We Tried Everything From Gardein (Tenders! Cutlets! Meatballs!), and Here Are Our Favorites

Undeniably, there has never been more choice in the meat-free section of grocery stores. Every day, it feels like a new, innovative, ultra-realistic form of vegan chicken, fish, or beef hits the shelves. But this boom has actually been building for a while—decades in fact. Before today’s plant protein giants, bleeding burgers, and modernized food tech, there was Gardein.

RELATED: We Tried Them All: The Best Vegan Chicken Brands for Every Meal

Back in the 1980s, Canadian entrepreneur Yves Potvin created a veggie hot dog designed specifically to fill the gap in health food stores at the time. But after hitting $1 million in sales in the early 2000s, he decided hot dogs weren’t his calling. He embarked on a new mission: making interesting and tasty meat-free entrées with a brand called Gardein.

Today, Gardein boasts one of the most diverse ranges of meaty vegan products in the plant-based industry, from turkey-style cutlets to crabless cakes. Much of its lineup is frozen, but the brand also offers canned soups and chilis. The entire range is designed to deliver convenience without compromising on taste or quality.

It’s no surprise, then, that Gardein has repeatedly taken top honors in the annual Veggie Awards, winning in categories such as Best Vegan Seafood and Best Vegan Chicken.

Gardein’s best vegan meat products

Want to put it to the test yourself? Here are some of our favorite products from Gardein.

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1 Mandarin Orange Crispy Chick’n

Fancy takeout? Why not stock up on Gardein’s Mandarin Orange Crispy Chick’n instead? It’s much quicker, just as delicious, and will save you dollars, too. Serve with your favorite takeout classics, like chow mein, fried rice, and spring rolls.
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2 Ultimate Plant-Based Chick’n Tenders

These protein-packed Chick’n Tenders are ideal for popping in the air-fryer when you just want something quick, filling, and, of course, tasty. If you want the KFC experience, serve it with corn on the cob and fries. If you prefer your Chick’n in a burger, the brand also offers Ultimate Plant-Based Chick’n Filets, or if you are all about the bite-size pieces, try the Chick’n Nuggets.
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3 F’sh Filets

Transport yourself all the way to England by enjoying these crispy F’sh Filets with chip shop-style fries and mushy peas. Don’t forget the salt, vinegar, and a squeeze of lemon over the fillets for extra tang!
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4 Turk’y Cutlets

Perfect for special occasions, Gardein has two stuffed Turk’y roasts. But if you’re not feeling like a big meal, or you just don’t fancy a whole joint of plant-based meat, the brand also offers tasty breaded Turk’y Cutlets. Just like the regular meat version, these vegan cutlets are delicious with gravy and your favorite greens.
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5Plant-Based Meatballs

Plant-based meatballs are one of those kitchen staples we cook on repeat, whether they’re served with creamy gravy or simmered in a rich tomato marinara. Gardein’s meatballs are meaty, tender, and packed with protein—delivering 15 grams per serving.
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6 Buffalo Chick’n Wings

If you miss digging into a plate of buffalo wings at your favorite bar, Gardein can help recreate the experience. Minus the chicken, of course. These vegan wings are packed with spicy, buttery flavor and feature a tender, satisfyingly meaty texture.
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7 Ultimate Plant-Based Burger

Craving a burger? Gardein has you covered there, too. These plant-based patties can be cooked in the oven or on the stovetop year-round, but they’re arguably at their best when grilled in the summer and served alongside your favorite barbecue sides.
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8 Ground Be’f

This is another plant-based staple that Gardein does particularly well. Its juicy, tender Ground Be’f readily absorbs flavor, making it a versatile choice for everything from hearty bolognese to crispy lumpia.
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9 Seven Grain Crispy Tenders

Yes, it’s tenders again—and we’re not sorry. Gardein excels at this plant-based favorite, and this version isn’t just tender, juicy, and delicious alongside a serving of fries. It’s also coated in wholesome whole grains, including oats, quinoa, and millet, for added texture and flavor.
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10 Plant-Based Chili No Beans

Most plant-based chilis contain beans, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But if you prefer your chili to taste extra meaty, then Gardein offers a canned chili made with just B’ef Crumbles, tomatoes, and spices.
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