It's well known to those close to me that we eat a lot of chicken in my house. Some friends are even shocked we've yet to start clucking. I make no apologies because chicken is fabulous. It fits my budget, is high in protein, and I've got quite a bag of tricks when it comes to recipes and prep methods.
Chicken piccata is one of my go-to weeknight meals and it's a family favorite. I want tasty dishes that complement the complex flavors of the dish without overpowering the star of the show – the chicken.
Jump to:
- 1. Pan Roasted Potatoes
- 2. Fried Potatoes and Onions
- 3. Mediterranean Couscous Salad
- 4. Dinner Rolls
- 5. Roasted Vegetables
- 6. Garlic Roasted Asparagus
- 7. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- 8. Garlic Herb Rice Pilaf
- 9. Focaccia Bread
- 10. Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- 11. Mashed Potatoes
- 12. Simple Arugula Salad
- 13. Lemon Garlic Pasta
- 14. Caramelized Mushrooms
- 15. Caesar Salad
- 16. Buttered Noodles
- 17. Simple and Stunning Radicchio Salad
- 18. Ratatouille
- 19. Garlic Sautéed Spinach
- 1. Lemon Panna Cotta
- 2. Tiramisu
- 3. Chocolate Semifreddo
- 1. Sauvignon Blanc
- 2. Chardonnay
- 3. Pinot Grigio
- 📖 Recipe
- 💬 Comments
That's why I've put together this list with 19 delicious side dish options, from hearty roasted vegetables to bright garden salads, along with 3 decadent desserts and 3 stellar wine pairings. Some are what is traditionally served with chicken piccata, whereas others are more eclectic. But all are definitely delicious!
From fast and easy sides like garlic herb rice pilaf you can throw together on a busy weeknight, to more lavish dishes like an elegant radicchio salad that looks like it came straight from an upscale Italian restaurant, this list has something for every occasion. And to end your meal on a sweet note, there are sublime dessert offerings like lemon panna cotta and tiramisu.
I've included fast vegetable sides like garlicky sautéed spinach I can throw together in just 10 minutes, to hearty roasted veggies or couscous salad that I can make ahead of time. There's something for every occasion and preference.
And when I'm feeling fancy, my personal favorite is the Simple yet Stunning Radicchio Salad. It may sound intimidating, but tossing this together takes no time at all and it makes my family feel like we're dining at a fancy Italian restaurant!
I've also included my kids' preferred sweet treat, the luscious Lemon Panna Cotta that they go crazy for. And for me, nothing caps off my Chicken Piccata dinner like a refreshing glass of Sauvignon Blanc that brings out all the citrusy flavors I love.
So if you're wondering about what to serve with chicken piccata, I've got you covered!
1. Pan Roasted Potatoes
One of my favorite things to do in the kitchen is to breathe new life into a potato. Odd though it may be, potatoes have such potential, and it's a shame to leave them basic and bland. That's why I love this Lebanese spicy potato recipe, also known as batata harra. It's super easy, dairy free, and uses a few key ingredients.
All I do is get a couple pounds of petite medley spuds, cut them in half and roast in the oven. Meanwhile, I grab some olive oil, cilantro, parsley, fresh garlic, and red pepper and sauté in a pan.
When the potatoes are done, I drizzle the herb oil over them and toss them up. These crisp and spicy potatoes are the perfect starch to complement a plate of silky chicken piccata.
2. Fried Potatoes and Onions
I promise this Lambert’s Cafe copycat recipe will be the best country fried potatoes to ever pass your lips.
The simple ingredients of onions, oil, salt, and fresh pepper help to draw out the natural flavor of the russet potatoes that I normally use for this recipe. Use a cast iron skillet if you can, to heat your oil and sauté your onions.
Slice the potatoes thin and add them along with some salt and fresh cracked pepper (that's the key ingredient here). Just flip the mixture around and allow about half of the potatoes to get crispy brown while letting the rest remain softer.
This makes for an awesome texture to balance the chicken piccata. The bonus is, you can dip the potatoes in the sauce.
3. Mediterranean Couscous Salad
This tasty vegan salad made with tiny whole grain pasta has become a staple side dish for many of my main meals. Taking a scant 10 minutes to make, accompanied by a delicious lemon mint dressing, and topped with pistachios for a crunchy twist, it's hard to resist.
Just boil the couscous and add in some chopped red onions along with some lemon juice, mint, and garlic. Top it with a bit of salt and pepper, and you've got a healthy side for your chicken. Feel free to add some tomatoes and feta cheese for even more zing.
4. Dinner Rolls
Who doesn't love a warm and fluffy dinner roll?
I usually make extra, so I can have them for breakfast the next day with some butter and jelly. These homemade bundles of fluffy goodness are timeless classics that are so easy to make. One bite, and you'll wonder how you've survived without them.
It takes only a few minutes to blend the ingredients in a stand mixer. Then leave the loaf to rise for an hour. When the dough has risen, divide it and roll into balls.
Place them in a pan and brush with melted butter (this is the key to a lovely brown sheen). Pop in the oven for 12 minutes and voilà! The perfect dippers for the piccata sauce!
5. Roasted Vegetables
If you're like me, you somehow end up with leftover fresh veggies. Personally, I hate to waste food, so I save that extra bit of cauliflower, the spare mushrooms, and broccoli florets. Then I'm left wondering what to do with it all. Well, the answer comes from this simple, quick, and tasty roasted vegetable dish.
Just put your extra veggies on a baking sheet, drizzle some olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then add some thyme, garlic, and pepper. Bake for 15 minutes, and you've got a healthy and flavorful side for chicken piccata or any other dish.
And let's not forget, this roasted vegetable medley isn't just a pretty face on your plate; it's versatile. If brussels sprouts or any other veggie don't tickle your taste buds, substitute with whatever you love! Your roasted vegetable dish can change with the seasons or with whatever's in your fridge.
Serve these roasted vegetables hot from the oven alongside your chicken piccata, and watch how the tangy, bold flavors of the piccata sauce meld magically with the sweet, roasted taste of the veggies.
Now that's a combo you and your taste buds can get excited about!
6. Garlic Roasted Asparagus
For me, nothing makes a meal appear more upscale than plating some long stems of bright green asparagus. This recipe for the garlic roasted treat takes only 21 minutes to make and is sure to please the taste buds.
The best part is, they're low in calories and loaded with vitamin C. Just be sure to snap the ends off before washing them thoroughly. Place the asparagus on a baking sheet.
Then, in a bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Drizzle the mixture over the veggies and bake until roasted through.
This easy-peasy recipe is special because it infuses a classic American method of roasting with the Mediterranean penchant for garlic and olive oil. The savory garlic contrasts beautifully with the fresh, grassy notes of asparagus, while a dash of lemon juice adds a sunny lift.
7. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This beautiful name is only rivaled by the gorgeous presentation of this super easy side. “Aglio” means garlic in Italian and “olio” means oil. So this simple and easy-to-make recipe is simply spaghetti in a garlic and oil drizzle.
Add in some red pepper flakes and parsley for flavor and color, and you've got an earthy delight to contrast with the buttery citrus of the piccata.
The best part is that it only takes 20 minutes. Simply boil your pasta and sauté the garlic in oil, then mix together. Sprinkle the parsley and pepper flakes on top with some Parmesan cheese for some extra zing.
Serving this spaghetti alongside your Chicken Piccata means the lightly acidic and caper-filled piccata sauce won't have to compete with a heavy side. The spaghetti complements the chicken's zesty flavors without overshadowing it, creating a harmonious Italian feast that's as delightful to eat as it is efficient to prepare.
8. Garlic Herb Rice Pilaf
Ready in 20 minutes, this garlic and herb-filled pilaf recipe is my go-to-side on a busy night. Its unique earthy flavor is great with everything from meatloaf to piccata. The rosemary and thyme will balance out the capers and draw out the citrus in the sauce.
If you want the perfect pilaf, it's vital to toast the rice first before boiling. This means sautéing the rice and herbs in butter. This will give it a nutty, even earthier flavor.
You can switch things up by using broth instead of water, because why settle for bland when you can go grand? Then just boil, simmer and ta-da!
You've got yourself a pilaf that's not just quick and fuss-free, but also bursting with so much flavor, it almost steals the show.
The buttery notes and savory herbs in the pilaf not only soak up the succulent sauce of the piccata but also provide a comforting balance to the dish's zestiness.
9. Focaccia Bread
I can't stress the simplicity of this delicious, airy bread. It takes only 5 minutes and there's no kneading, no shaping, and no special equipment involved. In short, this is the bread to make if you don't make bread.
Take the ingredients of flour, yeast, salt, and rosemary.Mix everything together and stick it in the fridge for 18–48 hours.
The secret to super airy bread is in the cold dough. Place the dough in a pan, add some rosemary and bake to a golden brown. This bread is unbeatable when it comes to serving with piccata for the dipping possibilities alone!
10. Crispy Smashed Potatoes
By now it should come as no surprise that I adore potatoes. So any recipe I can find to sprinkle them with some pizzazz - I’m in! The first time I made these crispy smashed spuds, the family couldn't get enough.
They take about 45 minutes to roast, but prep is quick and fun. Start by parboiling your potatoes (preferably fingerlings).Once they're soft, grab a thick glass and smash them down. Place them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil and bake.
Now it's time to make the dip, which consists of sour cream, garlic, cheddar cheese, and parsley.
What makes these potatoes a stellar partner for Chicken Piccata? They've got that hint of elegance with down-home comfort, and the flavors meld incredibly well with the tangy caper-laden chicken.
Plus, there's a garlic cheddar sour cream dip that will just send you over the edge. It's garlicky, cheesy, and tangy—a trio that vibes perfectly with the Piccata.
Give them a try, and you might just find yourself making them on repeat—because, let's be real, who can resist a crispy potato?
11. Mashed Potatoes
No list of sides for a recipe with a creamy sauce is complete without classic mashed potatoes. It's a delicious combination that's perfect for a mid-week meal.
These mashed potatoes are a no-brainer choice when it comes to pairing with your piccata. They're lusciously creamy, thanks to butter and sour cream, and you can jazz them up with optional garlic and Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor kick.
The rich and creamy texture of the potatoes beautifully balances the zesty, lemony sauce of the piccata, creating a harmony of flavors that's absolutely irresistible.
And the best part? They're quick and easy to make, with a straightforward method that'll have them on your table in no time.
A few tips for these tasty taters include using Yukon or russet potatoes and letting the milk, butter, and sour cream reach room temperature before blending them with the potatoes.
Fluffiness, creaminess, and a touch of indulgence. Sounds like the perfect sidekick to your chicken piccata, doesn't it?
Enjoy!
12. Simple Arugula Salad
Simple is indeed the key word here. A quick toss of the tangy arugula lettuce, a drizzle of fresh lemon dressing, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, and I've got a no-fail, healthy side that looks great on the table.
This salad stands out because it’s not just another leafy side. The peppery arugula brings a bright and tart kick that balances the savory notes of your main dish.
And to top it all off, you're adding shavings of salty Parmesan cheese and the nutty crunch of toasted pine nuts. These gourmet touches elevate the salad, making you feel like you’ve been transported to an Italian bistro.
And the best part? This elegant and healthy side comes together in mere minutes.
The lemon in the dressing mirrors the citrus in your piccata, harmonizing with the chicken's flavor. At the same time, the fresh greens cleanse your palate, making each bite of chicken taste just as incredible as the first.
13. Lemon Garlic Pasta
I love making this refreshing pasta dish on a busy weeknight. In the time it takes me to boil the pasta, it’s ready to go. It's just a matter of sautéing 5 cloves of garlic in butter and some lemon.
To make it, cook your pasta, whip up the sauce with sautéed garlic and red pepper flakes, then mix them together with a touch of cooking liquid for that silky finish. Fold in fresh parsley, and shower it all with Parmesan.
It's a nice side when I want to complement the creamy lemon flavor of chicken piccata. This dish is vegetarian as well, so it's a quick go-to when non-meat eaters are visiting.
14. Caramelized Mushrooms
Now, you may be thinking, “what am I going to do with mushrooms,” tasty as they are, they're not really a substantial side.
Well, I'm here to tell you that not only are these caramelized mushrooms great on the side of anything, but they're the perfect addition to the top of chicken piccata.
They're guaranteed to give your chicken a sweet, earthy flavor that everyone will love.
They take a total of 30 minutes to make because the mushrooms need to cook for about 20 minutes to care for the ze and get crispy. It's important not to remove them too early, or they'll be mushy.
15. Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is a classic that's loved by almost everyone. What makes this recipe stand out is definitely the dressing. It takes only a few minutes to blend the lemon, garlic, egg, and anchovy in a blender.
I usually have one of the kids break up the romaine lettuce and add the croutons, so we're ready to eat it in about 5 minutes. Don't forget to top with some fresh Parmesan.
What makes this Caesar salad truly stand out is the dressing—the unsung hero.
It's lush, brimming with garlic and parmesan's savory notes, and gets an umami lift from a secret ingredient: anchovies.
Don't worry if you're not into them; just trade it with a few extra capers, and you're golden!
Plus, the anchovies or capers weave in a subtle brininess, mirroring the capers in your Chicken Piccata. It's a match made in heaven.
It's the perfect side dish for your Chicken Piccata. The creamy dressing complements the lemony chicken, and the crispy croutons offer a counterbalance to the tender meat.
16. Buttered Noodles
Sometimes I just want a quick, basic side that will add to a meal like chicken piccata without stealing its thunder. This is when I break out the egg noodles and butter.
This simple side takes only 15 minutes. There's no sautéing and no multiple pots and pans. Just boil the noodles, drain, and add the butter, letting it melt while mixing it in.
Add some salt and pepper, and you'll have a lovely bed for the chicken to rest on.
What's special about this dish is its simplicity. Sometimes the simplest things are the most extraordinary. It's an American classic with a twist of whatever-you-like.
- Fancy a sprinkle of Parmesan? Go for it.
- Want a hit of spice? Red pepper flakes have got your back.
Buttered noodles are not just a side; they're the silent hero. They don't compete with the Chicken Piccata; they let it shine.
Imagine the twirl of your fork through the noodles, each bite mopping up that divine sauce, creating the perfect harmony of flavors. And as a bonus, if you have leftovers, they're just as good the next day.
17. Simple and Stunning Radicchio Salad
I must say, I've never met a more colorful and beautiful salad that is so easy to make. It takes only 15 minutes to toss together radicchio, arugula, red onion, blue cheese, and walnuts.
Making the delicious fresh dressing is a breeze as well. Blend together olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and some pepper, then drizzle over the salad.
The balance of flavors make this salad stand out. It's a tangy side that will complement the piccata flavors while making your table look outstanding!
Radicchio, with its bitter notes, is a show-stopper from Italy. It's a chicory, like endive and frisée, but it's the bold, maroon leaves that really catch your eye – and your palate. This salad celebrates those Italian roots by pairing radicchio with arugula and a classic balsamic vinaigrette, bringing you a side dish that's anything but ordinary.
And here's the kicker – this radicchio salad is just as much a feast for your eyes as it is for your taste buds.
The contrast of deep red against the green arugula, the white veins of the radicchio, and the crumble of blue cheese make for a stunning addition to your dinner table.
Serving it alongside Chicken Piccata doesn't just provide a complementary side, it makes for a meal that's got that special occasion feel without the fuss.
18. Ratatouille
When I think of what vegetable goes with chicken piccata, one of the first to come to mind is this rich and hearty medley of eggplant, tomatoes, zucchini, green beans, and onions.
All I need to do is chop them evenly (important for equal cooking time), drizzle some olive oil, and season with my favorite herbs. The oven and veggies will do the rest.
As they cook, the vegetables will naturally caramelize, giving them a thick sweet juice that will nicely commingle with the citrus in the chicken buttery sauce.
Prep time is a quick 15 minutes, but be sure to let the dish bake for about an hour.
19. Garlic Sautéed Spinach
This delightfully colored veggie dish will not only dress up any dinner table, but it takes only 10 minutes from prep to table. It's also loaded with nutrients, low calories, and the earthy flavor is second to none.
Heat up a pan with some olive oil and minced garlic.Add in the fresh spinach, salt and pepper, then swirl around the pan for a few minutes until the leaves are wilted. A tasty side in minutes.
What sets it apart is its subtle nod to Mediterranean cooking—where greens and garlic are often essentials—making it a refreshing side that won't overpower your chicken Piccata. Not to mention, it's loved for being a "super greens" addition, offering up a bounty of vitamins with each mouthful.
Desserts
1. Lemon Panna Cotta
Think mousse, flan, and meringue wrapped up into one creamy citrus-infused delight. That's what this dessert, which originates from the mountains of Italy, is all about. It's my go-to treat when I'm looking to spoil dinner guests.
It takes only 20 minutes to prepare, but fair warning, you'll need to set aside 6 hours for it to chill out in the fridge. But trust me, it's well worth the wait.
With wholesome ingredients like milk, cream, sugar, and fresh lemon, it balances nicely with the flavors of chicken piccata.
2. Tiramisu
I love tiramisu not only for its decadent, melt in your mouth flavors, but because it's deceptively simple. It's a gorgeous centerpiece for any dessert table and folks will think you spent hours mixing the mascarpone and hand dipping the ladyfingers into the rich espresso.
The truth is it takes only 20 minutes of some light whisking and mixing to make this divine dessert. You will need to let it set in the fridge for 2 hours, but it's guaranteed to be a delicious ending to a meal featuring chicken piccata.
Pro tip: all ingredients should be cold before preparing them.
3. Chocolate Semifreddo
If you're looking for a frozen dessert that's more than the run-of-the-mill ice cream, allow me to introduce you to chocolate semifreddo. It's like if gelato and custard got married on a cookie. This refreshingly silky treat is made with mascarpone, chocolate wafer cookies, dark chocolate, eggs, butter, and whipping cream.
It takes only 25 minutes to whip up, but you will need to let it chill for 6 hours. It can be made in a loaf pan and scooped out family-style. For a more formal get-together, l like to make them in mini mousse pans for a single serving presentation.
This rich dessert is the perfect decadent sweet treat if you've chosen low calorie sides to go with your chicken piccata. Less guilt, more joy!
What Wine Goes with Chicken Piccata?
1. Sauvignon Blanc
This fruity white wine has its flavors firmly based in lime, green apple, and peachy tones, with a hint of herbal essence. The high acidity level of this blanc matches perfectly with the level of the chicken's buttery Lennon sauce. Serving a Sauvignon Blanc with stronger citrus flavors will draw out the citrus flavor of the chicken. A blanc with more herbal tones will bring out the garlic and parsley.
2. Chardonnay
A comforting glass of Chardonnay pairs fabulously with chicken piccata. The fruitiness of the wine contrasts nicely with the capers. Meanwhile, the crisp citrus notes will balance out the lemon and rich buttery flavor of the sauce. Try to choose a Chardonnay that's not too oak based or buttery, it can overpower the chicken.
3. Pinot Grigio
This medium dry wine has deliciously delicate notes of peach and apple with an acidity level that goes perfectly with piccata. This is a great wine and is great for people who enjoy a white wine that's a bit smoother than Chardonnay or Sauvignon blanc.
📖 Recipe
What to Serve with Chicken Piccata: 19 + 3 Tasty Sids
Ingredients
- Pan Roasted Potatoes
- Fried Potatoes and Onions
- Mediterranean Couscous Salad
- Dinner Rolls
- Roasted Vegetables
- Garlic Roasted Asparagus
- Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- Garlic Herb Rice Pilaf
- Focaccia Bread
- Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Mashed Potatoes
- Simple Arugula Salad
- Lemon Garlic Pasta
- Caramelized Mushrooms
- Caesar Salad
- Buttered Noodles
- Simple and Stunning Radicchio Salad
- Ratatouille
- Garlic Sautéed Spinach
- Lemon Panna Cotta
- Tiramisu
- Chocolate Semifreddo
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Chardonnay
- Pinot Grigio
Instructions
- Pick a side dish.
- Pick a drink.
- End with a dessert.
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