Introduction: What to Serve with Chicken Pot Pie?
Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food that is both savory and satisfying. It is a hearty dish that consists of chicken and vegetables baked in a flaky crust. While chicken pot pie is a delicious meal on its own, it is always more enjoyable when paired with complementary sides. In this article, we will explore some of the best sides to serve with chicken pot pie.
Classic Sides: Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans
Mashed potatoes and green beans are classic sides that pair perfectly with chicken pot pie. The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes complements the flaky crust of the pot pie, while the green beans add a fresh, crisp flavor to the meal. To make the mashed potatoes, boil potatoes until tender, mash them with butter and cream, and season with salt and pepper. For the green beans, simply steam them until they are tender and season with salt and pepper.
Salads: Caesar, Cobb, or Garden?
Salads are a healthy and refreshing side option for chicken pot pie. Caesar salad, Cobb salad, and garden salad are all great choices. Caesar salad is made with romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing. Cobb salad is made with lettuce, bacon, hard-boiled eggs, avocado, tomato, and blue cheese dressing. Garden salad is made with mixed greens, cucumber, tomato, and your favorite dressing. Salads are a great way to add some vegetables to your meal and balance out the richness of the pot pie.
Soups: Creamy or Brothy?
Soups are another great side option for chicken pot pie. Creamy soups like broccoli cheddar or potato soup pair well with the rich flavors of the pot pie. Brothy soups like chicken noodle or tomato soup provide a lighter option that still complements the dish. To make a creamy soup, sauté vegetables in butter and add chicken broth and cream. For a brothy soup, simply simmer chicken broth with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
Breads: Biscuits, Rolls, or Cornbread?
Bread is always a great option to serve alongside chicken pot pie. Biscuits, rolls, and cornbread are all classic options. Biscuits are fluffy and buttery, while rolls are soft and pillowy. Cornbread is slightly sweet and has a crumbly texture. All three options are perfect for sopping up the gravy from the pot pie.
Vegetables: Roasted or Steamed?
Vegetables are a healthy and flavorful addition to any meal. Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes have a caramelized flavor that pairs well with the savory pot pie. Steamed vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and green beans are a lighter option that still adds some freshness to the meal. To roast vegetables, toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper and bake until tender. To steam vegetables, simply place them in a steamer basket and steam until tender.
Rice and Grains: Pilaf, Quinoa, or Wild Rice?
Rice and grains add texture and substance to any meal. Pilaf, quinoa, and wild rice are all great options to serve with chicken pot pie. Pilaf is a rice dish that is cooked in broth with vegetables and spices. Quinoa is a grain that is high in protein and has a nutty flavor. Wild rice is a type of grass that has a nutty flavor and chewy texture. All three options are great for absorbing the gravy from the pot pie.
Beverages: Wine, Beer, or Soft Drinks?
Beverages are an important part of any meal. Wine, beer, and soft drinks are all great options to serve with chicken pot pie. A light red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp white wine like Chardonnay pair well with the dish. A cold beer like a Pilsner or IPA is a refreshing option. Soft drinks like iced tea or lemonade are perfect for a non-alcoholic option.
Desserts: Pies, Cakes, or Ice Cream?
Desserts are the perfect way to end any meal. Pies, cakes, and ice cream are all great options to serve with chicken pot pie. Apple pie or pumpkin pie are classic options that pair well with the flavors of the pot pie. Chocolate cake or carrot cake are rich and decadent options. Ice cream is a refreshing option that pairs well with the warm pot pie.
Conclusion: Perfect Pairings for Chicken Pot Pie
In conclusion, chicken pot pie is a delicious and comforting meal that is even better when paired with complementary sides. Classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans, salads, soups, breads, vegetables, rice and grains, beverages, and desserts all work well with the dish. By incorporating these sides into your meal, you can create the perfect pairing for your chicken pot pie.
