Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort dish, celebrated for its rich combination of succulent chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all enveloped in a crisp, golden crust. But while the main dish takes center stage, the sides you pair with it can elevate the meal from simply satisfying to utterly unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or making a cozy meal for your family, it’s worth considering what to serve alongside this classic dish to make the experience complete.
We’ll look at a wide range of side dishes in this comprehensive guide that perfectly complement this beloved comfort cuisine. From fresh, light salads to rich, indulgent vegetables, we’ve gathered ideas that cater to every palate. Here are some of the best side dishes to round out your dinner.
1. Salads: Crisp and Refreshing Accompaniments
Salads are an ideal pairing for the creamy richness of chicken pot pie. Their light, refreshing qualities help balance the meal, providing a fresh contrast to the heavier main dish.
A. Classic Caesar Salad
The crispness of romaine lettuce, combined with crunchy croutons, shaved Parmesan, and a creamy Caesar dressing, brings a flavorful balance to the warm, savory chicken pot pie. The slightly tangy dressing cuts through the richness, while the textures play off each other perfectly.
B. Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
An arugula salad dressed with a sharp lemon vinaigrette is a great alternative for a lighter meal. The peppery flavor of arugula contrasts well with the creaminess of the pot pie filling, while the citrus adds a bright note to the meal.
C. Spinach and Strawberry Salad
For those looking to add a hint of sweetness to their meal, a spinach and strawberry salad with a poppyseed dressing is an excellent choice. The juicy strawberries, combined with fresh spinach leaves, make for a refreshing and slightly sweet side that pairs beautifully with the savory pie.
2. Vegetables: A Colorful, Flavorful Addition
Adding cooked vegetables as a side dish allows you to infuse even more flavor and color into your meal. These sides can range from simple, steamed veggies to more elaborate roasted or sautéed dishes.
A. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts with a balsamic glaze are a fantastic side dish. The sprouts become tender and slightly caramelized in the oven, while the balsamic vinegar adds a sweet and tangy flavor that cuts through the creamy pie filling.
B. Glazed Carrots
Tender carrots glazed in honey and butter make for a sweet and savory side that complements the richness of the pie. The natural sweetness of the carrots, paired with the buttery glaze, creates a comforting and delicious addition to your meal.
C. Green Beans Almondine
For a more elegant vegetable side, consider green beans almondine. The crispiness of the toasted almonds, paired with the tender green beans and a hint of lemon, lends a sophisticated touch to the dish.
3. Breads: Comforting Carbohydrates to Complete the Meal
While chicken pot pie already includes a crust, adding a side of bread can provide extra comfort and help soak up any leftover gravy or sauce. The right bread can round out the meal and make it feel even more indulgent.
A. Fluffy Dinner Rolls
Soft, buttery dinner rolls are a classic choice to accompany this dish. They’re perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce from your plate, and their light, airy texture contrasts nicely with the denser pie.
B. Garlic Bread
For a bit of extra flavor, garlic bread makes a great sidekick to the pot pie. The garlicky butter spread on warm, toasted bread adds a savory element that pairs well with the flavors of the dish.
C. Cornbread
If you’re looking for a Southern-inspired twist, serve cornbread on the side. The slightly sweet, crumbly bread is a perfect complement to the creamy filling, and its unique texture adds an interesting contrast.
4. Potatoes: Versatile and Satisfying Sides
Potatoes are a popular and hearty side that pairs exceptionally well with the main dish. Whether mashed, roasted, or baked, they add an extra layer of comfort to your meal.
A. Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are a quintessential side dish. Whether you prefer them buttery, with a hint of garlic, or even topped with chives and sour cream, mashed potatoes add an extra dose of comfort to this already cozy meal.
B. Roasted Potatoes
For a crispier alternative, roasted potatoes are an excellent choice. These golden, crispy potatoes, tossed in olive oil, herbs, and spices, provide a tactile contrast to the pie’s smooth interior.
C. Scalloped Potatoes
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, scalloped potatoes with layers of cream, cheese, and thinly sliced potatoes make a rich and decadent side dish. This dish pairs well with the savory pie for a hearty, comforting meal.
5. Rice and Grains: A Hearty Complement
Rice and grains can provide a lighter alternative to the traditional bread or potato sides while still being filling and satisfying. These choices are excellent for introducing a variety of textures to your meal.
A. Wild Rice Pilaf
Wild rice pilaf with mushrooms and herbs is a flavorful side that pairs well with chicken pot pie. The nutty flavor of the wild rice and the earthiness of the mushrooms add depth to the meal without overwhelming the delicate flavors of the pie.
B. Quinoa Salad
For a lighter, healthier option, a quinoa salad with vegetables, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette is an excellent choice. The quinoa adds protein and a subtle nuttiness to the meal, while the vegetables and dressing keep it fresh and vibrant.
C. Couscous
Couscous is another grain that pairs well with chicken pot pie. Light and fluffy, it can be flavored with herbs, lemon, or spices to complement the creamy filling of the pie.
6. Soups: Warm and Cozy Pairings
Soups are an unexpected but delightful pairing with chicken pot pie. They provide a lighter start to the meal or can be served as a side to add warmth and coziness to the dinner.
A. Butternut Squash Soup
A creamy butternut squash soup with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg is a warm, comforting side that pairs beautifully with the main dish. Its slightly sweet flavor contrasts with the savory richness of the pie, making for a well-balanced meal.
B. Tomato Basil Soup
Tomato basil soup is another great option. The acidity of the tomatoes helps cut through the creaminess of the pot pie filling, while the fresh basil adds a pop of flavor.
C. French Onion Soup
For a more robust option, French onion soup with its rich broth, caramelized onions, and gooey cheese can be a satisfying complement. Its deep flavors enhance the savory notes of the pie.
7. Fruits: A Sweet and Refreshing Finish
Fruits can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of chicken pot pie, whether served as a simple side dish or incorporated into a more elaborate dessert.
A. Fresh Fruit Salad
A fresh fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus provides a light and refreshing counterpoint to the hearty pie. After the heavy main course, the fruit’s natural sweetness revives the palette.
B. Baked Apples
For a comforting fruit side, try baked apples with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey. The tender apples add a touch of sweetness to the meal without being overly rich.
C. Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple, with its caramelized edges and juicy sweetness, makes for a delicious and unexpected side dish. The slight smokiness from the grill adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the creamy chicken pot pie.
Conclusion
Chicken pot pie is a beloved dish that stands well on its own, but when paired with the right sides, it can become a truly memorable meal. Whether you prefer light and refreshing salads, hearty vegetables, or indulgent breads and potatoes, there are countless ways to enhance your dinner. With the options presented in this guide, you’re sure to find the perfect pairing to suit your taste and elevate your next meal to new heights.