Don’t let your leftover baked chicken go to waste! With some creativity, you can turn it into a delicious and satisfying meal. Browse through our collection of easy leftover chicken recipes to get inspired.
From casseroles to stir-fries, salads to pasta dishes, we have a variety of chicken recipe ideas that will help you make the most of your leftovers. These recipes are not only creative but also quick and easy to follow.
Leftover chicken meal ideas don’t have to be boring. With some simple ingredients and a bit of imagination, you can transform your last night’s roast into a mouthwatering new dish. Whether you’re looking for a healthy option or a comfort food classic, we’ve got you covered.
Key Takeaways:
- Leftover baked chicken recipes are a great way to use up leftovers while avoiding food waste.
- Creative chicken recipes can be easy to follow and quick to prepare.
- Leftover chicken meal ideas can be healthy and satisfying with the right ingredients and imagination.
- Easy leftover chicken recipes can include salads, casseroles, pasta dishes, stir-fries, and more.
- Transform your last night’s roast into a mouthwatering new dish with our collection of recipes.
Quick and Simple Leftover Chicken Dishes
Don’t have the time or energy to cook an elaborate meal? These quick and simple leftover chicken recipes are perfect for those busy weeknights or when you’re just not in the mood for an elaborate meal. Using your leftover baked chicken, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry
Stir-fries are a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal. Heat some oil in a pan and add your choice of veggies, such as bell peppers, onions, and carrots. Then add your leftover chicken and stir fry until heated through. Serve over rice for a complete meal.
BBQ Chicken Quesadilla
If you have some leftover tortillas and BBQ sauce lying around, why not make some delicious BBQ chicken quesadillas? Simply mix your leftover chicken with some BBQ sauce and shredded cheese. Then, place the mixture between two tortillas and cook on a skillet until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
Chicken Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad is always a winner. To make it more filling, add your leftover chicken on top. To make the dressing, whisk together some olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss with some romaine lettuce, croutons, and your leftover chicken for a delicious and healthy meal.
| Benefits of Leftover Baked Chicken | Quick and Simple Chicken Dishes |
|---|---|
| – Saves time and money | – Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry |
| – Reduces food waste | – BBQ Chicken Quesadilla |
| – Provides an easy source of protein | – Chicken Caesar Salad |
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo
If you have some pasta and Alfredo sauce in your pantry, you’re in luck. Simply cook the pasta according to package instructions and add broccoli florets during the last few minutes of cooking. Drain the pasta and broccoli and add them to a pan with your leftover chicken and Alfredo sauce. Heat through and enjoy a comforting and delicious meal.
Buffalo Chicken Wrap
If you’re in the mood for something spicy, whip up a buffalo chicken wrap. Mix your leftover chicken with some buffalo sauce and place it in a tortilla. Add some shredded lettuce, chopped celery, and blue cheese dressing, then wrap it up and enjoy.
- Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry
- BBQ Chicken Quesadilla
- Chicken Caesar Salad
- Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo
- Buffalo Chicken Wrap
These easy leftover chicken recipes are perfect for those nights when you need to put together a meal quickly. They are also great for meal planning, as you can cook a large batch of chicken over the weekend and use it in various recipes throughout the week. Try out these recipes and enjoy a delicious and hassle-free meal!
Leftover Chicken Casserole Recipes
Leftover chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into a comforting and hearty casserole. These recipes are perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner. Here are some easy leftover chicken recipes to try:
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
“This casserole is a great way to use up leftover chicken and broccoli. The creamy sauce and crunchy topping make it a family favorite!”
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded1 1/2 cups cooked broccoli florets1 can cream of chicken soup1/2 cup milk1/2 cup mayonnaise1 teaspoon garlic powder1/2 teaspoon onion powder1/2 teaspoon salt1/4 teaspoon pepper1 cup shredded cheddar cheese1 cup crushed Ritz crackers1/4 cup melted butter | Preheat oven to 350°F.In a large bowl, combine chicken and broccoli.In a separate bowl, mix together soup, milk, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour over chicken and broccoli mixture, and stir to combine.Spread mixture into a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.In a small bowl, mix together crushed crackers and melted butter. Sprinkle over the cheese.Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. |
Chicken Enchilada Casserole
“This casserole is a great way to use up leftover chicken and turn it into a delicious Tex-Mex dinner. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor!”
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded1/2 cup chopped onion1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper1 can diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained1 can enchilada sauce1/2 teaspoon cumin1/2 teaspoon garlic powder6-8 corn tortillas, torn into pieces1 cup shredded cheddar cheese | Preheat oven to 350°F.In a large skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper until tender. Add chicken, tomatoes and green chilies, enchilada sauce, cumin, and garlic powder. Stir to combine.Spoon half of the chicken mixture into a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with half of the torn tortillas. Repeat layers. Sprinkle cheese on top.Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. |
These leftover chicken casserole recipes are a great way to use up cooked chicken in a delicious and creative way. Whether you prefer Tex-Mex or creamy and cheesy, these easy leftover chicken recipes are sure to satisfy.
Healthy Leftover Chicken Meal Ideas
Leftover chicken can be a great addition to a healthy meal. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, these recipes are perfect for using up your leftover baked chicken while still maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet.
Leftover Chicken and Vegetable Soup
If you have leftover chicken and vegetables, why not make a hearty soup? Simply add the chicken and veggies to a pot with some broth and seasonings, and let it simmer until everything is tender and flavorful. This soup is perfect for a chilly day and can be enjoyed as a light lunch or a comforting dinner.
Chicken and Quinoa Salad
For a light and healthy meal, try a chicken and quinoa salad. Start by cooking the quinoa according to the instructions on the package. Then, mix in some leftover chicken, chopped vegetables, and a simple vinaigrette dressing. This salad is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal idea.
Leftover Chicken Stir-Fry with Brown Rice
Stir-fries are a great way to use up leftover chicken while still enjoying a tasty and healthy meal. Simply toss the chicken with your favorite veggies, such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers, and stir-fry in a pan with some brown rice and seasonings. This dish is quick to prepare and loaded with nutrients.
Roasted Chicken and Sweet Potato Bowls
If you have leftover baked chicken and sweet potatoes, why not combine them into a delicious bowl meal? Simply roast the sweet potatoes in the oven until tender and crisp, then top with the chicken and your favorite toppings, such as avocado, salsa, and cilantro. This meal is not only healthy but also satisfying and easy to customize to your liking.
Chicken and Vegetable Lettuce Wraps
For a light and refreshing meal, try chicken and vegetable lettuce wraps. Simply mix the leftover chicken with chopped veggies, such as cucumber, carrot, and bell pepper, and wrap in lettuce leaves. This meal is not only healthy but also low in carbs, making it perfect for those looking to watch their carb intake.
- Leftover chicken can be the perfect addition to a healthy meal.
- Chicken and quinoa salad, leftover chicken stir-fry with brown rice, and roasted chicken and sweet potato bowls are just a few examples of how to use up your leftover chicken in a nutritious and satisfying way.
- Don’t let your leftover chicken go to waste – try out these healthy recipes and enjoy a tasty and nutritious meal!
Creative Leftover Chicken Pasta Dishes
If you’re a fan of pasta and have leftover baked chicken, then you’re in luck! These creative leftover chicken pasta dishes will have you wanting to purposely overcook your chicken just so you have leftovers to use.
1. Creamy Pasta with Leftover Chicken and Spinach
This recipe is quick, easy and packed full of flavor. Sautee garlic and onion with olive oil in a pan. Add leftover chicken and spinach leaves. Once cooked, add cooked pasta and mix through. Add cream, shredded Parmesan and salt and pepper to taste. Serve while hot.
2. Lemon and Leftover Chicken Spaghetti
A zesty, refreshing dish perfect for a summer evening. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, drain and set aside. In a pan, sauté garlic with olive oil and red pepper flakes. Add leftover chicken, lemon zest and lemon juice. Toss in cooked spaghetti and mix together. Serve with fresh parsley.
3. Cheesy Baked Leftover Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 pound cooked pasta | Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease baking dish with butter or olive oil. Combine cooked pasta, leftover chicken, and steamed broccoli in baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix together cream of chicken soup, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, salt and pepper. Pour mixture over pasta. Bake for 20 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden brown. |
| 2 cups chopped leftover chicken | |
| 2 cups steamed broccoli | |
| 1 can cream of chicken soup | |
| 1 cup milk | |
| 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese | |
| 1 tsp salt | |
| 1 tsp black pepper |
These delicious leftover chicken pasta dishes will have everyone at the dinner table asking for seconds. Plus, they’re an easy way to use up your leftover chicken without having to eat the same meal twice. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy, zesty, or cheesy, these recipes will satisfy your pasta cravings.
Leftover Chicken Stir Fry Recipes
Transform your leftover baked chicken into a mouthwatering Asian-inspired dish with these delicious stir-fry recipes. These creative recipes are perfect for a quick and easy meal that will satisfy your cravings.
1. Classic Chicken Stir Fry
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| – 2 cups leftover baked chicken | 1. Heat oil in a pan over high heat. |
| – 1 onion, sliced | 2. Add sliced onion and cook until soft. |
| – 2 garlic cloves, minced | 3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. |
| – 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g. carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms) | 4. Add mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. |
| – 2 tbsp soy sauce | 5. Add leftover baked chicken and soy sauce. |
| – 1 tsp cornstarch | 6. Mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp of water and add to the pan. |
| – Salt and pepper to taste | 7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. |
This classic stir-fry recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal. You can use any vegetables you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftover produce.
2. Spicy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Add a little heat to your leftover chicken with this spicy stir-fry recipe. The broccoli gives it a satisfying crunch, while the sauce adds a burst of flavor.
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| – 2 cups leftover baked chicken | 1. Heat oil in a pan over high heat. |
| – 1 onion, sliced | 2. Add sliced onion and cook until soft. |
| – 2 garlic cloves, minced | 3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. |
| – 2 cups broccoli florets | 4. Add broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. |
| – 2 tbsp soy sauce | 5. Add leftover baked chicken and soy sauce. |
| – 1 tbsp chili sauce | 6. Add chili sauce and stir to combine. |
| – Salt and pepper to taste | 7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp. |
This spicy and flavorful stir-fry is perfect for when you’re craving something with a little kick. Customize the spice level to your liking by adjusting the amount of chili sauce you add.
3. Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry
Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki with this delicious stir-fry recipe. The colorful vegetables add a pop of color and nutrition to this tasty dish.
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| – 2 cups leftover baked chicken | 1. Heat oil in a pan over high heat. |
| – 1 onion, sliced | 2. Add sliced onion and cook until soft. |
| – 2 garlic cloves, minced | 3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. |
| – 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g. carrots, snow peas, bell peppers) | 4. Add mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. |
| – 2 tbsp soy sauce | 5. Add leftover baked chicken and soy sauce. |
| – 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce | 6. Add teriyaki sauce and stir to combine. |
| – Salt and pepper to taste | 7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. |
This teriyaki stir-fry is a delicious and easy way to use up leftover chicken and veggies. Customize the recipe by using your favorite vegetables and adjusting the amount of sauce to your liking.
Leftover Chicken Salad Recipes
If you have leftover baked chicken and looking for a delicious way to use it up, why not turn it into a refreshing and healthy salad! There are plenty of creative ways to turn your leftover chicken into a tasty meal that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Chicken Caesar Salad
This classic salad is a favorite for a reason – it’s delicious and easy to make! To create a chicken Caesar salad, simply toss together chopped leftover chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and grated Parmesan cheese in a large bowl. Drizzle with your favorite Caesar dressing and serve.
Mexican Chicken Salad
If you’re looking for a salad with a bit of a kick, try this Mexican-inspired chicken salad. Combine leftover chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, and chopped tomatoes in a bowl. Season with taco seasoning and lime juice, then toss and serve on a bed of lettuce.
Greek Chicken Salad
This Mediterranean-style salad is the perfect combination of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Mix together leftover chicken, diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with a lemon and olive oil dressing and serve with pita bread.
Asian Chicken Salad
This salad takes inspiration from Asian flavors to create a unique and delicious dish. Combine shredded leftover chicken, shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, and chopped cilantro in a bowl. Dress with a mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil and serve on a bed of greens.
These leftover chicken salad recipes are not only delicious but also a great way to use up your leftovers and create a healthy meal. So next time you have some leftover chicken, try out one of these scrumptious salad recipes and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal!
Easy Chicken Recipes for Dinner
When you’re short on time but still want a delicious and satisfying meal, these easy chicken recipes for dinner are perfect. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic chicken dish or want to try something new and exciting, these recipes won’t disappoint. Let’s get cooking!
1. One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken
This one-pan meal is quick, easy, and requires minimal cleanup. Simply toss chicken breasts with garlic, lemon, and your favorite herbs, and bake in the oven alongside fresh green beans. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful and healthy dinner on the table.
2. Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Stir-fry dishes are a great way to use up leftover veggies and meats. In this classic dish, chicken is paired with broccoli, carrots, and a savory sauce for a satisfying and healthy meal. Serve over rice or noodles for a filling dinner.
3. Chicken Enchiladas
If you’re in the mood for Mexican-inspired cuisine, these chicken enchiladas are sure to please. Shredded chicken is wrapped in tortillas and topped with enchilada sauce and cheese for a creamy and spicy dish. Serve with rice and beans for a complete meal.
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 2 cups shredded chicken | 1. Preheat oven to 375°F. |
| 1 cup enchilada sauce | 2. In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken with 1/2 cup enchilada sauce. |
| 8 tortillas | 3. Wrap chicken mixture in tortillas and place in a greased baking dish. |
| 1 cup shredded cheese | 4. Pour remaining enchilada sauce over tortillas and top with shredded cheese. |
| 5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot. |
4. Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
This rich and creamy pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. Sautéed mushrooms and chicken are tossed with a creamy Parmesan sauce and pasta for a filling and delicious dinner. Don’t forget the garlic bread!
5. Easy Chicken Tacos
If you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner that everyone will love, these chicken tacos are the way to go. Simply cook chicken with your favorite taco seasoning and serve with taco shells, lettuce, cheese, and other toppings of your choice. Dinner is served!
- These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights
- They’re quick and easy to prepare
- They’re full of flavor and perfect for satisfying hunger cravings
Try out these easy chicken recipes for dinner and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without the stress and hassle. Bon appetit!
Leftover Chicken Ideas for Creative Cooking
Do you have leftover baked chicken but don’t want to eat the same thing twice? Fear not! With a little creativity, you can transform your leftovers into delicious, new dishes. Here are some simple and creative ideas to spark your culinary imagination:
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Transform your leftover chicken into a crowd-pleasing appetizer with this easy recipe:
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 2 cups shredded, cooked chicken | Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, mix together chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, ranch dressing, blue cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined. Spread mixture in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. Serve with tortilla chips, celery, and carrots. |
| 8 oz. cream cheese, softened | 1/2 cup hot sauce |
| 1/2 cup ranch dressing | 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese |
| 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese |
Chicken Quesadillas
Amp up your basic quesadilla with leftover chicken for a quick and easy lunch or dinner:
- Place a large tortilla in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over one half of the tortilla.
- Add leftover chicken, sliced peppers, onions, and any other desired toppings.
- Fold the tortilla in half and press down with a spatula.
- Cook until cheese is melted and tortilla is crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Serve with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
Chicken Fried Rice
Transform your leftover chicken into a flavorful fried rice dish:
- Cook rice according to package instructions and set aside.
- Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
- Add diced carrots, peas, and onions and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
- Push vegetables to one side of the wok/skillet and add beaten eggs to the other side.
- Scramble eggs until set, then mix with vegetables.
- Add cooked rice, soy sauce, and diced leftover chicken.
- Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
- Garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds, if desired.
These are just a few examples of the endless possibilities when it comes to using up your leftover chicken. Get creative in the kitchen and explore new flavors and ingredients to keep your meals exciting and delicious!
Conclusion
Leftover baked chicken can be turned into a wide variety of delicious and creative dishes. From quick and simple recipes to hearty casseroles and healthy meals, there’s no need to let your leftover chicken go to waste.
Don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen and try out new ideas for using up your leftover chicken. Whether it’s a pasta dish, a stir-fry, or a salad, there’s always a way to transform your leftovers into a mouthwatering meal.
Tips for Using Leftover Chicken
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when using leftover baked chicken:
- Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Remove any bones or skin before using your leftover chicken in a recipe.
- Shred or chop the chicken into small pieces to make it easier to incorporate into your dishes.
- Use leftover chicken in soups, stews, and casseroles for added flavor and protein.
- Try adding leftover chicken to your breakfast omelets or sandwiches for a protein-packed meal.
With these leftover chicken recipes and tips, you’ll never have to waste any of your delicious baked chicken again. Get creative in the kitchen and enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal using your leftovers.
FAQ
Can I use leftover baked chicken in these recipes?
Absolutely! These recipes are specifically designed to use up leftover baked chicken and turn it into delicious new dishes.
Are these recipes easy to follow?
Yes, all of these recipes are easy to follow and require simple ingredients. They’re perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
How long will the leftover chicken dishes last?
The leftover chicken dishes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to properly store them in airtight containers.
Can I freeze the leftover chicken recipes?
Yes, most of these recipes can be frozen for future use. Just ensure to cool them down completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can I substitute the leftover baked chicken with other proteins?
While these recipes are specifically created for leftover baked chicken, you can certainly try substituting it with other proteins like turkey or cooked tofu.
Are these recipes suitable for dietary restrictions?
Many of these recipes can be easily adapted to accommodate dietary restrictions. For example, you can use gluten-free pasta or substitute dairy products with non-dairy alternatives.
Can I adjust the seasoning and spices in these recipes?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the seasoning and spices according to your taste preferences. These recipes are versatile and can be customized to suit your flavor preferences.
Can I find the nutritional information for these recipes?
While we don’t provide specific nutritional information, you can input the ingredients into a nutrition calculator to get an estimate of the nutritional values.
Are these recipes kid-friendly?
Yes, many of these recipes are kid-friendly and can be enjoyed by the whole family. You can adjust the spice levels or customize the dishes to suit your children’s taste buds.
Can I share these recipes with friends and family?
Yes, please feel free to share these recipes with your friends and family. The more people enjoy these delicious leftover chicken dishes, the better!
