Chicken parmesan is an Italian-American classic that’s loved by many for its crispy breaded chicken cutlets smothered in tomato sauce and melted cheese It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a casual family dinner or date night in

While the chicken, sauce, and cheese trio is delicious on its own, chicken parm is even better when paired with a vegetable side dish The right veggie complements the flavors of the chicken and adds color, texture, and nutrients to round out the meal

But there are so many vegetables out there. Which ones go best with chicken parmesan? Here are 12 of my picks for the best vegetable pairs that will make your chicken parmesan dinner better.

1. Garlicky Green Beans

Fresh green beans sautéed with olive oil, garlic, and seasonings are a simple yet amazing pairing with chicken parmesan. The crisp-tender beans provide a nice textural contrast to the soft chicken cutlets. Their fresh, verdant flavor balances out the richness of the cheese and sauce.

To make green beans with garlic, just cook chopped garlic in olive oil until it smells good. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, then add the green beans that have been trimmed. Cook until the beans reach your desired tenderness. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

For a heartier veggie side, roasted Brussels sprouts are a fantastic choice. Brussels sprouts get caramelized and crispy when roasted, developing a sweet, nutty flavor. Their petite size and texture mimics that of the breadcrumb coating on the chicken.

Mix Brussels sprouts that have been cut in half with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Roast at 400°F until deeply golden brown. Add lemon juice and parmesan for a bright touch.

3. Garlic Roasted Broccoli

Along the same lines as Brussels sprouts, roasted broccoli is another excellent paring. The high heat of the oven transforms the broccoli, concentrating its flavor. Roasting also adds crispy edges and caramelized bits that pair divinely with chicken parm.

Chop broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. Toss with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Roast at 425°F, stirring halfway through, until nicely browned. Finish with a squeeze of lemon and parmesan cheese.

4. Parmesan Zucchini

For a lighter side, try Parmesan zucchini. Thinly sliced zucchini is sautéed until just tender. Then it’s sprinkled with parmesan cheese that melts and forms a crisp, cheesy crust as the zucchini finishes cooking.

The bright green vegetable provides moisture and freshness. The cheese crust is like the chicken’s crispy breaded outside edge. It’s a match made in heaven.

5. Sauteed Spinach

Leafy spinach sautéed with olive oil and garlic offers nutrient-density and versatility. It can be served as-is for a simple side. Or chopped tomatoes, lemon juice, or parmesan can be added to jazz it up.

The mild flavor of spinach complements without overpowering the chicken parm. And its texture contrasts nicely with the other components of the dish.

6. Oven-Roasted Tomatoes

For a twist on traditional pasta sauce, oven-roasted tomatoes are phenomenal. Slow roasting condenses and intensifies the flavors of cherry or grape tomatoes.

Roast halved tomatoes with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs. The concentrated sweet-tart tomato flavor complements the seasoned chicken breading. And the jammy texture provides contrast to the tender chicken and sauce.

7. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

For a lower-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, try garlic mashed cauliflower. Simply steam cauliflower florets until very soft, then mash with butter, garlic, and cream or cream cheese.

The smooth, garlicky cauliflower mash adds richness and substance without the carbs of potatoes. Its mild flavor lets the chicken parm shine. Just be sure to go heavy on the garlic!

8. Creamed Spinach

Another creamy veggie side is creamed spinach made with butter, cream cheese, and parmesan. The smooth pureed spinach has a mild earthy flavor that pairs impeccably with chicken parm.

The creaminess of the spinach contrasts the crispy chicken coating. And the pop of spinach color looks beautiful on the plate next to the beige chicken and sauce.

9. Roasted Carrots

For some color variety, roasted rainbow carrots are a stellar choice. The natural sweetness of carrots intensifies during roasting. Their tender-crisp texture provides a nice contrast.

Peel and trim a mix of purple, yellow, and orange carrots. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme or rosemary. Roast at 425°F until caramelized but still have a bite to them.

10. Garlic Bread

Warm, crusty garlic bread is a classic accompaniment for chicken parmesan. For the best flavor, brush bread slices with garlic-infused olive oil or butter. Then toast until golden brown and crispy.

The crunch of the garlic bread contrasts nicely with the other soft components. And the garlicky flavor complements the herbaceous tomato sauce. It may be simple, but it’s a tried and true pairing.

11. Pesto Pasta Salad

Pesto pasta salad is a fresher take on pasta that pairs swimmingly with chicken parm. Cook pasta shells or rotini according to package directions. Toss with pesto, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

The bright pesto and tomato flavors cut through the richness of the chicken parmesan. The cheese and pasta echo the cheesy tomato sauce notes. And the crunch of the pasta provides textural contrast.

12. Grilled Zucchini

For easy summer grilling, flavorful grilled zucchini is your best bet. Simply coat thick zucchini planks with olive oil and your favorite herbs and spices. Grill over medium-high heat until charred and tender.

The smoky char flavor contrasts the fried chicken coating. And the hearty planks stand up well to the saucy chicken parm. Serve it as a light accompaniment for warmer weather.

Tips for Serving Vegetables with Chicken Parmesan

• Match textures when selecting vegetables. Aim for a mix of tender, crisp, and creamy.

• Roasting is a great way to add flavor. Oven roasting caramelizes natural sugars and intensifies flavors.

• Go for bold seasoning with garlic, herbs, lemon, and Parmesan to complement chicken parm.

• Sautéing and grilling add nice charred bits and crisp-tender texture.

• Color variety makes for an eye-catching plate. Pick veggies with contrasting colors.

• Serve lighter veggies like zucchini and spinach to balance the rich chicken parm.

• Warm vegetable sides work especially well. They mirror the hot chicken right out of the oven.

• Let the vegetables shine by keeping the chicken parm ingredients simple. Tomato sauce, mozzarella, parmesan, basil.

Conclusion

Chicken parmesan deserves an equally delicious vegetable sidekick. The options are plentiful, from garlicky green beans to pesto pasta salad. Crisp, bright, roasted veggies pair particularly well. They provide contrasting flavors and textures that complement the fried chicken coating, melty cheese, and savory tomato sauce.

Use seasonal produce and veggies that your family loves. Intensify the flavors with high-heat roasting, charring, or caramelization. And don’t be afraid to add bold seasonings like garlic and herbs to make the vegetables stand out next to the flavor-packed chicken.

With this guide of 12 best vegetables to serve with chicken parmesan, you’ll have delicious new dinner ideas to add to your regular rotation. Just pair your family’s favorite veggie side with the chicken parm for an easy, satisfying meal everyone will love.