Introduction
Chicken pot pie is a beloved comfort food, known for its rich, creamy filling and flaky, golden crust. Whether homemade or store bought, it’s a hearty dish that doesn’t necessarily need a side to be satisfying. However, the right pairing can elevate the meal, balancing out its richness and adding texture and freshness to the plate.
When deciding what to serve with chicken pot pie, consider contrast: a crisp salad, a light vegetable, or a complementary starch can all enhance the experience. The goal is to avoid overpowering the pot pie while creating a well-rounded meal.
Best Vegetable Sides for Chicken Pot Pie
Since chicken pot pie is rich and creamy, vegetables make an excellent side dish by adding freshness, color, and texture to the meal. The right vegetables can lighten the dish, offering a contrast to the hearty, buttery crust and filling. Here are some of the best vegetable sides to pair with your chicken pot pie:
1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts have a slightly nutty and bitter taste, which balances the richness of the pot pie. Roasting them with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt caramelizes their edges, adding a crispy texture. For a touch of sweetness, you can drizzle them with balsamic glaze or mix in some cranberries.
2. Garlic Green Beans
Green beans are a simple yet flavorful side dish. Lightly sautéed with garlic and butter or roasted with a sprinkle of almonds, they provide a satisfying crunch. Their natural freshness cuts through the creamy filling of the pot pie, making every bite more enjoyable.
3. Honey-Glazed Carrots
Carrots bring natural sweetness, which contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of chicken pot pie. Toss them in a light honey glaze and roast them until they’re slightly caramelized for an irresistible side. You can also add a dash of cinnamon or thyme for extra depth.
4. Steamed or Roasted Asparagus
Asparagus is a fantastic side because of its fresh and slightly grassy flavor. You can steam it for a lighter option or roast it with olive oil, lemon juice, and parmesan for an extra layer of taste. The lemon enhances the dish’s overall flavor, making it taste lighter and more vibrant.
5. Sautéed Spinach or Kale
Leafy greens like spinach or kale are packed with nutrients and provide a great textural contrast. Sauté them with a bit of olive oil, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon to enhance their flavor without overpowering the main dish.
6. Roasted Cauliflower
Cauliflower, when roasted, takes on a slightly nutty and crispy texture that pairs well with the creamy nature of pot pie. Tossing it with olive oil, paprika, and parmesan makes it an even more flavorful side.
7. Grilled Zucchini and Squash
Zucchini and squash are light vegetables that absorb flavors well. Grilling them with a bit of seasoning adds a subtle smoky touch, making them an excellent pairing for chicken pot pie.
Why Vegetables Work Well with Chicken Pot Pie
Vegetables help balance out the richness of the dish by providing fiber, vitamins, and a mix of sweet, bitter, and earthy flavors. Whether roasted, steamed, or sautéed, these sides ensure that your meal doesn’t feel too heavy.
Starchy Sides That Pair Well with Chicken Pot Pie
While chicken pot pie already includes a buttery, flaky crust, adding a starchy side can make the meal even more satisfying. The key is to choose starches that either complement the texture of the pie or soak up the creamy filling for a well-balanced bite. Here are some great options:
1. Mashed Potatoes
A classic comfort food, mashed potatoes pair beautifully with chicken pot pie. Their creamy texture complements the pie’s filling, creating a rich and indulgent combination. For added flavor, try:
- Garlic mashed potatoes for an extra savory touch.
- Buttery mashed potatoes with chives for a hint of freshness.
- Cheesy mashed potatoes using parmesan or sharp cheddar for extra depth.
2. Roasted or Baked Potatoes
If you want a starch that’s less creamy than mashed potatoes, roasted or baked potatoes are a great choice. They add a crispy texture and can be flavored with rosemary, garlic, or butter. A baked potato topped with sour cream and chives makes a simple but delicious pairing.
3. Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls
Soft, fluffy dinner rolls or crispy garlic bread help mop up the delicious pot pie filling. Choose:
- Classic dinner rolls for a neutral side.
- Cheesy garlic bread for an extra indulgent touch.
- Herb-infused focaccia for a more aromatic option.
4. Cornbread
The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread contrasts nicely with the creamy pot pie. It provides a Southern-inspired twist to your meal. Try serving it with a bit of honey butter to enhance its flavor.
5. Rice Pilaf
For a lighter starchy side, rice pilaf is a great option. The fluffy texture of rice balances the heaviness of the pot pie. Consider these variations:
- Garlic and herb rice for a fragrant addition.
- Wild rice mix for an earthy contrast.
- Lemon butter rice to bring a fresh, citrusy touch.
6. Polenta or Grits
If you want something creamy but different from mashed potatoes, polenta or grits are excellent choices. Their mild, slightly buttery flavor pairs well with pot pie, and they can be served soft or grilled for added texture.
7. Biscuits
Warm, flaky biscuits complement chicken pot pie by adding another buttery, comforting element to the meal. You can serve them plain or with:
- Honey butter for a slightly sweet contrast.
- Cheese and chives for a more savory option.
- A side of gravy for an extra indulgence.
Why Starchy Sides Work Well with Chicken Pot Pie
Starches help absorb the creamy filling, making each bite more satisfying. Whether you opt for soft mashed potatoes, crispy garlic bread, or fluffy biscuits, these sides round out the meal and enhance the comforting nature of chicken pot pie.
Refreshing & Light Side Dishes
Since chicken pot pie is rich and creamy, adding a light and refreshing side dish can help balance the meal. A crisp salad, tangy coleslaw, or a fruit-based dish provides a contrast in flavor and texture, preventing the meal from feeling too heavy.
1. Classic Garden Salad
A simple garden salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette is a perfect way to offset the richness of pot pie. You can customize it by adding:
- Avocado slices for a creamy touch.
- Feta or goat cheese for a bit of tang.
- Crunchy croutons to add texture.
2. Coleslaw
Coleslaw provides a crunchy and tangy contrast to the creamy pot pie. Opt for:
- Classic coleslaw with a light mayo dressing.
- Vinegar-based coleslaw for a more refreshing bite.
- Apple slaw with shredded apples, cabbage, and a honey-lime dressing for a sweet-savory balance.
3. Cucumber Salad
A cucumber salad is cool, crisp, and refreshing. Simply toss sliced cucumbers with:
- A vinegar-based dressing for tanginess.
- Dill and yogurt for a creamy yet light contrast.
- Red onions and feta cheese for extra flavor.
4. Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
Beets add a natural sweetness, while goat cheese brings tanginess, creating a perfect balance for a rich meal. Toss with arugula, walnuts, and a balsamic glaze for an elegant, earthy side.
5. Apple and Walnut Salad
This salad combines crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and fresh greens with a honey vinaigrette. The sweetness from the apples enhances the savory flavors of the pot pie without overpowering it.
6. Fruit Salad
A light fruit salad provides a refreshing, sweet contrast. You can include:
- Berries and citrus fruits for a tart, juicy side.
- Apples and pears for a crunchy contrast.
- Melon and mint for a cool, fresh pairing.
7. Pickled Vegetables
Tangy, slightly acidic pickled vegetables (like pickled onions, carrots, or cucumbers) help cut through the richness of the dish and add a zesty bite.
Why Light & Refreshing Sides Work Well with Chicken Pot Pie
Adding a fresh, crisp, or tangy element helps cleanse the palate and prevent the meal from feeling too heavy. Whether it’s a simple green salad, coleslaw, or fruit-based dish, these sides provide balance and variety to your plate.
What to Serve with Chicken Pot Pie?
Introduction
Chicken pot pie is one of the ultimate comfort foods—rich, creamy, and packed with tender chicken and vegetables inside a flaky, golden crust. While it’s satisfying on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the meal by adding contrast, texture, and balance.
The best side dishes for chicken pot pie fall into a few categories:
- Vegetable sides to add freshness and crunch.
- Starchy sides to complement the creamy filling.
- Light and refreshing sides to balance the richness.
- Soup pairings for a cozy meal.
- Drinks and desserts to round out the experience.
Let’s explore the best options for what to serve with chicken pot pie!
Best Vegetable Sides for Chicken Pot Pie
Vegetables add color, freshness, and crunch, which contrast beautifully with the creamy filling of a pot pie. Here are some top vegetable sides:
1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted with olive oil and garlic, Brussels sprouts take on a crispy texture and slightly bitter flavor that complements the pie’s richness. Adding balsamic glaze or cranberries gives them a subtle sweetness.
2. Garlic Green Beans
A simple side of sautéed or roasted green beans with garlic and a touch of butter provides a fresh, crunchy contrast.
3. Honey-Glazed Carrots
Sweet and tender, honey-glazed carrots bring out the savory flavors of the pie while adding a bit of natural sweetness.
4. Steamed or Roasted Asparagus
Lightly steamed or roasted asparagus with lemon juice and parmesan cheese provides a fresh, citrusy element to the meal.
5. Sautéed Spinach or Kale
Leafy greens sautéed with olive oil and garlic create a nutritious, slightly earthy balance to the creamy filling.
6. Roasted Cauliflower
Crispy roasted cauliflower seasoned with paprika and parmesan offers a nutty, delicious contrast.
7. Grilled Zucchini and Squash
Grilled zucchini and squash add a slightly smoky flavor that pairs well with the richness of the pot pie.
Why Vegetables Work Well with Chicken Pot Pie
Vegetables balance the meal by offering fiber, vitamins, and refreshing flavors. Roasting or sautéing them enhances their taste while keeping them light.
Starchy Sides That Pair Well with Chicken Pot Pie
While chicken pot pie already has a buttery crust, a well-chosen starchy side can make the meal even more comforting.
1. Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes work beautifully with chicken pot pie. Garlic, butter, and chives add extra flavor.
2. Roasted or Baked Potatoes
For a crispier texture, roasted or baked potatoes with rosemary and garlic are an excellent choice.
3. Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls
Soft dinner rolls or crispy garlic bread help soak up the pot pie’s creamy filling.
4. Cornbread
A slightly sweet, crumbly side like cornbread pairs well with the savory nature of pot pie.
5. Rice Pilaf
Light and fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with garlic and herbs complements the dish without making it too heavy.
6. Polenta or Grits
For a Southern twist, creamy polenta or cheesy grits add a smooth, comforting texture to the meal.
7. Biscuits
Flaky, buttery biscuits provide another layer of comfort, especially when served with honey butter.
Why Starchy Sides Work Well with Chicken Pot Pie
Starches soak up the creamy filling and create a heartier, more satisfying meal.
Refreshing & Light Side Dishes
To balance the heaviness of chicken pot pie, lighter sides add freshness and acidity to cleanse the palate.
1. Classic Garden Salad
A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offsets the richness of the pot pie.
2. Coleslaw
Crunchy, tangy coleslaw made with either a mayo based or vinegar based dressing contrasts well with the creamy filling.
3. Cucumber Salad
Crisp cucumbers tossed in a light vinegar dressing with dill offer a refreshing bite.
4. Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
Earthy beets, creamy goat cheese, and arugula with balsamic dressing create a gourmet pairing.
5. Apple and Walnut Salad
Crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and a honey vinaigrette add a touch of sweetness to balance the meal.
6. Fruit Salad
A mix of berries, citrus, or melon adds a sweet, refreshing contrast.
7. Pickled Vegetables
Pickled onions, carrots, or cucumbers provide a zesty bite that cuts through the richness of the pie.
Why Light Sides Work Well with Chicken Pot Pie
Fresh, crisp, or tangy sides help balance the meal, preventing it from feeling too heavy.
Soup Pairings for Chicken Pot Pie
Pairing a warm bowl of soup with chicken pot pie creates an ultra-cozy meal.
1. Tomato Soup
The acidity of tomato soup cuts through the creamy filling, offering a bright contrast.
2. Butternut Squash Soup
A sweet, creamy butternut squash soup pairs well with the savory pot pie.
3. Lentil Soup
Hearty lentil soup adds protein and a subtle earthiness to the meal.
4. French Onion Soup
Rich onion broth with melted cheese creates a deeply flavorful pairing.
5. Light Chicken Broth
A simple chicken or vegetable broth keeps the meal light yet satisfying.
Drinks and Desserts to Complete the Meal
Best Drinks for Chicken Pot Pie
- White wine A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the richness.
- Iced tea A refreshing, slightly sweet option.
- Apple cider Offers a warm, cozy pairing.
Desserts to Serve After Chicken Pot Pie
- Apple Crisp Warm baked apples with cinnamon and oats add a sweet ending.
- Lemon Tart A tangy dessert that cleanses the palate.
- Berry Sorbet Light and fruity, perfect after a heavy meal.
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream A simple, classic dessert that won’t overpower the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best vegetable side for chicken pot pie?
Roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or a crisp salad are excellent choices.
2. Should I serve bread with chicken pot pie?
Yes! Biscuits, cornbread, or garlic bread are great for scooping up extra filling.
3. What soup pairs best with chicken pot pie?
Tomato soup, butternut squash soup, or a simple chicken broth work well.
4. Can I serve rice with chicken pot pie?
Yes, a light rice pilaf or wild rice mix pairs nicely without making the meal too heavy.
5. What dessert should I serve after chicken pot pie?
Lemon tart, apple crisp, or berry sorbet help cleanse the palate.
Conclusion
Chicken pot pie is a rich, satisfying dish that pairs well with vegetables, starchy sides, soups, and light salads. Whether you want a refreshing contrast, a cozy soup, or a comforting starchy side, these options will help create a well-rounded meal.
By choosing the right side dishes, you can enhance the flavors of your pot pie and make your meal even more enjoyable!