Chicken Piccata, with its bright, lemony sauce and tender chicken, is a delightful dish, but the question often arises: what complements it best? The answer, happily, is surprisingly diverse. This guide explores excellent side dishes to perfectly pair with your Chicken Piccata, ranging from classic pairings to more adventurous options.
Classic Companions for Chicken Piccata
These sides are tried-and-true companions that balance the zesty, acidic notes of the Piccata:
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Pasta: A simple, well-cooked pasta like linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine is a classic choice. The pasta soaks up the delicious sauce, creating a harmonious combination. Consider adding a touch of parsley or grated Parmesan cheese to the pasta for extra flavor.
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Risotto: Creamy risotto provides a lovely contrast to the bright flavors of the chicken. Its rich texture offers a delightful counterpoint to the delicate chicken. A simple lemon risotto would be particularly complementary.
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Polenta: Creamy polenta is another excellent choice for soaking up the sauce. Its subtly sweet flavor pairs well with the tangy lemon and savory chicken.
Elevating Your Chicken Piccata with Unique Sides
These side dishes offer a more sophisticated or unexpected twist:
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Roasted Asparagus: The slightly bitter asparagus offers a nice contrast to the acidity of the sauce. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Simple sautéed green beans with a touch of garlic are a light and refreshing side. Their crisp texture contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.
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Caprese Salad: The fresh flavors of tomato, mozzarella, and basil in a Caprese salad create a vibrant and refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the chicken piccata.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and zucchini adds color and diverse textures to the plate. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, creating a pleasing contrast with the lemon-forward sauce.
Sides to Avoid (Generally)
While many things pair well with chicken piccata, some sides might clash with its distinct flavor profile:
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Heavy, creamy dishes: Sides that are too rich or creamy can overpower the delicate lemon flavor of the piccata. Avoid dishes like mac and cheese or creamy mashed potatoes.
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Strongly flavored sides: Dishes with strong, competing flavors (like heavily spiced curries) can mask the subtle nuances of the piccata.
Completing the Meal: Bread and Dessert
Don't forget the finishing touches!
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Bread: Crusty bread, whether a baguette or a simple roll, is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
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Dessert: A light and refreshing dessert like lemon sorbet or a berry tart complements the meal beautifully.
Tips for Success
- Consider the season: Choose seasonal vegetables for the freshest flavors.
- Balance textures: Pair the tender chicken with sides that offer contrasting textures, like crisp vegetables or creamy polenta.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: The beauty of Chicken Piccata is its versatility. Feel free to explore different side dish combinations to discover your personal favorites!
By carefully choosing your side dishes, you can elevate your Chicken Piccata from a simple meal to a truly memorable dining experience. Enjoy!
