What Goes Well with Chicken Parmesan? Best Sides & Pairings

There’s something magical about chicken parmesan. The crispy, golden-brown breading, the rich marinara sauce, and the gooey melted cheese—what’s not to love? But let’s be honest: as delicious as it is, chicken parmesan is only half the meal. The real question is, what goes well with chicken parmesan?

Sure, the classic go-to is pasta, but there’s a whole world of side dishes that can take this Italian favorite to the next level. From savory roasted vegetables to fresh salads and crusty garlic bread, the right pairing makes all the difference. Whether you’re keeping it low-carb, looking for a traditional Italian-inspired meal, or just want something quick and easy, I’ve got you covered.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best sides for chicken parmesan, starting with the most obvious choice—pasta.

Classic Pasta Pairings for Chicken Parmesan

Why Pasta is a Traditional Side for Chicken Parmesan

Let’s face it—when you think of chicken parmesan, you probably picture it sitting atop a bed of steaming hot pasta. There’s a reason for that! Pasta is the perfect starchy companion for this dish, soaking up the flavorful marinara sauce and balancing out the crispy texture of the chicken. Plus, it’s a comforting, carb-loaded classic that just feels right.

Best Types of Pasta to Serve with Chicken Parmesan

Not all pasta is created equal when it comes to pairing with chicken parmesan. Some types work better than others, and here are the top contenders:

• Spaghetti with Marinara – The OG pairing. A twirl of spaghetti coated in rich tomato sauce alongside crispy chicken parm? Perfection.
• Fettuccine with Garlic Butter – If you want something a little different, try skipping the red sauce and opting for fettuccine tossed in garlic butter instead. The simplicity of the butter and garlic enhances the flavors of the chicken without overpowering it.
• Penne Alfredo – For those who love a creamy contrast, penne Alfredo is a game-changer. The velvety sauce complements the crispiness of the chicken, giving you a satisfying, indulgent bite every time.

How to Choose the Right Pasta for Your Chicken Parm

Not sure which pasta to pick? Here are a few quick tips to help you decide:

• If you want to stick to tradition, go with spaghetti or linguine.
• If you prefer rich and creamy, Alfredo-based pasta is the way to go.
• If you’re looking for something light, try angel hair pasta with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh basil.

Pasta may be the most classic side, but it’s not the only one. Next, let’s explore the best vegetable sides to balance out the richness of chicken parmesan.

Vegetable Sides That Complement Chicken Parmesan

Chicken parmesan is hearty and indulgent, so adding some light and flavorful vegetables to the plate is a great way to create a balanced meal. Vegetables add color, texture, and freshness to contrast the richness of the dish. Whether you prefer them roasted, steamed, or sautéed, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from.

The Importance of Adding Vegetables to Your Meal

Let’s be real—chicken parmesan is cheesy, crispy, and saucy. While it’s undeniably delicious, pairing it with a veggie side helps cut through the richness, adding a fresh and wholesome element to the meal. Plus, vegetables provide essential nutrients and fiber, making your plate more balanced.

Best Roasted Vegetables for Chicken Parmesan

Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and creates a slightly crispy texture that pairs beautifully with chicken parmesan. Here are a few must-try options:

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Garlic – The crispy edges and garlicky flavor make this an excellent side that won’t overpower your main dish.
• Balsamic Glazed Carrots – The sweetness of balsamic pairs perfectly with the tangy marinara sauce.
• Parmesan Roasted Zucchini – Light and flavorful, zucchini roasted with Parmesan cheese enhances the cheesy goodness of chicken parm.

Steamed & Sautéed Vegetable Options

Not a fan of roasted veggies? No worries—steamed or sautéed vegetables work just as well!

• Garlic Butter Green Beans – Simple, quick, and packed with flavor. Green beans add a slight crunch that complements the tender chicken.
• Spinach with Olive Oil and Parmesan – This side dish is easy to whip up and adds a touch of earthy goodness to the meal.

Adding veggies doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor! These sides not only enhance the dish but also provide a healthier balance to your plate.

Fresh Salads to Serve with Chicken Parmesan

Sometimes, a crisp, refreshing salad is the best way to balance the hearty, cheesy goodness of chicken parmesan. A good salad adds brightness, acidity, and crunch—elements that work well with the richness of the dish.

Why Salads are a Great Side for Chicken Parmesan

A fresh salad isn’t just about adding greens to your meal—it’s about creating contrast. The tangy vinaigrettes, crunchy textures, and fresh ingredients provide the perfect counterbalance to the richness of the cheese and marinara sauce. Plus, if you’re looking for a lighter side, a salad is a great low-carb alternative to pasta.

Best Salad Pairings for Chicken Parmesan

• Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons – The creamy Caesar dressing pairs wonderfully with chicken parm, and the crunch of homemade croutons adds extra texture.
• Classic Italian Chopped Salad – Think of this as pizza shop salad—loaded with romaine, tomatoes, olives, red onions, and mozzarella—a perfect match for Italian flavors.
• Arugula Salad with Lemon Dressing – The peppery bite of arugula combined with a bright lemon dressing cuts through the richness of chicken parmesan effortlessly.

A fresh salad is an easy, no-fuss way to add lightness to your meal while still keeping things delicious.

Bread Options to Pair with Chicken Parmesan

A plate of crispy, cheesy chicken parmesan isn’t quite complete without some warm, freshly baked bread on the side. Whether you want something to soak up the marinara sauce or just love the idea of a carb-loaded indulgence, bread is the perfect addition. But not all bread is created equal!

Why Bread is a Staple Side for Chicken Parmesan

Bread serves two key purposes when paired with chicken parmesan:

1. It’s great for scooping up any extra sauce left on your plate.
2. It adds an extra layer of comfort to an already delicious meal.

The best part? There are so many varieties to choose from, each bringing something unique to the table.

Best Types of Bread to Serve

• Garlic Bread with Herbs – Buttery, crispy, and packed with garlic goodness, this is a must-have side that enhances every bite of chicken parmesan.
• Focaccia with Olive Oil – This fluffy, slightly chewy Italian bread is perfect for dipping into marinara sauce or drizzling with balsamic glaze.
• Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread – Loaded with melted mozzarella and Parmesan, this bread adds a fun, shareable element to your meal.

No matter which bread you choose, it’s guaranteed to make your meal even more satisfying.

Low-Carb & Healthy Alternatives for Chicken Parmesan Sides

If you’re looking for something lighter or low-carb, don’t worry—you don’t have to miss out on a great side dish! Plenty of delicious alternatives pair beautifully with chicken parmesan while keeping things healthy and balanced.

Low-Carb Pasta Replacements

Just because you’re skipping traditional pasta doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a satisfying side! Here are some fantastic low-carb swaps:

• Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) – A fresh, light alternative that still lets you twirl up some noodles with your chicken parmesan.
• Spaghetti Squash – When roasted, spaghetti squash creates tender, noodle-like strands that soak up marinara sauce perfectly.
• Cauliflower Rice – This grain-free alternative makes for a filling, veggie-packed side without the extra carbs.

Healthy Non-Pasta Sides

If pasta alternatives aren’t your thing, try these nutritious sides instead:

• Grilled Asparagus with Lemon – Simple, flavorful, and full of vitamins, asparagus adds a touch of freshness to your plate.
• Kale Salad with Balsamic Dressing – Packed with nutrients, kale salad provides a crunchy, tangy contrast to the richness of chicken parmesan.

Looking for more delicious, healthy meal ideas? Check out our recipe collection for inspiration!

Drinks That Go Well with Chicken Parmesan

A great meal isn’t complete without the perfect drink to go with it. Whether you’re looking for a bold wine pairing or a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage, the right drink can enhance the flavors of chicken parmesan and elevate the whole experience.

Drinks to Serve with Chicken Parmesan

These refreshing, are great options:

• Sparkling Water with Lemon – The bubbles and citrus help cleanse your palate between bites.
• Iced Tea with Basil – A subtly sweet tea with herbal notes pairs beautifully with Italian flavors.
• Homemade Lemonade – The zesty tang of fresh lemonade enhances the tomato-based sauce.

No matter what you choose, the right drink will make your chicken parmesan experience even better!

Nutritional Information for Chicken Parmesan

Want to know the nutritional breakdown of chicken parmesan? Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional content per 100g of this delicious dish.

Nutritional Content (Per 100g)

Nutrient	Amount (Per 100g)
Calories	250 kcal
Protein	22g
Carbohydrates	15g
Fats	12g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	55mg
Sodium	450mg
Fiber	1.5g
Sugar	3g
Calcium	150mg
Iron	1.2mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on the recipe and portion size.

FAQs About Chicken Parmesan Pairings

Still wondering what goes well with chicken parmesan? Here are some common questions people ask:

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