Who says cooking has to be complicated? Simple recipes with minimal ingredients and fuss-free prep are always a winner. And let’s be real, there’s no shame in using up leftovers – especially when they’re as versatile as roast chicken! By repurposing the whole bird or even individual breasts into new dishes, you can reduce food waste and create something delicious for everyone to enjoy. From classic salads to easy casseroles and tacos, the possibilities are endless.
To help inspire your next meal, we’ve curated a list of our top picks from around the web that are perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike.
Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Take your leftover chicken to the next level by transforming it into a mouth-watering, spicy dip that’s perfect for game day gatherings. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make thanks to the convenience of a slow cooker. To get started, simply add cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, cooked chicken, shredded cheese, and chopped green onion to your slow cooker. Stir everything together, then let the magic happen as it cooks slowly throughout the day.
When it’s time to serve, grab some dippers like celery sticks, tortilla chips, carrot sticks, or Ritz crackers and get ready for a flavor explosion! The spicy kick from the buffalo sauce pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese and tangy ranch dressing. Your guests will be begging for the recipe!
Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Transforming leftover chicken into a mouthwatering salad is a clever way to reduce food waste! This versatile recipe allows you to add your favorite ingredients and condiments. For added texture and flavor, consider including crunchy nuts, sweet grapes, and tangy sour cream. Alternatively, stick to the simplicity of mayo, garlic, onion, and paprika. Remember, the key to unlocking this salad’s true potential lies in chilling it overnight, allowing its flavors to meld together seamlessly.
Chicken Spinach Wraps
These delectable spinach wraps bring together a medley of flavors and textures, featuring cooked chicken breasts, crisp Romaine lettuce, smoky bacon, juicy tomatoes, melted mozzarella and provolone, and a tangy drizzle of ranch dressing. With this recipe, you can effortlessly repurpose leftover chicken from the previous night’s dinner into a satisfying meal.
While spinach wraps are the star of the show, feel free to substitute them with whole wheat or corn tortillas for a slightly different twist. To ensure a gooey cheese experience, be sure to heat the chicken and bacon before assembling the wrap.
55 Recipes That Use Shredded Chicken
Transforming leftover chicken into mouth-watering creations is an art form! When you’re left with shredded chicken, the possibilities are endless. That’s why we’ve scoured the web to bring you a treasure trove of recipes that showcase this humble ingredient in all its glory. From simple yet satisfying salads to gourmet sandwiches and casseroles, these dishes will breathe new life into your weeknight dinners.
So go ahead, get creative with Puff Pastry Chicken Bites, Cheesy Chicken Taco Dip, or Chicken Marinara Casserole – the ultimate leftover chicken makeover has begun!
Chicken Pot Pie
Transform leftover chicken from last night’s dinner into a satisfying and flavorful meal with this chicken pot pie recipe packed with vegetables. This versatile main course is my top choice for meal prep using Sunday roast, where I can whip up enough for lunches over the next couple of days. To simplify the process, use store-bought pie crust, frozen veggies, leftover white wine, and you’re all set. The best part?
It’s made with straightforward ingredients: double pie crust, leftover chicken, butter, flour, vegetables, cream, and herbs, with a generous sprinkle of cracked black pepper. Not only is this pie a great meal on its own, but it also pairs well with mashed potatoes, dinner rolls, Caesar salad, roasted veggies, or even some garlic bread. If you’re looking for more ideas on what to serve alongside, consider trying some sautéed spinach, steamed broccoli, or warm pita bread.
White Chicken Enchiladas
Imagine a harmonious marriage of tender leftover chicken, pungent green chilies, and melted Jack cheese, all snugly wrapped within crispy flour tortillas. But that’s not all – this culinary delight is then smothered in a rich, creamy sauce with a tangy kick from sour cream. It’s a match made in heaven!
Cream Cheese Ritz Cracker Casserole
Take your leftover chicken to new heights by transforming it into a delectable cream cheese Ritz cracker casserole! This innovative recipe cleverly combines rice, butter, chicken, onion, cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, and Ritz crackers to create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress.
The addition of spices provides an extra layer of flavor, while the crunchy texture from the Ritz crackers and creamy undertones courtesy of the cream cheese blend offer a delightful contrast in every bite. So why let leftover chicken go to waste? Make this casserole instead and experience the perfect fusion of comfort food and creative ingenuity.
Doritos Casserole
Sometimes, the biggest hurdle in cooking is deciding what to make with leftover ingredients. But fear not, because this recipe might just be the solution you’ve been looking for! It’s a game-changing casserole that combines the comfort of chicken, cheese, and crunchy Doritos, topped off with some added freshness from chopped green onions. Simply mix cooked chicken with shredded cheese, then layer it all in a baking dish with crushed Doritos and another sprinkle of cheese.
Pop it in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and you’ll be left with a satisfying dinner that’s equal parts crunchy and creamy.
King Ranch Chicken Casserole
Indulge in a warm and cozy culinary experience with this delightful king ranch chicken casserole, set to become your new go-to weeknight dinner option. The harmonious balance of cheese, savory flavors, and tender chicken will satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank or testing your cooking skills.
What’s more, you’ll be pleased to know that preparation is a breeze – simply allocate 10 minutes for prep work and let your oven do the heavy lifting.
Take it to the next level by pairing this casserole with some tasty accompaniments, such as corn muffins, roasted broccoli, and crunchy tortilla chips. The result will be a well-rounded and utterly satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
White Chicken Chili
Experience the convenience of a delicious white chicken chili that’s ready in no time. This recipe is perfect for utilizing leftover chicken, eliminating the need to marinate and stir-fry. Simply add cooked chicken to your pot along with other ingredients, then top it off with avocado slices, tortilla chips, and cheese. The best part? You can also cook this dish to perfection in a crockpot, making it an ideal option for busy days when you need a quick and easy meal solution.
BBQ Chicken Quesadilla
When it comes to creative ways to repurpose leftover chicken, I’m always excited to share my favorite crowd-pleasing recipes. One that consistently impresses is this mouthwatering BBQ chicken quesadilla – a true showstopper! This flavorful fusion combines tender, saucy BBQ chicken with melted cheese, black beans, corn, and other Tex-Mex staples. The result is a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
And let’s not forget, it’s an absolute winner when paired with tangy sour cream, spicy salsa, or creamy guacamole – each adding its own special touch to elevate the overall experience.
Chicken Tetrazzini
This delectable chicken tetrazzini recipe brings together a medley of ingredients, including leftover chicken, succulent mushrooms, green peas, and a rich, creamy sauce. To elevate the dish further, it’s generously topped with an abundance of melted cheese, which is then baked to a golden brown perfection. One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its versatility, allowing for endless variations to suit your taste preferences.
Feel free to experiment by substituting different vegetables, noodles, or adding a crunchy topping comprising melted butter and Panko bread crumbs – the possibilities are truly endless!
Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Transform leftover chicken into a satisfying casserole by pairing it with pasta, marinara sauce, cheese, and crispy Panko bread crumbs. This comforting dish is best served alongside a refreshing Caesar salad, crusty breadsticks, or a garden-fresh veggie side to create a memorable meal that’s easy to prepare and pleases everyone. Since this recipe yields only six servings, consider doubling the batch to ensure there’s enough for your entire gathering.
Remember to always handle and store cooked chicken safely to avoid any food safety concerns.
Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole
This casserole is sure to become a new favorite once you’ve tried it. Its simplicity makes it a breeze to prepare, allowing you to focus on the delightful combination of flavors. The blend of savory seasonings perfectly complements the tender egg noodles, fresh vegetables, and rich cream, creating a dish that not only tastes amazing but also looks appealing to the eye.
Crispy Chicken Shells Casserole
Within just 15 minutes, you can whip up a mouthwatering crispy chicken casserole using only six fundamental ingredients. It’s the perfect solution for a quick yet satisfying meal that will leave your family craving more. What’s more, this versatile recipe allows for endless variations by simply tweaking the ingredient list.
Whether you’re in the mood for something mild and light, you can opt for mozzarella to bring out subtle flavors.
Alternatively, if you prefer a richer taste, cheddar is an excellent choice. And for those who want to add a touch of Italian flair, parmesan cheese is the way to go.
So why not give it a try? You never know when you might stumble upon your new favorite recipe.
Green Chicken Enchiladas
These scrumptious enchiladas pack a punch with their rich blend of Monterey Jack cheese, tender leftover chicken, tangy salsa verde, and spicy green chiles. The experience is nothing short of memorable until the very last morsel. What sets this recipe apart is its effortless nature. Simply combine the bold flavors of green chile mixture, chicken, salsa verde, cilantro, and melted cheese to create a harmonious union.
Next, assemble the enchiladas and arrange them on a flat surface before crowning them with the remaining salsa verde, cheese, and a trip to the oven. The pièce de résistance? A dollop of creamy sour cream added just before serving, ensuring each bite is savored immediately.
Chicken Ala King
Indulge your family in a delectable leftover chicken dinner that’s sure to impress! This comforting dish boasts a rich, creamy flavor profile courtesy of the harmonious blend of butter, all-purpose flour, and chicken broth. The vibrant colors of peas, carrots, onions, and bell pepper add a delightful visual appeal, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
While it’s more than satisfying on its own, this cozy entree also pairs exquisitely with a variety of accompaniments, including fluffy rice, flaky homemade biscuits, or al dente pasta.
Fiesta Chicken Casserole
A crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make? Absolutely! This fiesta chicken casserole is sure to become a new family favorite. By combining basic ingredients like chicken, pasta, black beans, corn, and cheese, you’ll create a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. But if you want to add an extra layer of excitement, feel free to introduce some heat with jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a can of diced green chilies. The possibilities are endless!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Ditch those lingering dinner worries and treat yourself to a mouth-watering chicken cordon bleu casserole. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to prepare! Start by cooking onions, garlic, and a pinch of seasonings in butter until the aromas fill your kitchen. Next, simmer cooked rice with chicken broth and olive oil for added flavor.
Then, it’s time to combine the magic ingredients: cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, cheddar, parmesan, and your choice of leftover or cooked chicken! Mix everything together and finish it off by topping it with a layer of melted Swiss cheese, crunchy breadcrumbs, or golden butter. Finally, pop it in the oven for a few minutes and get ready to indulge in a satisfying dinner.
BBQ Chicken Pasta
Transforming your leftover chicken into a mouth-watering pasta dish is an excellent way to breathe new life into yesterday’s dinner. Introducing the Leftover BBQ Chicken Pasta, a scrumptious recipe that can be prepared in approximately 30 minutes. This delectable dish combines crispy bacon, caramelized onions, sweet red bell peppers, rich chicken broth, tangy BBQ sauce, creamy cheese, and of course, your leftover chicken.
To tailor this recipe to suit your taste buds, feel free to substitute the spicy Rotel tomatoes with regular ones if you’re not a fan of fiery flavors.
Chicken Nachos
Gather your fellow nacho enthusiasts! This scrumptious leftover chicken recipe combines the best of classic nachos – rich cheese, savory nacho seasoning, and crunchy tortilla chips – making it a perfect companion for cozy movie nights or casual gatherings. To elevate this snack to new heights, pair it with an assortment of creamy condiments, including sour cream, spicy jalapeño, and velvety guacamole.
Hot Chicken Salad
Create a scrumptious salad in under an hour, packed with creamy mayo, crunchy almonds, eggs, cheddar cheese, and a satisfying crunch from potato chips. This versatile dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with roasted vegetables like green beans and broccoli. Alternatively, serve it alongside your go-to rice recipe for a well-rounded meal. The beauty of this salad lies in its flexibility – prepare the mixture ahead of time and bake when you’re ready to serve.
For an added layer of convenience, consider using leftover chicken to make cooking a breeze.
Creamy Chicken Taco Soup
Satisfy your loved ones with a hearty soup that’s a perfect blend of flavors. This delectable dish brings together leftover chicken, pinto beans, and tomatoes to create an unforgettable experience. The key to its rich and velvety texture lies in the harmonious union of cream cheese and dried seasonings. As you take your first sip, the subtle notes of these ingredients meld beautifully with the savory essence of the chicken, beans, and tomatoes.
To add a touch of freshness and crunch, finish it off with a sprinkle of chopped onion, sliced avocado, cilantro, and crispy tortilla chips.
Chicken Bacon Gnocchi Soup
Indulge in this scrumptious chicken soup, an effortless recipe that will become a staple in your culinary repertoire. The magic begins by cooking crispy bacon and sautéing aromatic onion and garlic with its savory fat. Next, add a medley of flavors – rich chicken broth, creamy goodness, Italian seasoning, and tender gnocchi – and let the mixture simmer for several minutes to meld together in harmony.
Finally, introduce juicy chicken and nutritious spinach, allowing the soup to thicken into a satisfying, comforting meal. Don’t be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on things by experimenting with different vegetable combinations. Swap out spinach for kale or another colorful, textured veggie that will add depth and visual appeal to this delightful dish.
Buffalo Chicken Wraps
For a quick and easy meal, these buffalo chicken wraps are a great option. Simply use leftover chicken from last night’s dinner to make them. You won’t need to go through the hassle of marinating or cooking new chicken. Instead, simply coat the leftovers with buffalo sauce, then warm up some tortillas. Assemble the wrap by adding your choice of toppings, such as lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, and ranch dressing. Once you’ve got everything in place, just wrap it all up!
If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, consider swapping out some of the traditional garnishes for cucumbers, celery, bell peppers, or avocado.
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Transform leftover chicken into a scrumptious dish by incorporating it into stuffed peppers. When preparing the peppers, be sure to remove the chicken skin and use only the meat for optimal flavor and texture. Following baking for up to 20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender when pierced with a fork, garnish with green onion and a drizzle of buffalo sauce for added zest. Alternatively, consider topping with blue cheese crumbles or serving over fluffy rice for a satisfying meal.
Chicken Stuffing Bake
This delectable chicken stuffing bake recipe leverages the convenience of leftover chicken, stuffing mix, cream of chicken soup, and steamed broccoli to create a mouthwatering dish. With my discovery of how to cook broccoli in the microwave, I’ve found that it’s not only quick but also retains its natural flavor. This time-saving trick allows for greater oven space and reduced cooking time. The recipe itself requires just 45 minutes to prepare in the oven.
To begin, simply combine all the ingredients in a greased baking dish, cover with foil, and cook for 30 minutes. Once done, add grated cheese on top and bake until golden brown, ensuring a perfectly cooked finish.
The bottom line
Discover the versatility of a whole chicken by exploring these creative ways to reuse it for subsequent meals. From repurposing leftovers into new and exciting dishes, to experimenting with different flavors and textures, there’s something for everyone. We invite even the most discerning eaters to explore this list and uncover fresh ideas that will transform yesterday’s dinner into today’s delight.
Whether you’re looking for a tried-and-true twist on a classic or a bold new flavor combination, these 27 mouth-watering leftover chicken recipes are sure to inspire.
