Think frozen chicken pot pies are all the same? Think again! We’ve done the dirty work of taste-testing the most popular brands to uncover the good, the bad, and the downright inedible. From soggy crusts to salty fillings, some of these pies are truly appalling. But fear not, intrepid reader – we’ve also discovered a few gems that just might satisfy your craving for a comforting, no-fuss meal. So grab a fork and prepare to be shocked, amused, and (maybe) a little bit hungry as we rank the best and worst of the frozen chicken pot pie world.
1. Banquet Chicken Pot Pie
If you’re on a tight budget and have a high tolerance for disappointment, Banquet’s chicken pot pie might be your jam. With a watery filling and a crust that manages to be both soggy and chewy, this pie is a true feat of culinary mediocrity. The tiny chunks of mechanically separated chicken are a far cry from the tender, juicy pieces you’d find in a homemade version.
But hey, at least it’s cheap, right? If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal that will fill your belly without emptying your wallet, Banquet’s pot pie might do the trick. Just don’t expect it to be a gourmet experience. This is the kind of food you eat when you’re too tired to cook and too broke to order takeout.
So if you’re feeling adventurous (or just really, really hungry), go ahead and give Banquet’s chicken pot pie a try. Just don’t say we didn’t warn you. And maybe have a bottle of hot sauce on hand to liven things up a bit.
2. Willow Tree Chicken Pot Pie
Willow Tree’s chicken pot pie is a step up from Banquet’s, but that’s not saying much. While the crust is flakier and the filling is slightly more flavorful, it still falls short of being truly delicious. The chicken is shredded rather than chunked, which gives the pie a somewhat mushy texture.
One major downside of Willow Tree’s pot pie is its sodium content. With over 1,000 milligrams of sodium per serving, this pie is definitely not a healthy choice. If you’re watching your salt intake, you might want to steer clear of this one.
But if you’re in the mood for a slightly more upscale version of a frozen pot pie, Willow Tree’s offering might hit the spot. Just be prepared to chug some water afterwards to counteract all that salt.
3. Swanson Chicken Pot Pie
Swanson’s chicken pot pie is another budget-friendly option that’s a slight improvement over Banquet’s version. The crust is a bit crispier, and the filling has a creamier consistency. However, the chicken still leaves something to be desired – it’s ground rather than chunked, which gives the pie a slightly unappetizing texture.
One thing Swanson’s pot pie has going for it is its vegetable content. The peas and carrots are surprisingly crisp and flavorful, adding a much-needed burst of freshness to an otherwise heavy dish. If you’re looking for a frozen pot pie that at least makes an attempt at being somewhat healthy, Swanson’s might be worth a try.
But let’s be real – if you’re craving a chicken pot pie, you’re probably not too concerned about getting your daily dose of veggies. Swanson’s pie is a solid choice if you’re on a budget and don’t mind a slightly weird texture, but it’s not going to blow your mind.
4. Boston Market Chicken Pot Pie
Now we’re getting somewhere! Boston Market’s chicken pot pie is a cut above the rest, with a buttery, flaky crust and a filling that actually tastes like chicken. The chunks of white meat are tender and juicy, and the gravy is thick and creamy without being too heavy.
One standout feature of Boston Market’s pot pie is its unique flavor profile. In addition to the classic chicken and vegetable filling, this pie has a hint of herbs and spices that give it a little something extra. It’s not quite as good as a homemade pot pie, but it’s pretty darn close.
The only downside to Boston Market’s pot pie is its calorie and sodium content. With over 600 calories and 1,300 milligrams of sodium per serving, this is definitely not a health food. But if you’re in the mood for an indulgent treat that won’t make you feel like you’re settling for mediocrity, Boston Market’s pie is a solid choice.
5. Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pie
Marie Callender’s chicken pot pie is a classic for a reason. With its golden, flaky crust and creamy, savory filling, this pie is the epitome of comfort food. The chicken is tender and plentiful, and the vegetables are cooked to perfection.
What sets Marie Callender’s pot pie apart from the rest is its attention to detail. From the crimped edges of the crust to the perfectly balanced seasoning of the filling, every element of this pie is crafted with care. It’s the kind of food that makes you feel like someone’s grandma is giving you a warm hug from the inside out.
Of course, like many frozen pot pies, Marie Callender’s isn’t exactly a health food. But if you’re going to indulge in a comforting, satisfying meal, you might as well do it right. And with Marie Callender’s, you can’t go wrong.
6. Blake’s Chicken Pot Pie
If you’re looking for a frozen pot pie that tastes like it came straight out of your grandma’s kitchen, look no further than Blake’s. This pie boasts a flaky, buttery crust and a filling that’s packed with big chunks of tender chicken and plenty of vegetables. The gravy is rich and savory without being too salty, and the overall flavor is homey and comforting.
One thing that sets Blake’s apart from other frozen pot pies is its commitment to using high-quality, natural ingredients. The chicken is antibiotic-free, and the vegetables are all recognizable and pronounceable. It’s the kind of food that makes you feel good about what you’re putting into your body, even if it is a bit of an indulgence.
7. Centerville Pie Co. Chicken Pot Pie
If you’re willing to splurge a bit, Centerville Pie Co.’s chicken pot pie is worth every penny. This pie is the crème de la crème of frozen pot pies, with a flaky, buttery crust that’s almost too pretty to eat (almost) and a filling that’s bursting with flavor. The chicken is tender and juicy, the vegetables are crisp and fresh-tasting, and the gravy is rich and creamy without being too heavy.
What really sets Centerville Pie Co.’s pot pie apart, though, is its attention to detail. Every element of this pie is crafted with care, from the perfectly crimped edges of the crust to the expertly balanced seasoning of the filling. It’s the kind of food that makes you feel like you’re dining in a fancy restaurant, even if you’re just eating it on your couch in your sweatpants.
So there you have it – the good, the bad, and the downright inedible of the frozen chicken pot pie world. Whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge, there’s a pie out there for everyone. Just remember – life’s too short to eat bad food. So go ahead and treat yourself to one of the top-ranked pies on this list. Your taste buds (and your stomach) will thank you.
