Chicken piccata is a beloved Italian dish known for its tangy, lemony flavor. But what to serve with chicken piccata can be a challenge. This article will explore 18 delicious side dishes that perfectly complement the zesty flavors of chicken piccata. From starchy sides to vegetables and salads, we’ve got you covered.
Introduction
Chicken piccata is a classic Italian-American dish that features tender chicken cutlets in a bright, lemony sauce. The dish’s tangy flavors call for complementary side dishes that can balance and enhance the overall meal. Choosing the right chicken piccata sides can elevate your dining experience from good to exceptional.
When considering what to serve with chicken piccata, it’s important to think about flavor balance, texture contrasts, and nutritional variety. The right combination of sides can turn a simple chicken dish into a memorable feast. Let’s explore some delicious options that will make your chicken piccata meal truly special.
Starchy Sides
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread with chicken piccata is a match made in culinary heaven. The crispy, buttery bread provides a perfect vessel for soaking up the delicious piccata sauce. To make garlic bread, simply spread a mixture of minced garlic, softened butter, and chopped parsley on sliced Italian bread. Then, bake until golden and crispy.
The aromatic garlic complements the lemon and caper flavors in the chicken piccata. It’s a classic pairing that never fails to satisfy. Plus, it’s an easy side dish to prepare while your chicken is cooking.
Brown Rice
Brown rice with chicken dishes offers a healthier alternative to white rice. It’s packed with fiber and nutrients, making it a great choice for a balanced meal. To prepare brown rice, rinse it thoroughly and cook it in a 2:1 ratio of water to rice.
The nutty flavor of brown rice pairs well with the tangy chicken piccata sauce. It also provides a hearty base that can soak up the delicious flavors. Brown rice is an excellent option for those looking to incorporate more whole grains into their diet.
Super Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Crispy smashed potatoes are a delightful twist on traditional potato sides. They offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken piccata. To make them, boil small potatoes until tender, then smash them flat and roast until crispy.
The crispy exterior and fluffy interior of these potatoes make them an irresistible side dish. They’re perfect for soaking up the lemony piccata sauce. Plus, they’re easy to customize with herbs and spices to complement your chicken piccata.
Homemade Mashed Potatoes
A homemade mashed potatoes recipe is always a crowd-pleaser. Creamy and comforting, mashed potatoes provide a smooth contrast to the tangy chicken piccata. For the best results, use Yukon Gold potatoes and add warm milk and butter for extra creaminess.
The mild flavor of mashed potatoes allows the chicken piccata to shine while providing a satisfying base. They’re also versatile – you can add garlic, herbs, or cheese to customize them to your taste.
Roasted Fingerling Potatoes
Roasted fingerling potatoes offer a gourmet touch to your chicken piccata meal. These small, elongated potatoes have a buttery flavor and creamy texture that pairs well with the tangy chicken. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and herbs before roasting for the best flavor.
The crispy exterior and tender interior of roasted fingerling potatoes provide a delightful textural contrast. They’re also visually appealing, adding color and interest to your plate.
Garlic Knots
Garlic knots with chicken piccata are a fun and flavorful alternative to regular bread. These twisted bread rolls are brushed with garlic butter and baked until golden. They’re perfect for mopping up the delicious piccata sauce.
The soft, pillowy texture of garlic knots contrasts nicely with the crispy chicken. Plus, the garlicky flavor complements the lemon and caper notes in the piccata sauce.
Stick Of Butter Rice
Butter rice side dish is a rich and indulgent accompaniment to chicken piccata. This dish involves cooking rice with a whole stick of butter, resulting in an incredibly flavorful and creamy side. The richness of the butter rice balances the tangy piccata sauce beautifully.
While it’s not an everyday dish, stick of butter rice is perfect for special occasions. It’s sure to impress your guests and make your chicken piccata meal feel extra special.
Fried-Okra Cornbread
A fried okra cornbread recipe offers a Southern twist to your Italian-inspired meal. This unique cornbread incorporates crispy fried okra into the batter, creating a textural and flavorful delight. The slightly sweet cornbread complements the tangy chicken piccata sauce.
This side dish brings an interesting fusion element to your meal. It’s a great way to introduce variety and unexpected flavors to your chicken piccata dinner.
Vegetable Sides
Roasted Broccolini
A roasted broccolini side dish is a simple yet elegant accompaniment to chicken piccata. Broccolini, with its tender stems and delicate florets, roasts beautifully in the oven. Toss it with olive oil, salt, and lemon zest before roasting for the best flavor.
The slight bitterness of broccolini contrasts nicely with the rich piccata sauce. Plus, its vibrant green color adds visual appeal to your plate.
Asparagus Gratin
An asparagus gratin recipe elevates the humble asparagus to new heights. This creamy, cheesy dish features tender asparagus spears baked in a rich sauce and topped with crispy breadcrumbs. It’s a decadent side that pairs wonderfully with chicken piccata.
The creamy gratin sauce complements the tangy piccata sauce, while the crispy topping adds a nice textural contrast. This side dish is sure to impress at any dinner party.
Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach for dinner is a classic side dish that pairs beautifully with chicken piccata. The rich, creamy spinach provides a luxurious contrast to the tangy chicken. To make it, simply sauté spinach with garlic and cream until thick and velvety.
The mild flavor of creamed spinach allows the chicken piccata to shine while adding a nutritious element to your meal. It’s a great way to incorporate more leafy greens into your diet.
Garlic Parmesan Green Beans
Garlic Parmesan green beans offer a flavorful and crisp side dish for chicken piccata. The green beans are sautéed with garlic and tossed with grated Parmesan cheese. This simple preparation allows the natural flavor of the green beans to shine through.
The crisp texture of the green beans contrasts nicely with the tender chicken. The garlic and Parmesan flavors complement the piccata sauce without overpowering it.
Glazed Carrots
Citrus glazed carrots bring a touch of sweetness to balance the tangy chicken piccata. Carrots are cooked until tender and glazed with a mixture of butter, honey, and orange juice. The result is a colorful and flavorful side dish.
The natural sweetness of the carrots, enhanced by the glaze, provides a nice counterpoint to the savory chicken piccata. Plus, their bright orange color adds visual appeal to your plate.
Air Fryer Asparagus
An air fryer asparagus side is a quick and healthy option to serve with chicken piccata. The air fryer cooks the asparagus to crisp-tender perfection in just a few minutes. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and lemon zest before air frying for the best flavor.
The crispy tips of the air-fried asparagus provide a nice textural contrast to the tender chicken. This side dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy option.
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Roasted Artichokes With Creamy Garlic Dipping Sauce
Roasted artichokes dipping sauce offers an interactive and flavorful side for chicken piccata. Artichokes are halved, brushed with olive oil, and roasted until tender. Serve them with a creamy garlic dipping sauce for a truly indulgent experience.
The act of pulling off artichoke leaves and dipping them in sauce adds a fun element to your meal. The creamy garlic sauce complements both the artichokes and the chicken piccata.
Salads
Roasted Potato Salad
A roasted potato salad recipe offers a warm and comforting side dish for chicken piccata. Roasted potatoes are tossed with a tangy dressing while still warm, allowing them to absorb all the delicious flavors. Add some crispy bacon and fresh herbs for extra flavor.
This warm potato salad is a nice alternative to traditional cold potato salads. Its hearty flavors stand up well to the bold taste of chicken piccata.
Chopped Kale Salad With Toasted Breadcrumbs
A kale salad with breadcrumbs provides a fresh and crunchy contrast to chicken piccata. Finely chopped kale is massaged with a lemon vinaigrette to soften it, then topped with toasted breadcrumbs for crunch. Add some Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
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The hearty kale stands up well to the tangy piccata sauce, while the breadcrumbs add a nice textural element. This salad is a great way to incorporate more leafy greens into your meal.
Pairing Considerations
When deciding what to serve with chicken piccata, consider the balance of flavors, textures, and colors on your plate. The tangy, lemony flavor of chicken piccata pairs well with both rich, creamy sides and fresh, crisp vegetables. Aim for a variety of textures to keep the meal interesting.
Consider the season when choosing your sides. Light salads and grilled vegetables are perfect for summer, while hearty roasted vegetables and creamy potato dishes are ideal for colder months. Remember, the best side dishes will complement the chicken piccata without overshadowing it.
FAQ
What is the best side dish for chicken piccata?
The best side dish depends on personal preference, but popular choices include garlic bread, roasted vegetables, and various potato dishes.
Can I prepare side dishes ahead of time for chicken piccata?
Many side dishes can be prepared ahead of time, such as roasted vegetables, potato salads, and rice dishes. Reheat or finish cooking just before serving.
How many side dishes should I serve with chicken piccata?
Typically, 2-3 side dishes provide a good variety. Consider including a starch, a vegetable, and possibly a salad.
Are there any wine pairing suggestions for chicken piccata and its sides?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with chicken piccata and most of its side dishes.
Can I use the same pan to cook side dishes after making chicken piccata?
Yes, you can use the same pan to cook some side dishes, which will infuse them with the delicious piccata flavors. Just be sure to deglaze the pan first.
Conclusion
Choosing what to serve with chicken piccata doesn’t have to be a challenge. With these 18 delicious side dish options, you’re sure to find the perfect accompaniment for your meal. Whether you prefer starchy sides, vegetables, or salads, there’s something here for everyone.
Remember, the key to a great meal is balance. Mix and match these sides to create a well-rounded plate that complements your chicken piccata. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own perfect combinations. Happy cooking!
Ethan Henry with 8 years of expertise in bamboo, excels in sustainable design, construction and product development. His passion for eco-friendly solutions has driven innovative advancements in bamboo-based industries.
