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Let's be real: we've all had the experience of peeping in the fridge ahead of dinnertime just to see it's a barren wasteland, and the idea of cooking feels practically impossible. Enter the glory of frozen meals! While they're convenient, having so many options can feel quite overwhelming when it comes to actually adding frozen meals to your cart. Fear not, fellow connoisseurs of convenience – I've delved deep and developed a personal ranking of the best frozen meals you can get at the grocery store.
Scroll on to discover the 10 best frozen meals to gab for easy weeknight meals or lazy weekend munchies!
Trader Joe's
1. Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken
This dish is a true cult classic for a reason. It features crispy chicken pieces bathed in a sweet and tangy sauce that rivals your favorite takeout place! Pair it with some rice, and you're golden.
Target
2. Amy's Kitchen Pad Thai
When you order Pad Thai for takeout or delivery, there's always that 'what if?' moment. What if the noodles are cold? What if they gave me chicken when I asked for veggies? What if there isn't enough sauce? With Amy's frozen Pad Thai, you'll never have to ask 'what if?' – and it's always vegetarian.
Target
3. Devour Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese
This isn't your grandma's mac and cheese! It's creamy, cheesy, and packed with spicy buffalo chicken goodness. It's essentially comfort food, leveled up. Plus, with the added protein punch of chicken, it's perfect for the days you're hitting the gym.
Target
4. Healthy Choice Power Bowls
If you're looking for something on the healthier side that still packs a delicious punch, these frozen bowls are a game-changer. They always have a nice balance of veggies, lean proteins, and satisfying grains.
Target
5. Stouffer's Meat & Sauce Lasagna
Sometimes you just need a hearty lasagna. Stouffer's has been doing it right for ages, and this one consistently hits the spot. If you haven't yet enjoyed all that this lasagna has to offer, get your boots to the frozens section ASAP. Those herbs and spices won't fill your home with their sumptuous aroma until you buy one and pop it in the oven to cook.
Target
6. Hot Pockets
Okay, hear me out: for sheer nostalgia, a hit of joy, or just quick snack satisfaction, Hot Pockets still reign supreme. Are they the healthiest frozen food choice? No. That's like a hunk of icy edamame, which has its place, sure, but it's not tasty, and these are, in these trying times, stuff like that matters.
Saffron Road
7. Saffron Road Chicken Tikka Masala
For a gourmet frozen experience, Saffron Road offers incredibly flavorful and tender chicken tikka masala. It's a step up from your average frozen dinner, and you probably owe it to yourself and society at large to get classy after eating all of those delicious Hot Pockets.
Target
8. Marie Callender's Chicken Pot Pie
When you need a warm, comforting hug in a crust, Marie Callender's pot pie is the answer! Its flaky pastry, creamy filling, and tender chicken is perfection. I'm a huge fan of making one from scratch, but I know not everyone has the time (not even me). When Marie's got your back, you're saving yourself hours of bending over a hot stovetop.
Bell & Evans
9. Bell & Evans Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets
For the gluten-averse (or just anyone who loves a good nugget), these are a revelation. Crispy, juicy, and perfect for dipping. If you happen to be a mom, a late-night snacker, or a host who likes to have an easy appetizer on standby, you'd be well-served with these tasty treats.
Target
10. Alexia Sweet Potato Fries
While not a full meal, these frozen sweet potato fries are a fantastic side dish to elevate any frozen main. They crisp up beautifully in the oven and are dangerously addictive. Consider these and a nice chilled white wine the next time you have the ladies over for Girl Dinner.
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