Chicken pot pie, a comforting classic, is wonderfully versatile. What you serve alongside it depends on your desired balance of flavors and textures, as well as the formality of your meal. This guide explores a range of options, from simple sides to more elegant accompaniments, ensuring your next chicken pot pie feast is a resounding success.
Simple & Classic Sides for Chicken Pot Pie
These options complement the richness of the pie without overwhelming the palate:
1. A Simple Green Salad:
A crisp, green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy, savory pie. Consider adding a light vinaigrette dressing to cut through the richness. Think simple greens like romaine or butter lettuce, with maybe some cucumber and cherry tomatoes. Avoid heavy dressings that might compete with the pie's flavors.
2. Roasted Vegetables:
Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or asparagus, offer a healthy and flavorful counterpoint. The roasting process brings out their natural sweetness, creating a satisfying side dish. Season them simply with salt, pepper, and a little olive oil.
3. Steamed Green Beans:
Steamed green beans are another excellent choice, providing a simple, fresh, and healthy side. Their slightly bitter notes offer a pleasant contrast to the pie's creamy filling. A squeeze of lemon juice can enhance their flavor.
Elevating Your Chicken Pot Pie Meal: More Sophisticated Sides
For a more elegant dinner party or a special occasion, these options add a touch of sophistication:
4. Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread:
A warm, crusty loaf of bread, or some garlic bread, is perfect for soaking up the delicious gravy from the chicken pot pie. The contrasting textures and flavors create a satisfying culinary experience.
5. Wild Rice Pilaf:
A wild rice pilaf adds a nutty, earthy flavor and a delightful textural contrast to the creamy pie. The subtle sweetness of the wild rice complements the savory chicken filling.
6. Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan:
Simple yet elegant, blanched or roasted asparagus spears tossed with lemon juice and shaved parmesan cheese offer a sophisticated and refreshing counterpoint to the rich pie.
Balancing Flavors and Textures: Key Considerations
When choosing your sides, consider the following:
- Acidity: A touch of acidity, like a lemon vinaigrette or a squeeze of lemon juice on steamed greens, cuts through the richness of the pie.
- Texture: Balance the creamy texture of the pie with something crisp, like a salad, or something slightly chewy, like wild rice.
- Flavor Profile: Avoid sides with overly strong flavors that might compete with the chicken pot pie's dominant taste.
Beyond the Sides: Completing the Meal
Don't forget the finishing touches! A simple dessert, like a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a light fruit crumble, can perfectly conclude your chicken pot pie meal. A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, also pairs beautifully.
By carefully selecting your sides, you can elevate your chicken pot pie meal from a simple weeknight dinner to a memorable and satisfying culinary experience. Experiment with different combinations to discover your perfect pairing!
