Last Updated on December 1, 2023 by Pauline G. Carter
Serve a light salad or steamed vegetables with chicken pot pie. These sides complement the richness of the pie without overpowering it.
Crafting the perfect accompaniment to chicken pot pie doesn’t have to be a puzzle. Picking the right side dish enhances this classic comfort food, balancing its creamy, savory flavors with a touch of freshness or crunch. Whether you opt for a crisp, green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or choose simply steamed seasonal vegetables to add a healthy, colorful twist to your plate, the goal is harmony on the palate.
Even a batch of homemade dinner rolls can be a delightful addition, perfect for sopping up that sumptuous filling. To maximize your mealtime enjoyment, always consider texture and taste—these are your guides to creating an unforgettable dining experience.
Perfect Side Salads
Chicken pot pie is a comfort food classic, known for its creamy filling and flaky crust. But no meal is complete without the perfect accompaniment. Side salads are an excellent way to add a fresh, crisp component to the meal, balancing the richness of the pie. Not only do they offer a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, but they also contribute a variety of nutrients to the table. Here are three perfect side salads that will round out your chicken pot pie dinner magnificently.Green Leafy Salad with Vinaigrette A Green Leafy Salad with Vinaigrette is a simple yet sophisticated choice. It pairs the tender textures of fresh greens like spinach, arugula, or mixed baby lettuces with the sharp zest of a homemade vinaigrette. Here’s how to make your salad stand out:
- Mix your greens: Combine different types of lettuce for a varied texture.
- Customize the vinaigrette: A basic vinaigrette comprises oil and vinegar, but add a touch of mustard or honey for complexity.
- Add some crunch: Toss in some toasted nuts or seeds for an extra bite.
- Consider cheese: Crumbles of goat cheese or shaved parmesan can elevate your salad.
Waldorf Salad The Waldorf Salad is a time-honored favorite that blends sweetness with crunch. Originating from New York’s Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, this salad combines apples, celery, and walnuts in a creamy mayonnaise dressing. To ensure a refreshing complement to your pie, follow these tips:
- Use crisp apples: Go for varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture.
- Add grapes or raisins: For a burst of natural sweetness.
- Lighten up the dressing: Substitute yogurt for some of the mayonnaise if preferred.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Parsley or chives can add a pop of color and a hint of sharpness.
Caesar Salad Variation Caesar Salad is a beloved standby with its creamy dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese. But why not twist the classic a bit? Here’s a variation that will intrigue your taste buds while keeping the essence of the original Caesar:
| Ingredient | Tweak | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Croutons | Use whole grain or sourdough | Adds depth of flavor and texture |
| Cheese | Substitute with aged pecorino or Asiago | Offers a sharper, nuttier profile |
| Dressing | Anchor with anchovy paste | Injects umami without overwhelming |
| Greens | Mix romaine with kale | Introduces additional nutrients and textures |
Vegetable Sides That Shine
A golden, flaky Chicken Pot Pie, brimming with tender chunks of chicken and creamy vegetables, is the epitome of comfort. Yet, even the most perfectly crafted pie begs for a partner on the plate. Vegetable sides not only provide a vibrant contrast but also enhance the meal with a variety of textures and flavors. Pair your pie with these stellar vegetable sides to elevate your dining experience.
Roasted Root Vegetables
Root vegetables, with their earthy sweetness, make an excellent sidekick to the savory richness of Chicken Pot Pie. A colorful medley of roasted carrots, parsnips, and beets brings a touch of caramelized magic to your meal. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and your favorite herbs before roasting to perfection. The result is a delightful combination that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Carrots: Their natural sweetness complements the savory pie.
- Parsnips: They add a honeyed, nutty flavor.
- Beets: For an earthy flavor and a pop of color.
Steamed Asparagus Spears
The slightly grassy and subtly bitter notes of steamed asparagus spears cut through the creaminess of Chicken Pot Pie. Quick to prepare and simply seasoned, they offer a crisp-tender texture that contrasts beautifully with the pie’s creamy filling. Lightly steam them to maintain their vibrant green color and nutritional value, serving them with a squeeze of lemon for that extra zing.
| Preparation Time: | 5 mins |
|---|---|
| Cooking Time: | 3-5 mins |
| Recommended Seasoning: | Lemon juice, salt, and pepper |
Garlic Butter Green Beans
Sautéed green beans in a garlic butter sauce make an irresistible companion to your pot pie. The beans’ snappy texture and the sauce’s savory depth complement the pie’s flavor complexities. For a golden touch, add a sprinkle of almonds, creating a side dish that stands out on its own while harmoniously merging with the main course.
- Heat butter and garlic in a pan.
- Add green beans and sauté until tender-crisp.
- Top with toasted almonds for added crunch.
Creative Carbohydrate Partners
The natural star of any dinner table is the classic Chicken Pot Pie, brimming with creamy sauce, tender chicken, and a flaky crust. But let’s not overlook its partner on the plate. I’m talking about Creative Carbohydrate Partners that complete the meal, making every bite a journey through comfort food heaven. Striking the perfect balance between protein and carbs, these starchy delights not only complement but elevate the pot pie experience.Wild Rice Pilaf
Wild Rice Pilaf
Forget ordinary rice; Wild Rice Pilaf is the unsung hero that deserves a standing ovation. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors, with earthy wild rice, aromatic herbs, and a colorful medley of vegetables. Envision spoonfuls of this pilaf not just fulfilling your carb cravings but also adding a nutritional high note to your meal with its array of vitamins and minerals.
- Rich in fiber and protein
- Chock-full of antioxidants
- Gluten-free for those with dietary considerations
Herb-Infused Mashed Potatoes
Herb-infused Mashed Potatoes
Imagine diving into creamy, Herb-Infused Mashed Potatoes. The humble potato is transformed into a creamy concoction with a herbaceous punch that harmonizes wonderfully with your savory pie. Each forkful features the comforting taste of potatoes enriched with rosemary, thyme, or perhaps a hint of garlic, infusing a rustic charm into your dish.
- Choose your favorite herbs
- Mash to perfection
- Drizzle with a touch of olive oil or a pat of butter
Honey Glazed Carrots and Parsnips
Honey Glazed Carrots And Parsnips
Brace for a sweet and savory surprise with Honey Glazed Carrots and Parsnips. This side dish steals the show with its glistening coat of honey glaze, playing up the natural sweetness of the vegetables while adding a glossy appeal to your plate. It’s the perfect merger of sweetness with the richness of the chicken pot pie.
| Ingredient | Preparation | Glaze |
|---|---|---|
| Carrots | Sliced into batons | Local honey |
| Parsnips | Sliced to match carrots | Pinch of cinnamon |
Delight in how each bite adds a crunchy texture and a hint of indulgence that can only make you appreciate your delicious Chicken Pot Pie even more. Pairing it with the right carbohydrate will not only quench your thirst for a complete meal but also turn a simple dish into a feast for the senses.
Credit: thegardeningcook.com
Frequently Asked Questions Of What To Serve With Chicken Pot Pie?
What Sides Complement Chicken Pot Pie?
A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments to chicken pot pie, offering a light contrast to its creamy filling.
Can I Pair Wine With Chicken Pot Pie?
Yes, a buttery Chardonnay or a light-bodied Pinot Noir pairs nicely with the rich flavors of chicken pot pie.
What Are Healthy Options With Chicken Pot Pie?
Steamed broccoli, glazed carrots, or a quinoa salad are healthy options that balance the richness of chicken pot pie.
What Bread Goes With Chicken Pot Pie?
A crusty baguette or warm dinner rolls are perfect for sopping up the savory sauce of a chicken pot pie.
Conclusion
Selecting the perfect accompaniments to chicken pot pie doesn’t have to be challenging. Embrace simplicity with a fresh salad, or aim for heartiness with roasted vegetables. Either way, your meal’s success hinges on balance. Remember, the right sides can turn a good dish into a memorable feast.
Enjoy mixing and matching for your next cozy dinner!