good idea to plan on two chicken breasts per person if you want to make sure there are enough servings for everyone.
You can also adjust the amount of sauce, cheese, and other toppings as needed. Additionally, consider serving this dish with a side of pasta or a salad to help fill out the meal. Enjoy!