Pasta Side Dishes for Chicken Lovers: 10+ Delicious Ideas

As a passionate home cook, I’ve always believed that the right side dish can make or break a meal. When it comes to chicken, pasta side dishes are my go-to choice for creating a satisfying and delicious dinner.

Whether you’re serving up a juicy roasted chicken or a crispy fried cutlet, the perfect pasta side can elevate your meal to new heights.

In this article, I’ll share my favorite pasta side dishes for chicken, along with tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years.

Get ready to discover some mouthwatering combinations that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!

Why Pasta Makes an Excellent Side Dish for Chicken

I’ve found that pasta and chicken are a match made in culinary heaven, and here’s why:

1. Complementary flavors and textures: The mild flavor of chicken pairs beautifully with various pasta dishes, from creamy alfredo to zesty pesto.
2. Versatility: Pasta comes in countless shapes and sizes, allowing you to experiment with different textures and sauce-holding capabilities.
3. Balanced meal creation: Combining protein-rich chicken with carbohydrate-packed pasta creates a well-rounded meal.

When I’m planning a chicken dinner, I always consider how the pasta side dish will complement the main course. For example, if I’m serving a heavily seasoned chicken, I might opt for a simpler pasta side to balance the flavors. On the other hand, a plain grilled chicken breast can be jazzed up with a more elaborate pasta creation.

Remember, the key is to create harmony on the plate, ensuring that each component enhances the overall dining experience.

Popular Types of Pasta for Chicken Side Dishes

When it comes to choosing the perfect pasta for your chicken side dish, the options can seem endless. Over the years, I’ve experimented with various types and have found that certain shapes work better than others. Let’s break it down into two main categories:

Short Pasta Varieties

1. Penne: This tube-shaped pasta is my go-to for chunky sauces. Its ridges hold onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
2. Fusilli: The spiral shape of fusilli makes it perfect for lighter sauces and pasta salads. I love how it adds a fun texture to any dish.
3. Farfalle: Also known as bow-tie pasta, farfalle is not only cute but also great for holding onto creamy sauces.

Long Pasta Varieties

1. Spaghetti: A classic choice that pairs well with almost any sauce. I find it particularly delicious with garlic and olive oil-based dishes.
2. Linguine: Slightly wider than spaghetti, linguine is my pick for seafood-infused pasta sides.
3. Fettuccine: This ribbon-like pasta is ideal for rich, creamy sauces like Alfredo.

When selecting your pasta, consider the sauce you’ll be using. Thicker sauces generally work better with shapes that can hold onto them, while lighter sauces are great with long, thin pasta varieties.

Pro tip: For a healthier option, try whole wheat pasta or even zucchini noodles (zoodles) as a low-carb alternative!

10 Delicious Pasta Side Dishes for Chicken

Let me share with you my top 10 pasta side dishes that pair perfectly with chicken. These recipes have been crowd-pleasers at my dinner table, and I’m sure you’ll love them too!

1# Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This rich and indulgent pasta is my go-to when I want to impress. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and parmesan, coats each noodle perfectly. It’s a luxurious complement to grilled or roasted chicken. The garlic flavor isn’t overpowering but adds a delightful depth to the dish.

#2 Lemon Herb Orzo

When I’m in the mood for something light and refreshing, I turn to this zesty lemon herb orzo. The bright citrus notes and fresh herbs like parsley and basil make it a perfect summer side. It pairs wonderfully with lemon-seasoned chicken dishes and adds a Mediterranean flair to your meal.

#3 Mediterranean Pasta Salad

This colorful pasta salad is packed with flavors from the Mediterranean. I love tossing in cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. The tangy vinaigrette brings it all together, creating a refreshing contrast to savory chicken dishes. It’s great for picnics or warm evenings.

#4 Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

Pesto pasta is a classic that never fails to please. I like to add burst cherry tomatoes for a pop of sweetness and color. The basil in the pesto complements chicken beautifully, especially grilled varieties. It’s a simple yet sophisticated side that’s always a hit.

#5 Alfredo Pasta with Broccoli

This creamy alfredo pasta with tender broccoli florets is comfort food at its finest. The rich sauce and the slight crunch of broccoli create a delightful texture contrast. I find it pairs exceptionally well with crispy fried chicken, balancing out the flavors nicely.

#6 Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Pasta

This vibrant pasta dish is a favorite of mine for its bold flavors. The sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes combined with the earthiness of spinach creates a delicious contrast. I love how it complements both grilled and roasted chicken, adding a touch of Italian flair to the meal.

#7 Roasted Vegetable Pasta Primavera

When I want to add more veggies to our dinner, this pasta primavera is my go-to. Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots give it a sweet, caramelized flavor. It’s a colorful and nutritious side that pairs well with any chicken dish, especially herb-roasted chicken.

#8 Mushroom and Truffle Oil Pasta

For a touch of elegance, I turn to this earthy mushroom pasta. The truffle oil adds a luxurious aroma that elevates the entire dish. It’s perfect alongside a simple grilled chicken breast, turning an ordinary meal into something special.

#9 Greek-inspired Pasta with Feta and Olives

This Mediterranean-inspired pasta is bursting with flavors. Salty feta, briny olives, and juicy tomatoes create a delightful medley. I find it pairs exceptionally well with Greek-seasoned grilled chicken, completing the Mediterranean theme.

#10 Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta

When I’m in the mood for something with a kick, this spicy arrabbiata pasta hits the spot. The fiery tomato sauce adds excitement to any chicken dish. It’s particularly good with milder chicken preparations, as it provides a flavor contrast.

How to Choose the Right Pasta Side Dish for Your Chicken

Selecting the perfect pasta side for your chicken doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few tips I’ve learned over the years:

1. Consider the chicken preparation: If you’re serving a heavily seasoned chicken, opt for a simpler pasta side. For plain grilled chicken, you can go bolder with your pasta flavors.
2. Match flavors and textures: Creamy pasta sides like Alfredo go well with crispy chicken, while lighter options like lemon herb orzo complement grilled chicken beautifully.
3. Think about the overall meal balance: If you’re serving other rich sides, consider a lighter pasta option to avoid overwhelming the palate.

Remember, these are just guidelines. The best part about cooking is experimenting and finding what you love. Don’t be afraid to mix and match until you find your perfect chicken and pasta combination!

Healthier Pasta Alternatives: Whole Grain & Veggie Options

I’m always looking for ways to make my meals a bit healthier, and pasta side dishes are no exception. Here are some alternatives I’ve tried and loved:

1. Whole wheat pasta: This is my go-to when I want to add more fiber to our meal. It has a nuttier flavor that pairs well with robust sauces.
2. Chickpea pasta: High in protein and gluten-free, this option is great for those with dietary restrictions. I find it works best with chunky vegetable sauces.
3. Zucchini noodles (zoodles): When I’m watching my carb intake, zoodles are my secret weapon. They’re fantastic with lighter sauces and add an extra serving of veggies to the plate.

These alternatives work well in most pasta side dish recipes. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on your pasta to avoid overcooking.

Pairing Wines with Chicken and Pasta Side Dishes

As a wine enthusiast, I believe the right wine can elevate your chicken and pasta meal to new heights. Here are some of my favorite pairings:

White Wine Recommendations:

• Chardonnay: Perfect with creamy pasta dishes like Alfredo
• Sauvignon Blanc: Complements zesty pasta sides like lemon herb orzo
• Pinot Grigio: Great with light, vegetable-based pasta dishes

Red Wine Options for Heartier Pasta Dishes:

• Chianti: Pairs well with tomato-based pasta sides
• Pinot Noir: Excellent with mushroom-based pasta dishes
• Zinfandel: Complements spicy pasta sides like Arrabbiata

Remember, these are just suggestions. The best wine is always the one you enjoy most. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own perfect pairings!

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Ideas for Pasta Side Dishes

As a busy home cook, I’ve found that preparing pasta side dishes in advance can be a real time-saver. Here are some of my favorite make-ahead tips:

Storage Tips:

• Store cooked pasta separately from the sauce to prevent sogginess
• Keep pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days
• For pasta salads, add dressing just before serving to maintain freshness

Reheating Instructions:

• For hot pasta dishes, reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth
• Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to ensure even heating
• Cold pasta salads can be brought to room temperature before serving

I often prepare a big batch of pasta on Sunday and use it throughout the week. It’s a great way to ensure you always have a delicious side dish ready to go with your chicken meals!

FAQs: Pasta Side Dishes for Chicken

Can I Use the Same Pasta for Hot and Cold Side Dishes?

Absolutely! Most pasta shapes work well for both hot and cold dishes. You can use penne for creamy garlic parmesan pasta and cold Mediterranean salads. Just adjust cooking times slightly for cold dishes to keep pasta firmer.

How Can I Incorporate Parmesan Cheese into Pasta Side Dishes?

Parmesan cheese is versatile in pasta sides. Try sprinkling it over garlic butter pasta, mixing it into creamy sauces, or using it as a topping for baked pasta dishes. It adds a delicious savory flavor.

What’s A Good Creamy Chicken Pasta Side Dish?

A favorite creamy chicken pasta side is simple alfredo with broccoli. The rich sauce coats the pasta perfectly, while the broccoli adds color and nutrition. It pairs wonderfully with grilled or roasted chicken.

How Can I Use Garlic Butter in Pasta Side Dishes?

Garlic butter is fantastic on pasta sides. Try tossing cooked pasta with melted garlic butter, herbs, and parmesan cheese. It’s a simple yet flavorful accompaniment to any chicken dish.

Can I Use Pasta Side Dishes with Grilled, Roasted, and Fried Chicken?

Definitely! The versatility of pasta makes it suitable for all types of chicken preparations. Just choose a pasta dish that complements the flavors of your chicken.