If you’re wondering what to serve with Italian chicken, look no further. The right side dish can take your Italian chicken dinner to the next level. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of Italian chicken side dishes that will perfectly complement your main course and create a memorable ensemble. From classic sides to fresh salads and hearty pasta dishes, we’ve got plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
Classic Italian Sides for Chicken
Italian chicken dishes are a crowd favorite for their flavorful and fragrant taste. The perfect Italian chicken dinner is never complete without its classic side dishes.
At the top of the list of traditional Italian chicken side dishes is the creamy polenta that accompanies the chicken so well. Creamy and satisfying, it makes a perfect base for roasted chicken or grilled chicken. Another popular Italian chicken side is roasted vegetables such as roasted tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini. The roasted flavors and colors bring out the best of the Italian chicken recipe.
You can also never go wrong with a side of garlic bread or rosemary-infused focaccia. These warm and crusty breads are perfect for soaking up the sauce and broth of the chicken dish. They also add a great textured contrast to the vegetables.
These easy Italian chicken sides are quick to prepare and will definitely complement your favorite Italian chicken recipes. You can never go wrong with the traditional Italian sides that have been perfected over generations.
Fresh Salads to Complement Italian Chicken
When it comes to adding freshness to your Italian chicken dinner, there’s nothing quite like a tasty salad. Not only are they packed with nutrients, but they also add color and texture to your plate, making your mealtime even more enjoyable. In this section, we’ve curated some salad recipes that will perfectly complement your delicious Italian chicken meal.
Caprese Salad
This classic salad is a wonderful addition to your Italian chicken dinner. Featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, it’s simple yet incredibly flavorful. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction and olive oil for added zest.
Caesar Salad
Another classic salad, Caesar salad is a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with Italian chicken. Toss crisp Romaine lettuce with croutons, shredded Parmesan, and a tangy Caesar dressing for a satisfyingly delicious meal accompaniment.
Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
If you’re looking for something a little less traditional, try this bright and refreshing arugula salad. Topped with shaved Parmesan and dressed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette, it offers the perfect contrast to your savory Italian chicken dish.
These salads are just a few of the many tasty Italian chicken accompaniments that you can incorporate into your meal. Experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to find your favorites and make every Italian chicken dinner a sensational experience.
Hearty Pasta Dishes as Italian Chicken Side Options
There’s nothing quite like a comforting pasta dish to complement your Italian chicken. From classic spaghetti with marinara sauce to creamy Alfredo pasta, pasta dishes are a perfect side option to satisfy your cravings for Italian food.
For a simple yet delicious option, try spaghetti aglio e olio, a pasta dish with garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Want something more indulgent? Opt for a creamy fettuccine Alfredo that will melt in your mouth.
Don’t forget to cook your pasta al dente, or “to the tooth,” for the perfect texture!
Other pasta dishes to consider as side options for your Italian chicken meal include cheesy baked ziti, flavorful penne arrabbiata, and hearty lasagna. These dishes are easy to make and delicious to taste, making them the best sides for Italian chicken.
Fresh Tip:
For an extra boost of flavor, use fresh herbs like basil or parsley to garnish your pasta dishes. This simple touch can make a big difference in the taste of your meal!
Crusty Bread and Focaccia for Italian Chicken
Warm, crusty bread and fresh focaccia are the perfect additions to any Italian chicken dinner. These sides are easy to make and add a comforting touch to your meal.
For an easy garlic bread recipe, slice French bread and brush with melted butter and minced garlic. Bake in the oven until golden brown and serve alongside your Italian chicken.
Or, try making homemade rosemary-infused focaccia for a delicious and fragrant side dish. Simply mix together flour, yeast, water, olive oil, and fresh rosemary, then let the dough rise before baking in the oven.
These breads are not only delicious with Italian chicken, but will also elevate your next dinner party or gathering. Give them a try and see how they become a popular addition to your recipe arsenal.
Roasted Vegetables to Complement Italian Chicken
When it comes to easy Italian chicken sides, roasted vegetables are always a popular choice. Not only are they simple to prepare, but they also add a burst of flavor and texture to your meal. You can roast any vegetable you like, but some of the most popular options include:
- Roasted tomatoes – sweet and juicy, roasted tomatoes are a tasty addition to any Italian chicken dish.
- Crispy Brussels sprouts – roasted with olive oil and seasoned to perfection, crispy Brussels sprouts add a delicious crunch to your meal.
- Garlic-roasted carrots – these sweet and savory carrots are perfect for adding some color to your plate.
- Roasted bell peppers – charred and caramelized, roasted bell peppers are a great way to add some smoky flavor to your dish.
With so many delicious options to choose from, you can’t go wrong with roasted vegetables as a side dish for your Italian chicken recipe.
Creamy Risotto and Polenta with Italian Chicken
Creamy and comforting, risotto and polenta are classic Italian side dishes that can take your Italian chicken dinner to the next level. These dishes are easy to prepare and complement the flavors of Italian chicken perfectly. Here are some delicious and popular Italian chicken recipes that pair beautifully with risotto and polenta.
Cheesy Parmesan Risotto
This creamy and cheesy risotto is a perfect match for Italian chicken. Made with butter, Parmesan cheese, and Arborio rice, it’s an easy and flavorful side dish that will impress your guests. You can also add some sautéed mushrooms and garlic for extra flavor.
Creamy Polenta with Mushrooms
Polenta is a versatile Italian dish that pairs well with many different flavors, including Italian chicken. This creamy polenta with mushrooms is easy to prepare and adds richness to your meal. Topped with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and thyme, it’s a delicious and easy Italian chicken side dish that you’ll love.
These creamy and flavorful Italian side dishes are a great addition to your Italian chicken dinner. They’re easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Try these recipes with your favorite Italian chicken recipe and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
Mediterranean-Inspired Sides for Italian Chicken
If you’re a fan of Mediterranean cuisine, you’ll love these tasty side dishes that perfectly complement Italian chicken. One popular option is Greek salad, with its mix of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese. You could also try roasted lemon potatoes, which boast a crispy exterior and a tender, zesty center.
For a twist on classic roasted vegetables, consider adding Mediterranean spices and seasonings to create a more complex flavor profile. You could also try serving Italian chicken alongside warm pita bread and hummus for a fresh and filling meal idea. And don’t forget about olive tapenade, which adds a burst of briny flavor to any dish.
When it comes to Mediterranean-inspired sides for Italian chicken, the possibilities are endless. Get creative in the kitchen and experiment with different combinations of flavors and textures to find your perfect pairing.
Light Vegetable Medleys as Italian Chicken Sides
While traditional Italian sides are delicious, sometimes you want something lighter to accompany your juicy chicken. Lucky for you, vegetable medleys are the perfect option! Combining a variety of seasonal veggies, they add a burst of color and freshness to your plate.
To get you started, we’ve put together a few of our favorite recipes. For a classic option, try sautéed zucchini and squash with garlic and herbs. If you’re in the mood for something a little different, grilled asparagus with lemon and Parmesan cheese is sure to impress. And for a veggie-packed dish, roasted carrots, bell peppers, and green beans make for a tasty and nutritious side.
These light vegetable medleys pair perfectly with popular Italian chicken recipes, such as savory chicken Parmesan or herb-roasted chicken. So next time you’re planning an Italian dinner, consider adding a healthy and flavorful veggie medley to the menu.
Tasty Bruschetta and Antipasto with Italian Chicken
If you’re looking for flavorful side dishes to complement your Italian chicken, look no further than bruschetta and antipasto. These classic Italian appetizers are the perfect accompaniment to your meal and can be easily prepared at home.
Tomato-Basil Bruschetta
Start by toasting slices of Italian bread in the oven or on a stovetop grill. In a bowl, mix together diced tomatoes, fresh basil, minced garlic, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Spoon the tomato mixture onto the toast and serve as a delicious side dish.
Cured Meats and Cheeses Antipasto
For a more substantial side dish, create an antipasto platter with a variety of cured meats and cheeses. Choose from sliced prosciutto, salami, and ham, as well as flavorful cheeses like provolone, mozzarella, and Parmigiano-Reggiano. Add some olives, roasted red peppers, and marinated artichokes on the side for a colorful and tasty spread.
Bruschetta and antipasto are not only delicious on their own but also enhance the flavors of your Italian chicken dish. Whether you choose to make your own or pick them up from your favorite Italian deli, these side dishes are sure to impress.
Perfect Wine Pairings for Italian Chicken
Choosing the right wine to complement your Italian chicken dinner can greatly enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re serving chicken Parmesan or chicken Marsala, there are many delicious wines that pair perfectly with these dishes.
If you prefer red wine, a Chianti or Sangiovese would be an excellent choice. These wines are medium-bodied, with a smooth taste and a hint of spice that complements the rich flavors of Italian chicken. For white wine lovers, a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would be a good match. These wines have a crisp, refreshing taste that complements the lighter flavors of Italian chicken.
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, try pairing your Italian chicken with a sparkling wine such as Prosecco or Champagne. The effervescence of these wines adds a festive touch to your meal and helps to refresh your palate between bites. Alternatively, if you prefer a sweeter wine, a Moscato or Riesling would be a good choice. The sweetness of these wines balances the saltiness of the chicken and creates a delicious contrast of flavors.
Remember, the key to a perfect wine pairing is to choose a wine that complements the flavors of your dish without overpowering them. With these wine suggestions, you can create the perfect Italian chicken dinner ensemble that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
So next time you’re planning an Italian chicken dinner, consider these wine pairing ideas for a truly unforgettable meal.
FAQ
What are some traditional Italian side dishes that go well with chicken?
Some classic Italian sides that pair beautifully with chicken include creamy polenta, roasted vegetables, and garlic bread.
What are some delicious salad options to complement Italian chicken?
Fresh salads such as Caprese salad and Caesar salad are great choices to accompany Italian chicken, adding a burst of freshness to your meal.
Can you recommend any hearty pasta dishes as side options for Italian chicken?
Spaghetti with marinara sauce and creamy Alfredo pasta are both mouthwatering choices to serve alongside Italian chicken, satisfying your cravings for Italian comfort food.
What are some bread options that pair well with Italian chicken?
Warm, crusty bread and homemade focaccia, such as garlic bread and rosemary-infused focaccia, enhance the flavors of Italian chicken dishes.
How can I incorporate roasted vegetables into my Italian chicken meal?
Easily roast a variety of vegetables, such as tomatoes and Brussels sprouts, to add texture and depth to your Italian chicken dinner.
What are some classic Italian side dishes like risotto and polenta that go well with chicken?
Creamy Parmesan risotto and polenta with mushrooms are popular Italian side dishes that perfectly complement Italian chicken, adding richness and flavor to your table.
Are there any Mediterranean-inspired side dishes that pair well with Italian chicken?
Yes, Mediterranean flavors blend beautifully with Italian cuisine. Greek salad and roasted lemon potatoes are among the options that transport your taste buds to the shores of the Mediterranean.
What are some lighter vegetable medleys that can accompany Italian chicken?
Vegetable medleys such as sautéed zucchini and squash or grilled asparagus are excellent choices to add color and freshness to your plate when serving Italian chicken.
What are some tasty options for bruschetta and antipasto to serve with Italian chicken?
Tomato-basil bruschetta and a variety of cured meats and cheeses make delicious appetizers and side dishes to accompany Italian chicken, adding variety and zest to your meal.
Which wines pair well with Italian chicken?
The perfect wine pairing depends on personal preferences, but some options that complement the flavors of Italian chicken include Chianti, Pinot Grigio, and Sauvignon Blanc.
