Chicken piccata is a beloved dish, cherished for its tender chicken cutlets and a tangy, buttery lemon sauce enriched with capers. It’s a quintessential Italian-American recipe that works beautifully as the centerpiece of any meal. But the real magic happens when you find the perfect accompaniments to serve alongside this star dish.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore what to serve with chicken piccata, covering everything from classic sides to innovative pairings. Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner party or preparing a simple family meal, this article will provide you with inspiration for creating a well-rounded menu.
Table of contents
Understanding Chicken Piccata’s Flavor Profile
To fully appreciate how to pair chicken piccata, let’s break down its flavor profile:
- Tangy and Bright: Lemon juice dominates the sauce, giving the dish its signature tang.
- Rich and Velvety: Butter provides creaminess, balancing the citrus notes.
- Salty and Briny: Capers add bursts of brininess that enhance the overall complexity.
- Lightly Crispy: The thin chicken cutlets are often dredged in flour, providing a subtle crispiness.
This unique combination of flavors and textures allows chicken piccata to pair well with a variety of sides, ranging from creamy and indulgent to light and refreshing.
The Best Side Dishes for Chicken Piccata
Here are some tried-and-true side dishes that pair wonderfully with chicken piccata:
1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a crowd-pleasing side that perfectly absorbs the zesty lemon-butter sauce. Their smooth, velvety texture contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken.
How to Make the Perfect Mashed Potatoes:
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their naturally creamy consistency.
- Incorporate warm cream and butter to achieve a silky texture.
- For extra flavor, consider adding roasted garlic or grated parmesan.
Mashed potatoes provide comfort and balance, making them an excellent choice for any occasion.
2. Garlic-Butter Pasta
Pasta and chicken piccata are a match made in heaven, especially when the pasta is lightly coated in a garlic-butter sauce. The simplicity of the dish allows the bold flavors of the chicken piccata to shine.
Best Pasta Choices:
- Angel hair: Delicate and quick-cooking, it pairs well with the light sauce.
- Linguine: Slightly thicker, it holds up beautifully to the butter and garlic.
Pro Tip: Toss the pasta with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon for a vibrant touch.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables bring a natural sweetness and slight smokiness that complements the tangy chicken piccata. Popular choices include:
- Asparagus: A springtime favorite, its earthy flavor pairs well with citrus.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until caramelized, they add depth to the meal.
- Carrots and Parsnips: Their subtle sweetness provides a delightful contrast.
To enhance the flavors, drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme before roasting.
4. Steamed Rice or Risotto
Rice and risotto are versatile sides that act as a blank canvas for the bold flavors of chicken piccata.
Steamed Rice: Fluffy white or jasmine rice is a simple yet effective option.
Risotto: For something more indulgent, try a lemon and herb risotto or a creamy parmesan risotto.
Risotto, in particular, echoes the dish’s creamy and citrusy elements, creating a harmonious pairing.
5. Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of chicken piccata. Its creamy dressing and crunchy croutons add texture and flavor.
How to Enhance Your Caesar Salad:
- Use freshly shaved parmesan for a nutty, savory flavor.
- Toss in anchovies or capers for an extra burst of umami.
- Make homemade croutons by toasting cubed bread with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
This side dish adds a touch of sophistication while keeping the meal light and balanced.
6. Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls
Few things are as satisfying as mopping up chicken piccata’s luscious sauce with a piece of crusty bread. Serve warm, freshly baked bread or soft, buttery dinner rolls for a comforting touch.
Serving Suggestions:
- Offer a side of olive oil with herbs for dipping.
- Choose sourdough or ciabatta for a rustic vibe.
Bread is not only practical but also enhances the overall dining experience.
7. Sautéed Spinach or Kale
Leafy greens like spinach and kale are nutrient-packed options that balance the meal’s richness. Sauté them with garlic and olive oil for a simple yet flavorful side.
Optional Add-Ins:
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- A squeeze of lemon juice to tie the flavors together.
8. Couscous or Quinoa
For a modern twist, consider serving chicken piccata with couscous or quinoa. These grains are light yet satisfying and pair beautifully with the tangy sauce.
Preparation Tips:
- Cook couscous in chicken broth for extra flavor.
- Mix quinoa with chopped parsley, mint, and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette for a fresh side.
9. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables, like zucchini, eggplant, or portobello mushrooms, add a smoky dimension to the meal. Brush them with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and herbs before grilling.
Why Grilled Vegetables Work:
- Their slightly charred flavor contrasts the brightness of the lemon sauce.
- They add a rustic, hearty element to the meal.
10. Polenta
Creamy polenta is a hearty and comforting side that pairs wonderfully with chicken piccata. Its smooth texture and mild flavor allow the main dish to shine.
Flavor Boosters:
- Stir in grated parmesan or mascarpone for richness.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch.
What Does Giada Serve with Chicken Piccata?
Celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis is known for her elegant yet approachable Italian recipes. Her favorite sides for chicken piccata include:
- Arugula Salad: Tossed with lemon juice, olive oil, and shaved parmesan.
- Sautéed Spinach: A simple, healthy choice cooked with garlic and olive oil.
- Lemon-Zest Pasta: A bright and citrusy option that mirrors the flavors of chicken piccata.
For more inspiration, check out Giada’s recipes on her official website.
Drinks to Serve with Chicken Piccata
If you’re looking for drink pairings, there are plenty of non-alcoholic options that complement the bright, tangy flavors of chicken piccata. The key is to choose beverages with refreshing or citrusy notes to enhance the meal.
Sparkling Water with Lemon or Lime
- Sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime mirrors the citrusy flavors of the dish.
- Add fresh mint leaves for an extra refreshing touch.
Herbal Iced Tea
- Chamomile or mint iced tea offers a light, soothing balance to the richness of chicken piccata.
- Sweeten lightly with honey for added flavor.
Citrus Mocktails
- A lemon or orange-based mocktail works wonderfully. Try mixing fresh orange juice with a splash of sparkling water and garnishing with a sprig of rosemary.
Freshly Squeezed Juice
- Lemonade or limeade provides a tangy kick that pairs well with the buttery sauce.
- For a sweeter option, consider apple or pear juice.
These non-alcoholic drinks enhance the dining experience while keeping the meal halal-friendly.ne adds a festive touch and pairs well with the dish’s acidity and richness.
FAQs
What’s a Good Side for Chicken Piccata?
Chicken piccata pairs well with a variety of side dishes that either balance or enhance its tangy and buttery flavors. Here are a few detailed recommendations:
- Mashed Potatoes: Their creamy texture absorbs the lemon-butter sauce beautifully, creating a harmonious bite.
- Garlic-Butter Pasta: Lightly coated in butter and garlic, pasta provides a simple yet flavorful base that doesn’t overpower the chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: Options like asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts bring a smoky, slightly sweet contrast to the tangy dish.
- Steamed Rice or Risotto: Rice acts as a neutral canvas, while risotto adds a creamy, indulgent twist.
Ultimately, the best side depends on your preferences, but aim for sides that complement the dish’s bright and savory profile.
What Does Giada Serve with Chicken Piccata?
Giada De Laurentiis, a renowned Italian-American chef, often emphasizes simplicity and freshness in her side dish pairings. Some of her favorites include:
- Arugula Salad: Tossed with a light lemon vinaigrette and shaved parmesan, this salad mirrors the citrusy notes of chicken piccata.
- Sautéed Spinach: Cooked with olive oil and garlic, spinach is a quick and nutritious option. Its earthy flavor pairs well with the brightness of the lemon sauce.
- Lemon-Zest Pasta: Adding a hint of lemon to the pasta enhances the dish’s citrus profile without overwhelming it.
Giada’s approach highlights how light, fresh sides can elevate chicken piccata into an elegant meal.
What Is the Difference Between Chicken Scallopini and Chicken Piccata?
While both dishes feature thinly sliced chicken, there are key differences in preparation and flavor:
- Chicken Scallopini:
- Refers to thin chicken cutlets that are dredged in flour and sautéed.
- It can be served with various sauces, such as mushroom cream sauce, tomato-based sauces, or lemon-butter sauces.
- The term “scallopini” refers more to the cut and cooking method than a specific flavor profile.
- Chicken Piccata:
- A specific type of scallopini, featuring a lemon-butter sauce with capers.
- The flavors are tangy, briny, and rich, making it distinct from other scallopini variations.
- It is often served with Italian-inspired sides like pasta or vegetables.
In summary, chicken piccata is a subtype of scallopini, with its defining elements being the lemon-butter-caper sauce.
What Makes Chicken Piccata Different from Chicken Francese?
This is a common point of confusion, as both dishes share similar ingredients and techniques. However, there are notable differences:
- Chicken Piccata:
- The chicken is dredged in flour and sautéed without any egg coating.
- The sauce is made from lemon juice, butter, chicken broth, and capers.
- Its flavor leans more towards tangy and briny.
- Chicken Francese:
- The chicken is dipped in flour and egg batter before being sautéed, creating a richer, golden crust.
- The sauce also includes lemon and butter but often lacks capers.
- The flavor is milder and creamier compared to chicken piccata.
Both are delicious, but chicken piccata’s briny capers give it a unique and more pronounced flavor.
What Are Some Gluten-Free Sides for Chicken Piccata?
For those avoiding gluten, there are plenty of side dishes that work beautifully with chicken piccata:
- Mashed Potatoes: Naturally gluten-free and perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Quinoa Salad: Tossed with fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon dressing for a vibrant pairing.
- Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb and gluten-free alternative to pasta. Sauté lightly with garlic and olive oil for flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables: Gluten-free and customizable, roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts are always a hit.
These options ensure that everyone can enjoy a complete meal without compromising on flavor or texture.
Conclusion: what to Serve with Chicken Piccata
Chicken piccata is a versatile dish that shines with the right pairings. Whether you prefer classic sides like mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables or modern options like quinoa and arugula salad, there’s something for everyone.
With thoughtful planning, you can create a balanced, delicious meal that will leave your guests impressed. So the next time you serve chicken piccata, don’t stop at the main dish—pair it with these incredible sides for a complete dining experience.
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