Estimated reading time: 11 minutes
Chicken piccata is a classic dish that so many people love, and it’s easy to see why! The tender chicken, covered in a tangy lemon-butter sauce with capers, makes it a meal that feels fancy but is simple to prepare. But let’s face it—figuring out what to serve with chicken piccata can sometimes feel tricky. Luckily, there are plenty of side dishes that go perfectly with this flavorful dish.
From pasta that soaks up the sauce to fresh vegetables that add crunch, the options are endless. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or hosting friends, the right sides can make your chicken piccata meal unforgettable. In this blog, we’ll talk about five amazing side dish ideas that are easy to make and delicious. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into some simple ways to complete your chicken piccata meal!
Table of contents
- Classic Pasta Sides for Chicken Piccata
- Fresh Vegetable Pairings
- Hearty Potato Options
- What to serve with chicken piccata like Light and Fresh Salads
- What to serve with chicken piccata like Bread and Grains
- Frequently Asked Questions about What to serve with chicken piccata
- What to serve with chicken piccata : wrapping It Up
Classic Pasta Sides for Chicken Piccata
When it comes to serving chicken piccata, pasta is always a great choice. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also pairs perfectly with the lemon-butter sauce. Pasta can soak up all those delicious flavors, making every bite even better. Here are three simple and tasty pasta sides that work wonderfully with chicken piccata.
Angel Hair Pasta
Angel hair pasta is a super light and delicate option that’s perfect for chicken piccata. Because it’s so thin, it doesn’t overpower the dish but still holds onto the sauce beautifully. The tangy lemon and buttery flavors cling to every strand, making it the perfect base. Plus, angel hair pasta cooks quickly, so it’s great if you’re short on time. Just toss it with a little olive oil or butter, and you’re good to go!
Linguine with Garlic and Olive Oil
Linguine is another excellent pasta choice. It’s slightly thicker than angel hair, so it has a bit more bite, but it still complements chicken piccata really well. Toss the linguine with some garlic and olive oil for a simple yet flavorful side. You could also sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top to add even more flavor. The garlic adds a savory touch that works perfectly with the tangy chicken piccata sauce. You might also enjoy this Cabbage and Egg Recipe as a creative pasta alternative.
Lemon Risotto
If you want something creamy and rich, lemon risotto is a fantastic option. Risotto is made with Arborio rice, which gets soft and creamy as it cooks. Adding a splash of lemon juice and some Parmesan cheese gives it a zesty flavor that matches the tanginess of chicken piccata. While risotto takes a little more time to prepare, the result is totally worth it. The creamy texture and bright lemon flavor will take your meal to the next level.
No matter which pasta you choose, these sides will make your chicken piccata meal complete and delicious!
Fresh Vegetable Pairings
Fresh vegetables are a fantastic choice to serve with chicken piccata. Not only do they bring a bright and colorful touch to the plate, but they also balance the rich lemon-butter sauce perfectly. Vegetables add freshness and crunch, making your meal feel light and satisfying. Here are three simple and tasty vegetable options that pair wonderfully with chicken piccata.
Steamed Asparagus
Steamed asparagus is a classic choice, and it’s easy to see why. The crisp and tender stalks provide a vibrant contrast to the soft chicken and buttery sauce. Plus, asparagus has a mild flavor that doesn’t compete with the tangy lemon and capers in chicken piccata. It’s super easy to make, too! Just steam the asparagus for a few minutes, sprinkle with a little salt and pepper, and drizzle with olive oil or lemon juice. The result is a side that feels fancy but takes almost no time at all.
Sautéed Zucchini
Sautéed zucchini is another great option because it’s so simple to cook and tastes delicious. The zucchini slices get lightly browned in a pan with olive oil and garlic, creating a soft texture and a slightly sweet flavor. This dish pairs perfectly with chicken piccata because the garlic adds a savory touch while the zucchini stays light and refreshing. For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley. It’s quick, easy, and sure to please!
Green Beans Almondine
Green beans almondine is a side dish that feels a little extra special. The green beans are cooked until tender and then tossed with butter and sliced almonds. The almonds add a nutty crunch that goes so well with the tangy chicken piccata sauce. You can even add a squeeze of lemon juice to tie all the flavors together. This dish is simple but fancy enough for a dinner party—or just a weeknight treat.
Hearty Potato Options
Potatoes are a perfect side dish for chicken piccata because they’re hearty, filling, and versatile. They complement the tangy lemon-butter sauce beautifully while adding a comforting touch to the meal. Whether you prefer them creamy, crispy, or zesty, there’s a potato dish for everyone. Here are three potato sides that pair wonderfully with chicken piccata.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic choice, and they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Their creamy texture makes them perfect for soaking up the rich sauce from chicken piccata. To make them, simply boil some potatoes, mash them with butter, garlic, and cream, and season with salt and pepper. The garlic adds just the right amount of flavor without overpowering the dish. Plus, they’re super easy to make and go with almost anything. Every bite feels warm and comforting!
Roasted Baby Potatoes
If you’re looking for something crispy and flavorful, roasted baby potatoes are a fantastic option. These little potatoes get tossed with olive oil, garlic, and herbs before being roasted in the oven until golden and crispy. The outside becomes crunchy, while the inside stays soft and fluffy. They add a fun texture to the plate and are great for scooping up extra sauce. You can even sprinkle them with Parmesan cheese for an extra boost of flavor.
Lemon Herb Potato Salad
For something lighter and refreshing, lemon herb potato salad is a great choice. Unlike traditional mayonnaise-based potato salads, this version is tossed with olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like parsley and dill. The zesty flavors in the salad match the tanginess of chicken piccata perfectly. It’s served cold, so it’s a nice contrast to the warm chicken. This dish is simple to prepare and makes the whole meal feel fresh and balanced.
What to serve with chicken piccata like Light and Fresh Salads
Salads are a wonderful way to add freshness and balance to your chicken piccata meal. Not only do they bring vibrant colors to the table, but they also provide a crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich lemon-butter sauce. Whether you prefer something classic, peppery, or Mediterranean-inspired, there’s a salad option that works perfectly. Here are three light and fresh salads to try.
Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is a timeless choice that pairs beautifully with chicken piccata. The crunchy romaine lettuce, crispy croutons, and rich Parmesan cheese create a flavorful mix that complements the tangy chicken. To make it even better, the creamy Caesar dressing ties everything together without being too heavy. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare! You can use store-bought dressing for convenience or whip up your own with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Either way, it’s a classic for a reason!
Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
If you’re looking for something lighter, an arugula salad is a fantastic option. Arugula has a peppery flavor that stands out but doesn’t overpower the chicken piccata. Toss it with a simple lemon vinaigrette made from fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The bright citrus notes in the dressing match the lemon in the piccata sauce perfectly. For a little extra flair, you can sprinkle on some shaved Parmesan or add cherry tomatoes for a pop of color.
Greek Salad
A Greek salad is another great choice, especially if you’re in the mood for Mediterranean flavors. This salad combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese. The flavors are bold yet refreshing, making it a great pairing for the tangy chicken piccata. Drizzle the salad with olive oil and a touch of red wine vinegar, and you’re all set! It’s simple, colorful, and incredibly satisfying. See more unique meal ideas, like this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, for creative dinner inspiration.
What to serve with chicken piccata like Bread and Grains
Adding bread or grains to your chicken piccata meal is a great way to make it more satisfying and complete. Not only do these sides soak up the rich lemon-butter sauce, but they also bring different textures and flavors to your plate. Whether you prefer something warm and crispy or light and fluffy, there’s an option for everyone. Here are three delicious bread and grain ideas to round out your chicken piccata meal.
Garlic Breadsticks
Garlic breadsticks are a classic favorite, and they’re perfect for dipping into the tangy sauce of chicken piccata. The crispy outside and soft inside make them irresistible. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare! You can bake store-bought breadsticks or make your own by brushing bread dough with garlic butter and baking it until golden. For extra flavor, sprinkle Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley on top. Every bite is delicious, especially when paired with the buttery sauce.
Herbed Couscous
If you’re looking for a light and fluffy grain, herbed couscous is an excellent choice. Couscous is super easy to make because it cooks in just a few minutes. Toss it with fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the flavor. The bright and zesty notes in the couscous pair perfectly with the tanginess of chicken piccata. Plus, it’s a great option if you want something simple yet satisfying.
Polenta
Polenta is a versatile side that works wonderfully with chicken piccata. You can serve it creamy, like a rich, warm porridge, or grill it for a firmer texture. Creamy polenta pairs beautifully with the buttery sauce, while grilled polenta adds a slightly smoky flavor. To make it even better, top it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs. Either way, it’s a hearty and delicious addition to your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions about What to serve with chicken piccata
What side dish goes well with chicken piccata?
Chicken piccata pairs well with so many sides, but the best choices are ones that complement its tangy lemon-butter sauce. For example, you can serve it with creamy garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini, or light pasta such as angel hair or linguine. A fresh salad, like Caesar or arugula with lemon vinaigrette, also works wonderfully. These sides help balance the rich flavors of the dish and create a complete meal.
What does Giada serve with chicken piccata?
Celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis often serves chicken piccata with classic Italian-inspired sides, and it’s no surprise why. For instance, her go-to pairings usually include linguine tossed with olive oil and garlic, which brings out the richness of the dish. Additionally, she often adds steamed asparagus, which provides a crisp and fresh contrast. On top of that, a simple arugula salad with fresh Parmesan is another favorite, as it’s both light and flavorful. All of these sides are not only easy to make, but they also perfectly complement the bold lemon and caper flavors in the chicken, making the entire meal feel balanced and complete.
What’s the difference between chicken piccata and chicken francaise?
While both dishes are delicious and often confused, the main difference lies in how they’re prepared. Chicken piccata features a lemon-butter sauce with capers, while chicken francaise is dipped in egg before being sautéed and served with a lemony white wine sauce. Both are tangy, but chicken piccata has a slightly brinier taste due to the capers.
What does piccata mean in Italy?
In Italian, “piccata” refers to a method of cooking that involves slicing meat thinly, sautéing it, and serving it with a tangy sauce made from butter, lemon, and sometimes capers. It’s a simple technique that creates bold flavors and a light, delicious dish.
What to serve with chicken piccata : wrapping It Up
Chicken piccata is such a versatile dish, and that’s what makes it so special. Whether you love tangy flavors or buttery sauces, it pairs beautifully with so many sides. From light and fresh salads to hearty potatoes, and even bread and grains, there’s a side dish for everyone. The best part? You can mix and match these sides to create a meal that feels perfectly balanced and fits your taste.
For example, you could pair chicken piccata with creamy garlic mashed potatoes and a crisp Caesar salad for a comforting yet refreshing combo. Or, if you prefer something lighter, try herbed couscous with sautéed zucchini for a simple and flavorful dinner. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
Now, it’s your turn! What are your favorite sides to serve with chicken piccata? Share your go-to pairings or creative ideas in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to make every meal unforgettable!