Alright folks, let’s chat about chicken piccata. We all know it can steal the show at dinner, but could it really be a one-hit wonder? Nope!
We can easily level it up with some killer sides. Picture this: crispy roasted potatoes and a zesty salad taking center stage.
Or how about some buttery garlic bread? It’s like that friend who always shows up and makes everything better.
For those days when life just gets in the way, we’ve got your back with easy ideas that won’t break a sweat. So, grab your forks because it’s time to turn chicken piccata into a complete meal that impresses without all the fuss!
Top 13 Side Dishes for Chicken Piccata
Here are some of our favorite side dishes that pair perfectly with chicken piccata:
1 – Lemon Herb Rice
We love lemon herb rice. It’s bright, fresh, and adds a zing to our meals. The citrusy flavor makes it pop on the plate. We can really taste the herbs, which balance everything out.
This side dish is super simple to whip up. We combine fluffy rice with zesty lemon juice, herbs like parsley or dill, and a hint of garlic. It’s like sunshine in a bowl! Perfect with chicken piccata or any protein on your plate.
2 – Steamed Asparagus
Steamed asparagus is like that reliable friend who always knows how to brighten up a party. It’s crisp, tender, and has a subtle earthiness. We love how it pairs well with lemon or garlic, adding a splash of zing to the plate.
Plus, it cooks quickly, giving us perfectly vibrant green stalks in no time. It’s a fresh side that complements chicken piccata like a match made in culinary heaven.
3 – Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side that never disappoints. They combine creamy texture with a deliciously rich garlic flavor.
We use buttery potatoes to create a dreamy consistency that pairs perfectly with everything.
Adding roasted garlic brings sweetness and depth, making each bite irresistible.
Best of all, they’re easy to whip up, so we can enjoy them any night of the week without the hassle.
4 – Arugula Salad
Arugula salad is our go-to for crunch and zing. Its peppery, slightly nutty flavor adds a kick to any meal. We toss fresh arugula with a splash of lemon and a drizzle of olive oil for brightness.
Throw in some shaved parmesan for a creamy note, and maybe a handful of cherry tomatoes for sweetness. It’s a fresh side that wakes up our plate and pairs perfectly with chicken piccata. Plus, it takes no time to put together!
5 – Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Parmesan roasted cauliflower shines on the dinner table. The crispy edges and cheesy goodness create a satisfying crunch with every bite. We toss cauliflower florets in olive oil, sprinkle them with parmesan, and roast until golden.
The nutty flavor of roasted cauliflower pairs perfectly with the salty, rich cheese. It’s a simple side that always manages to impress while keeping things super tasty. Plus, it’s a veggie we can actually get behind!
6 – Butter Sage Gnocchi
Butter sage gnocchi is a cozy dish we can’t resist. The gnocchi are soft pillows of goodness that blend perfectly with a rich, buttery sauce.
We sauté fresh sage in melted butter for a nutty, aromatic flavor that wins every time.
Each bite is a warm hug, and the delightful contrast between the tender gnocchi and crispy sage leaves makes it a standout side.
Honestly, this dish complements chicken piccata like a pro!
7 – Wilted Spinach
Let’s talk about wilted spinach. It’s like that dependable friend who shows up right on time. We love how it’s super quick to make—just toss it in a pan until it wilts down.
The flavour is mild but fresh, making it a great side for anything. We can drizzle a bit of lemon on it for a zesty kick. It’s healthy, easy, and works well with chicken piccata without stealing the spotlight.
8 – Risotto Milanese
Risotto Milanese is creamy and rich, and it brings a touch of elegance to any meal. We love its vibrant yellow hue, thanks to saffron, which adds a subtle earthy flavor.
The arborio rice offers a delightful chewiness. It soaks up all that delicious broth, creating a comforting dish.
We can’t resist the aroma of garlic and onion sautéed in butter. It perfectly complements the saffron, making each bite luxuriously satisfying.
9 – Oven-Roasted Tomatoes
Oven-roasted tomatoes bring a sweet, slightly caramelized flavor to the table. They turn juicy and bursting with flavor when roasted, creating a vibrant addition to any dish.
We toss them with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. This combo enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth.
These tomatoes feel indulgent yet light. They complement everything from chicken piccata to salads, giving meals a fresh twist. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up!
10 – Fennel and Orange Salad
Fennel and orange salad is a refreshing blend that surprises us every time. The crispness of fennel works perfectly with the sweetness of juicy oranges.
We add a splash of olive oil and a hint of red onion for extra zing.
Each bite offers a crunchy texture balanced by the citrus burst. It’s bright and tangy, bringing life to our plate while enhancing the flavors of chicken piccata.
11 – Roasted Garlic Broccolini
Roasted garlic broccolini is where creamy meets crunchy. The mellow roasted garlic flavor blends beautifully with the bright, slightly bitter notes of the broccolini.
When we toss it in olive oil and roast until the edges crisp up, we get a sweet and nutty charm.
This side dish adds a pop of colour, and it’s as simple as it is delicious. It’s a tasty way to get our greens without feeling like we’re munching on lawn clippings.
12 – Polenta Fries
Polenta fries are our newest guilty pleasure. They bring a crispy exterior with a creamy inside that makes every bite a treat.
The flavor is subtly sweet and nutty, thanks to the corn base. We also love sprinkling on some salt and a dash of parmesan for that extra kick. These fries are fantastic with dips or as a side to any dish. They can easily rival potato fries without breaking a sweat.
13 – Grilled Zucchini
Grilled zucchini is a simple side that shines. The smoky flavour from grilling brings out its natural sweetness perfectly.
We love how it gets those lovely grill marks while staying tender inside. Lightly seasoned with salt and pepper, it’s a fantastic way to add green without the fuss. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch, giving us a fresh perspective on vegetables. Easy to cook, it rivals heavier sides when paired with chicken piccata.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.