10 Scrumptious Side Dishes to Elevate Your Chicken Pot Pie Game

Choosing the right bread to accompany chicken pot pie can turn a simple comfort meal into a memorable dining experience. The key is to think about contrast: the creamy, buttery filling of the pie benefits from a slice of bread that offers a crisp crust and a chewy interior, creating a satisfying bite that cuts through the richness. A classic French baguette, with its thin, crackly skin and airy crumb, is an excellent choice because it can be torn into manageable pieces that soak up the gravy without becoming soggy. If you prefer a heartier bite, a rustic sourdough loaf provides a tangy note that balances the savory depth of the pot pie’s vegetables and chicken. For those who love a touch of sweetness, a slice of lightly toasted brioche adds a buttery richness that mirrors the pie’s own buttery crust, while still delivering enough structure to hold up to the sauce. The overarching principle is to select a bread that has enough texture to provide a pleasant counterpoint, yet is gentle enough not to overpower the delicate flavors of the pot pie itself.

A practical way to elevate even the most basic bread is to give it a quick, flavorful finish before serving. Take a batch of soft dinner rolls—store-bought or homemade—and brush each roll with melted butter infused with minced garlic, fresh thyme, and a pinch of sea salt. Pop the rolls under a broiler for just a minute or two, watching closely until the edges turn golden and the butter caramelizes. This simple step adds a fragrant, savory glaze that complements the herbaceous notes often found in chicken pot pie, such as parsley or sage. For a family gathering, arrange the warm rolls on a wooden board, drizzle the remaining herb butter over the top, and sprinkle a few extra thyme leaves for visual appeal. The result is a basket of aromatic, melt-in-your-mouth rolls that invite guests to tear them apart and scoop up the luscious filling, creating an interactive and satisfying dining moment.

If you want to venture beyond the familiar and introduce a more adventurous bread pairing, consider making a rosemary focaccia or a whole‑grain olive loaf. Rosemary focaccia, with its olive‑oil‑laden surface and fragrant herb specks, adds an earthy complexity that mirrors the mushroom or carrot notes often present in the pot pie’s vegetable medley. To prepare it, stretch a simple dough on a baking sheet, dimple the surface with fingertips, drizzle generously with extra‑virgin olive oil, and scatter fresh rosemary leaves and flaky sea salt before baking until the crust is golden and the interior is pillowy. Slice the focaccia into generous squares and serve warm, allowing diners to use the soft, herb‑infused pieces to mop up the creamy broth. A whole‑grain olive loaf, on the other hand, brings a nutty, robust flavor profile that can stand up to a richly seasoned pot pie. Slice it thick, toast lightly, and rub the cut side with a clove of garlic for an added aromatic punch. Both options are straightforward enough for a weekday dinner yet impressive enough to wow guests at a weekend brunch, offering a versatile base that enhances the overall flavor harmony of the meal.

For those who need or prefer gluten‑free alternatives, there are several bread options that pair beautifully with chicken pot pie without sacrificing texture or taste. A popular choice is a batch of almond‑flour biscuits, which are naturally crumbly yet sturdy enough to hold a spoonful of gravy. To make them, combine almond flour, a pinch of baking powder, a dash of salt, an egg, and melted butter, then drop spoonfuls onto a parchment‑lined sheet and bake until lightly golden. The resulting biscuits have a slightly sweet, nutty flavor that complements the savory pie, and their sturdy edges prevent them from falling apart when dunked. Another convenient option is a high‑quality gluten‑free roll from the bakery section of a well‑stocked grocery store; look for varieties that contain a blend of rice flour and tapioca starch for a light, airy crumb. Before serving, warm the rolls in a preheated oven for ten minutes and brush them with a mixture of melted butter and chopped chives. This quick step adds moisture and a fresh herb note, making the rolls a perfect vehicle for scooping up the pot pie’s sauce while keeping the dining experience elegant and inclusive for all guests.

When you think of a comforting chicken pot pie, it’s easy to picture the golden crust and the creamy, savory filling as the star of the meal. Yet a well‑chosen soup can elevate the entire dining experience by adding layers of flavor, texture, and warmth that complement the pie’s richness. One of the simplest yet most effective options is a classic chicken noodle soup. By using the same stock that you’d use for the pot pie, you create a cohesive flavor profile that ties the two dishes together. Slice the noodles thin and add a handful of fresh parsley or dill right before serving; this brightens the dish and adds a subtle herbal note that cuts through the pie’s heaviness. To keep the soup light yet satisfying, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle depth that pairs beautifully with the savory filling.

Another delightful choice is a creamy tomato basil bisque. The acidity of the tomatoes balances the buttery crust, while the basil introduces a fragrant freshness that lifts the palate. Make the bisque by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil, then adding crushed tomatoes, vegetable or chicken stock, and a handful of fresh basil leaves. Blend until silky, then stir in a drizzle of cream or coconut milk for a velvety finish. A practical tip is to finish the soup with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of ricotta, which adds a silky texture and a burst of umami. This soup’s bright red color also provides a striking visual contrast to the golden pie, making the table look more vibrant and inviting.

For those who enjoy a heartier, earthy flavor, a mushroom barley soup is an excellent companion. The chewy barley adds substance without overwhelming the pot pie, while the earthy mushrooms echo the savory notes of the pie’s filling. Begin by browning sliced mushrooms in butter until they release their juices, then add diced carrots, celery, and onions for a classic mirepoix base. Stir in pearl barley, a splash of white wine, and enough chicken or vegetable stock to cover the grains. Simmer until the barley is tender, then finish with a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of fresh thyme. A practical trick is to reserve some of the cooked barley to stir back into the soup at the end; this ensures even distribution and a pleasant bite. Pairing this soup with a pot pie not only balances the meal’s richness but also introduces a comforting, rustic element that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Finally, consider a velvety butternut squash soup to bring a subtle sweetness and a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with chicken pot pie. Roast the squash until caramelized, then blend with sautéed onions, a touch of ginger, and a splash of coconut milk for a smooth consistency. To add depth, stir in a pinch of nutmeg and a tablespoon of maple syrup, which will echo the pie’s savory-sweet balance. Finish the soup with a swirl of crème fraîche and a few toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch. This combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements creates a multi‑sensory experience that complements the comforting nature of the pot pie while keeping the meal interesting and balanced. By selecting any of these soups, you transform a simple chicken pot pie dinner into a thoughtfully curated, comforting feast that satisfies both heart and stomach.

Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that can elevate the humble chicken pot pie to new heights. When done correctly, they provide a creamy, comforting contrast to the rich, savory filling of the pot pie. To achieve mashed potato magic, it’s essential to start with the right type of potatoes. Look for high-starch potatoes like Russet or Idaho, as they will yield a lighter, fluffier mash. Avoid waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they will result in a dense, sticky mash that’s better suited to other dishes. Once you’ve selected your potatoes, be sure to wash and peel them thoroughly, then chop them into large chunks to facilitate even cooking.

When it comes to cooking the potatoes, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. First, be sure to use enough water to cover the potatoes, as this will help them cook evenly and prevent them from becoming waterlogged. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and let the potatoes cook until they’re tender when pierced with a fork. This should take around 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the potato chunks. While the potatoes are cooking, you can start to think about the type of milk or cream you’ll use to mash them. For a rich, indulgent mash, try using heavy cream or half-and-half. For a lighter, more rustic mash, you can use whole milk or a combination of milk and butter. Whatever you choose, be sure to warm it gently before adding it to the potatoes, as this will help to create a smooth, creamy texture.

One of the most common mistakes people make when mashing potatoes is over-mixing them. This can result in a gluey, unappetizing texture that’s more suited to wallpaper paste than a delicious side dish. To avoid this, try using a gentle, folding motion to combine the cooked potatoes with the milk or cream. Use a fork or a potato masher to break down the potatoes, then switch to a spoon or spatula to fold in the liquid. Be careful not to over-beat the potatoes, as this will break down the starches and result in an unappealing texture. Instead, aim for a smooth, creamy mash that still retains some texture and bite. If you’re looking for a bit of extra flavor, you can also try adding some grated cheese, chopped herbs, or a sprinkle of paprika to the potatoes as you mash them.

In addition to the type of potatoes and the cooking method, the type of equipment you use can also make a big difference in the quality of your mashed potatoes. A good potato masher or ricer can help to break down the potatoes evenly and create a smooth, creamy texture. If you don’t have one of these tools, you can also use a fork or a whisk to mash the potatoes, although this may require a bit more elbow grease. Whatever you choose, be sure to use it gently, as you want to avoid breaking down the starches in the potatoes and ending up with a gluey, unappetizing mash. Another key piece of equipment is a good saucepan, as this will help to cook the potatoes evenly and prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Look for a heavy-bottomed pan with a non-stick coating, as this will make it easy to cook the potatoes and then mash them without sticking.

To take your mashed potatoes to the next level and create the perfect pairing for your chicken pot pie, try adding some extra flavor and texture to the dish. One great way to do this is to add some caramelized onions or garlic to the potatoes as you mash them. Simply cook the onions or garlic in a bit of butter until they’re soft and fragrant, then fold them into the potatoes along with some grated cheese or chopped herbs. You can also try adding some crispy, crunchy texture to the potatoes by sprinkling some chopped bacon or scallions on top of the dish. Whatever you choose, be sure to taste the potatoes as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly. With a bit of practice and patience, you should be able to create a delicious, comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with your chicken pot pie and elevates the entire meal to new heights.

When it comes to pairing a side dish with chicken pot pie, you want something that complements its rich, savory flavors without overpowering them. Creamy mac and cheese is an excellent choice, as it offers a delightful contrast of textures and a comforting familiarity that will leave your taste buds singing. This classic comfort food is a staple for a reason, and when done right, it’s a match made in heaven when paired with the flaky, buttery crust of a chicken pot pie.

The key to a successful mac and cheese is in the creaminess factor, which is exactly what sets it apart from a traditional pasta dish. You can achieve this by using a combination of cheeses, with sharp cheddar and Parmesan being the most popular choices. The cheddar will provide a tangy, sharp flavor, while the Parmesan will add a salty, nutty taste that will elevate your mac and cheese to new heights. It’s also essential to use a roux-based sauce, which will give your mac and cheese a silky smooth texture that coats the pasta perfectly. To take it to the next level, try adding some grated nutmeg, which will add a warm, aromatic flavor that will perfectly complement the chicken and herbs in your pot pie.

Now, when it comes to pairing your mac and cheese with a chicken pot pie, the choice of pasta shape is crucial. While elbow macaroni is the most popular choice, you can also experiment with other shapes, such as shells or cavatappi. These shapes will hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly, making each bite a delightful experience. Another tip is to add some toasted breadcrumbs on top of your mac and cheese, which will provide a satisfying crunch that will complement the flaky crust of your pot pie. To make it even more decadent, try adding some crispy prosciutto or bacon bits on top, which will add a smoky, savory flavor that will elevate your dish to new heights.

One of the most significant advantages of pairing mac and cheese with chicken pot pie is that it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or a family gathering, this comfort food combo is sure to delight both kids and adults alike. The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile, so you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. For example, if you’re feeling fancy, you can add some truffle oil or infused cream to give your mac and cheese a luxurious twist. Alternatively, you can keep it simple by using a store-bought cheese sauce and adding some frozen peas for added color and nutrition.

In terms of practicality, pairing mac and cheese with chicken pot pie is a breeze. Simply cook your pasta according to the package instructions, then top it with a generous helping of your creamy cheese sauce. While your pot pie is baking in the oven, you can prepare your mac and cheese by melting the cheese sauce and stirring in some cooked pasta. Once your pot pie is golden brown and fragrant, it’s ready to be served alongside your creamy mac and cheese. With these simple steps, you’ll have a comforting combo that will leave your taste buds craving for more.