Who Makes the Best Chicken Pot Pie? Top Picks Revealed

Last Updated on September 20, 2024 by Lori Walker

Chicken pot pie is a timeless favorite, serving up **hearty**, familiar flavors.

I remember the time I had my very first bite of this savory dish. The buttery, flaky crust cradling tender chunks of chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce was a taste sensation I won’t forget. 

But who makes the best chicken pot pie? Well, that’s a debate that we should be looking forward to. Today, I’ll share what brands make the best chicken pot pie. Keep reading. 

Top 10 Contenders For The Best Chicken Pot Pie

1. Marie Callender’s

Marie Callender’s boasts a dependable chicken pot pie with a substantial crust and a satisfactory gravy. The chicken within, while tender, may have a slightly processed texture [1]. 

It offers a moderate calorie and sodium content, making it a comforting choice for those seeking a classic chicken pot pie experience.

2. Atkins

Atkins takes a unique approach with its crustless chicken pot pie, featuring a low-calorie option at just 300 calories. 

It delivers an impressive 24 grams of protein, with 3 grams of sugar, 6 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of fiber. 

“I did not become a vegetarian for my health, I did it for the health of the chickens.” 

– Isaac Bashevis Singer, Polish-American Novelist and Short Story Writer

However, the chicken lacks flavor, and the carrot portion might leave you wanting more. Surprisingly, the predominant flavor is broccoli, an unusual twist for pot pies. 

The limited variety of vegetables is another drawback worth noting. But how can you make pie crust without using a food processor?

3. Healthy Choice  

Healthy Choice introduces a crustless chicken pot pie filled with chicken, carrots, peas, corn, and dumplings. 

While the vegetables are tender, and there’s a generous amount of chicken, the dumplings can be odd and chewy. Overall, it surpasses Atkins but still has room for improvement. 

If you prefer a healthier option without the crust, Healthy Choice might be worth a try.

4. Boston Market

Boston Market offers both regular chicken pot pies and a crustless version. Their regular pot pie is a satisfying size, featuring a golden-brown crust, abundant veggies, and a creamy sauce. 

While the crust could be flakier, the overall taste of the filling is delightful. Boston Market is a dependable choice for a classic chicken pot pie experience.

5. Blake’s

Blake’s takes pride in its diverse selection of chicken pot pies, catering to various dietary preferences with traditional, organic, and gluten-free options.

They offer turkey and shepherd’s pie varieties. Their unique approach sets Blake’s apart, with the crust positioned atop the filling, maximizing the space for the hearty contents. 

The top crust is not only flakey but also incredibly flavorful, enhancing the overall appeal of Blake’s pot pies. 

Whether you have specific dietary needs or want a balanced and tasty pot pie, Blake’s is an appealing option for all palates.

6. Banquet

Banquet presents a straightforward choice with traditional chicken pot pies and an alternative version featuring broccoli. 

However, it’s essential to note that Banquet’s pot pies tend to be smaller, potentially leaving you wanting more. 

While the chicken flavor is commendable, more veggies and chicken pieces must be within the pie. 

Besides, the crust tends to brown quickly, which may or may not align with your preferences. 

If convenience is your top priority and you’re content with a smaller portion, Banquet could be a suitable option; otherwise, you might explore other contenders for a heartier pot pie experience. 

7. Stouffer’s

Stouffer’s presents a range of chicken pot pie options, including their white meat chicken pot pie, which is larger and has bite-sized portions. 

While Stouffer’s provides convenience, some critics have noted that their pot pies may lack the homemade quality found in other contenders. 

The flavor of the filling is often described as plain, and even with foil wrapping, the crust becomes dry. 

Also, the chicken pot pie bites have received mixed reviews, leaving room for improvement in the overall taste and texture department.

8. Boomerang’s

Boomerang’s stands out with its diverse selection of chicken pot pie flavors, encompassing the classic variety, chicken and mushroom [2], and even a plant-based option for those with dietary preferences. 

Customers have praised the flavorful nature of Boomerang’s pies, with the addition of mushrooms being a notable highlight. 

While the crust may be less flaky when oven-cooked, it achieves perfection when microwaved. 

Not just that, it offers a range of options to cater to different tastes, making it a compelling choice for chicken pot pie enthusiasts looking for variety and taste satisfaction.

9. Swanson

Swanson specializes in turkey pot pies featuring a golden, flaky crust that promises a satisfying meal. But some consumers have noted mixed experiences. 

“In the world of comfort food, the best chicken pot pie is the crown jewel of creamy, flaky perfection.”

– Leonelli Bakery

While the gravy inside Swanson’s pot pies tends to be rich and flavorful, the turkey component often needs to catch up in appearance and texture, appearing somewhat unnatural and possessing a rubbery consistency. 

The crust itself is criticized for its relatively bland taste. 

Swanson offers an option for those seeking a turkey-based pot pie, but be prepared for some inconsistencies in the overall quality of the pie.

10. Mrs. Budd’s

Mrs. Budd’s offers a diverse range of chicken pot pies, including a substantial 3-pound option alongside smaller servings. Their pot pies feature a golden-brown crust and a decent gravy. 

However, some reviewers have mentioned that the peas, carrots, and chicken components can have a processed appearance, potentially impacting the overall homemade feel. 

Also Read: What Is The Recommended Thickness For Pie Crust?

FAQs

The Takeaway

After exploring which makes the best chicken pot pie, it’s evident that each option has its strengths and weaknesses.

First, Swanson, known for its turkey pot pies, has garnered praise for its rich and flavorful gravy. 

The turkey’s unnatural appearance, rubbery texture, and somewhat bland crust have raised concerns among consumers.

On the other hand, Mrs. Budd’s offers a range of chicken pot pies, including a substantial 3-pound option. 

While they boast a golden-brown crust and decent gravy, the processed appearance of peas, carrots, and chicken has left some seeking a more homemade feel.

Though every contender offers advantages, the hunt for the ultimate chicken pot pie remains ongoing, with personal preferences holding considerable sway in selecting the ultimate winner.

References:

1. https://www.verywellfit.com/fried-chicken-tenders-nutrition-facts-and-health-benefits-5071686
2. https://www.uclahealth.org/news/7-health-benefits-of-mushrooms