What To Serve With Chicken Parmesan (30 Best Sides)

There’s nothing quite like a homemade chicken parmigiana – tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich tomato sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese, and sprinkled with parmesan cheese. It’s a classic Italian dish that is loved by many.

But, what’s a chicken parmigiana without some delicious side dishes to go with it? That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the best side dishes to serve with chicken parmesan, our beloved Italian favorite. From roasted vegetables and salads to pasta and bread, these chicken parmesan sides will complete your meal and make it even more satisfying.

So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect accompaniments to your favorite chicken parmigiana recipe.

1. Italian chopped salad

When it comes to classic Italian dishes, chicken parmigiana is high on the list. And what better way to complement this delicious dish than with a fresh and flavorful Italian chopped salad.

The tangy and herbaceous flavors of the Italian dressing, paired with crisp vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, provide a satisfying contrast to the juicy an slightly crispy chicken cutlets with its rich marinara sauce. Sprinkle liberally with fresh basil leaves.

Plus, with gluten-free options available, this Italian chopped salad is a versatile and tasty side dish that pairs well with chicken parmesan.

We love: Italian Chopped Salad (by All the Healthy Things)

2. Tomato salad

Tomato salad is another classic and refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of chicken parmigiana.

Using fresh, ripe tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil and a dash of balsamic or red wine vinegar, this salad adds a burst of freshness and acidity to balance out the heavy and comforting flavors of the chicken parmigiana.

Plus, it’s a low-carb option that can easily be made in advance, making it a convenient and delicious side dish for any chicken parmesan meal.

We love: Heirloom Tomato Salad (by Diethood®)

3. Classic Caesar salad

When it comes to pairing side dishes with chicken parmesan, a classic Caesar salad is a no-brainer. The crisp and refreshing lettuce, tangy dressing, and savory parmesan cheese perfectly complement the rich and hearty flavors of the chicken parmigiana.

Not only is it a delicious combination, but it’s also easy to make. With a simple Caesar salad recipe, you can quickly whip up this side dish while your chicken is baking in the oven.

It’s also a great option for those looking for a healthier side dish, as it’s packed with fresh greens and nutrients.

We love: The Classic Caesar Salad: A Timeless Favorite (by Urbaki Cooking)

4. Saffron rice

Saffron rice is another perfect side dish to serve with chicken parmigiana, and a personal favorite of mine.

This flavorful rice pairs well with the rich, cheesy, and comforting flavors of the chicken parmigiana. Add some fresh herbs and grated parmesan for an extra pop of flavor. If you’re looking for a healthy option, use brown rice.

And the best part? It’s an easy side that can be made in an instant pot or slow cooker, leaving you more time to focus on the main dish.

We love: How to Make Saffron Rice on the Stove or in an Instant Pot (by Posh Journal)

5. Cauliflower rice

Looking for a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta or rice as a side dish for your chicken parmesan? Consider using cauliflower rice!

Low in carbs and calories, cauliflower rice makes a great substitute for pasta or rice dishes. Plus, it absorbs the delicious flavors of the chicken parmesan, making every bite a burst of flavor for your taste buds.

We love: How to Make Cauliflower Rice (by Premeditated Leftovers™)

6. Roasted Brussels sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a delicious side dish to serve with chicken parmesan.

The crispy texture of the Brussels sprouts pairs well with the tender and flavorful chicken parmigiana. Add some garlic powder and parmesan cheese before roasting for a delicious Italian-American flavor boost.

We love: Easy Roasted Brussels Sprouts (by Fox and Briar)

7. Broccoli salad

Chicken parmigiana is a classic Italian dish loved for its crispy parmesan-crusted chicken and tangy tomato sauce. And while it’s delicious on its own, serving it with a virtuous side of broccoli salad completes the meal.

The refreshing and crunchy broccoli salad balances out the richness of the chicken parmigiana. It’s also a great way to add some extra greens and vitamins to the meal.

We love: Classic Broccoli Salad (by Chelsea’s Messy Apron)

8. Caprese salad

One of my favorite side dishes to serve with chicken parmigiana is a simple and fresh Caprese salad.

The light and refreshing flavors of the salad complement the rich and hearty chicken parmesan dish perfectly.

Plus, the combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil adds a burst of flavor to every bite. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze or spoon generous dollops of fresh basil pesto over the salad.

We love: Caprese Salad Recipe (by Natasha’s Kitchen)

9. Kale salad

When it comes to serving chicken parmigiana, a light and fresh side dish is always a great option. That’s where a kale salad comes in.

Not only is it a healthy and refreshing option, but the bright flavors of the tangy lemon dressing and earthy kale perfectly complement the rich and savory chicken parmigiana. Plus, the lightness of the salad helps balance out the heavier elements of the dish, such as the melted cheese.

We love: Lemon Parmesan Kale Salad (by Peas and Crayons)

10. Pesto pasta salad

Chicken Parmigiana is a delicious and comforting dish, and it pairs perfectly with a flavorful side like pesto pasta salad. The tangy and fresh flavors of the fresh basil pesto complement the rich and savory chicken parmesan.

To make the perfect chicken parmesan side, simply toss cooked pasta in a bowl with your favorite pesto sauce, black pepper, and parmesan cheese. Add some sweet sweet cherry tomatoes or roasted vegetables.

We love: Pesto Pasta Salad (by Real + Vibrant)

11. Roasted broccoli

Roasted broccoli is a delicious and healthy side dish to serve with chicken parmigiana. Not only does it add a pop of vibrant color to your plate, but it also pairs well with the flavors of the dish.

Roasting the broccoli with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese creates a crispy and flavorful coating that complements the golden brown and crispy chicken parmigiana.

This easy chicken parmigiana side dish can be made in a sheet pan, making it a great option for a quick and effortless weeknight dinner.

We love: The BEST Crispy Oven-roasted Broccoli (by Baking Mischief)

12. Garlic green beans

Garlic green beans are the perfect side dish to serve with chicken parmigiana. The vibrant veggies bring a healthy and flavorful element to this classic Italian dish. Plus, the garlic adds a rich flavor that pairs well with the parmesan and tomato sauce.

To make this easy side dish, simply sauté fresh green beans with garlic butter. This side dish is a great way to add some color and texture to your plate, and it pairs perfectly with the rich and buttery texture of chicken parmigiana.

We love: Garlic butter sauteed green beans (by Berry & Maple)

13. Spaghetti aglio e olio

Spaghetti aglio e olio is a delicious pasta side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken parmigiana. This simple yet flavorful pasta dish is a classic Italian recipe that is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

The combination of garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes adds a burst of flavor to the tender and juicy baked chicken. And, while it’s traditional to use spaghetti, you can also use angel hair pasta for a lighter option.

We love: Spaghetti with garlic and olive oil (by The Clever Meal)

14. Buttered noodles

Buttered noodles are a classic and delicious side dish to serve with chicken parmigiana. The tender and succulent chicken, coated in a crispy and flavorful breading, pairs perfectly with the soft and buttery noodles for a satisfying and comforting meal.

For a healthier twist, try using whole wheat pasta or vegetable noodles instead—like spiralized zucchini noodles.

But why stop there? Add some sun-dried tomatoes, and top with arugula and a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese for an Italian flavor boost!

We love: Buttered Noodles Recipe (by Food Lovin Family)

15. Zucchini noodles

Zucchini noodles are a great side dish to serve with chicken parmigiana, especially for those looking for a healthy and simple side option.

Replacing traditional pasta with zucchini noodles not only reduces the carb content but also adds a boost of vitamins and nutrients to the meal. Sauté the noodles with olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes for a delicious Italian-inspired side dish.

With this easy recipe, you can cook perfect zucchini noodles in just a few minutes, making it the perfect side to go with your favorite Italian comfort food. Plus, this simple side is a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for a well-rounded meal.

We love: How to Make and Cook Zucchini Noodles (by Downshiftology)

16. Spaghetti squash

Chicken Parmigiana is a classic Italian dish that is loved by many. To keep things interesting and add a healthy twist, try serving it with spaghetti squash instead of traditional spaghetti.

For a healthy chicken parmesan recipe: Cook the spaghetti squash until tender, and shred it with a fork. Then top it with cooked crumbed chicken, marinara sauce, and shredded mozzarella. Broil it until the cheese is melty and oozing. Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves and grated parmesan before serving.

It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal while still enjoying a family-friendly Italian dish.

We love: Garlic Butter Chicken Meatball Stuffed Spaghetti Squash. (by Half Baked Harvest)

17. Grilled vegetables

Grilled vegetables are another great vegetable side dish to serve with chicken parmesan. Not only do they add some extra nutrition to the meal, but also provide a nice balance to the richness of the breaded chicken, marinara sauce, and cheese.

Create a colorful antipasti platter with your favorite grilled veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and mushrooms. Drizzle them with balsamic vinegar and olive oil and sprinkle with fresh herbs, and they will be a flavorful addition to the dish.

We love: Grilled Vegetables (by Dinner at the Zoo)

18. Baked zucchini fries

Chicken Parmigiana is a classic Italian dish that is full of flavor and perfect for any weeknight meal. And what better side dish to serve with this dish than baked zucchini fries?

Not only do these fries add a healthy touch to your meal, but they also complement the flavors of the chicken parmesan perfectly. Plus, they are a delicious alternative to the traditional pasta side dish that is classically served with this dish.

We love: Super Crispy Zucchini Fries – Baked in the Oven (by Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons)

19. Cucumber salad

Cucumber salad is a light and refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with the rich and saucy bite of chicken parmigiana.

The cool and crisp cucumber adds a refreshing element to each bite, while the fragrant basil and dried Italian herbs add a touch of Italian flair to this classic dish.

We love: Creamy Cucumber Salad (by Budget Bytes)

20. Roasted asparagus

Roasted asparagus is a great option to serve alongside chicken parm. Its simple preparation, using olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper, makes it a quick and easy side dish to serve with this Italian classic.

The earthy flavors of the roasted asparagus pair well with the savory tomato sauce of chicken parmigiana. Serve with grated parmesan and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for Southern Italian flair.

We love: Easy Roasted Asparagus (by The Endless Meal®)

21. Roasted cauliflower

Roasted cauliflower is a great side dish to pair with this classic Italian comfort food. The tender and slightly crispy texture of the roasted cauliflower complements the rich and flavorful chicken parmigiana.

And, for an easy dinner, you can even roast the cauliflower in the same sheet pan as the chicken parmigiana, making this a convenient and tasty side dish.

We love: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower (by Dishing Out Health)

22. Quinoa salad

Quinoa salad is a refreshing and healthy side dish that pairs beautifully with chicken parmigiana. The nutty flavor of the quinoa perfectly complements the savory flavors of this Italian chicken dish.

It’s also gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Plus you can customize it with what you have. Go classic Italian with olives, tomato, and mozzarella cheese, or add some fresh sprouts or chopped herbs like parsley for a touch of rustic charm. Serve alongside some garlic mashed potatoes and grilled veggies for a delicious pairing.

We love: Mediterranean Quinoa Salad (by Salt & Lavender)

23. Crusty bread loaf

When it comes to the best side dishes for chicken parmigiana, nothing beats a warm and crusty bread loaf. Not only does it help you soak up all the flavorful sauce, but it also provides a satisfying crunch and texture to complement the tender chicken.

Use slices of buttered bread to swipe up all of the delicious marinara sauce remaining on the plate. Chicken parmesan sandwiches are also a delicious leftover lunch the next day!

We love: Easiest Rustic Bread Recipe EVER (by Shelf Cooking)

24. Creamed spinach

Creamed spinach is a great way to balance the satisfying savoriness of chicken parmesan. Its creamy and rich flavors provide a satisfying contrast to the crispy chicken and tangy tomato sauce.

You can easily make your own creamed spinach at home. Or, if you’re short on time, opt for a store-bought version for a quick and convenient addition to your meal.

So, the next time you’re making chicken parmigiana, don’t forget to serve it with a delicious side of creamed spinach for a perfect and satisfying meal.

We love: Steakhouse Creamed Spinach (by Easy Weeknight Recipes)

25. Roasted sweet potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes are a delicious side dish to serve with any chicken dish.

They add a touch of sweetness to balance out the savory flavors of the dish. Plus, with their vibrant orange color, they make for a visually appealing addition to any plate.

Serve alongside a bright green garden salad or a kale salad for the ultimate chicken parmesan dinner.

We love: Roasted Sweet Potatoes (by Chelsea’s Messy Apron)

26. Creamy mashed potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic and versatile side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken parmigiana.

The smooth and velvety texture of the mashed potatoes makes the perfect bed for the crispy, tender chicken and tangy marinara sauce.

Serve alongside more veggies like sautéed spinach or oven-roasted asparagus for the perfect comfort food dinner!

We love: The Best Mashed Potatoes (by Kristine’s Kitchen)

27. Roasted butternut squash

The sweetness of the squash complements the tangy marinara sauce in this classic Italian dish.

Not only is this side dish easy to make, but it also adds a healthy element to an otherwise indulgent meal. Plus, it tastes like a fancy restaurant dish with minimal effort on your part!

Leftovers are great served with kale salad.

We love: Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe (Oven Baked) (by Creme De La Crumb)

28. Air fryer garlic bread

A vibrant side dish like air fryer garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to a classic Italian-American dish like chicken parmesan.

The garlic bread provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty chicken parmesan dinner. Plus, with its easy preparation in the air fryer (or oven), it’s a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Add some sautéed green beans for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

We love: Garlic Bread in Air Fryer (by Amira’s Pantry)

29. Balsamic roasted vegetables

Balsamic roasted vegetables are the perfect side dish to serve with chicken parm. The tangy balsamic vinegar adds a burst of flavor to the dish while the caramelized vegetables provide a satisfying contrast to the crispy chicken and rich marinara sauce.

Use a mix of your favorite vegetables like Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, and zucchini for a burst of color and flavor.

We love: Balsamic Roasted Vegetables Recipe (by Joy Food Sunshine)

30. Garlic herb roasted potatoes

Garlic herb roasted potatoes are a great option for a side dish to pair with chicken parmigiana. The crispy, flavorful potatoes add a satisfying texture and complement the tender chicken and rich tomato sauce.

To make this healthy potato side dish, simply toss baby potatoes in a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. Roast them in the oven until golden brown and tender.

Serve with a light Caesar salad for a well-rounded Italian meal.

We love: Herb and Garlic Roasted Red Potatoes (by The Kitchen Magpie)

31. Grilled zucchini

Grilled zucchini is a healthy and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken parmigiana. The light texture and mild flavor of the zucchini complement the rich and hearty flavors of the chicken schnitzel and crushed tomatoes.

Serve alongside some crusty bread and a fresh salad topped with feta cheese and a balsamic vinegar dressing for a well-rounded meal.

We love: Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan (by Wholefully)

Frequently asked questions

Chicken parmigiana is a classic Italian dish that everyone loves. The crispy, breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese is a true crowd-pleaser. But don’t forget about the sides! They can take your chicken parmesan dinner to the next level.

For a lighter side, serve your chicken parmigiana with a fresh broccoli salad, some easy oven-roasted vegetables, or a crunchy Caesar salad. Or, for a more traditional Italian touch, a side of pasta with olive oil and garlic works well. And for the ultimate comfort food meal, I always go for creamy potato mash.

How do you serve your chicken parm?