Have you ever made a gorgeous Tuscan chicken pasta only to stare blankly at your kitchen wondering, “what else should I serve with this?” I’ve been there too many times! Tuscan chicken pasta with its creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach is already amazing on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can transform your dinner from good to absolutely unforgettable.
As someone who cooks Italian-inspired meals at least twice a week for my family I’ve experimented with countless side dish combinations. Some were total disasters (pro tip don’t try pairing Tuscan chicken pasta with curry-flavored anything), but others became instant favorites in my household.
In this article, I’ll share my tried-and-true side dishes that perfectly complement Tuscan chicken pasta, from bread options to vegetable sides and light salads. These pairings will help balance the richness of the pasta while adding complementary flavors and textures to your meal
Bread and Starchy Sides
When it comes to creamy Tuscan pasta nothing beats having some bread to soak up all that delicious sauce! Here are my top picks
1. Homemade Garlic Bread
If I’m being totally honest, sometimes I make Tuscan chicken pasta just as an excuse to eat garlic bread. This 10-minute prep wonder is absolutely perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce from your pasta.
Simply slice a French or Italian loaf, make a garlic butter mixture with fresh parsley, and slather it on. Make sure you use a good pastry brush to get into all the nooks and crannies! The crispy, garlicky bread provides the perfect contrast to the creamy pasta.
2. Easy Focaccia Bread
Focaccia is my go-to when I want to impress guests but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen. The zesty herb flavors in this flatbread complement the Tuscan chicken pasta beautifully.
With decorative specks of green herbs, black olives, and white salt, this bread looks like it took hours to make but only requires about 10 minutes of active preparation. It’s both delicious and pretty enough to serve as an edible centerpiece!
3. Lemon Butter Orzo
When I’m in the mood for a double-carb situation (no judgment here!), lemon butter orzo is my secret weapon. This 15-minute side dish looks fancy but requires minimal effort.
Just boil the rice-sized pasta until the water is absorbed, then mix in butter, lemon, parsley, salt, and pepper. The smooth buttery taste with a hint of citrus pairs wonderfully with the creamy flavors of Tuscan chicken pasta. Just be careful not to burn it – stir frequently!
4. Easy Ciabatta Rolls
These Italian rolls do take about 4 hours from start to finish, but most of that time is just waiting for the dough to rise. With only 4 ingredients (flour, water, salt, and instant yeast), these rolls are surprisingly simple to make.
The crisp crust and airy interior make them perfect for dipping in the pasta sauce or spreading with garlic aioli. Plus, making bread from scratch is a fun activity to do with kids – and you can make them do the kneading part!
Vegetable Sides
To balance the richness of Tuscan chicken pasta, I always like to include some vegetables. Here are some that work particularly well:
1. Perfect Steamed Asparagus
Steamed asparagus instantly classes up any dish, and it’s ready in just 5 minutes! The crisp, earthy taste and vibrant green color make it a perfect accompaniment to Tuscan chicken pasta.
After steaming, just add some olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The simplicity of this vegetable won’t compete with your pasta but will provide a fresh contrast. Just remember to cut off those woody ends before steaming!
2. Garlic Sautéed Spinach
Since Tuscan chicken pasta already contains spinach, doubling down on this iron-rich green creates a nice theme throughout your meal. This side dish takes just 10 minutes to prepare, and the tangy, earthy flavors complement the sun-dried tomatoes in the pasta.
For busy weeknights, I sometimes use garlic powder instead of peeling and dicing fresh cloves. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some jalapeños to the pan for extra zing!
3. Grilled Zucchini
Zucchini is one of those veggies that grows like crazy in the garden (one day flowers, the next day giants!), and grilling is one of the best ways to prepare it. This recipe takes just 10 minutes on the grill after drizzling with olive oil and sprinkling with garlic, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, and lemon juice.
The smoky, charred taste of grilled zucchini adds a nice dimension to the creamy Tuscan chicken pasta. It’s a particularly good option in summer when zucchini is in season and you can cook outdoors.
4. Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
I’ll be the first to admit I wasn’t always a fan of these mini cabbages, but roasting them at high heat (425°F) completely transforms them by bringing out their natural sweetness.
After trimming and halving the sprouts, toss them in olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs, then roast for about 20 minutes. The slightly crispy, cheesy sprouts provide a delicious texture contrast to your creamy pasta.
5. Roasted Vegetable Medley (Ratatouille)
This colorful mixture of eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and potatoes naturally caramelizes as it roasts, creating a delicious side dish that’s as nutritious as it is beautiful.
With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can pop this in the oven and forget about it for an hour while you prepare your pasta. The result is a visually stunning dish that provides a healthy balance to your rich Tuscan chicken pasta.
Light Salads & Fresh Options
To cut through the richness of Tuscan chicken pasta, I find that a bright, fresh salad works wonders:
1. Simple Arugula Salad
This is my staple salad whenever I serve Italian food. The zesty arugula has quite a tangy taste on its own, but this recipe uses Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and salt to tame it into a delicate, nutrient-rich side.
The remaining tang helps bring out the flavors from the Tuscan chicken pasta. It’s also great to eat right before digging into the main course as it can help cleanse the palate.
2. Burrata Caprese
The star of this fresh tomato-basil salad is definitely the Burrata cheese with its custard-like consistency. This refreshing salad is incredibly easy to make – just be sure to let the cheese reach room temperature before serving.
Arrange the tomatoes, fresh basil, and cheese on a charcuterie board for a lovely presentation alongside your Tuscan chicken pasta. The fresh flavors provide a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta.
3. Mozzarella, Peach, and Tomato Salad
I used to resist mixing fruits and vegetables in salads (it just seemed weird!), but this combination convinced me otherwise. The fresh mozzarella and basil tie everything together for a unique layered flavor that’s both sweet and tangy.
This colorful salad presents beautifully and pairs nicely with Tuscan chicken pasta because the light fruitiness contrasts wonderfully with the heavy cream in the pasta. It’s especially good in late summer when peaches are at their peak!
4. Refreshing Fennel Cucumber Salad
Whenever I see a recipe with dill, I get excited. It’s my favorite herb for bringing muted flavors to the surface. In this simple salad, dill combines with fennel and cucumber for a crisp, refreshing side.
Just slice English cucumber, add fennel, dill, and some oil and vinegar. This palate-cleansing salad provides a nice break between bites of rich pasta.
Sauces & Dips
Having some extra sauces and dips can elevate your Tuscan chicken pasta meal even further:
1. Garlic Aioli
What’s a good homemade bread without something to dip it in? This quick and easy garlic aioli is perfect for ciabatta rolls or focaccia bread served alongside your pasta.
With just oil, egg yolk, and garlic, this French-inspired sauce adds another dimension to your meal. The key to making good aioli is taking your time when mixing the yolk and oil – slow and steady wins the race!
2. Lemon Butter Sauce
A citrus-based browned butter sauce can be drizzled onto any vegetables or starches you serve with your Tuscan chicken pasta. It’s a quick sauce that elevates plain vegetables to a whole new level.
Unique Sides for Special Occasions
Want to make your Tuscan chicken pasta dinner extra special? Try these unique sides:
1. Shrimp Scampi Skewers
If you’re hosting a special dinner, these garlicky shrimp skewers add a “surf” element to complement your pasta “turf.” Ready in just 20 minutes, they bring a unique flair to your table.
While the recipe calls for just shrimp on the skewers, you can add anything you like – cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even fruits like pineapple or grapes for a sweet contrast.
2. Olive Tapenade
Olive tapenade wasn’t initially on my radar as a side for Tuscan chicken pasta, but it’s become one of my favorites. This stunning spread takes only about 10 minutes to make in a food processor.
The combination of olives, capers, and wine vinegar creates a unique spread for bread and rolls – perfect for those who don’t like butter or want something with more complex flavors.
Final Thoughts
The best thing about Tuscan chicken pasta is how versatile it is when it comes to side dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and fresh or hearty and comforting, there’s a perfect pairing out there.
My personal favorite combination is Tuscan chicken pasta with garlic bread and a simple arugula salad – the trifecta of carbs, greens, and more carbs! But I encourage you to experiment with different combinations to find your own perfect meal.
Remember, cooking should be fun and flexible. Don’t be afraid to mix and match these suggestions based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Your perfect Tuscan chicken pasta dinner awaits!
What’s your favorite side dish to serve with Tuscan chicken pasta? Drop me a comment below – I’m always looking for new ideas to try!
side dishes to serve with Tuscan chicken
Ok now for side dishes that can be paired with Tuscan chicken, dont worry well get to dessert later! Weve put together a comprehensive list with a variety of options so Im sure youll find the perfect pairing for your dinner.
Picture a colorful pasta salad bursting with flavors like sun-dried tomatoes and basil. Its like a flavor explosion in your mouth! This salad is the perfect buddy for your Tuscan chicken. The tangy sauce in the pasta salad mixes so well with the yummy chicken, making every bite a taste adventure!
Imagine a crunchy salad with tiny Brussels sprouts, almonds, and cheese. Its like a tasty crunch party! Pairing it with your Tuscan chicken is like having a delicious balance on your plate. The tangy dressing of the salad helps to bring out the best in the chicken, making each bite super yummy!
Close your eyes and think of creamy, cheesy potatoes baked to perfection. Theyre like a warm hug on a plate! These potatoes are a perfect match for your Tuscan chicken. The creamy sauce and savory flavors of the potatoes make every mouthful of chicken even better!
Picture thinly sliced potatoes soaked in a creamy sauce with hints of garlic and nutmeg. Its like a cozy blanket for your taste buds! Pairing these potatoes with Tuscan chicken is like a flavor explosion in your mouth. The creamy texture of the potatoes adds a tasty twist to every bite of chicken!
Imagine crispy potato bites seasoned with herbs and spices. Theyre like little flavor bombs! Pairing them with your Tuscan chicken adds an extra crunch to your meal. The crispy outside and fluffy inside of the potatoes make each bite of chicken even more satisfying!
Think of soft bread with melted cheese and mashed potatoes. Its like a delicious snack and meal rolled into one! Pairing this bread with your Tuscan chicken is like having a tasty surprise on your plate. The cheesy flavor of the bread adds an extra layer of yumminess to every bite of chicken!
Imagine crispy butternut squash cubes seasoned with herbs. Theyre like little bites of sunshine! Pairing them with Tuscan chicken adds a tasty twist to your meal. The crispy texture and sweet flavor of the squash make every bite of chicken even more delicious!
Picture a creamy, cheesy dip loaded with spinach and artichokes. Its like a party in your mouth! Pairing this dip with Tuscan chicken adds a fun twist to your meal. The creamy texture and savory flavors of the dip make every bite of chicken even more enjoyable!
Imagine crispy kale leaves seasoned with herbs and spices. Theyre like healthy potato chips! Pairing them with Tuscan chicken adds a tasty crunch to your meal. The crispy texture and savory flavor of the chips make every bite of chicken even more satisfying!
Think of fluffy rice with a fragrant aroma. Its like a warm hug for your taste buds! Pairing it with Tuscan chicken adds a tasty base to your meal. The fragrant aroma and fluffy texture of the rice make every bite of chicken even better!
Ligurian focaccia is crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Baked in extra virgin olive oil and topped with sweet San Marzano tomatoes, it’s the perfect match for Tuscan chicken!
Try this delicious baby arugula salad with shaved parmesan, freshly squeezed lemon, olive oil, and balsamic glaze. It only needs 5 ingredients and 5 minutes!
Fresh chopped veggies & garbanzo beans make up this classic Italian Chopped Salad. Loaded with all the best goodies & a homemade dressing for the perfect Italian side salad.
With so many gorgeous colors and vibrant flavors, this easy Vegetable Medley is a lovely accompaniment to Tuscan Chicken! And, with so many different veggies to choose from, its sure to please everyone round your table!
Imagine creamy mashed potatoes with the rich aroma of truffles. Theyre like a fancy treat for your taste buds! Pairing them with Tuscan chicken adds a luxurious touch to your meal. The creamy texture and earthy flavor of the potatoes make every bite of chicken even more delightful!
Make this veggie-loaded Mediterranean pasta in just 15 minutes and serve it as a side for a delicious Tuscan Chicken. With sweet cherry tomatoes, it will become a family favorite for busy weeknights!
Roasted tomatoes are a delicious side dish to compliment that Tuscan flavor. They’re quick and easy to make in your air fryer anytime!
how do you eat Tuscan chicken?
Before we get into side dishes and desserts to enjoy with this chicken, I often get the question – how do you eat or serve Tuscan chicken? This is a valid question because its a creamy sauce and chicken. Here are my preferred ways to eat it:
- With sourdough because you can dip it in the creamy sauce while eating the chicken.
- Over pasta, because the sauce can coat the pasta and the chicken is a great way to bump up the pasta.
- On its own for a low-carb or keto option or served over a roasted vegetable like asparagus or mushrooms.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta (30-minute meal)
FAQ
What side goes with tuscan chicken?
Tuscan chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, including pasta, rice, potatoes, and salads.
What does Mary Berry serve with Tuscan chicken?
Based on a classic creamy chicken dish, Tuscan chicken is one of Mary Berry’s favourites when she needs an easy supper. It’s lovely served with potatoes, rice or pasta.
What to serve with a chicken pasta bake?
- Honey Glazed Roast Carrots.
- Roasted Pumpkin, Brussels Sprouts and Prosciutto with Egg.
- Potato Wedges.
- Italian-Roasted Vegetables.
- Bacon, Peas and Mushrooms.
What side dishes go well with Italian chicken?
- Lemon Garlic Pasta. …
- Classic Caprese Salad – Love and Lemons. …
- Roasted Garlic Parmesan Potatoes Recipe. …
- Garlic Sauteed Spinach. …
- Mushroom Risotto – Love and Lemons. …
- Grilled Zucchini and Squash. …
- Italian Chopped Salad – Love and Lemons. …
- Baked Eggplant Parmesan.