Chicken and Cheese Poutine

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Crispy golden fries, juicy shredded chicken, melted cheese curds, and a blanket of rich, savory gravy—Chicken and Cheese Poutine is the kind of comfort food that speaks to your soul. This hearty Canadian classic gets an indulgent upgrade with the addition of tender chicken and creamy cheese, turning a side dish into a full-on meal.

Whether you’re planning a laid-back weekend dinner or need something crave-worthy for a game day spread, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s warm, gooey, salty, and has just the right crunch from those perfectly baked or fried fries. Plus, you can customize it easily depending on what you have on hand or how spicy or cheesy you want to go.

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What Kind of Cheese Works Best for Poutine?

Traditionally, poutine is made with cheese curds, which melt slightly without completely losing their shape, giving that signature stretchy, gooey texture. If you can’t find cheese curds, small chunks of fresh mozzarella or even diced provolone will work as a stand-in. The key is to use a cheese that melts well but still gives some chew.

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Ingredients for the Chicken and Cheese Poutine

French Fries
The base of any good poutine is the fries—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. Go with hand-cut or frozen, oven-baked or deep-fried—your choice.

Shredded Chicken
Cooked rotisserie chicken works perfectly here, making prep a breeze. The savory meat pairs well with the cheese and gravy.

Cheese Curds
Fresh white cheddar cheese curds give that classic poutine bite and melty finish. Sub with mozzarella if you need to.

Brown Gravy
The glue that brings everything together. Use homemade or a high-quality store-bought version for depth of flavor.

Cooked Bacon (optional)
For an extra salty crunch, sprinkle some crispy bacon pieces on top.

Chopped Chives or Green Onions
Adds a pop of freshness and color to balance all that cheesy richness.

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How To Make the Chicken and Cheese Poutine

Step 1: Cook the Fries

Whether using frozen fries or homemade, bake or fry them until golden and crispy. Set them aside on paper towels to absorb excess oil if needed.

Step 2: Warm the Chicken

If you’re using leftover or rotisserie chicken, shred it and warm it in a skillet or microwave just until heated through.

Step 3: Prepare the Gravy

Heat your homemade or store-bought brown gravy in a saucepan until it’s simmering gently. Stir occasionally to keep it smooth and lump-free.

Step 4: Assemble the Poutine

Layer your hot fries on a serving plate or shallow dish. Top with warm shredded chicken, followed by generous handfuls of cheese curds. Ladle hot gravy over everything to melt the cheese just right.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches

Top with crispy bacon crumbles (if using) and sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions for a fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy every gooey, savory bite.

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How to Serve and Store Chicken and Cheese Poutine

Chicken and Cheese Poutine is best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the skillet or oven when the fries are crispy and the cheese is perfectly melty. Serve it in individual bowls or on a large platter if you’re feeding a crowd.

To store leftovers, transfer everything into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep in mind the fries will soften over time, but you can crisp them up in the oven or air fryer. Reheat the gravy separately and pour over just before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the components in advance—cook the fries and chicken, and make the gravy. Store each separately and reheat when ready to serve.

What if I don’t have cheese curds?

Mozzarella pearls or chopped mozzarella blocks work well. They melt nicely and give that stretchy cheese pull.

Can I use a different kind of meat?

Absolutely! Pulled pork or leftover turkey are delicious substitutes. Even shredded beef adds a rich twist.

Is there a vegetarian version?

You can skip the chicken and bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a meatless version. Use veggie gravy.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes! Add jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper to the gravy, or drizzle with hot sauce.

Will frozen fries work?

Totally. Just bake or air-fry them until extra crispy to stand up to the gravy.

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Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If you’re loving this loaded Chicken and Cheese Poutine, here are more cozy and cheesy favorites to try:

• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
• Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
• Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli
• Creamy Garlic Marry Me Salmon

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can find it fast next time that cheesy craving hits.

And let me know in the comments how it turned out for you! Did you add extra cheese? Bacon or no bacon? Or maybe a drizzle of ranch on top?

I love seeing your spins on my recipes. Drop your tips, questions, or feedback—let’s keep this community delicious!

For more recipes like this, come hang out with me on Pinterest at Life with Jam

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