what to serve with chicken pot pie?

Introduction

When deciding what to serve with chicken pot pie, consider options that complement its rich and savory flavors. This classic comfort dish pairs well with a variety of sides, from light and fresh salads to hearty starches and vegetables. The key is to balance the heartiness of the pot pie with sides that enhance its taste and texture

Light and Healthy Options

Salads and Greens:

Spinach Salad with Orange Dressing: A spinach salad drizzled with a zesty orange dressing is a refreshing and nutrient-rich side dish. The leafy greens of spinach provide a crisp texture, while the sweet and tangy flavor of the orange dressing adds a delightful burst of freshness. This salad is an excellent palate cleanser, balancing the richness of chicken pot pie with its light and invigorating taste.
Mixed Greens with Light Vinaigrette: A salad of mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette offers a simple yet elegant side. The variety of greens, including lettuce, arugula, and baby spinach, brings a diverse range of textures and flavors. The light vinaigrette, with its subtle acidity and hint of herbs, enhances the greens without overpowering them. This salad is perfect for adding a touch of freshness and lightness to the meal, complementing the hearty chicken pot pie.

Steamed and Roasted Veggies

Asparagus with Lemon Juice: Steamed asparagus spritzed with fresh lemon juice is a vibrant and healthy side. The asparagus retains a delightful crunch and earthiness, while the lemon juice adds a bright, citrusy zing. This combination brings a light and refreshing contrast to the creamy and savory chicken pot pie.
Brussels Sprouts and Bacon: Roasted Brussels sprouts paired with crispy bacon bits create a side dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. The Brussels sprouts offer a slight bitterness that is beautifully balanced by the smoky, salty bacon, making it a satisfying complement to the rich flavors of the pot pie.

Corn Dishes

Corn on the Cob: A classic corn on the cob, either grilled or boiled, is a sweet and juicy addition to the meal. Its natural sweetness and satisfying bite pair wonderfully with the creamy texture of chicken pot pie. This simple yet delightful side dish adds a traditional, home-cooked feel to the meal.
Elotes (Mexican Street Corn): Elotes, or Mexican street corn, is a flavorful and exciting side. Grilled corn is slathered with a creamy, tangy sauce and sprinkled with cheese and spices, offering a burst of flavors. Its combination of sweet, savory, and spicy notes makes it a perfect, zesty complement to the chicken pot pie.

Comforting and Hearty Choices

Potato-Based Sides

When it comes to heartwarming and satisfying sides, potatoes reign supreme. They not only complement the flavors in chicken pot pie but also add a comforting element to the meal.

German Potato Salad: Unlike the traditional creamy potato salad, the German version is dressed in a warm, tangy vinaigrette. It’s a delightful combination of soft potatoes with a slightly acidic and sweet flavor profile. This salad can be served warm, making it a cozy addition to your chicken pot pie. For more potato-based dish ideas, check out these healthy chicken and potato recipes.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: A classic favorite, garlic mashed potatoes offer a creamy and smooth texture with a punch of garlic flavor. They are the perfect side to scoop up any gravy from the pot pie. If you’re looking for a lighter poultry dish to serve alongside these potatoes, consider trying this Air Fryer Cornish Hen recipe.

Cheesy Delights

Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic macaroni and cheese. This dish replaces traditional pasta with cauliflower, offering a healthier but equally satisfying alternative. The cauliflower florets are smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, creating a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of chicken pot pie. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a lower-carb option without sacrificing the indulgent taste of cheesy goodness.For a great recipe, check out this Cauliflower Mac and Cheese guide.

Cheese and Veggie Bake

A Cheese and Veggie Bake is another excellent side dish for chicken pot pie. It combines the goodness of various vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers with the rich, melted cheese. This warm, gooey, and flavorful bake enhances the overall experience of enjoying a chicken pot pie, adding both texture and a delightful richness. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal while still enjoying the flavors that pair well with chicken pot pie. Discover how to make your own with this Cheese and Veggie Bake recipe.

Unique and Creative Pairings

Fruit-Based Sides

Applesauce: Homemade applesauce is a sweet and simple side that beautifully complements the savory flavors of chicken pot pie. Its smooth texture and mild sweetness offer a pleasant contrast, making it a favorite, especially for kids. For a twist on traditional applesauce, consider this Three Cheese Chicken Alfredo Bake as another comforting meal option.
Cranberry Sauce: Cranberry sauce, with its tart and sweet profile, adds a festive touch to the meal. It pairs exceptionally well with the rich and creamy filling of the pot pie. For tips on serving cranberry sauce, check out this helpful guide on whether cranberry sauce is served hot or cold.
Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad can brighten up your meal with its fresh and juicy flavors. Combining seasonal fruits like berries, oranges, and grapes, it offers a refreshing and light side that balances the heartiness of the pot pie. This is a perfect choice for adding a healthy and vibrant element to your dinner table.

Bread and Grains

Cornbread

Cornbread, with its sweet and savory flavor, is a classic accompaniment to chicken pot pie. Its crumbly texture and buttery taste make it an ideal side for soaking up the creamy sauce of the pie. This Southern staple adds a delightful contrast to the tender, savory filling of the pot pie.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread, featuring a crispy exterior and a soft, buttery interior, is a crowd-pleaser. The aromatic garlic and herb spread complements the rich flavors of chicken pot pie, adding a crunchy texture to the meal. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a garlicky, toasty element alongside their comfort food.

Quinoa Salad

For a healthier grain option, quinoa salad is an excellent choice. Packed with protein and fiber, it offers a light and nutritious side. Mixed with vegetables and a light dressing, quinoa salad brings a refreshing and wholesome balance to the hearty chicken pot pie, making the meal satisfying yet well-rounded.

Beverage Pairings

Unsweetened Iced Tea

Unsweetened iced tea is a classic and refreshing choice, offering a crisp and clean taste that complements the richness of chicken pot pie. Its subtle bitterness can balance the savory flavors of the meal.

Wine Selections

For wine enthusiasts, a light Chardonnay or a fruity Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with chicken pot pie. These wines offer a balance of acidity and fruitiness that enhances the creamy and savory pie.

Craft Beer Suggestions

A smooth amber ale or a balanced pale ale are excellent craft beer options. Their moderate hops and malt flavors harmonize with the hearty and creamy characteristics of the chicken pot pie, creating a delightful pairing.

Dessert Options

Light and Refreshing Choices

Watermelon: A simple slice of watermelon offers a light and refreshing end to a hearty meal. Its crisp, hydrating nature makes it an ideal palate cleanser after the rich flavors of chicken pot pie. Watermelon’s natural sweetness provides a guilt-free dessert option that is both satisfying and healthy.
Berry Medley: A colorful berry medley is another excellent choice for a light dessert. Combining strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, this fruit salad bursts with flavors and nutrients. The tartness and sweetness of the berries complement the savory notes of the pot pie, offering a delightful contrast.

Rich and Decadent Treats

For those who prefer a more indulgent end to their meal, rich and decadent treats are the way to go:

Chocolate Lava Cake: A warm chocolate lava cake, with its gooey, molten center, is a luxurious treat. The intense chocolate flavor and rich texture make it a favorite for those who love a serious dose of sweetness.
Cheesecake: Classic cheesecake, with its creamy, smooth filling and buttery crust, is an irresistible option. Whether topped with fruit, chocolate, or served plain, it’s a decadent way to round off the meal.
Easy Fudge Brownie Bites: These Easy Fudge Brownie Bites are a heavenly choice for chocolate lovers. Their gooey, fudgy center and rich chocolate flavor make them an irresistible dessert

These dessert options, ranging from light and healthy to rich and indulgent, ensure a satisfying conclusion to any meal featuring chicken pot pie. They cater to various tastes and preferences, making sure there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

FAQs:

What Goes with Chicken Pot Pie?

When serving chicken pot pie, you have a variety of side dish options to complete your meal:

Vegetable Sides: Steamed or roasted vegetables like carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts are great for adding a nutritious touch.
Salads: A light green salad or a spinach salad with a vinaigrette dressing can provide a fresh and crisp contrast to the rich pot pie.
Starchy Sides: Mashed potatoes, rice, or dinner rolls can complement the creamy texture of the pot pie.
Fruit-Based Sides: Light options like a fruit salad or applesauce can add a sweet and refreshing element.
Beverages: Pair your pot pie with a beverage like unsweetened iced tea, a light wine, or a craft beer.

What are the best side dishes to serve with chicken pot pie?

Ideal side dishes include light salads, steamed or roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and dinner rolls. These sides complement the richness of the pot pie without overpowering its flavors.

Can chicken pot pie be made in advance?

Yes, you can prepare chicken pot pie in advance. Assemble the pie and refrigerate it, then bake it just before serving. If it’s already cooked, you can refrigerate it and reheat it in the oven when needed.

How do you keep the bottom crust of a chicken pot pie from getting soggy?

To prevent a soggy bottom crust, pre-bake (blind bake) the crust for a few minutes before adding the filling. Also, ensure your filling is not too watery.

What are some tips for making a flaky pot pie crust?

For a flaky crust, use cold butter or shortening in your dough, and handle the dough as little as possible. Chilling the dough before rolling it out can also help.

Is chicken pot pie healthy?

Chicken pot pie can be part of a balanced diet but is often high in calories and fat. For a healthier version, use a lighter crust, lean chicken breast, and include plenty of vegetables in the filling.

Conclusion

In summary, chicken pot pie, a beloved comfort food, pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. From light and fresh salads to hearty mashed potatoes and vibrant roasted vegetables, there’s a side dish to suit every palate. Don’t forget to explore fruit-based options or a slice of warm bread for a complete meal experience. Remember, the joy of cooking lies in experimentation. Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to discover your favorite combinations. Each pairing has the potential to elevate your chicken pot pie experience, making every meal both delightful and memorable.