Parmesan crusted chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply preparing a family meal, choosing the right accompaniments can enhance the overall dining experience. In this article, we will explore a selection of mouthwatering side dishes that perfectly complement the crispy and cheesy goodness of Parmesan crusted chicken.
Table of Contents
- Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest
- Caprese Salad
- Garlic Butter Green Beans
- Lemon Herb Quinoa
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
- Greek Orzo Pasta Salad
- Honey Glazed Carrots
- Crispy Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
- Mixed Green Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
- Mushroom Risotto
- Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan
- Sweet Potato Fries with Chipotle Mayo
- Tomato and Cucumber Salad
- Herbed Couscous
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that complements Parmesan crusted chicken beautifully. The velvety texture and rich flavor of the mashed potatoes provide a satisfying contrast to the crispy chicken. To prepare this dish, boil peeled potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, milk, minced garlic, and salt. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness.
Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest
Roasted asparagus is a vibrant and healthy side dish that pairs well with Parmesan crusted chicken. The earthy flavor of asparagus combines harmoniously with the zesty brightness of lemon zest. Simply toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon zest, then roast in the oven until tender. Serve hot alongside the chicken for a delightful combination of flavors.
Caprese Salad
A refreshing Caprese salad is an excellent choice to serve alongside Parmesan crusted chicken. Made with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves, this salad provides a burst of freshness and acidity. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or a tangy vinaigrette to enhance the flavors further.
Garlic Butter Green Beans
Garlic butter green beans are a quick and easy side dish that adds a pop of color and flavor to your meal. Sauté fresh green beans in garlic-infused butter until crisp-tender, then season with salt and pepper. The combination of garlic and butter complements the savory notes of the Parmesan crusted chicken.
Lemon Herb Quinoa
For a nutritious and protein-packed side dish, consider serving lemon herb quinoa. Quinoa is a versatile grain that pairs well with a variety of flavors. Cook quinoa in vegetable or chicken broth, then toss it with fresh lemon juice, chopped herbs like parsley or basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. The vibrant citrus flavor of the quinoa enhances the taste of the chicken.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze provide a tangy and slightly sweet accompaniment to Parmesan crusted chicken. The roasted Brussels sprouts develop a delicious caramelized flavor, and the balsamic glaze adds a delightful touch of acidity. Simply toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until golden brown. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Greek Orzo Pasta Salad
A Greek orzo pasta salad is a refreshing and satisfying choice to serve alongside Parmesan crusted chicken. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions, then combine it with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a tangy Greek dressing. The vibrant Mediterranean flavors of this salad complement the richness of the chicken.
Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey glazed carrots provide a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to your meal. Simply sauté baby carrots in butter until slightly caramelized, then drizzle with honey and sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley. The natural sweetness of the carrots balances the savory flavors of the chicken.
Crispy Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
If you’re craving a hearty and satisfying side dish, crispy Parmesan roasted potatoes are the perfect choice. Cut baby potatoes into bite-sized pieces, toss them with olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt, then roast until golden and crispy. The cheesy crust adds a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken.
Mixed Green Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
A simple mixed green salad with balsamic vinaigrette is a versatile and light side dish that complements Parmesan crusted chicken. Combine fresh mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your choice of additional vegetables. Drizzle with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette and toss well to coat. The freshness of the salad provides a crisp and vibrant contrast to the chicken.
Mushroom Risotto
Mushroom risotto is a creamy and indulgent side dish that pairs beautifully with Parmesan crusted chicken. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms infuse the risotto, creating a luxurious and comforting combination. Prepare a traditional risotto by slowly cooking Arborio rice with mushrooms, onions, garlic, white wine, and vegetable broth. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a touch of butter for added richness.
Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan
Grilled zucchini with Parmesan is a light and flavorful side dish that perfectly complements the richness of the chicken. Slice zucchini into long strips, brush with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then grill until tender and slightly charred. Finish by grating fresh Parmesan cheese over the grilled zucchini for an extra burst of flavor.
Sweet Potato Fries with Chipotle Mayo
For a twist on traditional french fries, serve sweet potato fries with a spicy chipotle mayo dip. Cut sweet potatoes into thin strips, toss them with olive oil, paprika, and salt, then bake until crispy. Meanwhile, combine mayonnaise and chipotle pepper in adobo sauce to create a smoky and tangy dip. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors enhances the taste of the chicken.
Tomato and Cucumber Salad
A simple tomato and cucumber salad is a refreshing and light side dish option. Combine ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onions, and fresh herbs like basil or dill. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss gently to combine. The juicy tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers provide a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
Herbed Couscous
Herbed couscous is a versatile and flavorful side dish that pairs well with Parmesan crusted chicken. Cook couscous according to package instructions, then toss it with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or cilantro. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil to brighten the flavors. The light and fluffy texture of the couscous complements the chicken beautifully.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when serving Parmesan crusted chicken, it’s essential to choose side dishes that complement its flavors and textures. From creamy garlic mashed potatoes to roasted asparagus with lemon zest, the options are plentiful. Whether you prefer a refreshing salad, a nutritious grain, or a hearty vegetable dish, the suggestions provided above offer a variety of choices to elevate your meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan for the chicken?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or even a combination of cheeses to create a unique flavor profile.
2. Can I make the Parmesan crusted chicken ahead of time?
While it’s best to serve the chicken immediately after baking for optimal crispiness, you can prepare the coating in advance and refrigerate it. Coat the chicken just before baking for the best results.
3. Can I use frozen vegetables for the side dishes?
Fresh vegetables are recommended for the best taste and texture. However, if fresh vegetables are not available, you can use frozen vegetables as a substitute.
4. Are there any vegetarian side dish options?
Yes, several side dishes mentioned in this article, such as roasted Brussels sprouts, Greek orzo pasta salad, and mushroom risotto, are vegetarian-friendly and can be enjoyed by non-meat eaters.
5. Can I serve the Parmesan crusted chicken with a sauce?
While the chicken is already flavorful on its own, you can serve it with a dipping sauce such as marinara sauce, honey mustard, or garlic aioli for an added burst of flavor.
