13 Incredible Side Dishes to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Garlic parmesan chicken is a crowd-pleasing recipe that combines crispy chicken with a flavorful garlic parmesan sauce. With its rich, savory taste, finding the perfect side dishes to complement garlic parmesan chicken can take this meal to new culinary heights.

As a food blogger I’m constantly experimenting with different side dish pairings to find that ideal balance of flavors and textures. Through trial and error I’ve discovered 13 sensational sides that complement garlic parmesan chicken wonderfully.

In this article, I’ll share my top recommendations for side dishes to serve with garlic parmesan chicken, ranging from classic pasta and potatoes to fresh salads and roasted vegetables. With this guide by your side, you’ll be able to put together a spectacular garlic parmesan chicken dinner guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

Classic Pairings for Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Pasta

Pasta is a natural pairing for garlic parmesan chicken After all, chicken parmesan is typically served over a bed of spaghetti or linguine. For an easy weeknight meal, boil up your favorite pasta shape like penne, rotini or bowtie. Top it off with pieces of crispy garlic parmesan chicken and spoon over some of the garlicky sauce for added flavor I like to scatter my pasta with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.

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Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are another classic accompaniment for garlic parmesan chicken. The smooth, rich mashed potatoes pair perfectly with the crunchy breaded chicken. I prefer making mashed potatoes with a combo of butter and cream cheese for ultimate creaminess. For extra flavor, stir in roasted garlic or chives. Leftover mashed potatoes also make a great base for building garlic parmesan chicken pot pies!

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Rice Pilaf

For a fluffy, flavorful base, rice pilaf is an excellent side dish choice. By sautéing aromatics like onion and garlic before adding the rice, you can infuse tons of extra flavor. For variation, use chicken broth instead of water when cooking the rice. Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or dill right before serving. Rice pilaf soaks up all the yummy garlic parmesan sauce beautifully.

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Garlic Bread

Warm, crusty garlic bread is magnificent for dunking in any leftover garlic parmesan sauce. The combination of melted butter, roasted garlic, Italian seasoning and cheese makes garlic bread an addicting accompaniment. For fun, try making mini garlic bread baguettes or knots to go with individual servings of chicken. Just be sure to have extras on hand!

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Fresh Vegetable Sides for Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

While Brussels sprouts are highly nutritious, their flavor transforms when roasted in the oven. Roasting caramelizes their natural sugars, bringing out a sweet, almost nutty taste. Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper and garlic before roasting. They become so irresistibly crunchy and delicious, you might find yourself fighting over the last one!

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Steamed Asparagus

For a quick and healthy vegetable pairing, look no further than fresh asparagus. Steam the asparagus until vibrant green and tender-crisp. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with parmesan cheese for added richness. I love the texture contrast between the crunchy chicken coating and the tender asparagus spears.

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Roasted Broccoli

Another easy veggie side is oven roasted broccoli. Simply toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt and pepper and spread out on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F until lightly browned around the edges. Roasted broccoli tastes amazing dipped in any leftover garlicky sauce. The sweet, caramelized flavor pairs perfectly with the savory chicken.

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Sauteed Green Beans

For my veggie lovers out there, sauteed green beans are a fast and healthy accompaniment. Cook the green beans in olive oil over medium-high heat until crisp-tender. Right before serving, add minced garlic, lemon zest and toasted sliced almonds. The lemon brightens up the flavors while the crunch of the almonds contrasts nicely with the tender beans.

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Ratatouille

Ratatouille, the classic French vegetable medley, makes a fresh and colorful side dish for garlic parmesan chicken. Saute eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, garlic and herbs like basil and thyme until soft. The combination of flavors and textures enhances the chicken perfectly. Enjoy scooping up the ratatouille with pieces of crispy chicken.

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Fresh Salad Sides for Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Caesar Salad

A tangy, savory Caesar salad is one of my favorite pairings with garlic parmesan chicken. The crunch of the fresh romaine lettuce, creamy dressing and crispy croutons complements the chicken beautifully. When making the dressing from scratch, I love adding anchovies, parmesan and lemon juice for a traditional flair. Turn leftovers into a chicken Caesar wrap the next day.

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Greek Salad

For a Mediterranean twist, try pairing your chicken with a bright, fresh Greek salad. Diced cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese and onion get tossed in a red wine vinaigrette. I like to add marinated artichokes and roasted red peppers for extra flavor and color. The briny olives and feta cheese offer a bold counterpart to the savory garlic parmesan chicken.

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Quinoa Salad

You can also opt for a protein-packed quinoa salad on the side. Cook the quinoa according to package directions, then let cool. Stir in diced bell pepper, celery, red onion, parsley and your favorite vinaigrette. For extra protein, mix in chickpeas or edamame. The quinoa offers a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor that complements the garlic parmesan chicken wonderfully.

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Caprese Salad

For an easy Italian-inspired salad, try pairing your chicken with a classic caprese salad. Alternate fresh tomato slices, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic reduction to create a tasty composed salad. The combo of creamy cheese, juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil is magnificent next to crispy garlicky chicken.

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Broccoli Salad

Here’s a fun twist on broccoli salad to serve alongside garlic parmesan chicken. Mix together raw broccoli florets, dried cranberries, shredded cheddar cheese, red onion and crispy bacon. Toss with a creamy mayo-based dressing made with a touch of vinegar and sugar. The combination of flavors and textures pairs so well with crunchy breaded chicken.

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More Unique Side Pairings

Cauliflower Mash

As an alternative to mashed potatoes, try making a mash with cauliflower. Steam cauliflower florets until very soft, then puree with butter, cream cheese, garlic and salt. The cauliflower mash has a lighter texture and fewer carbs than potatoes, while offering a similar creamy base for the chicken. Stir in any add-ins like roasted garlic or chives.

Polenta

For a Mediterranean twist on mashed potatoes, consider making garlicky parmesan polenta as a side. Simmer polenta in broth and milk until soft and creamy, then stir in garlic, parmesan and herbs. Polenta has a wonderfully smooth, rich texture. Fry any leftover polenta into crispy cubes the next day to top salads.

Couscous

Fluffy couscous makes an easy, lighter side dish alternative. Prepare couscous according to package instructions, then toss with lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, tomato and feta cheese. Pearled couscous works great, as the small pearls soak up all the garlicky sauce. For extra nutrients, make your couscous with whole wheat or vegetable broth.

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Parmesan Risotto

Creamy parmesan risotto is a savory side that pairs fabulously with garlic parmesan chicken. Slowly simmer arborio rice in broth and white wine until al dente, then stir in garlic, parmesan cheese and butter. Fold in fresh spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. The richness of the risotto beautifully complements the crispy chicken.

Mac and Cheese

Kids and adults alike will love digging into bubbly, cheesy baked macaroni and cheese alongside their chicken. I make an easy three cheese version mixing cheddar, parmesan and cream cheese for ultimate creaminess. Top with garlic parmesan panko breadcrumbs before baking until golden on top. Scoop up every last bite of that cheesy goodness!

Dinner Rolls

Warm, flaky dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up any leftover garlic parmesan sauce. Brush the tops with melted butter or garlic butter before serving for an extra decadent touch. Try making homemade parker house rolls, crescent rolls or pretzel rolls to serve alongside your spectacular chicken dinner.

Put Together Your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Dinner

Garlic parmesan chicken is so versatile – you really can’t go wrong with your side dish selections. From hearty pastas and potatoes to fresh, vibrant salads and veggies, the possibilities are endless. Use this guide to help spark side dish ideas that will bring your whole meal together.

Experiment with different flavor and texture combinations to find your favorite pairings. And don’t be afraid to think outside the box to come up with your own unique garlic parmesan chicken dinner creations. With the right sides, this chicken is sure to become a regular in your weekly dinner rotation.

Garlic Parmesan pairs well with a variety of dishes, including chicken, pasta, shrimp, and vegetables like broccoli and potatoes.