Discover What Goes With Chicken Piccata: Perfect Pairings Guide

Originally posted on November 16, 2023 @ 8:36 am

If you’re a fan of chicken piccata, you know that it’s a delicious and classic dish that combines tender chicken with a tangy lemon and caper sauce. But have you ever wondered what to serve with it to enhance its flavors even further? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the perfect pairings for chicken piccata, including classic side dishes, vibrant veggies, creamy risottos, fresh salads, delectable bread and potato accompaniments, and more.

Not only that, but we will also give you creative recipe variations to try out, garnishes to add that extra touch of flavor, and wine and beverage pairings that will elevate your dining experience. So, get ready to enhance the flavors of this beloved dish and take your culinary adventure to the next level!

Key Takeaways

• Chicken piccata pairs well with classic side dishes like roasted potatoes and green beans.
• Adding vibrant vegetables can bring freshness and color to your chicken piccata dish.
• Creamy risottos and pasta dishes provide a comforting and indulgent base for your chicken piccata.
• Salads can add a burst of flavor and texture that perfectly balance the citrusy tang of chicken piccata.
• Enhance the presentation and flavors of your chicken piccata dish with delicious garnishes like parsley or capers.

Classic Side Dishes for Chicken Piccata

If you want to complement the tangy and savory flavors of chicken piccata, classic side dishes are a great choice. Here are some delicious, easy-to-make ideas for side dishes:

Side Dish	Description
Garlic Mashed Potatoes	Smooth and creamy potatoes mashed with garlic for a savory touch.
Lemon Roasted Asparagus	Asparagus roasted with lemon, olive oil, and garlic for a fresh, zesty flavor.
Caprese Salad	A fresh salad with sliced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar.
Garlic Bread	A classic dish that pairs well with any Italian dish, garlic bread adds a tasty crunch to your meal.

These classic side dishes are easy to prepare, and they balance the flavors of the chicken piccata perfectly. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match!

Vibrant Vegetable Pairings for Chicken Piccata

Adding a colorful vegetable side to your chicken piccata dish is an excellent way to balance the richness of the chicken and the lemony caper sauce. We’ve compiled a list of vegetables that will bring both freshness and flavor to your meal:

Vegetable	Preparation Method
Asparagus	Roasted or steamed
Broccoli	Sautéed or steamed
Green Beans	Blanched or sautéed
Artichokes	Grilled or roasted
Spinach	Sautéed or wilted

Try pairing your chicken piccata with a Mediterranean salad of cucumber, tomato, and feta cheese for a combination of tangy and creamy flavors that complement the dish’s citrusy tang. Alternatively, add thinly sliced zucchini and yellow squash to your chicken piccata for a burst of color and texture.

If you want to add some heat to your meal, consider roasting some spicy peppers or sautéing some sliced jalapenos. Be sure to balance the spice with some cooling accompaniments, like cucumber or avocado slices.

No matter what vegetables you choose, be sure to prepare them in a way that brings out their natural flavors and textures. By experimenting with different vegetable pairings, you can discover new and exciting ways to enjoy this classic dish.

Creamy Risottos and Pasta Pairings

Chicken piccata is a classic dish that is full of tangy and savory flavors. To enhance its taste further, it is essential to pair it with the right side dishes. Creamy risottos and pasta dishes are an excellent choice to complement the zesty flavors of chicken piccata.

A creamy and indulgent risotto is a perfect base for your chicken piccata. The rice’s creaminess and the lemony sauce’s tanginess create a perfect balance of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Some great risotto options include mushroom risotto, asparagus risotto, and lemon risotto.

Risotto Recipe	Ingredients
Mushroom Risotto	Arborio rice, mushrooms, chicken broth, onion, garlic, butter, Parmesan cheese, white wine
Asparagus Risotto	Arborio rice, asparagus, chicken or vegetable broth, onion, garlic, butter, Parmesan cheese, white wine
Lemon Risotto	Arborio rice, chicken broth, onion, garlic, butter, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, white wine

For pasta lovers, there are plenty of options that pair perfectly with chicken piccata. Whether it’s fettuccine, linguine, or angel hair pasta, they all work well. The pasta’s lightness balances the richness of the chicken and makes the dish more filling. Some great pasta pairings include lemon garlic pasta, spinach and ricotta pasta, and sun-dried tomato pasta.

Pasta Recipe	Ingredients
Lemon Garlic Pasta	Linguine, garlic, butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese
Spinach and Ricotta Pasta	Fettuccine, spinach, ricotta cheese, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta	Angel hair pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese

No matter what pasta or risotto you choose, these dishes will provide a perfect base for your chicken piccata.

Fresh Salad Ideas to Complement Chicken Piccata

A refreshing salad can add a burst of flavor and texture to your chicken piccata dish. While there are many salad options out there, some are better than others when paired with this tangy dish. Here are some delicious salad ideas to try:

1. Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Arugula’s peppery taste pairs perfectly with the lemony flavors of chicken piccata. Combine arugula with sliced red onions, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. Dress with a tangy lemon vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard.

2. Caprese Salad

A classic caprese salad is made with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil leaves. To make it a perfect companion to chicken piccata, try adding sliced avocado to give the salad a creamy texture and nutty flavor. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.

3. Caesar Salad with Grilled Shrimp

A Caesar salad with grilled shrimp brings a new level of indulgence to your chicken piccata meal. Use romaine lettuce and toss with croutons, grated Parmesan cheese, and homemade Caesar dressing. For added protein and flavor, grill peeled and deveined shrimp and add them on top of the salad.

4. Beet Salad with Goat Cheese

Beets add a sweet and earthy flavor to any salad, and when paired with creamy goat cheese, they create a delicious balance. Roast sliced beets in the oven and let them cool. Mix with mixed greens, candied walnuts, crumbled goat cheese, and a simple balsamic vinaigrette.

“A refreshing salad can add a burst of flavor and texture to your chicken piccata dish.”

Delectable Bread and Potato Accompaniments

To complement the flavorful and tangy notes of chicken piccata, bread and potato accompaniments are an excellent choice. These starchy additions add texture and heartiness to the dish.

Bread to Savor

What goes better with a saucy, lemony chicken piccata dish than crusty bread?

Italian bread with a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior is the perfect vessel to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Alternatively, you could try garlic bread, which is brushed with garlic-infused butter and broiled until golden brown.

Potatoes to Suit Your Tastes

If you prefer potatoes over bread, you can indulge in creamy mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes.

Mashed potatoes provide a smooth, buttery canvas for the tangy sauce to shine.

Roasted potatoes add a crispy, savory crunch that perfectly complements the chicken’s texture.

Meal Ideas

If you’re looking for a complete meal idea, try serving chicken piccata with garlic bread or mashed potatoes and a side of sautéed spinach.

Alternatively, roasted potatoes and a side salad made with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and shaved parmesan are also excellent choices.

Whatever you choose, bread and potatoes provide the perfect foundation to ground the dish and balance its flavors.

Wine and Beverage Pairings for Chicken Piccata

Pairing the right wine or beverage with your chicken piccata can elevate your dining experience. The acidity and tanginess of the dish call for crisp and refreshing drinks that balance out the flavors. Here are some great options:

Beverage	Pairing Notes
Sauvignon Blanc	This white wine provides a refreshing taste, complementing the tangy lemon sauce.
Pinot Grigio	With its citrus and apple flavors, this wine pairs well with the light and zesty flavors of chicken piccata.
Semillon	With its rich flavors, this wine perfectly balances the tanginess of chicken piccata and can bring out the flavors of the dish.
Moscato d’Asti	The floral and fruity notes of this sweet wine provide a refreshing contrast to the tanginess of chicken piccata.
Sparkling Water with Lemon	A non-alcoholic alternative, sparkling water with a slice of lemon can provide a clean and refreshing taste that complements the dish.

When pairing beverages with chicken piccata, it’s important to consider the flavors of the dish and find a drink that can either enhance or balance them. These options are great starting points, but feel free to experiment and find your own favorite pairing.

Experiment with Cheese Pairings

If you’re a cheese lover, adding a cheese course to your chicken piccata meal can provide an indulgent and delicious finish. Try pairing this dish with a tangy and creamy goat cheese or a sharp and nutty parmesan. These cheeses can cut through the richness of the chicken and provide a contrasting flavor that complements the dish.

Refreshing Drink Garnishes

Add a pop of color and flavor to your beverage by garnishing it with herbs or fruits. A sprig of fresh mint or a slice of cucumber can provide a crisp and refreshing taste that perfectly complements the tangy flavors of chicken piccata.

With these wine and beverage pairings, you can create a complete dining experience that perfectly complements your chicken piccata dish. Cheers to a delicious meal!

Creative Recipe Variations for Chicken Piccata

If you’re looking to switch up your chicken piccata recipe, you’re in luck! There are many creative variations of this classic dish that you can try. Whether you’re looking to spice things up, add more depth of flavor, or simply experiment with different ingredients, these recipes are sure to inspire you. Here are some ideas for chicken piccata recipe variations:

Lemon and Herb Chicken Piccata

For a refreshing twist on the classic chicken piccata recipe, try adding some extra herbs and lemon juice to the dish. This variation enhances the tanginess of the lemon and capers and adds a fragrant aroma to the chicken. In addition to parsley, dill or tarragon can be added to the dish to bring out more fresh flavors.

Mushroom and Wine Chicken Piccata

If you’re a fan of mushrooms and wine, this chicken piccata recipe variation is for you. The sautéed mushrooms add an earthy richness to the dish, while the white wine brings a subtle sweetness that balances the tanginess of the lemon and capers. Garnish with some fried shallots or fresh herbs to add some texture and depth to the dish.

Pesto Chicken Piccata

For a flavorful and hearty chicken piccata, add some pesto to the dish. The basil and garlic in the pesto complement the tangy flavors of the lemon and capers, and the pine nuts add a crunchy texture. Serve the chicken piccata with some al dente pasta and extra pesto sauce on top for a perfect combination.

Piccata-Style Fish

If you want to mix things up, you can always swap out the chicken for fish. Try using cod, tilapia, or any white fish that you like and prepare it in the same style as chicken piccata. The lemon and capers work well with fish, and the sauce brings out the flavors of the fish without overpowering it. Serve the fish piccata-style with some roasted vegetables or a light salad.

“These chicken piccata recipe variations are sure to add new dimensions of flavor to this classic dish!”

These variations are just a few examples of how you can put a unique spin on the traditional chicken piccata recipe. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own signature dish.

Enhancing Chicken Piccata with Garnishes

From a simple sprig of parsley to a colorful array of diced tomatoes, garnishes can make your chicken piccata dish look as good as it tastes. The right garnish can add texture, color, and even more flavor to your plate. Here are some ideas for chicken piccata garnishes that can take your meal to the next level:

Garnish	Description
Lemon slices	The citrusy tang of lemon slices complements the lemony caper sauce and adds a pop of color to your dish.
Chopped parsley	A classic garnish that adds freshness and a touch of green to your plate.
Cherry tomatoes	Halved cherry tomatoes can bring a burst of sweetness and color to balance the savory flavors of the chicken and capers.
Capers	Top your dish with a few extra capers for added flavor and texture.
Scallions	Sliced scallions can add a mild onion flavor and a pop of green to your dish.

Remember, the key to a great garnish is to keep it simple and complementary to the flavors of the dish. Don’t go overboard or add anything that will overpower the chicken piccata. Happy garnishing!

Perfecting Chicken Piccata Flavor Combinations

Creating the perfect flavor combination for chicken piccata is a delicate balance. You want to enhance the tanginess and richness of the dish without overpowering it with other flavors. Here are some flavor combinations that work well with chicken piccata:

Lemon and Garlic

The zesty lemon and pungent garlic are the perfect pairing for chicken piccata. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and add some minced garlic to the sauce to enhance the flavors.

Butter and White Wine

Butter and white wine add richness to the dish and complement the lemony tang of chicken piccata. You can add a splash of white wine to the sauce and finish it with a pat of butter to create a luxurious finish.

Herbs and Spices

Adding herbs and spices to your chicken piccata can add depth to the flavor profile. Some great options include thyme, oregano, rosemary, and red pepper flakes. Be careful not to overdo it, as you don’t want to overpower the chicken.

Herbs and Spices	Complements
Thyme	Chicken
Oregano	Lemon
Rosemary	Lemon
Red Pepper Flakes	Garlic

Capers and Olives

Capers and olives add a briny flavor to chicken piccata and complement the lemony tang. You can add them to the sauce or sprinkle them on top of the chicken as a garnish.

Experimenting with flavor combinations can take your chicken piccata to the next level. Don’t be afraid to try new things and find the perfect balance of flavors for your taste buds.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Piccata

As much as it is important to get the flavors right, presentation plays a significant role in the dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions for chicken piccata:

• Plate the chicken piccata on a bed of long-grain rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
• Serve the chicken piccata with some buttery garlic bread to mop up the sauce.
• Put a twist on the classic pasta pairing by serving the chicken piccata with some spinach fettuccine or lemon linguine.
• Garnish with some fresh parsley and lemon wedges to add a pop of color to the plate.

Remember, presentation is all about creativity, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different serving styles and garnishes.

Conclusion

Congratulations, you have discovered the perfect pairings for chicken piccata! By exploring classic side dishes, vibrant vegetables, creamy risottos and pasta dishes, fresh salads, delectable bread and potato accompaniments, and creative recipe variations, you now have a wide array of options to enhance your dining experience.

Remember to balance the flavors with the right wine and beverage pairings, and add the perfect finishing touches with delicious garnishes. And don’t forget about presentation – impress your guests or elevate your own dining experience with creative serving suggestions.

We hope this guide has been helpful in elevating your next chicken piccata meal. Enjoy your culinary adventure!