When you bring home a juicy, freshly cooked rotisserie chicken from the store or cook one yourself, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut. You might think that the only way to use up the leftovers is to simply reheat some chicken and serve it with your usual sides or salads. But trust us, there are so many more creative and delicious ways to use up that leftover bird!
From comforting casseroles to spicy dips, savory soups to satisfying pasta dishes, we’ve rounded up 20 mouth-watering recipes that will breathe new life into your leftover rotisserie chicken. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick and easy meal ideas or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, these creative recipes are sure to impress.
Chicken and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is a staple of home cooking, combining tender chicken, flavorful rice, and creamy sauce in one easy-to-make dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until cooked through.
4. Combine cooked rice, chicken mixture, frozen vegetables, soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Add a kick to your snack game with this creamy, spicy buffalo chicken dip. Perfect for parties or game days, it’s an easy and crowd-pleasing favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked, shredded chicken
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese and ranch dressing. Mix until smooth.
3. Add shredded cheddar cheese and cooked chicken. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour in buffalo wing sauce and mix until the dip has a nice balance of spicy and creamy.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped green onions.
8. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Enchiladas
A classic Mexican dish, chicken enchiladas are a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken, rich sauce, and melted cheese wrapped in tortillas for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, flour, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble enchiladas by placing about 1/4 cup of chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla, then roll up and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Caesar Salad
Elevate your salad game with this classic recipe that combines juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and tangy Caesar dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup homemade or store-bought Caesar dressing
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese.
5. Assemble the salad by placing chopped lettuce on a plate, topping with sliced chicken, crumbled bacon, and drizzled with the Caesar-Parmesan mixture.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Pot Pie
A comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion. This recipe yields a deliciously flaky crust and tender chicken filling that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until cooked through.
3. Add flour, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Fill the crust with the chicken mixture and top with additional pie crust or a pastry lid.
6. Brush edges with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with water) and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Noodle Soup
Soothe your senses with this classic chicken noodle soup recipe, perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of uncooked egg noodles
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, add noodles, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until noodles are tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Tacos
Get ready for a flavorful fiesta with this simple recipe! With juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and tangy toppings, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded lettuce
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 avocado, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, and chili powder.
2. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, onion, and avocado. Add your favorite toppings!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Pasta
This classic Italian-American dish is a comforting blend of sautéed chicken, pasta, and rich Alfredo sauce. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying and indulgent meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with Alfredo sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with pasta and sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Quesadillas
A classic Mexican-inspired dish that combines tender chicken with melted cheese and crispy tortillas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In the skillet, cook chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic and olive oil to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. Place a tortilla in the skillet; sprinkle with shredded cheese and top with chicken mixture.
5. Fold the tortilla in half; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until crispy and melted.
6. Repeat with remaining tortillas and fillings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Fried Rice
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines cooked chicken, vegetables, and rice into a savory one-pot wonder.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken (diced)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion (diced)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the cooked chicken, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together until well combined.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry the rice mixture for about 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Get ready to whip up a tasty and healthy meal with this simple chicken and broccoli stir-fry recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and sauté broccoli and garlic until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Return chicken to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Salad Sandwiches
A refreshing twist on a classic favorite, these chicken salad sandwiches are perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup celery, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns or sandwich bread
– Lettuce and tomato (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, celery, onion, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Split the hamburger buns in half or slice the sandwich bread.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken salad onto each bun or slice.
5. Top with lettuce and tomato if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time) + 0 minutes (cook time)
Chicken and Dumplings
A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a cozy evening or a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 2 cups whole milk
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Chicken broth or stock (enough to cover the chicken)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken, flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add melted butter, milk, and eggs. Mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Gradually add chopped parsley and mix well.
5. Simmer dumplings for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with additional chicken broth if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Tortilla Soup
This comforting soup combines the richness of chicken broth with the crunch of crispy tortilla strips and the warmth of spices, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add diced tomatoes, broth, and tortilla strips; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat; simmer for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
A classic recipe with a twist! This dish combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory goodness of chicken and spices, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix chicken, rice, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed peppers.
6. Place the peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Lasagna
Chicken and Spinach Lasagna Recipe
This classic Italian dish gets a boost of flavor with the addition of chicken and spinach. Layers of tender pasta, rich sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese make for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in spinach and marinara sauce. Bring to a simmer; let cook for 5 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked lasagna noodles, chicken mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken and Avocado Wraps
Get ready to wrap up a flavorful and healthy meal with these chicken and avocado wraps! Made with juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and crunchy lettuce, this recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare avocado slices and mix greens.
5. Assemble wraps by slicing cooked chicken, adding avocado, mixed greens, and feta cheese (if using).
6. Fold tortillas to enclose filling.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Risotto
This classic Italian dish is a comforting and flavorful combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy Arborio rice. With this simple recipe, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed. Then add the warmed chicken broth, one cup at a time, stirring and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. When the rice is cooked, stir in the butter and chopped parsley (if using). Serve with the cooked chicken on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Black Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that combines the richness of chicken with the bold taste of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, and water.
6. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch dish that combines crispy chicken, sweet potatoes, and a hint of spice. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken with 2 tbsp of olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and sprinkle with cumin. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
6. Combine roasted sweet potatoes and cooked chicken mixture.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover rotisserie chicken! With these 20 delicious recipes, you’ll never have to worry about running out of ideas. From comforting casseroles and soups to tasty dips and wraps, there’s something for everyone. Turn last night’s dinner into a new favorite dish, like Chicken and Rice Casserole or Buffalo Chicken Dip. Or, try something more adventurous with Chicken Enchiladas or Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers. Whatever your taste buds desire, you’ll find it in this collection of mouth-watering recipes.
