Chicken pot pie – that creamy, comforting classic that warms both your belly and soul. But have you ever found yourself wondering what bread would perfectly complement this hearty dish? You’re not alone! I’ve spent countless evenings experimenting with different bread pairings, and I’m excited to share what I’ve discovered about finding that perfect crusty companion.
Why Serving Bread With Chicken Pot Pie Makes Sense
Before diving into specific breads let’s talk about why bread and chicken pot pie are such natural partners
- Sauce Soaker: Good bread captures every last drop of that delicious pot pie gravy
- Textural Contrast: The crispy crust of bread balances the creamy filling
- Filling Extender: Helps make the meal more substantial for hungry eaters
- Plate Cleaner: Let’s be honest – we all want to mop up that delicious sauce!
I remember making pot pie for my family last fall, and my uncle (who considers himself a pot pie connoisseur) insisted we needed bread. “The pot pie might have a crust,” he declared, “but nothing beats dragging a piece of crusty bread through that sauce!” He was absolutely right.
Top Bread Choices for Chicken Pot Pie
1. Sourdough Bread
Sourdough is possibly the PERFECT match for chicken pot pie. Its slight tanginess cuts through the richness of the creamy filling, while the crusty exterior and soft interior provide ideal texture contrast
Why it works: The open crumb structure (those air pockets in the bread) acts like tiny flavor sponges, soaking up gravy without getting mushy.
2. Rustic Italian Bread
Similar to sourdough, rustic Italian bread has that hearty crust with a soft chewy interior that stands up well to the pot pie’s sauce.
Pro tip: Slice it thick and warm it slightly before serving!
3. Country Loaf
A classic choice that provides a satisfying chew and subtle flavor that complements without competing with your pot pie.
4. Crusty Baguette
Sliced on a diagonal, baguettes offer the perfect vehicle for dipping and a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pot pie filling.
5. No-Knead Bread
If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade no-knead bread typically has a rustic crust and flavorful crumb that pairs wonderfully with pot pie.
Beyond the Basics: More Bread Options
While the crusty breads above are my top recommendations, don’t limit yourself! Here are some other options that might surprise you:
Cornbread
This southern classic can work beautifully with chicken pot pie, especially if you opt for a less sweet, more savory version. The grainy texture offers a nice contrast to the creamy filling.
Garlic Bread
A subtly flavored garlic bread can add another dimension to your meal. Just be careful not to go too heavy on the garlic, as it might overwhelm the delicate flavors of the pot pie.
Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread
This indulgent option from Cook Eat Go adds another layer of comfort to your comfort food! The cheese adds richness while the pull-apart nature makes it fun to share.
English Muffin Garlic Cheese Bread
For something a bit different, try English muffins topped with garlic and cheese. The nooks and crannies in the muffins capture sauce beautifully.
Pull-Apart Parmesan Bites
Using refrigerated biscuits, these easy garlic bread bites add a fun, interactive element to dinner.
Bread Qualities to Look For
When selecting bread for chicken pot pie, keep these factors in mind:
Texture Considerations
- Crusty exterior: Provides satisfying contrast
- Soft interior: Absorbs gravy without falling apart
- Open crumb structure: Creates pockets for sauce to nestle in
Flavor Profile
- Slightly tangy or nutty: Complements the pot pie without overwhelming
- Avoid overly sweet breads: They’ll clash with the savory nature of pot pie
- Simple is often better: Let the pot pie be the star
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to serve bread with chicken pot pie?
Nope! It’s not required, but it definitely enhances the experience. Think of bread as the supporting actor that helps the star (your pot pie) shine even brighter.
Can I use pre-sliced sandwich bread?
You can, but it’s not ideal. Sandwich bread tends to be too soft and lacks the necessary crust to provide that satisfying contrast. If it’s all you have, toasting it helps!
Should I toast the bread before serving?
This is totally up to personal preference. Toasting adds extra texture and a nutty flavor, but it can make the bread less absorbent. I usually serve it untoasted but warm.
Can I make bread bowls for chicken pot pie?
Absolutely! Bread bowls are an awesome way to serve chicken pot pie. Choose a sturdy round loaf, hollow it out, and fill with your pot pie mixture. It’s both delicious and reduces dishes!
Is there a gluten-free bread option that works well?
Yes! Look for gluten-free breads made with a blend of flours like rice flour, tapioca flour, and potato starch to achieve a good texture. Toasting gluten-free bread often helps prevent it from being too crumbly.
Creative Serving Ideas
Want to take your bread and pot pie pairing to the next level? Try these ideas:
- Bread Bowl: Hollow out a round loaf and serve the pot pie inside
- Bread Soldiers: Cut baguette into “dipping sticks” arranged around the pot pie
- Herbed Butter: Serve warm bread with a compound butter featuring herbs that complement your pot pie
- Deconstructed Approach: Layer toasted bread, filling, and perhaps a crumble topping for a different take
How to Serve Bread With Chicken Pot Pie
The presentation matters too! Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve bread warm or at room temperature
- Slice and arrange around the pot pie on a serving platter
- Offer in a basket on the side so guests can help themselves
- If using baguette, slice on a diagonal for more surface area for dipping
Making It Work When You Don’t Have Ideal Bread
We’ve all been there – you realize you don’t have the perfect bread right as dinner’s ready. Don’t panic! Here are some alternatives:
- Crackers: In a pinch, butter crackers or water crackers can work
- Croutons: Homemade or store-bought can add that bread element
- Toast: If you only have sandwich bread, toast it well
- Biscuits: While different, they can serve a similar purpose
My Personal Experience
Last Thanksgiving, I made a turkey pot pie with the leftovers but forgot to buy bread. My grandma suggested using her homemade dinner rolls instead. We warmed them slightly, tore them in half, and used them to scoop up the filling. It worked surprisingly well! The lesson? Don’t be afraid to improvise.
Final Thoughts on Pairing Bread with Chicken Pot Pie
The perfect bread for your chicken pot pie is ultimately the one YOU enjoy most. While sourdough, rustic Italian, and country loaves tend to be the crowd favorites, don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect match.
Remember these key points:
- Look for bread with good contrast between crust and interior
- Choose flavors that complement rather than compete
- Serve the bread in a way that makes it easy to enjoy with the pot pie
Next time you’re enjoying that comforting classic, try a new bread pairing and see what you think! And don’t forget to share your discoveries – I’m always looking for new combinations to try.
What’s your favorite bread to serve with chicken pot pie? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments!
Tips and Tricks for Making Chicken Pot Pie
Now that we’ve explored some great side dish options, let’s dive into some tips and tricks for serving chicken pot pie:
- Don’t Overcrowd: When serving chicken pot pie, remember that it’s a substantial dish on its own. Avoid overloading your plate with too many side dishes, as it can be overwhelming.
- Balance Flavors: Strive for a balance of flavors and textures. If your pot pie is rich and creamy, opt for lighter and crisper side dishes. If your pot pie is more on the plain side, consider sides with stronger flavors.
- Timing is Key: Make sure your side dishes are ready and hot when you serve the pot pie. No one wants to eat lukewarm or cold sides with a piping hot pot pie.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or grated cheese on top of your pot pie adds visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor.
- Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, consider making mini chicken pot pies or serving the dish in individual ramekins.
Side Dishes for Chicken Pot Pie
Here are just some of the sides I like to serve with a chicken pot pie. If you scroll down you can click on some of my favorite recipes that pair perfectly.
- Green Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad is an ideal accompaniment. The lightness of the salad provides a nice contrast to the richness of the pot pie. Choose a mix of greens, add some sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette dressing.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts is a fantastic way to add color, nutrition, and a delightful roasted flavor to your meal. A drizzle of olive oil, some herbs, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper will elevate the veggies.
- Mashed Potatoes: This classic side dish pairs beautifully with chicken pot pie. Creamy mashed potatoes provide a hearty base that complements the pot pie’s creamy filling. Feel free to add some garlic or herbs for extra flavor.
- Corn on the Cob: A simple but satisfying choice, corn on the cob is a great addition to your meal. It’s easy to prepare, and the sweet, juicy kernels balance the savory nature of chicken pot pie.
- Cranberry Sauce: If you love a sweet-and-savory combination, consider serving cranberry sauce as a condiment. The tartness of cranberries complements the richness of the pot pie, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.
- Soup: A cup of soup, such as tomato, butternut squash, or potato leek, can be a comforting starter. It warms you up and prepares your taste buds for the main course.
- Biscuits or Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy biscuits or dinner rolls are a fantastic way to soak up every last bit of that delicious pot pie filling. They also add a delightful carb element to your meal.
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions when making chicken pot pie, how to freeze, how to make pot pie healthier, and more!
Yes, you can prepare chicken pot pie in advance and refrigerate it. To serve, reheat it in the oven until it’s hot and bubbly.
Absolutely! Chicken pot pie freezes well. Just be sure to wrap it tightly and label it with the date so you can enjoy it within a few months.
Yes, you can use pre-made pie crusts for convenience. However, homemade crusts provide a more personal touch and often better flavor.
You can make chicken pot pie healthier by using less butter or cream, adding more vegetables, and opting for a whole wheat crust or a phyllo dough topping.
Leftover chicken pot pie can be enjoyed the next day or repurposed into a pot pie casserole, turnovers, or even used as a filling for a sandwich.