15 Delicious Side Dishes to Pair with Chicken Marsala

Chicken Marsala is a beloved dish at our household, boasting a rich and velvety sauce that pairs perfectly with tender, caramelized chicken and earthy mushrooms. The harmonious combination of these simple ingredients results in a truly divine culinary experience. While Chicken Marsala stands beautifully on its own, it’s elevated to new heights when paired with complementary side dishes.

Here, we’ll explore 13 mouth-watering options that will transform this comfort classic into an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, vegetables, or something else entirely, our suggestions have got you covered.

Green Beans

Green Beans

When it comes to pairing sides with Chicken Marsala, green beans are an excellent choice. Not only do they provide a satisfying crunch, but they also offer a nice contrast in texture to the dish’s rich flavors. Simply top the green beans with some fresh Parmesan cheese and you’ll be all set. Alternatively, consider adding some crunchy sliced almonds for added depth of flavor.

Roasted Broccolini

Roasted Broccolini

When exploring the world of vegetables, few options are as delightful as broccolini, often referred to as broccoli’s charming cousin. Its mild sweetness, subtle earthy notes, and overall fantastic flavor profile make it an excellent accompaniment to a variety of dishes, including the savory Chicken Marsala. While salt and pepper can certainly enhance its natural taste, taking things to the next level by incorporating garlic and tamari can be a game-changer.

The Japanese soy sauce brings a rich umami flavor that beautifully complements broccolini’s unique character.

Caprese

Caprese

Imagine combining the rich flavors of Chicken Marsala with a vibrant, refreshing side dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Enter Caprese, an Italian classic that pairs perfectly with the chicken. The salad’s sweet red tomatoes, earthy green basil, and creamy mozzarella cheese are a match made in heaven when drizzled with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. With its bold flavors and stunning presentation, this side dish is sure to elevate your meal.

Rice

Rice

Chicken Marsala’s velvety smoothness is perfectly complemented by a warm plate of rice. The nutty flavor and satisfying chew of brown rice harmonize beautifully with the dish, while its earthy undertones subtly enhance the earthiness of the mushrooms in the sauce. It’s as if the flavors are having a delightful party on your palate. Alternatively, jasmine rice infused with lemon zest brings a bright, citrusy note to the table. The combination is nothing short of irresistible.

However, sometimes simplicity reigns supreme. A humble bowl of steaming white rice provides a comforting foil to the rich, creamy sauce in Chicken Marsala. While adding butter can certainly elevate the dish further, the unadulterated white rice is already enough to satisfy your cravings.

Risotto

Risotto

In the realm of Italian cuisine, Chicken Marsala is a beloved dish that demands a side that’s equally as flavorful. Risotto, with its vibrant colors and herbaceous notes, is an ideal pairing.

When you add some snappy asparagus and rich, buttery cheese to the mix, you’ve got a match made in culinary heaven. The only thing missing from this trifecta of taste is, of course, the star of the show: juicy chicken smothered in that sublime Marsala sauce.

Handmade Pasta

Handmade Pasta

While store-bought pasta can be satisfying, there’s something special about crafting your own from scratch. The process may seem daunting at first, but trust me, making handmade pasta without a machine is remarkably straightforward.

A humble rolling pin is all you need to create a more complex and engaging texture compared to its packaged counterpart. When paired with the richness of Marsala sauce and a pat of butter for added depth, your homemade pasta will be nothing short of divine.

Egg Noodles

Egg Noodles

Egg noodles offer a distinct culinary experience compared to traditional pasta, boasting a tender and rich texture. With a cooking time of just six minutes, they provide the ultimate solution for those short on time or energy. This convenience makes them an ideal choice for a quick yet satisfying meal.

Almond Noodles

Almond Noodles

When discussing noodle options, another great choice is almond noodles. This dish is particularly appealing due to its lightness and quick preparation time of just 15 minutes. What sets almond noodles apart from others is the unique combination of ingredients that come together to create a harmonious flavor profile. The base of these noodles consists of rice noodles mixed with an assortment of vegetables, including broccoli, carrots, cabbage, spinach, and sesame seeds.

To tie everything together, a creamy almond butter dressing adds a rich and refreshing touch, making this dish not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying.

Polenta

Polenta

The classic pairing of Chicken Marsala with pasta is a tried-and-true favorite, but why not shake things up by serving it with polenta instead?

Not only do you get to enjoy the rich, buttery, and cheesy flavors that define this dish, but you also get to experience a delightful array of textures.

The creamy polenta provides a smooth contrast to the tender chicken, while the mushrooms and sauce add depth and complexity. It’s a match made in heaven!

Potatoes

Potatoes

Potatoes are an undeniable favorite when it comes to sides. Their versatility and irresistible flavor make them the perfect accompaniment to any dish.

Among potato lovers, mashed potatoes reign supreme. When infused with pungent garlic and topped with crispy bacon or savory pancetta, melted cheese adds a richness that elevates this classic comfort food to new heights.

Bread Rolls

Bread Rolls

Savoring a mouthwatering chicken dinner isn’t just about the main course; it’s also about the accompaniments. In this case, a warm and fluffy roll is an essential component, providing a textural contrast to the rich flavors of the sauce.

Its softness allows for effortless absorption of the savory liquid, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Spinach

Spinach

As we explored the world of starches, let’s shift our focus to an equally vital component: vegetables. To offset the richness of our previous dishes, here are a few suggestions for light and revitalizing veggie-based side options. Among my top picks is spinach, which takes on a new dimension when infused with the pungency of garlic and the nutty depth of Parmesan. This trifecta of flavors not only elevates the humble leafy green but also yields a dish that’s both delectable and nutritious.

Asparagus

Asparagus

When it comes to pairing vegetables with chicken, asparagus is an excellent choice. The contrasting textures – crunchy asparagus against tender chicken – create a harmonious combination that’s sure to please. You can prepare asparagus in a variety of ways, from steaming and sautéing to elevating its flavor profile with a rich cheese and lemon sauce.

 

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