The Ultimate Guide to What to Serve with Chicken Pot Pie

Introduction to Chicken Pot Pie Pairings

Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort dish loved for its creamy filling and flaky crust. While it stands as a satisfying meal on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the dining experience. Knowing what to serve with chicken pot pie ensures a balanced and memorable meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a quiet evening, these pairings offer something for everyone.

Creating the right balance involves considering textures, flavors, and nutritional value. The rich, hearty nature of chicken pot pie pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful starches. From refreshing beverages to robust sides, this guide will help you craft the perfect menu to enhance your chicken pot pie.

Salads to Pair with Chicken Pot Pie

A crisp salad is a fantastic choice when deciding what to serve with chicken pot pie. The light and refreshing flavors contrast beautifully with the pie’s creamy richness.

• Classic Caesar Salad
  The tangy Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and shaved Parmesan bring brightness and texture to your meal. Use a mix of romaine lettuce and kale for added nutritional value.
• Mixed Greens with Vinaigrette
  A simple salad with arugula, spinach, and radicchio tossed in a light vinaigrette adds a zesty touch. Include nuts or dried cranberries for a hint of sweetness.
• Greek Salad
  Featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta, this salad provides a Mediterranean twist. The salty tang of feta complements the savory chicken pot pie filling.
• Apple Walnut Salad
  Combining sliced apples, walnuts, and a honey mustard dressing brings sweetness and crunch. This pairing works exceptionally well in the fall when apples are in season.

To enhance the dining experience, serve salads in smaller portions alongside the main dish to keep the meal balanced and enjoyable.

Vegetables That Enhance the Dish

When choosing what to serve with chicken pot pie, vegetables are a natural choice. They provide nutritional balance and add vibrant colors to your plate.

• Roasted Root Vegetables
  Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil, thyme, and rosemary offer a warm, earthy flavor that complements the pie’s creamy filling.
• Steamed Asparagus
  A side of lightly steamed asparagus seasoned with lemon juice and black pepper provides a bright and tender option. The mild bitterness of asparagus balances the richness of the dish.
• Sautéed Green Beans
  Green beans cooked with garlic and a sprinkle of slivered almonds bring a delightful crunch and subtle flavor contrast.
• Braised Brussels Sprouts
  When cooked with balsamic glaze, Brussels sprouts provide a savory and slightly sweet side that pairs seamlessly with chicken pot pie.
• Glazed Carrots
  Toss carrots in a light honey glaze for a side that adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to your meal.

Choosing vegetables ensures a nutritious and well-rounded menu. For recipe inspiration, check out this guide to roasted vegetable combinations. Source: Taste of Home.

Starchy Sides for Comfort

For those who enjoy hearty meals, starchy sides are essential when deciding what to serve with chicken pot pie. These sides bring an additional layer of comfort to an already indulgent dish.

• Mashed Potatoes
  Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic or butter provide a seamless transition between flavors. They’re especially satisfying during colder months.
• Buttered Egg Noodles
  Simple yet flavorful, egg noodles tossed with butter and fresh herbs like parsley make a great side. Their softness complements the flaky crust of the pie.
• Rice Pilaf
  A light rice pilaf with almonds and herbs adds a nutty flavor while keeping the dish from feeling too heavy.
• Biscuits or Rolls
  Fluffy biscuits or dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the chicken pot pie. Add a pat of butter for extra indulgence.
• Sweet Potato Fries
  For a slightly sweet and crispy side, serve baked sweet potato fries. Their caramelized edges provide a pleasant textural contrast.

Including starches ensures the meal remains filling and satisfying, making these sides an excellent choice for larger gatherings or family dinners.

Beverages to Serve with Chicken Pot Pie

No meal is complete without the right beverage. Selecting drinks that harmonize with the flavors of chicken pot pie is essential for creating a well-rounded experience.

• Lemonade
  A glass of freshly squeezed lemonade offers a bright and tangy contrast to the creamy filling of chicken pot pie. The acidity in the drink balances the dish’s richness perfectly.
• Iced Tea
  For a casual option, unsweetened iced tea with a slice of lemon provides a refreshing counterpoint to the savory flavors.
• Sparkling Water with Citrus
  A glass of sparkling water infused with lime or orange slices adds a refreshing and palate-cleansing touch.
• Ginger Ale
  The mild sweetness and slight spice of ginger ale complement the hearty nature of chicken pot pie, adding a comforting and refreshing touch to the meal.
• Apple Cider
  Both hot and cold apple cider offer a sweet, fruity pairing that works especially well during fall and winter meals.

By pairing your meal with the right beverage, you ensure an enjoyable dining experience from start to finish.

Bread and Biscuits

Bread and biscuits are excellent choices when deciding what to serve with chicken pot pie. They not only add warmth and comfort but also serve as an ideal vehicle for scooping up any leftover filling.

• Buttermilk Biscuits
  Soft, flaky buttermilk biscuits are a classic pairing. Their buttery flavor complements the savory filling of the pot pie and enhances the overall meal.
• Crusty Artisan Bread
  A slice of warm artisan bread, such as sourdough or French baguette, provides a satisfying crunch and mild tanginess. This side works particularly well if you’re serving a soup or salad alongside the main dish.
• Cornbread
  Slightly sweet and crumbly cornbread complements the creamy flavors of chicken pot pie. Enhance its flavor by adding jalapeños or cheese. For more ideas, explore these fried cornbread recipes.
• Dinner Rolls
  Soft and pillowy dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce. Serve them warm with a pat of butter for maximum enjoyment.

Including bread or biscuits in your meal offers a textural contrast to the flaky crust of the pot pie. It also ensures your guests leave the table fully satisfied.

Soups and Starters

When planning what to serve with chicken pot pie, consider starting the meal with a light soup or appetizer. These additions enhance the dining experience without overwhelming the main dish.

• Tomato Basil Soup
  The tangy and slightly sweet flavors of tomato soup pair beautifully with the creamy richness of chicken pot pie. Adding fresh basil provides a bright, fresh contrast. For a heartier option, check out this slow cooker chicken pot pie recipe.
• Vegetable Soup
  A light vegetable soup with carrots, celery, and zucchini offers a refreshing start to your meal while maintaining a focus on fresh flavors. Pair this with tips from the creative gluten-free chicken pot pie variations.
• Caesar Salad
  For a simple starter, a small Caesar salad adds a crisp, tangy element to balance the meal. The romaine lettuce, Parmesan, and creamy dressing offer a perfect contrast.
• Stuffed Mushrooms
  Bite-sized stuffed mushrooms filled with breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese make for an elegant appetizer. Their earthy flavor pairs seamlessly with the savory chicken pot pie.
• Bruschetta
  Lightly toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a fresh, flavorful beginning to your meal. The acidity of the tomatoes balances the creamy richness of the main dish.

Pairing chicken pot pie with the right soup or appetizer helps set the tone for the rest of the meal. For more inspiration, explore this guide to easy appetizer ideas. Source: Food Network.

Desserts to Complete the Meal

No meal is complete without dessert, and knowing what to serve with chicken pot pie for a sweet finish is just as important as selecting sides. Choose desserts that are light enough to follow the rich main course yet indulgent enough to satisfy your guests.

• Apple Crisp
  The warm, spiced flavors of apple crisp make it an excellent choice. The crunchy oat topping contrasts beautifully with the soft apple filling.
• Lemon Bars
  Tangy lemon bars provide a zesty finish to your meal. Their bright citrus flavor cuts through the richness of the chicken pot pie, offering a refreshing balance.
• Vanilla Ice Cream
  A scoop of vanilla ice cream served with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce offers a simple yet satisfying dessert option.
• Berry Parfait
  Layer fresh berries with whipped cream and granola for a light, fruity dessert. This no-bake option is quick to prepare and adds a refreshing element to your menu.
• Chocolate Mousse
  For a richer dessert, opt for a velvety chocolate mousse. Its creamy texture pairs well with the buttery crust and savory filling of the pot pie.

Choosing the right dessert ensures your meal ends on a high note, leaving your guests with a lasting impression.

FAQ’S

What Do You Serve with Chicken Pot Pie?

When deciding what to serve with chicken pot pie, it’s important to complement its creamy and savory flavors with sides that add variety and balance. Fresh salads, such as a crisp Caesar or a mixed greens salad, provide a refreshing contrast. Additionally, roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add both flavor and color to the meal. If you’re looking for something heartier, starchy sides like mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or warm biscuits are perfect for rounding out the menu. For beverages, a glass of iced tea pairs wonderfully, adding a touch of sophistication or casual comfort to the dining experience.

Is It Better to Freeze Chicken Pot Pie, Baked or Unbaked?

Freezing chicken pot pie can be a great way to prepare meals in advance, but deciding whether to freeze it baked or unbaked depends on your needs. Freezing an unbaked pie allows you to cook it fresh, preserving the texture and flavor of the crust. On the other hand, a fully baked pie can also be frozen, which saves time when reheating. To maintain the best quality, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. For an unbaked pie, consider adding a layer of parchment paper between the filling and the crust to prevent sogginess.

How Do You Keep the Bottom Crust of a Chicken Pot Pie from Getting Soggy?

To prevent the bottom crust of a chicken pot pie from getting soggy, it’s essential to take a few precautionary steps. First, blind-bake the crust for a few minutes before adding the filling. This step helps create a barrier that reduces moisture absorption. Additionally, brushing the crust with a thin layer of egg wash before adding the filling can also seal it and keep it crisp. Using a thick, well-cooled filling is equally important, as hot or overly watery fillings can seep into the crust, causing it to lose its flakiness.

Why Are Chicken Pot Pies So High in Calories?

Chicken pot pies are calorie-dense due to their rich ingredients, which typically include butter, cream, and pastry crusts. The filling often contains a creamy base made with milk or cream, which adds significant calories. Moreover, the pie crust itself, made with butter or shortening, contributes to the overall calorie count. Some recipes may include additional starchy vegetables like potatoes, further increasing the calorie content. While the dish is delicious and comforting, it’s best enjoyed in moderation or paired with lighter sides to balance the meal.

Is a Chicken Pot Pie Healthy or Unhealthy?

The healthiness of a chicken pot pie depends on how it’s prepared. Traditional recipes can be high in fat, calories, and sodium due to the use of butter, cream, and a rich crust. However, it can be made healthier by using modifications such as a whole-grain crust, low-fat milk or broth, and plenty of fresh vegetables. The dish provides a good source of protein and some vitamins, but the overall nutritional value largely depends on portion size and ingredient choices. With mindful adjustments, chicken pot pie can fit into a balanced diet.

Can a Diabetic Eat Chicken Pot Pie?

Yes, a diabetic can enjoy chicken pot pie, but it’s important to make a few adjustments to the recipe. Traditional chicken pot pies can be high in carbohydrates, especially due to the crust and starchy fillings. To make it more diabetic-friendly, consider using a low-carb crust or skipping the top crust entirely. Replace high-carb vegetables like potatoes with lower-carb options such as zucchini or spinach. Additionally, opt for a filling made with low-fat milk or broth to reduce fat and calorie content. Portion control is also essential to ensure it fits within a diabetic meal plan. Always consult with a healthcare provider for specific dietary recommendations.

Conclusion

Planning what to serve with chicken pot pie requires thoughtful consideration of flavors, textures, and balance. From refreshing drinks to buttery biscuits, light soups, and indulgent desserts, each element contributes to a well-rounded dining experience. By pairing complementary sides and beverages, you elevate the humble chicken pot pie into a memorable culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or entertaining guests, these pairings ensure a delicious and satisfying meal for everyone.