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Mar 20, 2026

What’s On The Tray? Poultry

There’s no question that poultry is packed with protein and other nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamins our bodies need. But, we need to settle this…

What’s the best poultry comfort food?

Chicken drumsticks
Welcome to our monthly food-centered pop quiz – What’s on the Tray? – spotlighting foods that show up on breakfast and lunch trays, and why they matter.

What’s the best poultry comfort food?

A) Chicken tenders
B) Turkey sandwich
C) Chicken wings
D) Chicken Caesar salad

Answer: No wrong answer here

Whether it’s chicken or turkey, every option brings something delicious to the table. They aren’t just tasty and versatile – poultry, like chicken and turkey, are packed with nutrients our bodies need.

Poultry is a great source of:

  • Protein to help build and repair muscles
  • Iron to support healthy blood
  • Zinc for immune health
  • Essential vitamins and fatty acids that help fuel growing bodies

That combination of great flavor and strong nutrition is one reason poultry shows up so often in school meals.

Did you know?

While chicken may be the most commonly eaten poultry, Minnesota ranks #1 in turkey production in the United States.

Every year, Minnesota farmers raise 40 million turkeys. (Meet some of Minnesota’s turkey growers here.)

That’s more turkeys than people living in Minnesota.

It’s a pretty impressive stat, and a reminder that poultry production is an important part of our local agricultural community.

An extra fun fact: Chickens have incredible memories and can recognize over 100 different faces.

Menu Spotlight: Bánh Mì Chicken on Flatbread

Bánh Mì Chicken on Flatbread

Our take on this Vietnamese classic features tender chicken marinated in a savory-sweet blend of soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, and a hint of sugar. It’s layered over a whole-grain flatbread and topped with crisp cucumber, shredded carrot, and a handful of fresh cilantro.

The result is a bright, flavorful dish that shows just how creative and delicious poultry can be on the menu.


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