What to Serve with Pesto Chicken: 28+ Delicious Pairing Ideas

As a passionate home cook, I’ve discovered that the perfect side dish can transform a good meal into an unforgettable feast.

When it comes to pesto chicken, a personal favorite of mine, choosing the right accompaniment is crucial.

The vibrant, herbaceous flavors of basil pesto combined with tender chicken create a delicious main course, but what you serve alongside it can truly elevate your dining experience.

In this ultimate guide, I’ll share my favorite sides that pair beautifully with pesto chicken. From classic pasta options to unexpected pairings, get ready to discover the best sides to serve with pesto chicken!

Understanding Pesto Chicken

When I make pesto chicken, I love how the tender chicken gets coated in a flavorful basil pesto sauce made from fresh herbs, garlic, parmesan cheese, and olive oil. This dish is a go-to in my kitchen because it’s so aromatic and satisfying.

• Flavor Profile: The pesto sauce gives the chicken a fresh, herby taste with hints of garlic and nuttiness from the parmesan. It’s a savory, mouthwatering combination.
• Versatility: I can grill, bake, or sauté the pesto chicken, which makes it easy to adapt to different cooking styles.
• Importance of Sides: Choosing the right sides is crucial to balancing the richness of the pesto and enhancing the overall meal.

For some delicious ideas, check out these pesto chicken recipes. Now, let’s explore some delicious options to serve alongside your pesto chicken!

Best Pasta Options to Serve with Pesto Chicken

When it comes to pairing pasta with pesto chicken, you really can’t go wrong. The starchy goodness of pasta perfectly complements the rich, herbaceous flavors of the dish. Here are my top picks:

• Classic Spaghetti or Linguine: Something is comforting about twirling long strands of pasta around your fork. I love how spaghetti or linguine catches just the right amount of pesto sauce, creating a harmonious blend with each bite of chicken.

• Penne or Fusilli for Texture: The ridges and crevices in penne or fusilli are perfect for holding onto extra pesto sauce. Plus, their bite-sized shape makes them easy to mix with chunks of pesto chicken for a satisfying forkful every time.

• Gnocchi for an Italian Twist: For a truly indulgent meal, I sometimes serve my pesto chicken with pillowy soft gnocchi. These little potato dumplings soak up the pesto sauce beautifully, creating a comforting and authentically Italian dining experience.

• Orzo for a Lighter Option: When I’m in the mood for something a bit lighter, orzo is my go-to. This rice-shaped pasta cooks up quickly and provides a delicate base that doesn’t overpower the pesto chicken.

Pro Tip: To take your pasta side dish to the next level, try tossing it with a little extra pesto sauce, a splash of olive oil, and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor!

For more ideas on what to serve with pesto pasta, check out our guide on pesto pasta. You’ll find even more delicious pairing suggestions to elevate your meal!

Vegetable Side Dishes That Pair Perfectly with Pesto Chicken

Balancing your plate with some veggies is always a good idea, and these options pair beautifully with pesto chicken:

• Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: I love how roasting intensifies the sweetness of cherry tomatoes. A quick toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting creates a side that’s both colorful and delicious.

• Grilled Zucchini and Eggplant: The smoky char from grilling adds depth to these Mediterranean vegetables. A light brush of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs complement the pesto flavors perfectly.

• Sautéed Spinach or Kale: For a quick and nutritious side, I often sauté some leafy greens. The slight bitterness of spinach or kale provides a nice contrast to the rich pesto chicken.

• Roasted Bell Peppers: Roasting bell peppers brings out their natural sweetness. I like to slice them and roast them with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for an extra flavor punch.

• Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: Sometimes, simple is best. Lightly steamed broccoli or asparagus retains a nice crunch and allows the flavors of the pesto chicken to shine through.

Here’s a quick reference table for cooking times:

Remember, these vegetable sides not only complement your pesto chicken but also add vibrant colors to your plate, making your meal as visually appealing as it is delicious!

Salads to Complement Your Pesto Chicken Meal

Adding a fresh salad to your pesto chicken dinner is a fantastic way to introduce a crisp, light element to balance the rich flavors. Here are some of my favorite salad options:

• Fresh Caprese Salad: I adore the simplicity of a Caprese salad. Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze echo the Italian flavors in your pesto chicken beautifully.

• Arugula Salad With Shaved Parmesan: The peppery bite of arugula paired with shaved Parmesan creates a sophisticated salad. I like to add a light lemon vinaigrette to brighten up the flavors.

• Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: For a heartier option, try a chickpea salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta. The Mediterranean flavors complement the pesto chicken while adding protein and fiber.

• Cucumber and Tomato Salad: This refreshing salad is my go-to in summer. Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes tossed with red onion and a simple vinaigrette offer a cool contrast to the warm chicken.

Quick Tip: To keep your salads crisp, chill the plates or bowls before serving. This little trick keeps everything fresh, especially on warm days!

Starchy Sides to Serve with Pesto Chicken

Sometimes, you just need a hearty, starchy side to round out your meal. Here are some options that pair wonderfully with pesto chicken:

• Garlic Bread or Focaccia: There’s nothing quite like using warm, crusty bread to soak up any extra pesto sauce. I love making pesto chicken focaccia sandwiches – they’re a delicious twist on the classic combination!

• Roasted Potatoes with Herbs: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside – herb-roasted potatoes are always a hit. I toss them with rosemary and thyme to complement the basil in the pesto.

• Creamy Polenta: For a comforting side, try serving your pesto chicken over a bed of creamy polenta. The smooth texture and mild flavor provide a perfect canvas for the zesty pesto.

• Quinoa Pilaf: When I’m looking for a healthier option, I turn to quinoa. A simple pilaf with some sautéed vegetables adds nutrition and a pleasant nutty flavor to the meal.

Light and Refreshing Options to Balance Pesto Chicken

To cut through the richness of pesto chicken, consider these light and refreshing sides:

• Lemon-Dressed Greens: A simple green salad with a zesty lemon dressing can work wonders. The acidity brightens the palate and balances the creamy pesto sauce beautifully.

• Cucumber and Mint Salad: On hot summer days, I love serving a cool cucumber and mint salad. The crispness of the cucumber and the freshness of the mint provide a refreshing contrast.

• Citrus Fruit Salad: For an unexpected twist, try a citrus salad. The sweet-tart flavors of oranges, grapefruits, and pomelo seeds can cleanse the palate between bites of pesto chicken.

• Marinated Artichoke Hearts: The tangy flavor of marinated artichoke hearts complements pesto chicken wonderfully. I like to drain them well and toss them with a bit of lemon zest before serving.

Remember, the key to a well-balanced meal is variety in flavors and textures. Don’t be afraid to mix and match these sides to create your perfect pesto chicken dinner!

Unexpected but Delicious Pairings for Pesto Chicken

Sometimes, thinking outside the box can lead to amazing culinary discoveries. Here are some unexpected but delightful sides I’ve found pair wonderfully with pesto chicken:

• Bruschetta: While typically an appetizer, I’ve found bruschetta makes a fantastic side for pesto chicken. The bright, fresh tomatoes and garlic-rubbed toast complement the rich pesto beautifully.

• Caprese Skewers: For a fun, handheld side, try Caprese skewers. I thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves on toothpicks, then drizzle with balsamic glaze.

• Stuffed Mushrooms: Mushrooms stuffed with a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and Parmesan cheese make for an elegant side. The earthy flavors pair surprisingly well with pesto chicken.

• Pesto Rice: For a double dose of pesto goodness, I sometimes serve pesto rice. Simply stir some extra pesto into cooked rice for a flavorful and colorful side dish.

Wine and Beverage Pairings for Pesto Chicken

The right beverage can elevate your pesto chicken meal to new heights. Here are some of my favorite pairings:

• White Wine Options: Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio are excellent choices to pair with pesto chicken. The crisp acidity of these wines cuts through the richness of the pesto and complements the herbaceous flavors.
• Red Wine Choices: If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir is a good option. Its subtle fruitiness won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the pesto chicken.
• Non-Alcoholic Pairings: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a twist of lemon or iced tea with a splash of citrus is refreshing and pairs nicely with the pesto.

How to Create a Balanced Plate with Pesto Chicken

Creating a well-balanced plate is key to a satisfying meal. Here’s how I approach it:

1. Combine different textures: Pair the tender chicken with something crunchy like a crisp salad or roasted vegetables.
2. Balance flavors: The rich, savory pesto chicken pairs well with acidic elements (like lemon-dressed greens) or sweet components (like roasted cherry tomatoes).
3. Consider nutritional balance: I aim for a mix of protein (chicken), complex carbs (whole grain pasta or quinoa), and vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Here’s a sample balanced plate:

• 1/4 plate: Pesto chicken
• 1/4 plate: Whole wheat pasta or quinoa
• 1/2 plate: Mixed roasted vegetables and a small side salad

Tips for Serving Pesto Chicken at Different Occasions

Pesto chicken is versatile enough for various settings. Here’s how I adapt it:

1. Casual family dinners: I keep it simple with a pasta side and a quick vegetable dish.
2. Elegant dinner parties: I’ll add more sophisticated sides like stuffed mushrooms or a carefully plated Caprese salad.
3. Picnics and outdoor events: Cold pesto chicken works great. I pair it with portable sides like pasta salad or vegetable skewers.
4. Meal prep ideas: I often make extra pesto chicken and sides for quick, delicious lunches throughout the week.

Remember, the key is to have fun and experiment with different combinations to find your perfect pesto chicken meal!

Conclusion

As we’ve explored, the options for what to serve with pesto chicken are as diverse as they are delicious.

From classic pasta pairings to unexpected delights like stuffed mushrooms, the key is to complement the rich, herbaceous flavors of the dish.

Whether you opt for a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a hearty starch, remember that balance is key.

 Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your perfect pesto chicken meal.

With these ideas in your culinary toolkit, you’re well-equipped to create a memorable dining experience that celebrates the vibrant flavors of pesto chicken. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

FAQs: What to Serve with Pesto Chicken

What’s a Quick Side Dish for Pesto Chicken on Busy Nights?

A quick side dish for pesto chicken is steamed broccoli or orzo. Both are simple to prepare and complement the flavors of your pesto chicken recipe.

Are There Any Sides to Avoid with Pesto Chicken?

Avoid sides that are too creamy or heavy, like rich potato dishes. They can compete with the pesto sauce rather than complement it.