When it comes to pairing dishes with chicken pot pie, the possibilities are endless. This comforting classic is packed with rich flavors, from the buttery crust to the savory filling. Its well-rounded nature – featuring carbs, protein, veggies, and fats – makes it a satisfying meal on its own. However, there’s no shame in wanting to supplement your meal with additional options.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light like corn or crunchy like salad, or perhaps something heartier like potatoes, the versatility of chicken pot pie is truly impressive. Its ability to be paired with such a wide range of dishes only adds to its appeal.
Crudite
Begin your meal with a refreshing and revitalizing start by serving a light and crunchy appetizer to cut through the richness of the main course. A simple yet elegant solution is to prepare a colorful platter featuring sliced carrots, celery, cucumbers, broccoli, and cauliflower, accompanied by a dollop of creamy yogurt as a tangy dip.
Salad
To elevate the fiber content of your meal, consider serving a refreshing salad alongside your chicken pot pie. The crunch of fresh greens provides a delightful contrast to the rich, comforting casserole. For a particularly appealing combination, try pairing the savory pot pie with a spinach salad featuring tangy orange segments, crumbled cheese, toasted nuts, and sweet berries. A citrus vinaigrette brings all the flavors together in harmony, resulting in a truly sublime dining experience.
Roasted Veggies
When it comes to adding some extra oomph to your meal without overpowering the main event, a side of roasted veggies is an excellent choice. The great thing about roasted veggies is that you can use whatever variety suits your taste buds best – think carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, and cauliflower, to name just a few. However, if I had to pick a winning combination, it would be roasted broccoli topped with Parmesan. The creamy, crunchy texture is simply divine. And the best part?
It’s incredibly straightforward to prepare. Simply coat some broccoli florets in olive oil, sprinkle them with Parmesan cheese, and let the oven do its magic. This delightful side dish pairs beautifully not just with Creamy Pork Chops (CPP), but also with a wide range of other entrées.
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
While chicken pot pie is inherently savory and salty, incorporating contrasting flavors and textures can elevate the dish to new heights. One way to do this is by adding a sweet and creamy element, such as mashed sweet potatoes. Not only does their smooth consistency provide a pleasant contrast to the casserole’s rich texture, but they also add a touch of sweetness that cuts through the savory notes.
Furthermore, the mash can be used to soak up any remaining gravy, making each bite a satisfying harmony of flavors and textures.
German Potato Salad
While potato salad may not be an exclusively German dish, its appeal transcends cultural boundaries. This vinegar-based version offers a refreshing alternative to traditional creamy concoctions, boasting a tangy flavor that perfectly complements the rich, savory essence of chicken pot pie. Furthermore, with an abundance of crispy bacon woven throughout, this dish is all but guaranteed to win over even the most discerning palates.
Glazed Carrots and Parsnips
Elevate the flavor profile of your casserole by pairing it with a sweet and savory accompaniment. To create this delightful combination, simply sauté sliced carrots and parsnips in melted butter until they’re tender and caramelized. Then, add a hint of brown sugar to enhance their natural sweetness. This easy yet impressive side dish is sure to complement your casserole perfectly.
Corn on the Cob
When it comes to pairing with the rich flavors of chicken pot pie, you’ll want a side dish that’s just as effortless to prepare. One option that fits the bill is grilled or boiled corn on the cob. The key here is simplicity – simply toss those kernels in boiling water for several minutes, or opt for a quicker route by microwaving them. This approach still yields that sweet, tender texture we all know and love, without adding any extra fuss to your cooking routine.
Asparagus
Elevate the texture of your pot pie by incorporating crunchy green beans as a delightful contrast. To bring out their natural sweetness, simply squeeze a bit of lemon juice over them and add a pinch of pepper for added depth. This effortless addition will surely take your dish to the next level.
Brussels Sprouts and Bacon
Roasted Brussels sprouts make a fantastic side dish, especially when paired with salty and smoky bacon. This harmonious combination not only adds depth to the flavors but also introduces a delightful contrast in textures. The vibrant green of the sprouts and the crispy brown of the bacon create a visually appealing presentation that complements the rich tones of the chicken pot pie.
Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
For those who can’t get enough of mac and cheese, I’m excited to share an innovative twist that pairs perfectly with chicken pot pie. By substituting cauliflower for pasta, you’ll create a lighter yet still indulgent dish that retains its rich flavors. This clever swap allows you to enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness without the extra carbs, making it a great option for those looking to mix things up.
Unsweetened Iced Tea
As you sit down to enjoy your chicken pot pie, a crisp and revitalizing accompaniment can elevate the overall dining experience. In this case, an unsweetened glass of iced tea serves as the perfect complement, providing a subtle respite from the hearty flavors of the dish. The mild, nuanced character of the tea offers a soothing counterbalance to the rich and savory notes of the chicken pot pie, harmonizing the two in a delightful culinary symphony.
Applesauce
When it comes to balancing the bold flavors of a spicy chicken pot pie, a sweet and refreshing contrast is essential. Applesauce fills this role perfectly, offering a delightful combination of fruity sweetness that cuts through the spices. Moreover, apples have a natural affinity with the core ingredients of your casserole – chicken, carrots, celery, and onions – making them a harmonious match.
Whether you choose unsweetened or infused with cinnamon, applesauce is sure to complement your entrée beautifully, making it an intuitive choice.
Cranberry Sauce
In a world where culinary complexity can be overwhelming, there’s solace in simplicity. Enter cranberry sauce, the unsung hero that elevates even the most straightforward dishes. By infusing the tart berries with a trio of aromatic herbs – rosemary, thyme, and sage – you’ll craft a flavorful condiment that perfectly complements rich and creamy chicken pot pie. The harmonious marriage of these two comforting classics yields a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Fruit Salad
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a refreshing dessert that complements the meal without overpowering it. A simple yet satisfying option is a colorful fruit salad featuring your favorite fruits. Sliced apples, melons, pears, and kiwis make a great combination, and you can enhance their natural sweetness by drizzling them with pure maple syrup or honey. This light and revitalizing treat will round out the meal in style.
Watermelon
Watermelon is a phenomenal fruit that deserves a special mention in the world of desserts. Its simplicity is part of its charm, as it can stand alone without needing to be paired with other fruits. The sweetness, juiciness and numerous health benefits make it an excellent choice for those looking for a light and refreshing dessert option. Additionally, its vibrant red color adds a pop of color to any gathering.
