Chicken pot pie is a beloved classic, offering a rich and comforting combination of flaky crust, savory chicken, vegetables, and creamy filling. But as delicious as this dish is on its own, finding the right side dishes and drinks to serve with it can truly elevate your meal. The question “What pairs well with chicken pot pie?” is more than just a simple culinary curiosity, it’s the key to creating a well-balanced, flavorful dining experience.
Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing a weeknight meal, the right pairings can complement the flavors of the pot pie, cut through its richness, and add freshness and variety to your plate. So, what exactly pairs well with chicken pot pie? From fresh salads and roasted vegetables to light beverages, we’ve got you covered with plenty of tasty options that will make your chicken pot pie meal even more satisfying. Let’s dive into some of the best side dishes and drinks to serve alongside this comforting dish.
Why Pairing Is Essential When Serving Chicken Pot Pie
Pairing food thoughtfully is key to crafting a memorable meal. When you ask, “What pairs well with chicken pot pie?”, the answer lies in balancing the dish’s rich, creamy texture with lighter, crisp sides or beverages that enhance the flavors without overwhelming them. After all, chicken pot pie is a filling dish, and a well-chosen side or drink can provide the contrast needed to refresh your palate.
Now, let’s break down some of the top side dishes and drinks that perfectly complement chicken pot pie, ensuring your meal is both delicious and balanced.
What Pairs Well with Chicken Pot Pie? The Best Side Dishes
1. Fresh Garden Salad
A fresh garden salad is a classic pairing with chicken pot pie. The crispness of the greens and the lightness of the vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy filling of the pie. The vegetables in the salad add a crisp texture, balancing the smoothness of the pie’s gravy.
Salad Options:
- Mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette
- Arugula with lemon dressing
- Spinach and kale with a light olive oil dressing
2. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and brussels sprouts, are perfect accompaniments to chicken pot pie. Their natural sweetness and slight caramelization provide a savory contrast to the pie’s comforting flavors. Roasting vegetables brings out their rich, deep flavors, which pair beautifully with the mild chicken filling.
Vegetable Options:
- Roasted carrots
- Roasted brussels sprouts
- Roasted parsnips
3. Garlic Bread
If you’re looking for something hearty to accompany your chicken pot pie, garlic bread is an excellent choice. The crunchy, buttery texture adds variety to the meal while the garlic flavor brings an additional layer of richness that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken pot pie.
Types of Garlic Bread:
- Traditional garlic bread with butter
- Garlic knots
- Cheesy garlic bread
4. Mashed Potatoes
For a comforting and filling side, mashed potatoes are an ideal pairing. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the chicken pot pie, and adding a touch of gravy on top can enhance the overall experience. You can also get creative by adding herbs, cheese, or garlic to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
Mashed Potato Variations:
- Classic mashed potatoes with butter
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Cheddar cheese mashed potatoes
5. Steamed Asparagus
Steamed asparagus adds a slight crunch and freshness that balances the richness of chicken pot pie. Its delicate flavor and tender texture work well to bring a touch of lightness to the meal. A drizzle of lemon juice or a sprinkle of parmesan can elevate the flavor even further.
Asparagus Variations:
- Steamed with lemon and garlic
- Roasted with balsamic vinegar
- Topped with parmesan cheese
6. Side of Peas or Green Beans
Another classic option to pair with chicken pot pie is green beans or peas. These vegetables are simple, yet their flavors complement the creamy filling of the pie. Peas add a slight sweetness, while green beans provide a crunchy texture that contrasts with the soft pie crust.
Green Bean or Pea Variations:
- Steamed green beans with a sprinkle of salt
- Sautéed peas with butter
- Green beans with almond slivers
What Pairs Well with Chicken Pot Pie?
When it comes to pairing drinks with chicken pot pie, choosing non-alcoholic options is a great way to complement the flavors of this comforting dish. The right beverage can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy and savory filling, helping to balance the richness of the pie without overpowering its taste. Let’s take a look at some of the best non-alcoholic drinks that pair well with chicken pot pie.
1. Iced Tea
Iced tea is a classic and versatile drink that pairs beautifully with chicken pot pie. Its crisp and slightly bitter taste offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the pie. You can opt for traditional unsweetened iced tea, or if you’re looking for a little sweetness, sweetened iced tea with a touch of lemon can enhance the flavor profile. Additionally, herbal iced teas like peppermint or chamomile can provide a subtle, refreshing twist.
Iced Tea Variations:
- Lemon iced tea: A perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.
- Mint iced tea: Adds a refreshing herbal note.
- Unsweetened iced tea: For a more neutral, clean taste.
2. Sparkling Water
For a light and refreshing option, sparkling water is an excellent choice to pair with chicken pot pie. Its effervescence helps cleanse the palate between bites, making it easier to enjoy the rich flavors of the dish. You can choose plain sparkling water or infuse it with citrus fruits like lemon, lime, or orange for added freshness. It’s a simple, yet effective drink to enhance the overall dining experience.
Sparkling Water Options:
- Plain sparkling water: A clean, crisp choice.
- Lemon-infused sparkling water: Adds a zesty citrus twist.
- Lime-infused sparkling water: Provides a refreshing, slightly tart flavor.
3. Fresh Lemonade
Freshly squeezed lemonade is another fantastic drink to serve with chicken pot pie. The tangy, citrusy flavor helps cut through the richness of the pie, offering a refreshing balance. You can make lemonade as sweet or tart as you like, and for an added touch, infuse it with herbs like mint or basil for extra depth of flavor. The bright, vibrant notes of lemonade will complement the comforting nature of the pot pie.
Lemonade Variations:
- Classic lemonade: A balance of tartness and sweetness.
- Mint lemonade: A refreshing herbal infusion.
- Berry lemonade: Add strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a fruity twist.
4. Apple Cider (Non-Alcoholic)
Non-alcoholic apple cider is an excellent drink choice for pairing with chicken pot pie, especially in the cooler months. Its naturally sweet and slightly tart flavor provides a lovely contrast to the savory chicken and creamy filling. Hot or cold, apple cider adds a comforting touch that works well with the rich flavors of the pie. You can also add spices like cinnamon or cloves to enhance the experience further.
Apple Cider Options:
- Hot apple cider: A cozy, warming option for colder days.
- Cold apple cider: A crisp, refreshing choice for warmer weather.
- Spiced apple cider: Add cinnamon or cloves for a flavorful twist.
5. Fruit Juices
Fresh fruit juices are a great non-alcoholic beverage option to pair with chicken pot pie. Their natural sweetness and vibrant flavors offer a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy filling of the pie. Consider serving juices that have a bit of tartness, such as orange juice, grapefruit juice, or cranberry juice, as these will complement the dish without overwhelming the taste.
Fruit Juice Options:
- Orange juice: A classic choice that’s sweet and slightly tangy.
- Cranberry juice: Offers a tart, refreshing flavor.
- Grapefruit juice: A zesty, citrusy option that pairs well with savory dishes.
6. Cucumber Water
For a light and refreshing option, cucumber water is a fantastic beverage to serve alongside chicken pot pie. The cool, crisp flavor of cucumber infuses the water, providing a subtle, refreshing taste that won’t overpower the dish. It’s a great way to cleanse your palate and keep the meal feeling light and balanced. You can also add a few slices of lemon or mint to elevate the flavor.
Cucumber Water Variations:
- Plain cucumber water: A simple, refreshing drink.
- Lemon cucumber water: A zesty and aromatic pairing.
- Mint cucumber water: Adds a refreshing herbal note.
What Pairs Well with Chicken Pot Pie? Other Flavorful Combinations
If you want to add some more variety to your meal, there are plenty of other options to consider. These pairings bring new textures and flavors to the table, complementing the chicken pot pie in unique ways.
1. Apple Cider
For a festive and unexpected pairing, try serving your chicken pot pie with apple cider. The sweet, slightly tart flavor of apple cider contrasts nicely with the richness of the pie. It’s an especially good choice for a fall or holiday meal.
Apple Cider Variations:
- Hot apple cider with cinnamon
- Cold apple cider with a slice of apple
- Sparkling apple cider
2. Creamed Spinach
Another option to pair with chicken pot pie is creamed spinach. The smooth and velvety texture of the spinach complements the pie’s filling, while the mild bitterness of the spinach provides a nice contrast to the richness of the dish.
Creamed Spinach Variations:
- Classic creamed spinach with butter and cream
- Spinach with a hint of garlic
- Creamy spinach with parmesan cheese
3. Fruit Salad
If you’re craving something light and refreshing, a fruit salad makes a great side dish to balance the heavy chicken pot pie. A mix of fresh fruits like apples, grapes, and berries adds a touch of sweetness and a burst of freshness to your meal.
Fruit Salad Options:
- Mixed berries with a drizzle of honey
- Apple and pear salad with a citrus dressing
- Tropical fruit salad with pineapple and mango
FAQs: What Pairs Well with Chicken Pot Pie?
1. What is the best side dish to serve with chicken pot pie?
A fresh garden salad is one of the best side dishes to serve with chicken pot pie. It provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy filling, balancing the flavors with lightness and crispness.
2. Can I serve soup with chicken pot pie?
Yes, you can serve soup with chicken pot pie, but opt for something light like a vegetable soup or a broth-based soup. This will prevent the meal from becoming too heavy and will complement the flavors of the pot pie.
3. What drinks go well with chicken pot pie?
Iced tea, sparkling water, and lemonade are great non-alcoholic drinks to pair with chicken pot pie. These drinks offer refreshing contrasts to the rich dish, helping cleanse your palate while boosting the overall dining experience.
Conclusion: What Pairs Well with Chicken Pot Pie?
When it comes to choosing what pairs well with chicken pot pie, there’s no shortage of delicious options. From fresh salads and roasted vegetables to complementary drinks and flavorful sides, you can create a well-rounded meal that will leave your guests asking for more.
Choosing the right drink to serve with chicken pot pie can take your meal to the next level. Non-alcoholic options like iced tea, sparkling water, and lemonade provide refreshing contrasts to the richness of the pie, while apple cider and fruit juices bring a burst of flavor that complements the savory filling. Each of these drinks offers something unique, ensuring that you can find the perfect pairing for your chicken pot pie, whether you’re dining with family, friends, or enjoying a cozy meal at home.
If you’re in the mood for more comforting dishes, check out some of my other recipes! For a delicious twist on a creamy meal, try the Chicken Alfredo Soup with Beef and Parmesan Cheese or the indulgent Steak Alfredo Recipe. If you’re craving something warm and hearty, don’t miss the Alfredo Chicken Noodle Soup for an amazing comfort food experience.
