Poutine with Chicken: The Ultimate Comfort Food Bowl (Easy & Hearty!)

Ingredient Overview & Easy Swaps

• Potatoes (200g, cubed):
  Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes crisp best.
  Swap: Use frozen fries, hash browns, or tater tots to save time.

• Cheese Curds (100g):
  Traditional for authentic poutine flavor.
  No cheese curds? Use mozzarella cubes or torn fresh mozzarella for similar melt and texture.

• Gravy (200ml):
  Beef, chicken, or mushroom gravy (store-bought or homemade).
  Vegetarian? Use veggie or mushroom gravy.

• Chicken (300g):
  Boneless thighs, breast, or rotisserie chicken; cut into bite-sized pieces.
  Short on time? Use precooked rotisserie chicken or shredded leftovers.

• Oil (2 tbsp):
  Vegetable, canola, or light olive oil for frying.

• Salt (1 tsp):
  For seasoning potatoes and chicken.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Chopped green onions, leftover veggies, or herbs for freshness.

• Dash of hot sauce or black pepper for a little kick.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Recipe serves 2 hearty bowls:

• Calories: ~520 kcal

• Protein: 30g

• Fat: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 48g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 3g

• Sodium: 970mg (depends on gravy/cheese)

• Calcium: 25% Daily Value

Noteworthy:

• High in filling protein and energy

• Ready in around 30 minutes

• Adjust toppings and swaps for special diets

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Fry the Potatoes

1. Peel (if desired) and cut 200g potatoes into small cubes.

2. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Add potatoes, sprinkle with ½ tsp salt, and fry for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides.

   • Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan for the crispiest results.

4. Transfer potatoes to a paper towel-lined plate.

2. Brown the Chicken

1. In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed.

2. Add 300g chicken (cut in bite-sized pieces), season with ½ tsp salt, and brown for 10 minutes, turning so all sides are golden and cooked through.

3. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Poutine

1. Pile crispy potatoes into a large bowl or individual serving bowls.

2. Layer 100g cheese curds evenly over potatoes (the hot potatoes will start to soften and melt them).

3. Top with browned chicken.

4. Add the Gravy and Serve

1. Heat 200ml gravy until simmering and pourable.

2. Pour the hot gravy generously over the potatoes, chicken, and cheese.

3. Serve immediately, while everything is piping hot and melty.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Poutine

• For extra-crispy potatoes: Parboil cubes for 3–4 minutes before frying, then let dry well.

• Keep ingredients hot: Hot potatoes and gravy help melt the cheese curds properly.

• Add color: Garnish with chopped green onions, parsley, or even a handful of sautéed veggies.

• Mix up the protein: Swap chicken for shredded pork, beef, or crumbled sausage.

• Save time: Make potatoes and chicken ahead; re-crisp the potatoes in a hot oven before assembling.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Loaded Poutine: Add sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, spinach, or jalapeños.

• Buffalo-Style: Toss chicken with buffalo sauce before adding to the bowl, and drizzle with ranch.

• Breakfast Twist: Top with a fried or poached egg for a morning poutine.

• Asian-Inspired: Season chicken with a splash of soy sauce and garnish with sesame seeds and scallions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use store-bought fries?
A: Absolutely! Bake or air-fry until crisp, then build your bowl as described.

Q: What’s the best cheese if I can’t find curds?
A: Chunks of mozzarella, cheddar, or shredded cheeses work, though texture will be slightly different.

Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Only if your gravy is gluten-free—check the label. The rest of the dish is naturally gluten-free.

Q: Can I prep this ahead?
A: Assemble just before serving for best texture. Prep ingredients separately to save time.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Yes! Use veggie gravy, cheese curds, and crispy tofu or mushrooms instead of chicken.