Pesto chicken, with its vibrant herbaceous flavor, is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with a wide range of side dishes, allowing you to create a balanced and delicious meal. The key is to consider both contrasting and complementary flavors and textures to enhance the pesto's bright notes. This guide explores some of the best options to serve alongside your pesto chicken, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences.
What Sides Complement Pesto Chicken Best?
The richness of pesto chicken benefits from sides that offer a balance of flavors and textures. Think fresh, bright, and slightly acidic elements to cut through the richness of the pesto and chicken. Here are some top contenders:
Pasta (Naturally!)
This is a classic pairing. Pesto and pasta are practically made for each other! Consider:
- Linguine or Fettuccine: These long, flat pasta shapes perfectly coat in the pesto sauce.
- Orzo: This small, rice-shaped pasta offers a delightful textural contrast.
- Rotini or Fusilli: These twisty pasta shapes can hold onto the pesto sauce well.
Avoid over-saucing the pasta if you’re already serving a pesto-based chicken dish to prevent the meal from becoming too heavy.
Roasted or Grilled Vegetables
Roasted vegetables add a welcome earthy sweetness and char to the plate. Excellent choices include:
- Asparagus: Its tender-crisp texture contrasts beautifully with the pesto chicken.
- Broccoli: Roasting broccoli brings out its natural sweetness and creates a nice textural element.
- Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These summer vegetables roast beautifully and add vibrant color.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Burst with sweetness when roasted and add a pop of color.
Salads
A fresh, vibrant salad balances the richness of the pesto chicken perfectly. Consider these options:
- Caprese Salad: The classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil complements the pesto’s herbiness.
- Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: The peppery arugula and bright lemon vinaigrette cut through the richness.
- Simple Green Salad with a Light Vinaigrette: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
Other Delicious Sides
Beyond pasta, vegetables, and salads, these sides also create a well-rounded meal:
- Polenta: Creamy polenta offers a comforting and satisfying base for the pesto chicken.
- Couscous: Fluffy couscous provides a light and fluffy counterpoint to the richer elements of the dish.
- Quinoa: Quinoa adds protein and texture to the meal.
- Potato Salad (German Potato Salad): A warm potato salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a unique flavor contrast.
What About Grains and Starches?
Grains and starches provide the perfect base or accompaniment for your pesto chicken dish.
- Rice (Brown or Wild Rice): The nutty flavor of brown rice or the chewy texture of wild rice provides a nice contrast.
- Potatoes (Roasted or Mashed): Roasted potatoes bring a satisfying crunch while mashed potatoes offer a comforting creaminess.
What Are Some Healthy Side Dish Options?
For a healthier meal, focus on vegetables and lean protein sources.
- Steamed Green Beans: A simple and healthy side dish.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: A naturally sweet and nutrient-rich option.
- Quinoa Salad: A high-protein and fiber-rich choice.
What Side Dishes Should I Avoid?
While pesto chicken is versatile, avoid sides that might overpower the delicate pesto flavor. Creamy, heavy sauces might be too much.
By carefully considering the flavors and textures of your chosen side dishes, you can create a truly memorable and delicious pesto chicken meal. Experiment with different combinations to discover your perfect pairing!
