What to Serve with Chicken Piccata: A Comprehensive Guide
Chicken piccata is a delicious and versatile Italian dish that is loved by many. It consists of chicken breasts coated in flour and sauteed in butter, with the addition of capers and lemon slices for a burst of flavor. While chicken piccata is delicious on its own, it is often served with complementary side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. In this article, we will explore several options for what to serve with chicken piccata, from pasta and salads to vegetables and other accompaniments.
The versatility of chicken piccata
Chicken piccata provides a neutral base that pairs well with a variety of flavors and textures. When considering what to serve with chicken piccata, it is important to choose side dishes that complement and enhance the flavors of the dish. It is also important to balance textures and create a harmonious meal that satisfies the palate. Here are some excellent options for side dishes that go well with chicken piccata:
Pasta: The Classic Choice
Pasta is a classic accompaniment to chicken piccata. Its versatility, variety of shapes and ability to absorb flavors make it an ideal partner for this dish. The traditional pasta choices for chicken piccata are angel hair or spaghetti. But you can also experiment with different shapes and types of pasta to create unique combinations. Here are some ideas for pasta dishes that pair beautifully with chicken piccata:
- Warm Garlic Butter Angel Hair Pasta
- Warm roasted vine tomato pasta or a tomato-based pasta
- Warm cheesy mixed herb pasta bake (coriander, parsley and thyme)
- Cold Fusilli Pasta Salad with Olives, Gouda and Piqanté Peppers
- Cold Pesto Pasta with Fresh Basil Leaves
- Cold coleslaw pasta with corn and carrots
Salads: Fresh and Flavorful
Salads are a refreshing and light counterpoint to the richness of chicken piccata. They can be customized with a variety of ingredients to complement the flavors of the dish. When choosing a salad to serve with chicken piccata, look for varieties that are not overly acidic, as they can overpower the lemony flavor of the dish. Here are some salad ideas that work well with chicken piccata:
- Peach and arugula salad with red onion, spiced chickpeas and feta cheese
- Grilled Pineapple and Cucumber Salad with Mediterranean Tomato Mix and Fresh Basil
- Garden Salad with Raw Roasted Cashew Nuts
- Beetroot, couscous, feta and wild arugula salad with roasted seed mix
Vegetables: Healthy and Flavorful
Vegetables are an excellent choice as a side dish to chicken piccata. They add color, texture, and a variety of flavors to the meal. However, it is important to avoid roasting plain vegetables, as this can result in a dry and unappetizing combination. Instead, consider using other cooking methods, such as steaming or boiling, to preserve the nutrients and flavors of vegetables. Here are some vegetable accompaniments that pair well with chicken piccata:
- Balsamic Grilled Mixed Roasted Vegetable Salad (Marinated Vegetables)
- Rainbow Roasted Spiced Baby Carrots (star anise, cloves, thyme, and honey)
- Cheesy Mushroom and Cauliflower Baked with Bechamel Sauce
- Lightly Grilled Bell Peppers, Onions and Asparagus with Garlic and Olive Oil
- Vegetable tian with parmesan topping
Other side dishes
In addition to pasta, salads and vegetables, there are other side dishes that can enhance the enjoyment of chicken piccata. Here are some options to consider:
- Potatoes: While potatoes are a popular accompaniment to chicken dishes, opt for lighter preparations when serving them with chicken piccata. Instead of heavy chunks, try baking smaller pieces of potato for a crispy texture. Or consider buttery, soft sweet potato wedges as a flavorful alternative.
- Rice or grains: Chicken piccata can also be paired with rice or other grains for a satisfying meal. Choose options such as jasmine rice, wild rice, or quinoa to add a healthy element to the dish.
- Bread: Crusty or garlic bread can be served with chicken piccata to soak up the flavorful sauce and provide a delightful contrast in texture.
Creating a harmonious meal
When planning a meal with Chicken Piccata, it is important to consider the overall balance of flavors, textures, and colors. Aim for a combination of dishes that complement each other and create a harmonious dining experience. While the suggestions above are excellent choices, feel free to experiment and personalize your accompaniments according to your taste preferences and dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
Chicken piccata is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a satisfying and well-rounded meal. Whether you choose to serve it with pasta, salads, vegetables, or other accompaniments, the key is to choose flavors and textures that complement and enhance the flavors of the dish. By considering the options presented in this article and personalizing them according to your preferences, you can create a harmonious and delicious dining experience with chicken piccata as the star of the show. Enjoy exploring different combinations and discovering your favorite pairings for this delicious Italian dish.
FAQS
What are some traditional accompaniments for chicken piccata?
Can I serve chicken piccata with pasta other than angel hair or spaghetti?
What type of salad goes well with Chicken Piccata?
How do I make sure the vegetables I serve with chicken piccata are flavorful?
Are there any alternative side dishes to consider besides pasta, salad, and vegetables?
Answer:
Traditional accompaniments for chicken piccata include angel hair or spaghetti pasta, as well as a salad with chicken piccata, capers, and lemon slices.
Absolutely! While angel hair and spaghetti are traditional choices, you can experiment with different pasta shapes and types to create unique combinations with chicken piccata.
When choosing a salad to serve with chicken piccata, opt for varieties that are not overly acidic to avoid overpowering the lemony flavor of the dish. Consider options such as peach and arugula salad, grilled pineapple and cucumber salad, or a classic garden salad.
To keep vegetables flavorful, use different cooking methods, such as steaming or boiling instead of frying. This helps to preserve the nutrients and flavors of the vegetables. You can also enhance the flavor by adding different spices and herbs.
Yes, in addition to pasta, salads and vegetables, you can consider serving chicken piccata with potatoes (in lighter preparations), rice or grains such as jasmine rice or quinoa, and crusty or garlic bread for a delightful contrast of textures. These options add variety to the meal and cater to different tastes.