Chicken pot pie—it’s the ultimate comfort food, but not all versions live up to the hype. Some chain restaurants manage to turn this classic dish into a letdown, while others master the balance of a flaky crust and flavorful filling.
In the world of chain restaurant pot pies, the differences are night and day. Here’s a breakdown of the six worst and six best chicken pot pies, so you know exactly where to go when that craving strikes.
1. Metro Diner
Ever wondered how butter could steal the show in a chicken pot pie? Metro Diner certainly did. The crust here is richer than a lottery winner, but alas, the filling is overshadowed by all that buttery bravado. It’s like a one-man band that forgot the rest of the ensemble.
Yet, with a glass of sweet tea and a lively booth, you might find yourself forgiving the imbalance. After all, who doesn’t love a little flair?
2. Jason’s Deli
The chicken pot pie at Jason’s Deli features a thin, delicate crust, almost reminiscent of a lighter, more carb-conscious approach. The filling is robust and flavorful, though it leans toward a noticeably salty profile. It offers a distinctive, assertive taste, making it somewhat overpowering.
Though, if salt is your spirit animal, you might find joy in its savory depths. But for those seeking subtlety, this pie might just be too much. It’s a bold statement in a flaky package.
3. Golden Corral
If, by chance, you find yourself at Golden Corral craving a chicken pot pie, prepare for a rollercoaster. The crust might remind you of an amateur pastry attempt, uneven and unpredictable. Is it charmingly rustic or just rushed?
The filling can spill over slightly, giving it a homemade, rustic touch. It may not be perfectly polished, but it’s made with care and adds to the comfort of the dish.
4. Potbelly
At Potbelly, the chicken pot pie leans more toward an appetizer than a full meal. The crust is light and flaky, reminiscent of expertly crafted pastry, while the filling is somewhat sparse, leaving a less substantial presence.
Despite this, it remains a pleasant snack, with a satisfying crust that offers a delightful texture. However, if you’re seeking a more filling dish, you may find yourself in need of additional sustenance.
5. Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
How about a chicken pot pie that’s just…okay? Perkins offers a pie that sticks to the basics with an average crust and a filling that whispers rather than shouts.
It’s the pie version of vanilla ice cream—safe, comforting, and a little predictable. Paired with a side salad, it’s a pleasant meal, though it might not inspire culinary sonnets. Best for the risk-averse pie lover.
6. Cracker Barrel
At Cracker Barrel, the chicken pot pie evokes a sense of home, with each golden-brown, flaky layer reflecting a careful, traditional preparation.
The filling is rich and harmonious, combining chicken, vegetables, and cream in a well-balanced blend of flavors. This dish embodies the essence of comfort food, served in a setting that invites relaxation and nostalgia.
7. Marie Callender’s Restaurant & Bakery
Marie Callender’s is like the culinary equivalent of a masterpiece painting. The pie crust is thick, buttery, and inviting, creating the perfect vessel for its luscious filling.
The rich, creamy interior is filled with chunky chicken and a medley of vegetables that sing together in harmony. It’s the kind of pie that demands your full attention, each bite a symphony.
8. Boston Market
With its comforting flavors, Boston Market’s chicken pot pie feels like a cozy embrace from home. The lattice-style crust is both crispy and golden, a delightful texture that complements the creamy, rich filling beneath.
It’s a classic done right, boasting flavors that are both familiar and comforting, like a favorite childhood storybook. With each bite, you’re reminded why some recipes stand the test of time.
9. KFC
When you think KFC, fried chicken comes to mind, but their pot pie deserves a standing ovation. The crust is golden, crispy, and rivals the best biscuits.
Inside, the savory filling is rich and satisfying, with tender chicken and vegetables that dance together in perfect harmony. It’s a surprise hit that makes you question why you ever doubted KFC’s pie prowess.
10. Black Bear Diner
The pot pie at Black Bear Diner is served in portions as big and warm as a bear hug. The thick crust is hearty and satisfying, a sturdy complement to the flavorful filling inside.
Generously portioned, it’s a meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul, great for a hearty appetite. If you’re searching for warmth and abundance, this pie is ready to deliver.
11. Bob Evans
At Bob Evans, the chicken pot pie is like a cozy country kitchen on a plate. The flaky, buttery crust encases a rich, creamy filling that whispers homestyle goodness with every bite.
It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to linger at the table, savoring the warmth and comfort it offers. In a world of fast everything, this pie reminds you to take it slow and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
12. Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen
Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen elevates the chicken pot pie to gourmet levels. The crust is perfectly browned, a testament to the art of pastry.
Inside, the luxurious filling is a revelation, blending tender chicken with vegetables in a creamy, decadent sauce. For those seeking a touch of elegance with their comfort food, this is the pot pie for you.