First Impressions of ReadyWise Outdoor Pro Meal Classic Chicken Pot Pie
The ReadyWise Outdoor Pro Meal Classic Chicken Pot Pie promises a taste of home-cooked comfort in the great outdoors. In a market saturated with energy bars and freeze-dried meals, this offering from ReadyWise aims to deliver a satisfying and familiar culinary experience. I’ve spent years fine-tuning my pack for optimal performance on extended backcountry trips, so I was intrigued by the promise of a lightweight, convenient meal that didn’t sacrifice taste.
My initial interest stemmed from a desire for more palatable and fulfilling meals during extended solo backpacking trips. Tired of the same old protein bars and dehydrated astronaut food, I was searching for a lightweight, packable option that would provide a genuine taste of home. The marketing copy emphasizing a “rustic” and “country-style” experience immediately piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing, the package felt surprisingly compact and lightweight for a meal claiming two servings. The Color is listed as Black, which refers to the packaging, and it’s a standard, resealable pouch. The packaging itself felt durable, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of a multi-day trek.
Compared to other outdoor meals like Mountain House Chicken & Dumplings and Backpacker’s Pantry Chicken Pot Pie, the ReadyWise option seemed to prioritize simplicity and packability. While Mountain House often boasts a slightly larger serving size, the ReadyWise appealed to me because of its advertised focus on biscuit-style dumplings and a more classic pot pie flavor profile. I chose the ReadyWise option based on the description of a more authentic, comforting taste and the promise of satisfying textures, hoping for a step above the typically bland or overly processed outdoor meals.
Initially, I was optimistic, but also slightly skeptical. Can a dehydrated meal truly capture the essence of a classic chicken pot pie? The promise of “buttery biscuits” and “melt-in-your-mouth dumplings” seemed like a tall order for a shelf-stable product, but I was eager to find out.
Real-World Testing: Putting ReadyWise Outdoor Pro Meal Classic Chicken Pot Pie to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ReadyWise Outdoor Pro Meal Classic Chicken Pot Pie during a three-day backpacking trip in the High Uintas Wilderness of Utah. This particular location offered a variety of challenging conditions, including fluctuating temperatures, high altitude, and unpredictable weather. The meal was consumed on the second evening of the trip after a long day of hiking and navigating rugged terrain.
The preparation process was straightforward: add boiling water to the pouch, stir, and wait. I found that using slightly less water than recommended resulted in a thicker, more pot-pie-like consistency. The meal rehydrated adequately, although a few small clumps of dehydrated vegetables remained slightly firm. The Ease of use was definitely a plus, especially after a tiring day.
The first bite was surprisingly pleasant. The chicken had a decent flavor, and the vegetables were recognizable. However, the “buttery biscuits” were more akin to small, chewy dumplings than flaky, buttery pastries. The flavor was certainly reminiscent of chicken pot pie, but it lacked the depth and richness of a homemade version.
Extended Use & Reliability
After using the ReadyWise Outdoor Pro Meal Classic Chicken Pot Pie on several more trips over a few months, I have a clearer picture of its long-term performance. It consistently rehydrates well, although, as mentioned earlier, a few small vegetable pieces may remain slightly crunchy. The packaging has proven to be durable and has shown no signs of degradation, even after being crammed into a backpack and subjected to harsh conditions.
There are no special Maintenance & care requirements. Simply discard the empty pouch after use. Compared to other dehydrated meals I’ve tried, the ReadyWise option holds its own in terms of convenience and packability. While it doesn’t necessarily outperform other brands in terms of flavor, its familiar taste and hearty composition make it a welcome addition to any backcountry menu.
Breaking Down the Features of ReadyWise Outdoor Pro Meal Classic Chicken Pot Pie
Specifications
The ReadyWise Outdoor Pro Meal Classic Chicken Pot Pie boasts a simple but functional design aimed at providing a convenient and fulfilling meal in outdoor settings. Here’s a breakdown of its key specifications:
- Manufacturer: ReadyWise is a well-known brand specializing in emergency preparedness and outdoor food solutions. They are known for their long shelf life and ease of preparation.
- Color: Black, referring to the packaging color, a standard for many outdoor meal pouches. This helps with heat absorption if warming in the sun.
- Height: 8 in provides a reasonable volume without being excessively bulky. This is a good size for packing.
- Width: 3 in, contributes to its slim profile, making it easy to pack alongside other gear. A narrow width helps to distribute weight evenly.
- Age Group: Adults, indicating the serving size and nutritional content are tailored for adult consumption. This ensures adequate calorie intake for strenuous activities.
- Length: 8 in, mirrors the height, reinforcing its rectangular, packable shape. A consistent length allows for organized packing.
- Weight: 4.4 oz, a crucial factor for backpackers and anyone concerned about minimizing pack weight. Lightweight is essential for minimizing fatigue during long treks.
- Servings: 2 Servings per pouch, making it suitable for sharing or for a larger single serving for hungry individuals. Two servings provide a substantial calorie boost.
These specifications collectively contribute to the ReadyWise Outdoor Pro Meal Classic Chicken Pot Pie’s appeal as a lightweight, packable, and convenient meal option for outdoor adventures. The size and weight are particularly important, as they directly impact the ease of carrying and integrating the meal into a backpack or emergency kit.
Performance & Functionality
The ReadyWise Outdoor Pro Meal Classic Chicken Pot Pie performs its primary function adequately: providing a calorie-rich, relatively palatable meal in a convenient format. Its ease of preparation is a major strength. Just add boiling water, stir, and wait a few minutes, and you have a warm meal ready to eat, a considerable advantage after a long day hiking or camping.
However, the flavor and texture are where it falls slightly short. While the chicken and vegetables are generally well-rehydrated, the biscuit dumplings can be a bit chewy. The overall flavor, while reminiscent of chicken pot pie, lacks the richness and depth of a homemade or even a good-quality frozen version. Despite these shortcomings, the meal is filling and provides a decent balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats, making it suitable for replenishing energy stores after strenuous activity.
Design & Ergonomics
The packaging design is simple and functional. The resealable pouch is durable and easy to open and close, even with gloved hands. The Weight of 4.4 oz is a major advantage, making it one of the lighter meal options available.
The meal itself is easy to prepare and consume directly from the pouch, minimizing the need for extra dishes or utensils. There’s a minimal learning curve. Anyone familiar with dehydrated or freeze-dried meals will find the ReadyWise option straightforward to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The ReadyWise Outdoor Pro Meal Classic Chicken Pot Pie is designed for long-term storage, with a shelf life of several years. The durable packaging protects the contents from moisture and physical damage. Minimal Maintenance & repair is required. Once consumed, the pouch can simply be discarded.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ReadyWise Outdoor Pro Meal Classic Chicken Pot Pie doesn’t come with any specific accessories. No customization options are available beyond adjusting the amount of water used for rehydration. However, it is compatible with standard camping cookware and utensils. You can add spices, hot sauce, or other flavor enhancers to personalize the meal to your taste.
Pros and Cons of ReadyWise Outdoor Pro Meal Classic Chicken Pot Pie
Pros
- Convenient and easy to prepare: Requires only boiling water and a few minutes of waiting.
- Lightweight and packable: The low Weight makes it ideal for backpacking and other weight-conscious activities.
- Long shelf life: Suitable for emergency preparedness and long-term storage.
- Familiar taste: Offers a comforting and recognizable flavor profile compared to some other dehydrated meals.
- Two servings per pouch: Can be shared or used as a larger single serving for hungry individuals.
Cons
- Biscuit dumplings can be chewy: The texture of the dumplings may not appeal to everyone.
- Flavor lacks depth: While reminiscent of chicken pot pie, the flavor is not as rich or complex as a homemade version.
Who Should Buy ReadyWise Outdoor Pro Meal Classic Chicken Pot Pie?
The ReadyWise Outdoor Pro Meal Classic Chicken Pot Pie is perfect for backpackers, campers, and hikers looking for a lightweight, convenient, and familiar meal option. It is also well-suited for survivalists and those building emergency food supplies due to its long shelf life. It caters to individuals who prioritize convenience and packability over gourmet flavor.
Those who should skip this product are discerning foodies seeking an authentic chicken pot pie experience. Also, those sensitive to certain textures (specifically chewy dumplings) may want to explore other options.
A must-have accessory is a reliable source of boiling water, such as a portable stove or a fire-starting kit. Optional modifications could include adding spices or hot sauce to enhance the flavor.
Conclusion on ReadyWise Outdoor Pro Meal Classic Chicken Pot Pie
The ReadyWise Outdoor Pro Meal Classic Chicken Pot Pie offers a solid and convenient option for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a taste of home. While it may not replicate the exact flavors and textures of a classic homemade pot pie, it delivers a satisfying and filling meal in a lightweight and packable format. The Price of $13.99 is justifiable given its convenience, long shelf life, and dual-serving capacity.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-prepare meal for their next outdoor adventure. If you’re prioritizing convenience and familiar flavors over culinary perfection, the ReadyWise Outdoor Pro Meal Classic Chicken Pot Pie is a worthwhile addition to your pack. Give it a try and bring a touch of comfort to your next wilderness experience!