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Does Fried Chicken Go With Lasagna?
Lasagna is one of the most iconic Italian dishes, layered with noodles, tomato sauce, cheese, and meat. While delicious on its own, the right side dishes can take your lasagna to the next level. But does fried chicken go with lasagna? Let’s explore some classic Italian pairings and creative new ones to serve alongside your baked pasta masterpiece.
Does Fried Chicken Go With Lasagna?
Lasagna and fried chicken may seem like an unexpected pairing, but it can actually work surprisingly well. The acidic tomato sauce in lasagna contrasts nicely with the crispy, juicy fried chicken. And the lasagna’s oozing cheese helps soften and balance the crunchy fried exterior of the chicken.
That said, to make this unorthodox combination successful, choose boneless fried chicken tenders, nuggets, or strips rather than bone-in fried chicken. The smaller pieces of breaded white meat are better suited to eating alongside lasagna than a whole fried chicken leg or thigh.
When plating, place the fried chicken on top of or alongside the lasagna so you get some pasta and some chicken in each bite. The richness of the lasagna and fried chicken together can be heavy, so serve smaller portions of both.
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Accompaniments like salad, roasted vegetables, or freshly baked bread help lighten the meal. Ranch, honey mustard, or marinara sauce for dipping also brings the two dishes together.
While fried chicken and lasagna traditionally come from different culinary traditions, their complementary flavors and textures actually allow them to pair beautifully. The lasagna’s cheese helps unify the dishes, and the tomato sauce provides acidity to balance out the fried chicken.
So don’t be afraid to think outside the box with this inventive pairing! With the right execution, lasagna and fried chicken can be a hearty, satisfying and surprisingly harmonious meal.
Sticking to Tradition
Most Italians would not pair fried chicken with lasagna. Traditional pairings include a fresh, crisp green salad or roasted vegetables like eggplant. Garlic bread is another classic accompaniment, soaking up the delicious sauce. Simple steamed broccoli or spinach sautéed in olive oil and garlic also make excellent matches.
When it comes to starchy sides, polenta is a popular choice. The soft, creamy cornmeal complements the lasagna’s richness. Mashed potatoes can work as well, but baked or roasted potatoes may be better to provide some texture contrast.
What About Bread?
Fresh Italian bread can be served with lasagna, but focaccia makes an especially tasty pairing. The flavorful olive oil and herbs in focaccia stand up well to the acidity of tomato sauce. Ciabatta and crusty peasant loaves are other good options. Garlic knots can provide the best of both worlds: garlic bread meets Italian bread.
Beyond the Boot
If you want to branch out from traditional Italian pairings, there are plenty of possibilities. Leafy greens like kale or collard greens sautéed with garlic and red pepper flakes can offset the richness. Roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus would also be excellent choices.
Chicken may seem like an odd match, but roasted, crispy chicken thighs could work. The key is keeping the seasoning simple to complement, not compete with, the lasagna. But traditional fried chicken and lasagna tend to clash rather than combine favorably.
Think Outside the Box
Sometimes, unexpected pairs like lasagna and fried chicken just work. The acidity of the tomato sauce contrasts the crispy fried coating. And the lasagne’s gooey cheese softens the chicken’s crunch.
If you want to give this unorthodox combo a try, stick to boneless fried chicken tenders or nuggets. Serve them on top or alongside the lasagna so each bite includes some pasta and some chicken. Ranch dressing or honey mustard sauce can bring everything together.
Lasagna is so versatile that the possibilities for pairings are endless. From classic garlic bread to unexpected fried chicken, experiment to find your favorite combination. No matter what you serve alongside, lasagna is sure to satisfy.
FAQs
What food pairs well with lasagna?
Some classic pairings that complement lasagna beautifully include garlic bread, mixed green salads, and roasted vegetables like eggplant or asparagus. The richness of the lasagna balances well with brighter, fresher side dishes.
Spinach sautéed in olive oil and garlic also pairs nicely. Beyond Italian cuisine, options like roasted chicken, greens braised in broth, or creamy mashed potatoes can stand up well to lasagna’s bold flavors.
What do Italians serve with lasagne?
Italians often serve lasagna with light accompaniments like a fresh green salad tossed in a vinaigrette dressing or roasted vegetables, such as eggplant, zucchini, or carrots. Garlic bread is another traditional pairing that soaks up the tasty sauce. Spinach sautéed with garlic and olive oil is also a classic Italian side for lasagna.
What is the best bread to serve with lasagna?
Focaccia makes an excellent pairing with lasagna, as the olive oil and herbs in the bread complement the rich tomato sauce. Ciabatta, Italian peasant loaves, and garlic bread also pair well. Their crispy crust soaks up the extra sauce beautifully. For a more informal meal, soft garlic knots can be a tasty accompaniment too.
What kind of potatoes to serve with lasagna?
Roasted potatoes or baked potato wedges help balance lasagna’s richness with their crunch and earthy starchiness. Russet or sweet potatoes both work well. Leave the skins on for extra texture and nutrition. For softer accompaniments, creamy mashed or scalloped potatoes can complement lasagna too, but roasting or baking the potatoes is ideal.
What are some creative lasagna pairings?
Some unique but tasty pairings include roasted Brussels sprouts, kale sautéed with garlic and red pepper flakes, chicken tenders, or even fried chicken nuggets and strips.
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