When deciding what to serve with chicken piccata, it’s essential to consider sides that balance the dish’s tangy, lemon-butter sauce. The focus on what to serve with chicken piccata isn’t just about finding good pairings; it’s about creating a complete meal experience that enhances the main dish. Whether you prefer buttery noodles, fresh salads, or roasted vegetables, the options for what to serve with chicken piccata are diverse and delicious.
Finding the right sides for what to serve with chicken piccata is key to enjoying a balanced and flavorful meal. With these pairings, your chicken piccata dinner will shine in every way.
Why Chicken Piccata Needs the Right Side Dishes
The key to an unforgettable chicken piccata meal lies in complementing its bright, lemony flavors with the right accompaniments. Since the dish’s signature sauce is both tangy and rich, the sides you choose should either balance that acidity or enhance its flavors. The right side dishes not only add variety in texture and taste but also help create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
For instance, pairing chicken piccata with buttery noodles or creamy mashed potatoes adds comfort and substance. On the other hand, incorporating light salads or roasted vegetables can introduce freshness, cutting through the richness of the sauce. For more ideas on how to balance flavors, take a look at these crispy smashed potatoes for a perfect side, which offer the perfect contrast in both texture and taste.
Balancing the Flavors: Why Sides Matter
Because chicken piccata is known for its vibrant lemon sauce, it’s important to avoid sides that could clash with the dish. Starches and light vegetables often work best as they allow the flavors of the main dish to shine without overwhelming the palate. For example, simple pasta dishes like buttered noodles or breadsticks enhance the sauce’s tanginess while providing a neutral base. If you’re craving something more savory, check out these irresistible cheesy garlic bread sticks, which are an excellent companion to the zesty lemon sauce.
Starchy Sides: Balancing Flavor and Texture
Starchy sides are a go-to choice for chicken piccata, providing a hearty and comforting element that complements the dish’s citrusy tang. Here are some classic starches that pair beautifully with chicken piccata:
- Buttered Noodles: Simple, classic, and easy to prepare, buttered noodles are one of the most popular pairings for chicken piccata. The noodles’ mild flavor absorbs the lemony sauce, making each bite rich and flavorful.
- Creamy Parmesan Rice: This luxurious, creamy rice dish adds a layer of richness that perfectly balances the tartness of the piccata. The parmesan cheese introduces an umami note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Au Gratin Potatoes: If you’re seeking something indulgent, au gratin potatoes are a great choice. Layers of tender potatoes covered in a creamy, cheesy sauce create a comforting contrast to the brightness of the lemon sauce.
These starchy sides add substance and warmth to the meal, making them ideal for dinner parties or cozy nights at home.
Vegetable Sides: Adding Freshness and Nutrition
To balance out the richness of chicken piccata, vegetable sides are a must. The following options bring both nutrition and a touch of freshness that pairs perfectly with the dish:
- Brown Butter Honey Glazed Carrots: The combination of brown butter and honey gives these roasted carrots a delightful sweet and savory flavor. The glaze complements the lemony chicken without overpowering it. For more details, check out these sweet and savory glazed carrots.
- Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes: These crispy, garlic-infused potatoes are a crowd-pleaser. They have a crunchy exterior and a tender interior, making them perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the chicken piccata.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes: This roasted vegetable medley adds color and depth to your plate. The sweetness of the potatoes and the slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts create a complex flavor that complements the tangy sauce of the chicken piccata.
Vegetable sides like these not only add a healthy component to your meal but also provide the right mix of flavors and textures to enhance the chicken piccata.
Bread and Rolls: Perfect for Soaking Up the Sauce
When serving a dish with a delicious sauce like chicken piccata, having a bread side is essential. Here are some bread options that are perfect for soaking up every last drop of that lemon-butter sauce:
- Cheesy Garlic Bread Sticks: These bread sticks are a decadent addition to your meal. With a crispy bottom, soft interior, and a gooey cheesy top, they’re perfect for enjoying alongside the tangy chicken.
- 2-Ingredient Dinner Rolls: These easy, fluffy rolls are a great homemade option for any meal. With no need for yeast, they’re quick to make and serve fresh from the oven.
- Classic French Baguette: A crusty baguette is simple yet effective. The crispy crust and soft interior are perfect for sopping up the zesty lemon sauce.
Bread sides like these are not only practical but also add a comforting touch to your chicken piccata dinner.
Creative and Unique Pairings
If you want to get creative with your chicken piccata meal, consider adding refreshing salads or hearty sides that introduce new flavors:
Refreshing and Light Salads
- Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: This salad is a natural pairing with chicken piccata. The peppery arugula and tart lemon vinaigrette echo the flavors of the dish while adding a fresh, crisp bite.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers a creamy, savory contrast to the bright and tangy chicken piccata. The crunchy croutons and parmesan cheese make it a favorite side for many.
- Green Beans with Almonds: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with slivered almonds offer a crunchy, nutty side that complements the richness of the chicken piccata.
Comforting and Savory Sides
For those who want something more filling, here are some hearty sides that bring depth and richness to the table:
- Mashed Potatoes with Gouda Cheese: These creamy mashed potatoes are infused with smoky gouda cheese, creating a luxurious side that adds comfort to your meal.
- Sausage and Herb Stuffing: While traditionally served during the holidays, this savory stuffing works surprisingly well with chicken piccata. The herbs and spices in the stuffing bring out the flavors of the lemon-butter sauce.
- Creamy Polenta: Polenta is another great alternative to traditional starches. Its smooth, creamy texture pairs well with the tangy, buttery sauce of chicken piccata, making it a delightful addition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To help you create the best chicken piccata meal, here are some common questions and answers based on what people often ask:
1. What Type of Pasta Goes Well with Chicken Piccata?
Buttered egg noodles are a classic choice because they absorb the lemon-butter sauce well. You can also try angel hair pasta for a lighter option.
2. Can I Serve Chicken Piccata with Potatoes?
Yes! Mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or even au gratin potatoes make excellent sides for chicken piccata, providing a hearty and satisfying contrast.
3. What Vegetables Pair Best with Chicken Piccata?
Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, green beans, and carrots are great options. These vegetables add color, flavor, and nutrition to the meal.
4. What Wines Should Be Served with Chicken Piccata?
Dry white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay pair beautifully with chicken piccata, complementing the dish’s lemony flavors.
5. Can Chicken Piccata Be Served with a Salad?
Absolutely! Light salads with lemon-based dressings, like an arugula salad, work particularly well with chicken piccata. The acidity of the dressing enhances the flavors of the dish.
Conclusion: Crafting the Perfect Chicken Piccata Meal
Creating the perfect meal with chicken piccata is all about balance. Whether you prefer classic sides like buttered noodles and garlic bread or want to try something unique like creamy polenta or roasted vegetable medleys, there’s no shortage of delicious options to explore. By choosing sides that enhance the tangy lemon-butter sauce, you can elevate a simple dish into a memorable dining experience.
So the next time you make chicken piccata, experiment with different pairings until you find the combination that works best for you. With these suggestions, you’re sure to create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.
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