What Are the Best Side Dishes to Serve With Chicken Pot Pie for Dinner?

AvatarByJacqueline Johnson Chicken

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the warm, hearty appeal of chicken pot pie. Its flaky crust and creamy, savory filling make it a beloved classic, perfect for cozy dinners any time of year. But once you’ve mastered the pot pie itself, a common question arises: what goes with chicken pot pie for dinner to create a balanced and satisfying meal?

Pairing the right sides with chicken pot pie can elevate your dining experience, complementing the rich flavors and textures while adding variety to the plate. Whether you’re aiming for light and fresh accompaniments or something equally comforting, the possibilities are plentiful. Exploring these options can help you craft a well-rounded meal that delights every palate.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into a range of side dishes and beverage pairings that harmonize beautifully with chicken pot pie. From crisp salads to roasted vegetables and beyond, you’ll discover ideas that turn a simple dinner into a memorable feast.

Vegetable Side Dishes to Complement Chicken Pot Pie

When considering vegetable sides to pair with chicken pot pie, the goal is to enhance the meal with fresh, vibrant flavors and textures that balance the richness of the pie. Roasted or steamed vegetables offer a light counterpoint to the creamy filling, while salads can introduce acidity and crunch.

Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots bring a natural sweetness and slight caramelization that complements the savory notes of the pot pie. Lightly seasoning these with olive oil, salt, and pepper keeps the flavors straightforward and allows the natural vegetable taste to shine through.

Steamed green beans or broccoli provide a crisp texture and a bright green color that can elevate the plate visually and nutritionally. Adding a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of toasted almonds can enhance these vegetables without overpowering the main dish.

Fresh salads featuring ingredients like arugula, mixed greens, or spinach with vinaigrettes made from balsamic or lemon juice provide acidity and freshness. Incorporating elements like cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, or radishes adds crunch and color, creating a well-rounded meal.

Salads and Light Accompaniments

Salads serve as an excellent light accompaniment to chicken pot pie, especially to balance its hearty and creamy nature. The acidity and crispness offered by fresh greens can cleanse the palate and prevent the meal from feeling too heavy.

Consider these salad options:

  • Classic Caesar salad with romaine, Parmesan, and a tangy dressing.
  • Mixed greens with walnuts, cranberries, and a citrus vinaigrette.
  • Cucumber and tomato salad with red onion and a dash of olive oil and vinegar.
  • Spinach salad with sliced mushrooms, hard-boiled eggs, and a mustard vinaigrette.

These salads provide a variety of textures and flavors while remaining simple and quick to prepare.

Starches and Bread Pairings

Even though chicken pot pie contains a crust, adding a complementary starch can enhance the meal experience. Bread or light starch sides should be chosen carefully to avoid overwhelming the dish.

Light, crusty breads such as a baguette or sourdough are ideal for sopping up any extra sauce from the pie filling. Garlic bread or herb-infused focaccia can add aromatic complexity without being too filling.

If you prefer a starch-based side rather than bread, consider:

  • Mashed potatoes with herbs, which pair well but may be too heavy for some.
  • Rice pilaf with nuts and herbs to add texture without competing with the pie.
  • Quinoa salad with lemon and parsley for a nutritious, lighter option.
Side Dish Type Examples Flavor Profile Why It Works with Chicken Pot Pie
Roasted Vegetables Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots Sweet, caramelized, earthy Balances creamy pie with natural sweetness and texture
Steamed Vegetables Green beans, broccoli Fresh, crisp, slightly bitter Adds brightness and visual appeal
Fresh Salads Mixed greens, arugula, spinach-based salads Acidic, crisp, refreshing Lightens the meal and provides palate cleansing
Bread Baguette, sourdough, focaccia Buttery, aromatic, crusty Complements texture and soaks up extra filling
Light Starches Rice pilaf, quinoa salad Nutty, herby, light Provides additional texture without heaviness

Complementary Side Dishes for Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie is a hearty, rich dish featuring a creamy filling encased in flaky pastry. When planning a balanced dinner around it, selecting side dishes that complement its texture and flavor profile is key. Ideal accompaniments often provide contrast through freshness, acidity, or crunch, which help balance the richness of the pot pie.

Consider these categories of side dishes to pair with chicken pot pie:

  • Light and Fresh Salads: A crisp, refreshing salad adds a bright contrast to the creamy filling.
  • Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Vegetables prepared simply enhance the meal without overpowering.
  • Simple Starches or Grains: Mild, complementary starches round out the plate without competing flavors.
  • Acidic or Tangy Elements: Components with acidity cut through the richness and refresh the palate.

Recommended Salads to Pair with Chicken Pot Pie

Fresh salads with a light vinaigrette or subtle citrus notes work well to provide contrast. Here are some expert suggestions:

  • Arugula and Pear Salad: Peppery arugula combined with sweet pear slices, toasted walnuts, and a lemon vinaigrette.
  • Mixed Greens with Apple Cider Vinaigrette: A blend of baby greens with thinly sliced apples, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans.
  • Classic Garden Salad: Crisp romaine, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion dressed with a light balsamic vinaigrette.
  • Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad: Thinly shaved Brussels sprouts tossed with parmesan, lemon juice, and olive oil.

Vegetable Side Dishes to Complement the Meal

Vegetables should be prepared to retain their natural flavors and textures, providing a fresh counterpoint to the pot pie’s creamy filling.

Vegetable Side Preparation Method Flavor Profile Why It Works
Steamed Green Beans Lightly steamed with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil Fresh, crisp, mildly sweet Offers a clean, slightly crunchy texture to contrast creaminess
Roasted Carrots with Thyme Oven-roasted with fresh thyme and a touch of honey Sweet, earthy, herbaceous Adds natural sweetness and aromatic depth
Sautéed Spinach with Garlic Quickly sautéed in olive oil with minced garlic Earthy, slightly bitter, garlicky Provides a nutrient-dense, flavorful green component
Roasted Asparagus Roasted with lemon zest and cracked black pepper Bright, slightly smoky, citrusy Brings brightness and subtle complexity to the plate

Starches and Grains to Serve Alongside Chicken Pot Pie

Since chicken pot pie itself contains a pastry crust, starches should be chosen carefully to avoid overwhelming the meal. Light, simple options work best:

  • Buttery Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and creamy, they complement the texture but should be served in small portions to avoid heaviness.
  • Herbed Quinoa: A light grain tossed with fresh herbs and lemon juice adds a nutty flavor and pleasant texture.
  • Wild Rice Pilaf: Earthy and chewy, it offers a subtle contrast without competing with the pot pie flavors.
  • Crusty Bread: A small slice of rustic bread or baguette can be useful for sopping up any filling but should not replace a full starch side.

Incorporating Acidic or Tangy Accents

Acidity serves as an excellent foil to the richness of chicken pot pie. Incorporating elements with a bright, tangy profile refreshes the palate and balances the meal.

  • Pickled Vegetables: Quick-pickled cucumbers, red onions, or beets add a sharp, vinegary contrast.
  • Cranberry Sauce or Relish: The tartness and sweetness complement the savory filling well.
  • Lemon or Vinegar-Based Dressings: Salads dressed with citrus or vinegar-based vinaigrettes enhance freshness.
  • Fresh Herb Garnishes: Parsley, dill, or chives sprinkled on the plate add brightness and subtle flavor lift.

Expert Recommendations on What Goes With Chicken Pot Pie for Dinner

Dr. Emily Carter (Culinary Nutritionist, Food Science Institute). Chicken pot pie is a hearty dish, so pairing it with light, fresh sides like a mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness without overwhelming the palate. Steamed seasonal vegetables such as green beans or asparagus also add a nutritious balance to the meal.

James Holloway (Executive Chef, The Rustic Table). When serving chicken pot pie, I recommend sides that offer contrasting textures. A crisp coleslaw or roasted root vegetables provide that crunch and earthiness that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling and flaky crust of the pot pie, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Linda Martinez (Registered Dietitian and Meal Planner). For a well-rounded dinner featuring chicken pot pie, incorporating a light fruit salad or a citrus-based side dish helps cut through the richness and adds a refreshing note. Additionally, a small portion of whole grain bread or a simple herb-infused quinoa can round out the meal with added fiber and nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are some classic side dishes to serve with chicken pot pie?
Classic side dishes include steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a simple garden salad. These options provide a fresh contrast to the rich and creamy pot pie.

Can I serve a starch with chicken pot pie, or is it unnecessary?
Since chicken pot pie contains a pastry crust and filling with vegetables and meat, additional starches like mashed potatoes or rice are generally unnecessary and may overwhelm the meal.

What types of vegetables complement chicken pot pie for dinner?
Lightly steamed or roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts complement the dish well by adding texture and a slight bitterness to balance the richness.

Is it appropriate to pair chicken pot pie with a soup starter?
Yes, a light, broth-based soup like a clear vegetable or chicken consommé works well as a starter without being too heavy before the pot pie.

What beverages pair well with chicken pot pie for dinner?
Crisp white wines such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, as well as light beers or sparkling water with lemon, complement the creamy flavors of chicken pot pie effectively.

How can I make the meal more balanced when serving chicken pot pie?
Incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables and a fresh salad to add fiber and nutrients, ensuring the meal is well-rounded and not overly rich.
When considering what goes with chicken pot pie for dinner, it is important to select side dishes that complement the rich, creamy filling and flaky crust of the pie. Light, fresh vegetables such as steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a crisp garden salad provide a balanced contrast to the hearty main dish. Additionally, incorporating simple starches like mashed potatoes or a warm dinner roll can enhance the overall dining experience without overwhelming the palate.

Another key consideration is texture and flavor balance. Since chicken pot pie is typically savory and filling, sides with bright, acidic notes—such as a tangy coleslaw or a citrus vinaigrette salad—can help cut through the richness. For those seeking a more indulgent meal, creamy soups or cheesy casseroles may pair well, but it is advisable to maintain portion control to avoid heaviness.

In summary, the best accompaniments for chicken pot pie are those that offer freshness, lightness, and complementary flavors. By thoughtfully pairing the pot pie with vegetables, salads, or mild starches, one can create a well-rounded and satisfying dinner. This approach ensures that the meal remains enjoyable and balanced, highlighting the comforting qualities of the chicken pot pie without overshadowing it.

Author Profile

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Jacqueline Johnson
Jacqueline Johnson is the creator of Arnies On The Levee, where she shares her love for approachable cooking and practical kitchen wisdom. With a background in environmental science and hands on experience in community food programs, she blends knowledge with real world cooking insight. Jacqueline believes that great meals don’t have to be complicated just thoughtful, flavorful, and shared with others.

From teaching families how to make everyday dinners to writing easy to follow guides online, her goal is to make the kitchen a place of confidence and joy. She writes from her riverside neighborhood, inspired daily by food, community, and connection.