When it comes to food pairings, there are few wines as versatile and easy to pair as Chardonnay. It is one of the most widely consumed wines in the world. From its origin in Burgundy, France, it soon spread around the world, and it is now cultivated in many regions. Chardonnay, also known as Morillon, is a versatile wine that complements many different types of food. If you are wondering what to eat with your bottle of Chardonnay, then look no further. Here are 10 easy-to-make foods to pair with Chardonnay wine.

10 Easy Foods to Pair with Chardonnay

1. Fish and seafood

Fish and seafood are some of the best foods to pair with Chardonnay. The buttery notes of a full-bodied white such as a Chardonnay can elevate your favorite fish or seafood dish. From salmon or halibut to shrimp, scallops, and lobster, there’s an array of fantastic flavors that pair nicely with Chardonnay. For a buttery and creamy seafood dish, choose an oaked Chardonnay, while for a light and refreshing seafood dish, go for an unoaked Chardonnay.

2. Chicken and other poultry

If you’re looking for something with a bit more heft, chicken makes an excellent pairing with Chardonnay. The rich flavor of the white wine complements the savory taste of chicken dishes like roasted or grilled chicken and is even better when served alongside creamy sauces such as Alfredo or Pesto. The light flavors of the wine complement the chicken or turkey, while the acidity can cut through some of the richer sauces often served with poultry. For a baked chicken dish, pair it with an unoaked Chardonnay, while a dish with a creamy sauce is best paired with an oaked Chardonnay.

3. Pan-seared Salmon with Dill Sauce

This dish is perfect for unoaked Chardonnay. The buttery flavors of a full-bodied white such as a Chardonnay complement the mild flavor of pan-seared salmon, while the tartness of the dill sauce provides an interesting contrast. Serve this dish with some steamed vegetables, and you have a delicious meal that’s sure to please.

4. Butternut Squash Risotto

Butternut squash risotto is a great pairing for oaked Chardonnay. The wine’s smoky notes complement the dish’s nutty flavor. The higher acid content in oaked Chardonnay also complements the dish’s creamy texture. 

5. Creamy Alfredo Pasta

This rich and creamy pasta dish is a classic pairing for Chardonnay. The full body of this white wine can stand up to the creamy sauce, while its acidity provides a nice contrast. Add some grilled chicken or shrimp for an even more flavorful dish. This dish pairs well with both types of Chardonnay. Unoaked Chardonnay’s acidity balances the richness of the pasta sauce, while oaked Chardonnay’s creaminess complements the dish’s texture.

6. Roasted Vegetables

Roasting vegetables is a great way to bring out their natural sweetness, and this makes them an excellent pairing with Chardonnay. Try roasting a variety of your favorite vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, onions, peppers, mushrooms, and squash. The sweet and savory notes of the roasted vegetables pair nicely with oaked Chardonnay, making for a light but satisfying meal. On the other hand, unoaked Chardonnay preserves the freshness of the veggies.

7. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

This classic comfort food is a surprisingly delicious food to pair with Chardonnay. The buttery, slightly tangy notes of the cheese pair perfectly with the wine’s creamy texture and citrus aromas. For a classic grilled cheese sandwich, unoaked Chardonnay is the perfect pairing.

8. Tomato-Based Soup

Tomato soup is a great pairing with Chardonnay, as the tart tomato flavor complements the wine’s acidity and body while cutting through some of its richness. Try a classic tomato bisque or something heartier, like a roasted tomato and garlic soup. Unoaked Chardonnay is best suited for lighter soup dishes, while oaked Chardonnay pairs well with heartier tomato soups.

9. Spinach Salad

This light yet flavorful salad pairs nicely with Chardonnay’s fruity notes and acidity. The sweetness of the wine complements the earthy flavor of spinach, while the freshness of the salad helps to cut through some of Chardonnay’s richness.  For this specific dish, an unoaked Chardonnay is the best as it complements the salad’s lightness and freshness, Toppings like bacon, walnuts, apples, or blue cheese can add even more flavor to your salad.

10. Roasted Garlic and Goat Cheese Crostini

This delectable appetizer is a great way to start off any meal. The creamy, nutty flavor of the goat cheese provides a nice contrast to the buttery notes of Chardonnay, while the roasted garlic adds an interesting depth of flavor. This easy-to-make dish is sure to impress your guests. This dish pairs exceptionally well with oaked Chardonnay. 

Tips on Foods to Pair with Chardonnay

Consider the Wine’s Style: When it comes to foods to pair with Chardonnay, it is essential to consider whether the wine is oaked or unoaked. Unoaked Chardonnay tends to be lighter, crisper, and more acidic, making it perfect for light seafood, poultry, and salad dishes. Oaked Chardonnay, on the other hand, is fuller-bodied, with buttery and nutty notes that match well with cream-based dishes, rich seafood, and cheese plates.

Consider the weight and texture of the dish. Lighter Chardonnay pairs well with lighter dishes, while fuller-bodied Chardonnay goes well with heavier dishes that have complex flavors.

Balance Sweetness: Be mindful of sweetness levels in both the wine and the dish. Sweeter Chardonnays, labeled as “late-harvest” or “dessert-style,” pair wonderfully with sweet dishes or desserts like apple pie or crème brûlée. However, for savory courses, it’s best to stick with dry Chardonnay.

Consider Sauces: Think about the sauces in your dish. Creamy sauces often go well with oaked Chardonnay, while dishes with light, acidic sauces are better suited for unoaked Chardonnay.

From savory and salty mains to sweet and creamy desserts, Chardonnay will elevate your dining experience. Try the suggested dishes to eat with Chardonnay wine and remember the tips above for the perfect pairings. If you’re considering an oaked Chardonnay, consider our 2021 Pillars and Principles. It offers complex flavor but with a smooth balance, you’re sure to appreciate. Cheers to one of the world’s most popular wine grapes!