27 Leftover Chicken Recipes That Aren’t Boring (Seriously, They’re Delicious)
Leftover chicken. We’ve all been there. Staring into the fridge, wondering what culinary magic we can conjure from that already-cooked bird. But let’s face it, reheating it as is can be…underwhelming. Fear not, intrepid home cooks! We’re here to banish boring chicken dishes from your kitchen forever.
This isn’t your grandma’s tired chicken salad. We’re talking flavor explosions, creative combinations, and recipes so good, you might just start cooking extra chicken on purpose just to have leftovers. Get ready to transform that humble poultry into a dish worthy of a Michelin star (okay, maybe not quite, but definitely worthy of seconds!).
Spicy Chicken Quesadillas Recipe
Kick up your weeknight dinner with these zesty quesadillas. Combine shredded chicken with your favorite salsa, black beans, corn, and plenty of cheese. Grill until golden and melty. Pro tip: a dollop of sour cream and guacamole is non-negotiable.
Chicken and Avocado Tacos Recipe
These tacos are a fiesta in your mouth! Mix diced chicken with creamy avocado, red onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve in warm tortillas with your favorite taco toppings. Don’t forget the hot sauce!
Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
Comfort food at its finest! Toss shredded chicken with cooked pasta, a creamy sauce (think béchamel or a shortcut version with cream cheese), and your favorite veggies. Top with breadcrumbs and bake until bubbly and golden brown. It’s like a warm hug in a dish.
Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Skip the takeout and whip up this classic dish at home. Stir-fry rice with diced chicken, eggs, peas, carrots, and soy sauce. Add a dash of sesame oil for extra flavor. Customize it with your favorite veggies and protein.
Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps Recipe
A quick and easy lunch or light dinner. Combine shredded chicken with Caesar dressing, romaine lettuce, and Parmesan cheese. Wrap it all up in a tortilla for a satisfying and portable meal. Add croutons for extra crunch!
Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
This is pure comfort food bliss. Shredded chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce baked under a flaky pie crust. This recipe is so delicious!
Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Roll up shredded chicken with cheese and your favorite enchilada sauce in tortillas. Bake until bubbly and delicious. Top with sour cream and green onions.
Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
A classic for a reason. Use your leftover chicken to make a comforting and flavorful chicken noodle soup. Add celery, carrots, and onions for extra flavor.
Chicken Salad Sandwiches Recipe
Elevate your chicken salad game! Mix shredded chicken with mayonnaise, celery, onion, and your favorite seasonings. Serve on toasted bread or croissants. Add grapes or cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
A creamy and cheesy pasta bake with chicken, mushrooms, and sherry. This is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for using up leftover chicken.
Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
A light and healthy option. Mix diced chicken with water chestnuts, green onions, and a savory sauce. Serve in lettuce cups for a refreshing and flavorful meal.
Chicken Burrito Bowls Recipe
A customizable and satisfying meal. Layer rice, beans, shredded chicken, salsa, guacamole, and your favorite toppings in a bowl. This is a great way to use up leftover ingredients.
Chicken Pizza Recipe
Top your homemade or store-bought pizza crust with shredded chicken, your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings. This is a fun and easy way to use up leftover chicken.
Chicken Chili Recipe
Add shredded chicken to your favorite chili recipe for a protein boost. This is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a cold day.
Chicken Gumbo Recipe
A flavorful and hearty stew with chicken, sausage, vegetables, and rice. This is a great way to use up leftover chicken and create a delicious meal.
Chicken and Waffles Recipe
A sweet and savory combination that’s surprisingly delicious. Top your waffles with shredded chicken and drizzle with syrup or hot sauce.
Chicken Empanadas Recipe
Fill empanada dough with shredded chicken, vegetables, and spices. Bake or fry until golden brown. These are perfect for appetizers or a light meal.
Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe
A creamy and comforting soup with chicken, corn, potatoes, and bacon. This is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a cold day.
Chicken Spring Rolls Recipe
Wrap shredded chicken with rice noodles, vegetables, and herbs in rice paper. Serve with peanut sauce or sweet chili sauce. These are a light and refreshing appetizer or meal.
Chicken Fajitas Recipe
Sauté shredded chicken with bell peppers and onions. Serve with warm tortillas, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream. This is a fun and interactive meal that’s perfect for a crowd.
Chicken Croquettes Recipe
Mix shredded chicken with mashed potatoes, breadcrumbs, and spices. Form into small patties and fry until golden brown. These are a delicious appetizer or side dish.
Chicken Skewers Recipe
Thread diced chicken onto skewers with vegetables and marinate in your favorite sauce. Grill or bake until cooked through. These are a fun and flavorful appetizer or meal.
Chicken Gyros Recipe
Stuff pita bread with shredded chicken, tzatziki sauce, tomatoes, and onions. This is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Chicken & Black Bean Burgers Recipe
Mix shredded chicken with black beans, corn, and spices. Form into patties and grill or bake until cooked through. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.
Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Toss shredded chicken with fettuccine pasta and a creamy Alfredo sauce. Add parmesan cheese and black pepper to taste.
Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe
A simple and comforting soup made with chicken broth, rice, shredded chicken, and your favorite vegetables.
Chicken Tostadas Recipe
Top crispy tortillas with refried beans, shredded chicken, lettuce, cheese, salsa, and sour cream. This is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
