Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pie is a beloved classic—creamy, comforting, and filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and a flaky golden crust. Whether you’re preparing a quick meal for yourself or cooking dinner for the family, this frozen pot pie is easy to prepare and delicious when cooked correctly. The best part? You can heat it using various methods depending on how much time you have.
In this article, I will instruct you how to cook Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pie in the oven, microwave, and air fryer, complete with ingredients, instructions, and practical tips. By the end, you’ll know exactly which cooking method is best for your convenience and taste preferences.
1. How to Cook Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pie in Oven
Ingredients
- 1 frozen Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pie (any size: 10 oz, 15 oz, or family-size)
- Optional: aluminum foil to prevent over-browning
- Optional: baking sheet for easier handling
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (204°C). For larger family-size pies, follow the cooking temperature on the package, usually between 375°F and 400°F.
Prepare the Pot Pie
Carefully remove the pot pie from the freezer—do not thaw. Using a fork, make 2–3 small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Place Pie on Baking Sheet
Put the frozen pot pie on a baking sheet to catch any spills. This also helps the pie cook evenly and makes it easier to remove from the oven.
Bake the Pot Pie
Cook in the center rack of the oven:
- 10 oz pie: Bake for 55–60 minutes
- 15 oz pie (large): Bake for 60–70 minutes
- Family-size pie: Bake for 1 hour 30 minutes – 1 hour 45 minutes
Prevent Over-Browning (Optional)
If the crust browns too quickly, loosely cover the edges with aluminum foil halfway through cooking.
Check for Doneness
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The filling should be bubbling, and the crust should be golden brown.
Rest and Serve
Let the pot pie sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to thicken.
The oven is the best method for cooking a Marie Callender’s Pot Pie if you want the crispiest, most perfectly browned crust. It does take longer, but the texture and flavor are worth the wait.
2. How to Cook Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pie in Microwave
Ingredients
- 1 frozen Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pie (10 oz or 15 oz)
- Microwave-safe plate
Instructions
Prepare the Pot Pie
Remove the pot pie from the box, but leave it inside the paper microwave tray. Use a fork to poke a few holes in the top crust.
Cook in the Microwave
Place the pot pie on a microwave-safe plate and cook on HIGH:
- 10 oz pie: Microwave for 5–6 minutes
- 15 oz pie: Microwave for 6–7 minutes
Check the Center
After the timer ends, check that the center is hot and the filling reaches 165°F (74°C). If not, heat in 30-second intervals until done.
Optional: Oven Crisping
For a crispier crust, after microwaving, place the pot pie in a 400°F (204°C) oven for 5–10 minutes.
Let It Rest
Rest 2–3 minutes before serving.
If you’re short on time, microwaving your Marie Callender’s pot pie is the fastest cooking method. While the crust won’t be as crisp as the oven version, the filling will still be hot, creamy, and flavorful.
3. How to Cook Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pie in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 frozen Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pie (10 oz or 15 oz)
- Optional: foil to prevent over-browning
Instructions
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for preheating.
Prepare the Pot Pie
Do not thaw. Poke 2–3 small slits in the crust to release steam.
Air Fry the Pot Pie
Place the frozen pot pie in the basket. Cook:
- 10 oz pie: 35–40 minutes
- 15 oz pie: 40–50 minutes
Check Doneness
The filling must reach 165°F (74°C) internally. If the crust is getting too dark, loosely cover the top with aluminum foil and continue cooking.
Rest and Serve
Let the pot pie cool for 5 minutes before serving.
The air fryer is a fantastic compromise—faster than the oven but still gives you a crispy, flaky crust. This method has become a favorite for pot pie lovers who want great texture without long cooking times.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to cook Marie Callender’s pot pie?
The oven is the best method because it gives the crust perfect crispiness and ensures even cooking. Air fryer is a close second when you want quicker results with a flaky crust.
Can you thaw the pot pie before cooking?
No. Marie Callender’s pot pies should be cooked straight from frozen for food safety and proper texture.
How do I prevent the crust from burning?
Cover the edges or top loosely with aluminum foil halfway through cooking, especially when using the oven or air fryer.
How do I know the pot pie is fully cooked?
The filling should bubble, and the internal temperature must reach 165°F (74°C) in the center.
Can I cook the pot pie in a toaster oven?
Yes, as long as the pot pie fits and the toaster oven reaches the recommended temperature. Cook times may vary slightly.
Why is the center still cold after cooking?
Every appliance varies in heat output. If the center is still cold, continue cooking in short intervals until the proper temperature is reached.
Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pie is one of the easiest comfort meals you can prepare at home, and with the right cooking method, it becomes even more delicious.
Now that you know how to cook Marie Callender’s Pot Pie in 3 different ways, you can choose the best method for your schedule and enjoy a warm, hearty meal anytime.
