Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food cherished for its creamy filling, flaky crust, and hearty flavors. While it’s a satisfying dish on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can take your meal to the next level. Thoughtfully chosen sides enhance the overall dining experience by balancing the richness of the pie and introducing new textures and flavors.
In this article, you’ll discover what to eat with chicken pot pie, from roasted vegetables to light salads, all tailored to create the perfect meal. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or hosting a gathering, these suggestions will ensure your pot pie shines as the star of a well-rounded menu.
Table of Contents
Why Pairing Matters With Chicken Pot Pie
The Role of Side Dishes in Enhancing Flavors and Textures
Chicken pot pie’s creamy filling and buttery crust offer richness that can be complemented by various sides. Side dishes introduce contrasting textures, like crisp vegetables or light salads, to prevent the meal from feeling too heavy. Additionally, the earthy sweetness of roasted vegetables or the tang of a fresh salad creates a harmonious balance with the savory pie.
How to Balance the Richness of Chicken Pot Pie
The richness of chicken pot pie calls for sides that cut through the creaminess. For example, pairing it with a zesty coleslaw or a light salad adds acidity and freshness. At the same time, hearty options like mashed potatoes or garlic bread can enhance the meal’s comfort factor without overwhelming the palate.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Side Dishes
When selecting sides, consider:
- Contrast: Choose dishes with varying textures and flavors.
- Seasonality: Opt for fresh, seasonal produce to enhance the overall taste.
- Ease of Preparation: Simple recipes complement the pot pie without adding stress to your cooking process.
Try this comforting and easy-to-make Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie Recipe from Peppery Recipes!
Best Vegetable Sides for Chicken Pot Pie
Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus brings out their natural sweetness through caramelization. The crispy edges and tender centers of roasted vegetables contrast beautifully with the creamy chicken pot pie filling.
- How to Prepare: Toss your vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or rosemary. Roast at 400°F until golden brown.
- Why It Works: Roasted vegetables offer a savory yet slightly sweet flavor profile that enhances the hearty nature of the pot pie.
Green Beans Almondine
For a lighter side, green beans almondine provides a nutty and crunchy contrast to the creaminess of chicken pot pie. The toasted almonds add depth, while the green beans keep the dish vibrant.
- How to Prepare: Sauté green beans with butter, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice. Top with toasted almonds for added texture.
- Why It Works: This dish is light yet flavorful, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the pot pie.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that pairs seamlessly with chicken pot pie. They’re perfect for soaking up the savory gravy and providing an extra layer of indulgence.
- How to Prepare: Boil peeled potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, cream, and seasonings like garlic or chives.
- Why It Works: The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes complements the flaky crust and creamy filling of the pot pie.
Fresh and Light Salads to Pair With Chicken Pot Pie
Caesar Salad
A Caesar salad brings a crisp and tangy element to the meal, with its romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and creamy dressing offering a refreshing balance to the pie.
- How to Prepare: Toss fresh romaine with Caesar dressing, croutons, and grated Parmesan. For added flair, include grilled chicken or anchovies.
- Why It Works: The bold flavors of the dressing and the crunch of the croutons perfectly offset the pie’s creamy texture.
Mixed Greens With Cranberry Dressing
Mixed greens with cranberry dressing introduce sweet and tart flavors that contrast with the savory richness of chicken pot pie. Adding elements like nuts and cheese enhances the salad’s complexity.
- How to Prepare: Combine arugula, spinach, and mixed greens with dried cranberries, walnuts, and crumbled goat cheese. Drizzle with cranberry vinaigrette.
- Why It Works: The lightness of the greens and the tangy dressing balance the meal, while the nuts and cheese add texture.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw’s crunch and zesty dressing make it an excellent side dish for chicken pot pie. It’s simple to prepare and offers a refreshing contrast.
- How to Prepare: Shred cabbage and carrots, then toss with a dressing made of mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Why It Works: The crispness of coleslaw adds texture, while the acidity of the dressing cuts through the pie’s richness.
Bread and Starches to Serve With Chicken Pot Pie
When deciding what to eat with chicken pot pie, bread and starches are excellent choices. They add heartiness to the meal while complementing the pie’s flaky crust and creamy filling. Below are some top picks for breads and starches that pair perfectly.
Buttermilk Biscuits
Buttermilk biscuits are fluffy, buttery, and ideal for dipping into the rich gravy of chicken pot pie. They add an extra layer of indulgence to the meal, making it even more satisfying.
- Why They Work: The softness of biscuits contrasts with the crisp crust of the pie, while their buttery flavor blends seamlessly with the filling.
- Quick Recipe Tip: Combine flour, baking powder, salt, and cold butter. Stir in buttermilk, knead gently, and bake until golden brown.
Buttermilk biscuits are an easy addition that transforms the meal into a comforting feast.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread offers a flavorful crunch that enhances the overall dining experience. Its garlicky aroma and crisp texture create a delightful contrast to the creamy chicken pot pie.
- Why It Works: The robust flavor of garlic bread cuts through the richness of the filling, while its crisp crust pairs beautifully with the flaky pot pie.
- How to Prepare: Spread a mixture of butter, minced garlic, and parsley on slices of bread. Toast in the oven until golden and fragrant.
This simple yet flavorful addition makes garlic bread a favorite side for any pot pie meal.
Cornbread
Cornbread is an excellent choice when considering what to eat with chicken pot pie. Its slightly sweet and crumbly texture complements the savory pie filling, creating a well-rounded meal.
- Why It Works: Cornbread’s natural sweetness contrasts with the salty, creamy filling of the pie, while its crumbly texture adds interest to the meal.
- How to Prepare: Mix cornmeal, flour, eggs, milk, and a touch of sugar. Bake until golden brown.
Cornbread brings a Southern-inspired flair to your meal, making it an irresistible pairing.
Sauces and Condiments to Elevate Your Meal
Pairing sauces and condiments with chicken pot pie can elevate the flavors and add variety to the meal. Whether you prefer something savory, fruity, or buttery, these options are sure to impress.
Gravy
Gravy is a must-have for anyone wondering what to eat with chicken pot pie. It enhances the meal by adding extra flavor to the crust and filling, making every bite even more indulgent.
- Why It Works: A well-made gravy ties all the components of the meal together and adds a luscious, velvety texture.
- How to Make: Whisk butter, flour, and chicken broth in a pan until thickened. Add salt, pepper, and herbs for seasoning.
Drizzling gravy over the pot pie or sides like mashed potatoes can turn an ordinary meal into a culinary delight.
Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce may seem unconventional, but its festive and fruity flavor is a surprising match for chicken pot pie. Its tangy sweetness cuts through the pie’s richness, making it a versatile addition.
- Why It Works: The fruity notes of cranberry sauce complement the savory filling while adding a burst of color and flavor.
- Perfect for Occasions: Serve it during the holidays or special dinners to add a touch of festivity to the meal.
A dollop of cranberry sauce on the side can make your chicken pot pie dinner truly memorable.
Herb Butter
Herb butter is a simple yet luxurious condiment that enhances bread sides and adds depth to the meal. It’s quick to make and can elevate even the simplest dish.
- Why It Works: The rich, aromatic flavors of herb butter pair well with breads like biscuits or cornbread, adding a gourmet touch.
- How to Prepare: Mix softened butter with chopped parsley, thyme, and a pinch of salt. Roll into a log and chill before serving.
Herb butter is a versatile addition that complements the flavors of the entire meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Do You Eat With Pot Pie?
Pot pie is a rich and hearty dish, so the sides you choose should complement its creamy filling and flaky crust. Popular choices include roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts, which add a caramelized sweetness, and mashed potatoes, which soak up the savory gravy. If you prefer something lighter, fresh salads, such as Caesar salad or mixed greens with a tangy dressing, are excellent options. For bread lovers, buttermilk biscuits or garlic bread make delicious accompaniments. These sides balance the meal by introducing contrasting textures and flavors, enhancing your pot pie experience.
What Is a Good Side Dish for Pie?
A good side dish for pie depends on the type of pie and the occasion. For savory pies like chicken pot pie, vegetable sides such as steamed green beans or roasted asparagus pair beautifully. Starches like creamy mashed potatoes or cornbread are also crowd-pleasers. During festive gatherings, adding a touch of sweetness with cranberry sauce can elevate the meal. For a lighter touch, consider serving a refreshing coleslaw or a simple salad with a citrus vinaigrette. The key is to choose sides that complement the pie’s flavors without overpowering them.
What to Eat With Pie for Dinner?
When pie is the centerpiece of your dinner, it’s essential to create a well-rounded meal. For a savory pie like chicken pot pie, pairing it with roasted vegetables, buttery biscuits, or herb butter adds variety to the plate. If you’re serving dessert pie, such as apple or pumpkin pie, think about lighter accompaniments like vanilla ice cream or a spiced whipped cream topping. No matter the type of pie, balancing rich, heavy elements with lighter or refreshing sides ensures a satisfying dinner.
Is a Chicken Pot Pie Healthy or Unhealthy?
Chicken pot pie can be both healthy and indulgent, depending on the preparation. Traditional recipes are often high in calories, fat, and sodium due to the buttery crust and creamy filling. However, healthier versions can be made by using a whole-grain crust, low-fat milk instead of heavy cream, and incorporating plenty of vegetables like carrots, peas, and celery. When enjoyed in moderation and paired with nutritious sides, chicken pot pie can fit into a balanced diet. The key is portion control and mindful ingredient choices.
Conclusion
Chicken pot pie is a versatile dish that shines even brighter when paired with the right sides. Whether you choose buttery biscuits, crispy garlic bread, or sweet cornbread, each option enhances the hearty, comforting nature of the pot pie. Adding condiments like gravy, cranberry sauce, or herb butter further elevates the meal by introducing new flavors and textures.
Now that you know what to eat with chicken pot pie, it’s time to experiment with different combinations to find your favorite pairings. Don’t hesitate to get creative and adapt these suggestions to suit your taste.
Call to Action: What are your favorite sides to serve with chicken pot pie? Share your ideas in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other to create unforgettable meals!