What is poulardes?

Poulardes are a type of poultry, specifically a female chicken that has been fattened for consumption. They are typically raised for the purpose of being used in French cuisine, particularly in dishes such as poularde en demi-deuil (half-mourning poularde) and poularde aux truffes (poulard with truffles). Poulardes are known for being tender and flavorful, due to their high fat content and the way in which they are prepared. They are often roasted whole and served with various sauces and garnishes. While poulardes can be found in some specialty markets and restaurants, they are not as widely available as other types of poultry such as chicken and turkey.