Chicken piccata is a protein-rich dish comprising sliced chicken covered in flour before they’re browned in a pan of butter. This meal is served in a pan-made sauce using lemon juice and capers.
Originating in Italy, piccata was traditionally made with veal and not chicken. Later the veal was substituted with chicken and the beloved chicken piccata was here to stay.
Chicken piccata is an uncomplicated dish and is easy to make. It tastes absolutely amazing and would never let you down if you’re looking to impress guests. The golden-brown crispness on the chicken looks like something out of a food magazine. And it tastes just as good too.
What to Serve With Chicken Piccata
As chicken piccata is a main dish comprising predominantly protein, it needs a side dish that’s robust and filling. It’s usually served with a side of vegetables or carbohydrates like pasta, potatoes, or rice. This is to ensure the meal is more balanced and nutritious.
But if you’re unsure of what to service with chicken piccata, we have you covered. Here are 10 side dishes that will bring out the best in your chicken piccata.
1. Buttered Noodles
Buttered noodles are a simple and delicious recipe that pairs well with chicken piccata. The melted butter in this dish complements the crispy chicken well. It is simple to make and is a crowd favorite.
Keep it simple with the main ingredients like noodles, butter, parmesan cheese, and parsley. This way, the chicken piccata remains the star of the meal. Buttered noodles are delightfully creamy and starchy, filling you up quickly. This side dish is also loaded with flavor that complements the chicken piccata well.
2. Roasted Vegetables
Chicken piccata has a brown color that may not be so appealing to the eye. The simplest way to inject a dash of color to your meal is a healthy serving of roasted vegetables. These vegetables are not only packed with nutrients but are full of flavor.
Roasting the vegetables caramelizes their natural sugars, taking them from good to extraordinary. They also add a new level of texture to the meal. Serving this side with your chicken piccata gives you the ultimate three: flavor, texture, and appearance.
3. Smashed Potatoes
If you’re feeling up for something daring, this side dish is for you. Chicken piccata is a timeless dish, simple and elegant. But if you want to pair this safe dish with something more adventurous, try out this variation on baked potatoes. These baked potatoes are crunchy on the outside and silky soft on the inside. The textures melt in your mouth and override your taste buds with flavor.
The smashed potato side brings texture and earthiness to your dish. Parboil the potatoes and let them cool down while you pre-heat your oven. Put down a baking sheet and spray olive oil over it. Place your cooked potatoes on the sheet. Use the heel of your hand or potato masher to smash them slightly. Season accordingly and bake.
4. Roasted Asparagus
Asparagus pairs excellently with chicken, and chicken piccata is no exception. These green spears are filled with nutrients and have a crunch to die for. The disparity in texture it provides makes it an excellent pair for chicken piccata.
Roasted asparagus is easy to make, and a slight char on the greens makes it so much more flavorful. This adds depth and personality to the dish. The deep green color of asparagus on your plate adds a nice contrast making the dish visually appealing.
5. Lemon Herb Rice
Everyone knows that rice is the perfect accompaniment for protein-based dishes. But this is not your traditional rice side dish. It is bursting with flavors you would not expect. And it’s quick, delicious, and pairs amazingly with chicken piccata.
This side is bright, springy, and fresh, with citrus and earthy notes in the rice. You would need rice, butter, garlic, lemon, and Italian seasoning to make it. If you can’t find mixed Italian herb seasoning, you can substitute it for a combination of fresh herbs such as basil, thyme, and oregano. The outcome will undoubtedly be unforgettable.
6. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a worldwide family favorite, and it’s no wonder why. This creamy and buttery dish is delicious and versatile. It goes with almost every dish and partners well with chicken piccata.
The subtle flavors of the dish give the chicken piccata the spotlight. The fluffy texture also contrasts beautifully with the crispiness of the chicken. Next to each other on a plate, they look so elegant and have an air of sophistication.
7. Sautéed Spinach
Spinach is one of those side dishes that is nutritious and easy to make. Although creamed spinach is more popular, sautéed spinach is a great side dish. And it is very quick to cook. The green of the spinach adds color to the meal. And it also adds significant variation in texture and flavors to the overall meal.
Wash and drain the spinach leaves well because they release water as they cook. Sauté the leaves in a pan with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cover the pan and let them cook for a minute. You can keep it simple or go to town with different condiments like wine, onions, bell peppers, etc.
8. Bread Pudding
Bread pudding is a bread-based dessert. It’s typically made with stale bread, milk or cream, eggs, and butter or oil. Bread pudding could be savory or sweet, depending on what you prefer.
The bread is doused in a mixture of the liquid ingredients and baked. You could decide to keep it simple or add as many nuts or fruits as you like. Bread pudding is excellent as a side dish for chicken piccata because of the texture it brings to the dish. Its flavor profile complements the chicken well. And it can even be used to soak up the delicious chicken piccata sauce.
9. Dinner Rolls
Dinner rolls include yeast and are usually served as an accompaniment for dishes. They are typically served with butter or eaten plain. And they pair well with chicken piccata as the roll can be used to soak up the delicious sauce of the main.
The rolls are soft, flaky on top, and have a buttery texture. You can easily make dinner rolls yourself. But if you’re not in the mood for baking, head to your nearest bakery to buy them.
10. Angel Hair Pasta
Angel hair pasta is a variety of pasta with really fine strands. It’s filling and a great accompaniment to protein dishes. And it’s delicious and easy to make.
You can boil the pasta in salted water with a drop of oil, or they can be made in a broth. The sauce in your chicken piccata can also serve as a pasta sauce.
Conclusion
Chicken piccata is a delicious protein-based meal that is great for dinners and special occasions. This main requires side dishes that are either carbohydrates or vegetables to make it more balanced nutritionally. It goes well with pasta, vegetable salads, and cooked vegetables.