Chicken Parmesan Wine Pairing – 10 Best Wines

Welcome to the wonderful world of wine and food pairing, where the possibilities are endless and the flavors are always surprising.

If you’re wondering what wine goes with chicken parmesan, you’ve come to the right place.

As a self-proclaimed foodie and wine enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours experimenting with different pairings and discovering the perfect balance between flavors.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious novice, this article will provide you with all the tips, tricks, and recommendations you need to find the ideal wine for your chicken parmesan dish.

So, grab a glass of your favorite vintage, and let’s get started!

But first, what wine goes with chicken parmesan?

The best wines to pair with chicken parmesan are Chianti Classico, Dolcetto, Primitivo and Pinot Noir. These Italian red wines have a wonderful acidity that can stand up to the tomato sauce in chicken parmesan. They also have a nice fruitiness that complements the cheese and herbs used in this dish.

Why Consider Serving A Wine With Chicken Parmesan?

Let’s be real, chicken parmesan is already pretty amazing on its own. So, why bother pairing it with wine? Well, my friend, let me tell you that wine can take your chicken parmesan experience to a whole new level.

1. Firstly, wine has the power to enhance the flavors of the dish. A well-paired wine can complement the tomato sauce, accentuate the herbs, and balance the richness of the cheese. It’s like adding the final touch to a masterpiece painting. Without it, the painting is still beautiful, but with it, it becomes a masterpiece.
2. Secondly, pairing wine with food is just plain fun! It’s like playing a game of matchmaker, trying to find the perfect pairing that will make your taste buds dance with joy. And let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good challenge?
3. Lastly, serving wine with chicken parmesan can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to your meal. It’s a simple way to elevate a classic dish and turn it into a gourmet experience. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your dinner guests and show off your wine knowledge (even if you’re just winging it).

5 Tips For Picking A Wine With Chicken Parmesan

Here are my top 5 tips to help you pick the perfect wine:

1. Consider the sauce: The tomato sauce is a crucial component of chicken parmesan, and it can significantly affect the wine pairing. A rich and full-bodied red wine like Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon will pair well with a tomato-based sauce, while a light-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc will complement a lighter tomato sauce.
2. Look at the preparation method: The way the chicken is prepared can also impact the wine pairing. If the chicken is fried, it’s best to go with a wine that has high acidity and tannins to cut through the fat, such as a Zinfandel or Barbera. If the chicken is baked, a medium-bodied red like Merlot or a dry rosé would be a good choice.
3. Take the cheese into account: Cheese is an essential component of chicken parmesan, and it can affect the wine pairing. A wine with high acidity and tannins like a Chianti or Sangiovese will pair well with the richness of the cheese.
4. Think about the spices and herbs used: The spices and herbs used in the dish can also affect the wine pairing. For instance, if the dish has a lot of basil or oregano, a red wine with herbal notes like Syrah or Grenache would be a great choice.
5. Keep your own preferences in mind: Ultimately, the best wine pairing is the one that you enjoy the most. So, don’t be afraid to try different wines and see which one you like best with your chicken parmesan.

What Wine Goes With Chicken Parmesan? The 10 Best Wines

Now that you know what to consider when pairing wine with chicken parmesan, let’s dive into the 10 best wines to complement this delicious dish:

1. Chianti: This Italian red wine has high acidity and tannins, making it an excellent match for the rich tomato sauce and cheese in chicken parmesan.
2. Cabernet Sauvignon: Another bold red wine, Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with tomato-based sauces and the richness of the cheese.
3. Merlot: A medium-bodied red wine with a soft and fruity flavor, Merlot complements the chicken and cheese in chicken parmesan.
4. Pinot Noir: A lighter-bodied red wine with a fruity and earthy flavor, Pinot Noir pairs well with baked chicken parmesan and lighter tomato sauces.
5. Sauvignon Blanc: A dry and crisp white wine, Sauvignon Blanc complements the lightness of the dish and the herbs used.
6. Pinot Grigio: Another dry and light white wine, Pinot Grigio pairs well with the lightness of the dish and the freshness of the tomato sauce.
7. Chardonnay: A medium to full-bodied white wine, Chardonnay pairs well with the richness of the cheese and the creaminess of the sauce.
8. Zinfandel: A bold and spicy red wine, Zinfandel pairs well with the fried chicken in chicken parmesan and the richness of the cheese.
9. Barbera: A red wine with high acidity and low tannins, Barbera pairs well with the fried chicken and tomato sauce in chicken parmesan.
10. Sangiovese: Another Italian red wine, Sangiovese has high acidity and pairs well with tomato-based sauces and the richness of the cheese.

Other Beverage Pairings to Consider

Okay, okay, I know that not everyone loves wine. But fear not, my friends, there are plenty of other beverage pairings that can enhance your chicken parmesan experience.

Here are a few options to consider:

• Beer: A cold beer can be the perfect accompaniment to a hot and cheesy chicken parmesan. A light lager or pilsner can complement the lightness of the dish, while a darker beer like a porter or stout can pair well with the richness of the cheese.
• Cocktails: If you’re feeling fancy, why not pair your chicken parmesan with a delicious cocktail? A classic Negroni with its bitter and herbal notes can complement the dish, or a refreshing Gin and Tonic with a squeeze of lemon can cut through the richness of the cheese.
• Non-Alcoholic Beverages: For those who don’t drink, there are plenty of non-alcoholic options to consider. A sparkling water with a slice of lemon can add some fizz and acidity to the dish, while a sweet iced tea can complement the richness of the cheese.
• Cider: If you’re looking for something a little different, why not pair your chicken parmesan with a crisp and refreshing cider? A dry cider can complement the lightness of the dish, while a sweet cider can balance the richness of the cheese.

Serving Temperature and Glassware

Okay, I know what you’re thinking – why should I care about serving temperature and glassware when it comes to chicken parmesan? Well, my friend, let me tell you that these details can make all the difference in your dining experience.

• Firstly, let’s talk about serving temperature. Serving your wine or beverage at the right temperature can enhance the flavors and aromas of the drink. For wine, reds are generally served at room temperature, while whites are served chilled. For beer, different styles have different recommended temperatures, so be sure to check the label. And for non-alcoholic beverages, serving them over ice can help keep them cool and refreshing.
• Now, let’s move on to glassware. While it may seem like any glass will do, the right glassware can actually enhance your beverage’s flavor and aroma. For wine, a glass with a tulip-shaped bowl can help concentrate the wine’s aroma, while a wider bowl can allow the wine to breathe and open up. For beer, different styles have different recommended glassware, such as a pint glass for a lager or a tulip glass for a Belgian ale. And for non-alcoholic beverages, a tall glass can showcase the drink’s color and texture.

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks – the ultimate guide to pairing wine and other beverages with chicken parmesan! Whether you prefer a bold red wine or a refreshing beer, there’s a perfect pairing out there waiting for you.

So, don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. After all, life is too short to stick to the same old pairings.

Here’s a recap of the 10 best wines to pair with chicken parmesan:

1. Chianti
2. Cabernet Sauvignon
3. Merlot
4. Pinot Noir
5. Sauvignon Blanc
6. Pinot Grigio
7. Chardonnay
8. Zinfandel
9. Barbera
10. Sangiovese

But don’t just take my word for it – go out there and try these wines for yourself! And remember, pairing wine and food is all about having fun and experimenting. So, cheers to a delicious meal and happy pairing!