Ever pull a golden-brown chicken pot pie from the oven and think, “What the heck do I serve with this?” You’re not alone! I’ve been there too many times, staring at my beautiful pot pie and wondering what side dishes would complement its rich, creamy goodness without overshadowing it.
After years of experimenting (and some memorable dinner fails), I’ve discovered the secret to the perfect chicken pot pie pairing. It’s all about balance – something crisp alongside creamy fresh against rich light meeting hearty.
In this article, I’ll share my favorite sides that’ll transform your chicken pot pie from a simple comfort food into an unforgettable meal. Let’s dive in!
The Art of Pairing: What Makes a Perfect Side for Chicken Pot Pie
Before we jump into specific recipes let’s understand what makes a good pairing for chicken pot pie
The perfect chicken pot pie companion should provide
- Textural contrast to the creamy filling and flaky crust
- Temperature balance between hot pie and cool sides
- Flavor complementation without competing with the main dish
- Visual appeal with bright colors against the golden-brown pie
Fresh & Crisp Salads: The Perfect Contrast
Salads are my go-to pairing with chicken pot pie. They provide that refreshing crunch that balances the rich, hearty pie perfectly.
1. House Salad with Zesty Vinaigrette
A simple mixed greens salad with a bright vinaigrette cuts through the richness of pot pie beautifully. I like to add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a sprinkle of feta for extra flavor.
2. Apple & Pecan Salad
This is one of my absolute favorites! Combine butter lettuce and arugula with crisp apple slices, candied pecans, and goat cheese crumbles. Dress it with a honey-citrus vinaigrette for a sweet-tart contrast to your savory pie.
3. Kale and Brussels Sprouts Salad
For something heartier, try a kale and brussels sprouts salad with a maple dijon vinaigrette. The robust greens stand up well to the richness of the pot pie while adding nutritional value.
4. Tomato and Onion Salad
This simple salad is surprisingly effective. Slice fresh beefsteak tomatoes and red onions, then marinate them in balsamic vinegar and herbs. The acidity cuts through the creaminess of the pot pie beautifully.
Vegetable Sides: Adding Color and Nutrition
Vegetables are another excellent choice to serve with chicken pot pie, adding both nutrition and vibrant color to your plate.
5. Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Roasted until caramelized and tossed with a touch of honey, these brussels sprouts offer a sweet-savory flavor that complements pot pie perfectly. The crispy edges provide wonderful textural contrast.
6. Maple-Thyme Glazed Carrots
These take just 12 minutes at high heat to transform into candy-sweet gems. The caramelized edges and maple-thyme glaze create a side dish that’s both elegant and comforting.
7. Roasted Green Beans with Garlic
Simple but effective, roasted green beans maintain their crisp texture while developing deep flavor. A squeeze of lemon brightens everything up.
8. Sautéed Spinach
For a quick and nutritious side, sautéed spinach with garlic and a splash of lemon juice adds a vibrant green element to your plate. It wilts down so much that even spinach-skeptics might give it a try!
Bread Sides: For Soaking Up Every Last Drop
Sometimes, you just need something to sop up that delicious gravy that escapes when you break into your pot pie.
9. Honey Cornbread Muffins
These sweet, moist cornbread muffins pair wonderfully with chicken pot pie. The subtle sweetness provides a nice counterpoint to the savory pie filling.
10. Buttermilk Biscuits
Cloud-like buttermilk biscuits are perfect for soaking up every last drop of pot pie gravy. They’re relatively quick to make and absolutely worth the effort.
11. Garlic Cheese Bread
For a more indulgent option, garlic cheese bread adds another dimension of comfort food goodness. The crispy, cheesy exterior and soft interior make a wonderful textural contrast.
No-Cook Sides for Busy Nights
Sometimes you don’t have time to prepare elaborate sides. These no-cook options still elevate your chicken pot pie meal.
12. Artisanal Cheese Board
Create a small cheese board with a wedge of brie, some aged cheddar, and a crumbly blue cheese. Add some fresh and dried fruits for a sophisticated side that requires zero cooking.
13. Marinated Olive Medley
Combine different varieties of olives with herbs, garlic, orange peel, and olive oil for a briny, flavorful side that complements the creamy pot pie.
14. Quick-Pickled Vegetable Medley
Thinly sliced radishes, cucumber ribbons, carrots, and red onions soaked briefly in white wine vinegar create a bright, tangy side dish that cuts through richness beautifully.
The Perfect Beverage Pairing
Don’t forget about what to drink with your chicken pot pie meal!
15. Beverage Pairings
- Wine lovers: Try a buttery Chardonnay or light Pinot Noir
- Beer enthusiasts: A crisp lager or wheat beer works well
- Non-alcoholic options: Apple cider (hot or cold) or lemon-mint water refreshes the palate
Practical Tips for Serving
Here are some practical tips I’ve learned through trial and error:
- Timing is everything: Start your sides just as your pot pie goes in to warm
- Portion control: Remember your pot pie is the star – keep side portions modest
- Temperature contrast: Serve at least one room temperature or cold side with your hot pie
- Color consideration: Add something green or colorful to brighten up your plate
My Go-To Weeknight Pairing
On busy weeknights when I’m serving chicken pot pie (often store-bought, let’s be honest!), my go-to pairing is a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette and a few quick-pickled vegetables. It takes just 5 minutes to prepare and provides the perfect fresh contrast to the rich pie.
Final Thoughts
The beauty of chicken pot pie is its versatility. While it’s delicious on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes elevates the entire meal experience. Whether you prefer fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or bread sides, there’s something for everyone.
Remember the key is balance – let your chicken pot pie be the star while your sides play the supporting role, adding contrast and completing the meal.
What’s your favorite side to serve with chicken pot pie? I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments!
This article was inspired by my many nights of wondering what to serve with my family’s favorite comfort food. After countless experiments, these pairings have become our go-to options for making chicken pot pie night extra special.
Classic Side Dishes That Never Fail with Chicken Pot Pie
Lets talk about those timeless side dishes that have been gracing tables alongside chicken pot pie for generations.
12. Cloud-Like Buttermilk Biscuits (View Recipe)
Imagine breaking open a freshly baked buttermilk biscuit, steam escaping as its pillowy layers separate, revealing a tender, buttery interior thats just begging to be dragged through your pot pies rich gravy.
13. Garlic and Herb Mashed Potatoes (View Recipe)
Picture this: a generous spoon of creamy, cloud-like mashed potatoes, infused with roasted garlic and fresh herbs, slowly melting into the savory gravy of your pot pie.
14. Butter-Brushed Dinner Rolls (View Recipe)
Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of tearing into a warm, butter-brushed dinner roll alongside your pot pie.
These golden orbs of joy should be light as air inside, with a thin, delicately crisp crust thats been lovingly brushed with melted butter and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Use them to soak up every last drop of that precious gravy – these rolls are your insurance against leaving any flavor behind.
The secret to serving these classics alongside your pot pie lies in the timing.
Start your rolls or biscuits just as your pot pie goes in to warm.
Your mashed potatoes can be made ahead and kept warm in a slow cooker, while vegetables should be finished just before serving to maintain their perfect texture.
This orchestrated timing ensures everything arrives at the table at its absolute peak of flavor and temperature.
Perfect Beverage & Dessert Pairings
Youve just served up a steaming plate of chicken pot pie.
What could make this moment even better?
The perfect beverage and a thoughtfully chosen dessert.
What to Serve With Chicken Pot Pie
FAQ
What to serve with a chicken pie?
- Cloud-Like Buttermilk Biscuits (View Recipe) …
- Garlic and Herb Mashed Potatoes (View Recipe) …
- Butter-Brushed Dinner Rolls (View Recipe)