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25 Must-Watch Hallmark Shows on Right Now (March 2026): ‘The Chicken Sisters’ and More

The cast of The Chicken Sisters
The cast of The Chicken Sisters.Hallmark Channel

Hallmark is known for its numerous romantic melodramas. But did you know you can find shows on Hallmark+ that aren’t originals?

In March 2026, the Watch With Us has added two additions to our master list of the best shows you can stream on Hallmark+, and one of them is a popular NBC detective show from the ’80s.

Remington Steele stars the great Pierce Brosnan as the titular fictitious private detective who soon becomes very real.

Meanwhile, The Chicken Sisters is a good old-fashioned Hallmark family fare.

Need more recommendations? Then check out Great Shows on Netflix, Hulu, Max, Amazon Prime and More, Best Shows on Netflix Right Now, Best Shows on HBO and Max Right Now and Best Movies on Hallmark.

[1 of 25]

When licensed private investigator Laura Holt (Stephanie Zimbalist) opens up her own detective agency, she is immediately rejected by potential clients who refuse to work with a woman. To buck the sexist standards of the era, Laura invents a fictional male boss named Remington Steele and hires a thief and con man (Pierce Brosnan) to assume Steele’s identity. Though a power struggle ensues between Steele and Holt over who really runs the detective agency, the two talented P.I.s can’t help but fall for one another.

Remington Steele does have some great mysteries, but that’s not the main appeal of the show. You come for the mystery angle, but you stay for the gripping “will-they-won’t-they” dynamic between Zimbalist and Brosnan. The stylish blend of screwball humor, romance and detective procedural is lively and fun, while the banter and sexual tension between Zimbalist and Brosnan carry every episode.

[2 of 25]

The long-standing feud between two rival local chicken restaurants becomes more intense than ever before when reality TV show Kitchen Clash rolls into town. Sisters Amanda (Schuyler Fisk) and Mae Moore (Genevieve Angelson) own the establishments Chicken Mimi’s and Chicken Frannie’s in their small Kansas town, and their intergenerational familial feud goes back centuries. As Kitchen Clash intensifies this rivalry, it also forces the families to close old wounds once and for all.

Based on the novel of the same name, The Chicken Fingers also features performances from Lea Thompson, Wendie Malick and character actress Margo Martindale. This great series is the perfect blend of dysfunctional family drama and characters you want to root for, set in a fun, consistently entertaining story. The Chicken Sisters is a must-watch for anyone who knows the joy and pain of having a big, messy family.

[3 of 25]

Darby (Stacey Farber) unexpectedly returns home and reunites with her estranged mother, famed mystery novelist Victoria Spencer (Lea Thompson). After learning that her boyfriend was cheating on her and leaving behind her career as a police officer, Darby finds herself reuniting with Victoria in a way that kickstarts Victoria finally fulfilling her dream of becoming a private eye. As the mother and daughter are frequently mistaken as sisters, they create the Spencer Sisters Detective Agency, solving all sorts of cases in their small town of Alder Bluffs.

While The Spencer Sisters was wrongly canceled after only one season, fans loved the lighthearted show’s charming blend of intriguing mystery with an odd-couple dynamic. Thompson and Farber make a fantastic pair (even when their characters get on each other’s nerves), and there’s plenty of twists, turns and some spicy love triangle subplots to keep you hooked.

[4 of 25]

The multigenerational McMurrays are a tight-knit family and rodeo dynasty in Colorado. After reeling from a tragic loss, each of the McMurrays embarks on a personal journey that threatens to uncover dark secrets that could destabilize not just them, but their entire town. Their matriarch, Isabel (Nancy Travis), struggles to keep their ranch afloat while her son, champion bullfighter Cash (Beau Mirchoff), fights to get out of his older brother’s shadow. Meanwhile, a former rodeo queen (Tiera Skovbye) and a runaway (Sara Garcia) stand by the McMurrays to help them save their land.

The compelling characters and domestic drama make Ride a terrific spin on “Western artistocracy.” The great performances from the ensemble cast go hand-in-hand with the superb scriptwriting, with each character given a satisfying arc and evolution across the one-season show. Ride only received one season before it was axed, but fans are still clamoring for season 2 of Hallmark’s version of Yellowstone to get pulled out from somewhere.

[5 of 25]

This new Hallmark reality dating show takes the idea of “first loves” and sees if it can make lightning strike twice. Real-life couple Chilli and Matthew Lawrence host Second Chance Love, in which ten singles invite their first romances on a trip to a beautiful resort in Italy, where they will have two weeks to see if they can make the sparks fly a second time.

It’s hard to resist the fun premise of Second Chance Love, although suffice it to say that not every couple finds that their former flings are worth trying on for size a second time. Still, the series is just about what you think it would be: cute, wholesome and entertainingly unscripted, with a diverse mix of contestants of different backgrounds and age ranges. Many fans agree that by the second episode, you may find yourself hooked.

[6 of 25]

Matt Shade (Jason Priestley), a former professional hockey player, decides to make a major change in his life when he hangs up his hockey skates and dons a PI’s badge. Shade switches careers from sports to private investigation, teaming up with the particularly intense Angie Everett (Cindy Sampson). Together, the “private eyes” form an unlikely but powerful detective duo solving crimes around the city of Toronto.

If you don’t totally fall for Private Eyes for the irresistible chemistry between Priestley and Sampson, then you’ll definitely fall for the cozy atmosphere, procedural comfort food and fun, light-hearted tone. If something like Law & Order is a little too extreme for your taste, you may find that Private Eyes is more your speed. The witty banter between the two leads anchors the show, and the intriguing mysteries draw you in.

[7 of 25]

Starring Parenthood’s Mae Whitman, Twelve Dates ‘Til Christmas follows Whitman’s textile pattern designer Kate, who is unknowingly signed up for a Christmas-themed dating service by her friend. Reluctantly, Kate agrees to follow through with the program and ends up meeting someone. But her holiday is thrown into turmoil when her divorced mother (Mary McDonnell) shows up on her doorstep. Nevertheless, Kate winds her way through her twelve dates and learns a lot about herself in the process.

Twelve Dates ‘Til Christmas unmistakably feels a little different from Hallmark+’s other fare, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The series features a dry sense of humor that isn’t present in other, more familiar Hallmark content, and it keeps things interesting with its twelve different dates and a nuanced performance from Whitman, who evolves nicely over the course of the season.

[8 of 25]

This spinoff show of When Calls the Heart focuses on sisters Lillian (Morgan Kohan) and Grace (Jocelyn Hudon), who open an orphanage together in the early 20th-century Western town of Brookfield. The sisters are faced with finding a way to navigate their rapidly changing town that is still stuck in old traditions, while also searching for romance and making sure the children in their care are tended to. In the end, they create the family they always wanted.

Kohan and Hudon first appeared as their characters in the 2018 When Calls the Heart holiday movie, The Great Christmas Blessing. When Hope Calls has a warm narrative that emphasizes the importance of family and community while also being led by two lovable characters who are forced to navigate genuine hardship.

[9 of 25]

Based on Ken Cuperus’ Audible series of the same name, Mistletoe Murders follows Christmas shop owner Emily Lane (Sarah Drew), a newcomer to the town of Fletcher’s Grove, who becomes embroiled in a murder investigation when a poisoned cookie incriminates her. Using her secret arsenal of special skills, Emily digs into the crime, much to the chagrin of Detective Sam Wilner (Peter Mooney).

Fans of this Christmas-themed mystery show enjoy the way that it blends cozy holiday vibes with a suspenseful and genuinely intriguing murder-mystery narrative, and some viewers even feel it offers something a little more complex than the standard Hallmark content.

[10 of 25]

In this reality show helmed by celebrity host Tamera Mowry-Housley, ten pairs of home bakers face off against one another in a series of competitions centered on family recipes. Contestants will infuse their cultural heritage and traditions in holiday-centric bakes to impress the panel of judges. In the final episode, a champion duo will be crowned who will take home a grand prize of $50,000 and the chance for one of their creations to be featured in an upcoming Christmas movie.

If you love The Great British Bake Off, then you are sure to fall in love with Baked With Love: Holiday. The show is about as sweet and delectable as the delicious creations produced by its talented bakers, and provides a wholesome holiday viewing experience. 

[11 of 25]

This 3-part Hallmark miniseries is definitely NOT a familiar premise — it’s about detective Cora McLeod (The Bold Type‘s Katie Stevens), a detective who is paired with a new partner in the small town of Providence Falls to solve a murder. Little does she know, she and her new partner, Liam (Lachlan Quarmby), were lovers in a past life who have been reincarnated. Liam is on a mission from the angels to make sure that Cora marries Finn (Evan Roderick), who the angels say is her soulmate — but he can’t fall in love with her all over again himself. Can they defy their fates?

Inventive and surprising, Providence Falls is a nice departure from the typical Hallmark fare.

[12 of 25]

How do you balance history and family tradition with the need for modern upgrades? In this reality show hosted by actor Luke Macfarlane and designer Olivia Westbrooks, they do just that — updating family homes that need a facelift without erasing the heritage and character that make the home unique.

In addition to beautiful home makeovers, the series also gives viewers a chance to learn about other people’s cherished family histories and memories.

[13 of 25]

Small Town Setup takes a tried and true Hallmark formula — “successful city-dweller who’s unlucky in romance finds love in a small town” — and puts it to the test IRL. Ashley Williams (How I Met Your Mother) hosts this reality dating show, in which parents recruit their neighbors to find potential suitors for their big-city adult children.

Each single chooses from 3 suitors and sees if true love can bloom in their hometown. The mix of family involvement, small-town charm and unscripted romance makes this series both heartwarming and a perfect fit for Hallmark fans.

[14 of 25]

While not originally a Hallmark series, this British cozy mystery show is a perfect addition to the Hallmark+ lineup. It follows two best friends and professional gardeners, Rosemary Boxer (Felicity Kendal) and Laura Thyme (Pam Ferris).

Though their business is gardening, their journeys to the picturesque British countryside often place them in the path of intriguing murder mysteries. Thanks to Rosemary’s plant expertise and Laura’s background as a former police officer, the two women have a knack for solving crimes — crimes that will keep you guessing until the last minute.

[15 of 25]

This medical crime drama is a family affair — it stars Dick Van Dyke and his son Barry Van Dyke as a crime-solving team! The elder Van Dyke plays Dr. Mark Sloan, a charming and astute physician who works at Community General Hospital while assisting the police in solving complex murder cases. As a doctor with a knack for detective work, Dr. Sloan often uses his medical expertise and observational skills to uncover clues and solve mysteries that baffle law enforcement. Barry Van Dyke plays Steve Sloan, his son and an ace detective. 

The father-son dynamic adds a layer of warmth to this medical procedural, which features clever plots and a light-hearted approach to the crime genre. The mix of humor, mystery and heart makes it an enduring favorite for those seeking wholesome programming.

[16 of 25]

This long-running Canadian soap opera follows the lives of the Fleming-Bartlett family, with a focus on daughter Amy Fleming (Amber Marshall). Amy possesses a unique gift for understanding and healing troubled horses, a talent that forms the core of the series’ plot. The show is based on the Heartland book series by Lauren Brooke and delves into themes of family, love, and resilience.

The talented ensemble cast features Michelle Morgan as Amy’s older sister Lou, Shaun Johnston as their grandfather Jack Bartlett, and Chris Potter as their father Tim Fleming. Combining beautifully rustic, life-affirming settings with genuine emotional arcs and relatable family dynamics, Heartland is a feel-good show that focuses on the bonds that hold us together. 

[17 of 25]

This Canadian period drama has been a Hallmark staple for twelve seasons now, so clearly, they’re doing something right. (When Calls the Heart season 13 is in the works as well.)

Set in the early 20th century, When Calls the Heart follows the journey of Elizabeth Thatcher (Erin Krakow), a young teacher from a privileged background, who moves to the small town of Coal Valley after accepting a teaching assignment. The series explores themes of community, resilience and romance as Elizabeth navigates the challenges of her new life and forms deep connections with the townspeople. Elizabeth, accustomed to a high-society life in the city, struggles to adapt to the harsh living conditions on the Canadian frontier, but her perseverance makes her a compelling protagonist.

The show is inspired by the Canadian West series of books by Janette Oke, and its combination of historical intrigue and light-hearted romance makes it an essential pick for fans of Hallmark movies known for their feel-good storytelling and family-friendly atmosphere.

[18 of 25]

One of the few items on this list that’s not a Hallmark original series, Private Eyes is a Canadian series starring Jason Priestley and Cindy Sampson. This show blends elements of comedy, drama, and mystery to deliver an engaging experience for audiences who appreciate light-hearted crime-solving narratives that always have a satisfying ending. Matt Shade (Priestley), a former pro hockey player, partners with Angie Everett (Sampson), a sharp and resourceful private investigator, to tackle a wide range of cases in Toronto while also navigating their personal dynamics.

For fans of Hallmark’s feel-good storytelling, Private Eyes stands out with its relatable characters and light-hearted approach to mystery solving, making it a delightful departure from more intense crime dramas. The chemistry between Priestley and Sampson drives the series, offering both comedic moments and heartfelt connection.

[19 of 25]

This hit series is based on a series of novels by Sherryl Woods, who also wrote the books Netflix’s Sweet Magnolias is based on. It follows Abby O’Brien (Meghan Ory), a high-powered career woman and mother who returns to her hometown of Chesapeake Shores, Maryland, to help save her sister’s inn from foreclosure. It’s a romantic, uplifting series in keeping with the Hallmark Channel’s signature style.

Set in a quaint, coastal community, Chesapeake Shores features a cast of lovable characters, including Treat Williams as her father, Mick O’Brien, and Barbara Niven as her mother, Megan. Jesse Metcalfe (John Tucker Must Die) gained a significant following for his role as Trace Riley, Abby’s high school sweetheart, who rekindles their old romance when Abby returns home.

The chemistry between the cast members contributes to the show’s heartfelt dynamic, making viewers feel emotionally invested in the O’Brien family’s ups and downs. The characters grow and develop in truly endearing ways throughout the series’ six-season run, making it an engaging viewing experience.

[20 of 25]

Emmy-nominated actress Connie Britton hosts this moving reality series, in which she connects with single mothers to improve their lives with help from a parenting coach, home design specialist and fashion stylist. Britton is herself a single mother, having adopted her son Yoby from Ethiopia.

In The Motherhood, she highlights the unique needs and experiences of women who are raising children alone. Her goal, she says in the first episode, is to create “a community of single moms [that will] provide support to one another when you need it the most.”

This moving tribute to motherhood, community and family is one of Hallmark’s most heartwarming projects yet.

[21 of 25]

Based on the novel of the same name by K.J. Dell’Antonia, The Chicken Sisters is a fun and feisty dramedy series about two rival fried chicken restaurants in a small town in Kansas. Schuyler Fisk plays Amanda Moore-Hillier and Genevieve Angelson as Mae Moore, two sisters on opposite sides of a generations-long rivalry. (Amanda married the man who owns the rival chicken restaurant, and Mae left town years ago to become a TV producer.) When a Food Network competition show comes to town, the sisters are forced to interact in ways they haven’t in years. Can they heal their fractured relationship?

Full of family drama but heavy on jokes, The Chicken Sisters is as salty and delicious as the fried chicken for which it’s named. Lea Thompson (Back to the Future) and Wendie Malick (Just Shoot Me!) are delightfully prickly as the matriarchs of their respective restaurants, and character actress Margo Martindale delivers endearing narration that lends character to the series. 

 

[22 of 25]

The premise for this Bachelor-style show is a brilliant use of Hallmark’s brand: a network known for casting dreamy leading men in their Christmas rom-coms hosts a game show where they identify the next star. Jonathan Bennett (Mean Girls) hosts the competition, which judges the contestants based on both their acting ability and their holiday spirit.

Finding Mr. Christmas is a charming self-aware mash-up of all the things that make Hallmark great — the earnest enthusiasm, the admittedly cheesy storylines and the bevy of ridiculously handsome guys. Bennett is a charismatic and capable host, and you’ll be eager to see the winner in his next Christmas flick.

 

[23 of 25]

If you’re a sci-fi fan, The Way Replica Luxury Handbag is about as close as you’ll get to that genre on Hallmark. It’s a time-travel series that follows three women of different generations as they try to find their way back to one another and learn lessons from their family’s past. With the help of a magical pond, they’re able to travel through time and learn to understand one another better.

Chyler Leigh (Grey’s Anatomy) and Andie MacDowell (Groundhog Day) lead this surreal series as a mother and daughter who’ve grown apart in the 20 years since Leigh’s character Kat left town. Now Kat has a teenage daughter of her own, Ali (Sadie Laflamme-Snow), and the mother-daughter conflicts that separate the three women are surprisingly nuanced. Fans love the relationships between the three strong-willed leads, as well as the mysteries that will keep you tuning in to this series.

 

[24 of 25]

Another magical series, Good Witch is a spinoff of a series of movies of the same name. The whole Good Witch franchise centers on Cassie Nightingale (Catherine Bell, Army Wives), a woman with magical abilities who uses her powers to improve the lives of those around her.

While the movies focused on her relationship with Police Chief Jake Russell (Chris Potter), the series finds Cassie widowed and raising a teenage daughter (Bailee Madison). Don’t expect Harry Potter levels of witchery from this series — Cassie mostly solves problems with kindness and a dash of magical intuition. But most fans see that as a positive, as it creates a hopeful tone in this warm, sweet show.

 

[25 of 25]

Lacey Chabert is best known for her hilarious performance as Gretchen Wieners in Mean Girls, but Hallmark fans know she’s been holding down the network for years in movie series like The Crossword Mysteries. In Celebrations, another reality show from Hallmark, she helps ordinary people honor the heroes of their communities.

In one sense, it’s a show about planning great parties. (And that’s great on its own!) But on a deeper level, it’s a show about loving and appreciating the people who make a difference in their communities.

Chabert is a charming, heartwarming host who will make you want to join in on every celebration. 

 

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