Rotisserie chicken is a tasty and convenient meal option. But what do you do with the leftovers? Don’t let them go to waste! There are many ways to use up extra rotisserie chicken.
You can turn leftover rotisserie chicken into quick and easy meals for your family. From salads and sandwiches to soups and casseroles, the options are endless. These recipes will help you save time and money while reducing food waste. Get ready to discover new ways to enjoy your leftover chicken.
1. Chicken Caesar Salad
Chicken Caesar salad is a tasty way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. You can easily transform your chicken into a fresh and satisfying meal.
Start by shredding the chicken and seasoning it with salt, pepper, and oregano. This adds extra flavor to your salad.
Chop romaine lettuce and place it in a bowl. Add the seasoned chicken, grape tomatoes, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Top your salad with crispy croutons for a nice crunch. You can make your own by toasting bread cubes in butter until golden brown.
Drizzle Caesar dressing over the salad and toss everything together. Your quick and delicious chicken Caesar salad is ready to enjoy.
2. BBQ Chicken Pizza
BBQ chicken pizza is a tasty way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by preheating your oven to 450°F. Spread BBQ sauce on a pre-baked pizza crust.
Add a layer of mozzarella cheese and sliced red onions. Mix some shredded chicken with BBQ sauce and spread it over the cheese.
Bake the pizza for 20-24 minutes until the crust turns golden brown. The cheese should be melted and bubbly.
This quick meal takes less than 30 minutes to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have much time to cook.
3. Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Chicken Alfredo pasta is a great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by cooking pasta according to package directions.
While the pasta cooks, make a creamy Alfredo sauce. Melt butter in a pan and add heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce thickens.
Chop or shred your leftover rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken and cooked pasta to the sauce. Mix everything together.
You can add extras like mushrooms or broccoli for more flavor and nutrition. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy your quick, comforting meal.
4. Chicken Quesadillas
Chicken quesadillas are a tasty way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by shredding the chicken and mixing it with cheese, spices, and veggies.
Heat a skillet and place a tortilla in it. Add the chicken mixture to one half of the tortilla. Fold the other half over and cook until golden brown on both sides.
You can customize your quesadillas with different cheeses, salsas, or vegetables. Serve them hot, cut into wedges. They make a quick lunch or easy dinner option.
5. Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie is a great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by shredding the chicken meat.
In a pan, cook onions in butter until soft. Add flour to make a paste. Pour in broth and milk, stirring until thick.
Mix in the shredded chicken and vegetables. Pour this filling into a baking dish.
Top with store-bought or homemade pie crust. Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake until the crust is brown and the filling bubbles. Let it cool slightly before serving.
6. Rotisserie Chicken Tacos
Rotisserie chicken tacos are a quick and tasty meal option. You can create them in just 10 minutes using store-bought rotisserie chicken.
Shred the chicken and mix it with taco seasoning for extra flavor. Warm up some corn tortillas or use crispy taco shells.
Add your favorite toppings like lettuce, cheese, salsa, and refried beans. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can brighten up the flavors.
This recipe is great for using up leftover rotisserie chicken. You can easily adjust the amount based on how many people you’re feeding.
Set up a taco bar so everyone can customize their own tacos. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
7. Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo chicken dip is a tasty way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. It’s easy to make and perfect for parties or game day snacks.
To make it, mix shredded chicken with cream cheese, hot sauce, and ranch dressing. Add some shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese for extra flavor.
Spread the mixture in a baking dish and top with more cheese. Bake at 350°F until hot and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
Serve your buffalo chicken dip warm with chips, celery sticks, or carrots for dipping. It’s a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the flavors of buffalo wings in a creamy, scoopable form.
8. Chicken Fried Rice
Chicken fried rice is a tasty way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by heating oil in a large wok or pan over high heat.
Add diced onions, carrots, and peas, cooking until they soften. Toss in your shredded chicken and cook for a few minutes.
Push everything to the side and scramble some eggs in the empty space. Mix in cold cooked rice and stir-fry until heated through.
Season with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to taste. Keep stirring until the rice gets slightly crispy. This quick meal comes together in about 15 minutes.
9. Chicken Enchiladas
Chicken enchiladas are a tasty way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by shredding the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mix it with beans, corn, and spices in a bowl.
Warm up tortillas and fill them with the chicken mixture. Roll them up and place them in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over the top, making sure to cover all the tortillas.
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top for extra flavor. Bake the enchiladas in a preheated oven until the cheese melts and the sauce bubbles. Serve hot with sour cream and chopped cilantro on top.
This dish is quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights. You can customize it with your favorite toppings and sides.
10. Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Chicken salad sandwiches are a tasty way to use your leftover rotisserie chicken. Mix shredded chicken with mayonnaise, mustard, and paprika for flavor. Add diced celery and bell peppers for crunch.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your liking. Spread it on your favorite bread or roll. You can add lettuce and tomato for extra freshness.
These sandwiches are perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. They’re easy to pack for picnics or work meals too. You can make a big batch and keep it in the fridge for a few days.
11. Chicken Soup
Chicken soup is a comforting classic you can easily make with leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in a pot. Add chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
Shred your leftover chicken and toss it into the pot. Add some noodles or rice for extra substance. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley.
Let the soup simmer until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld. You’ll have a warm, satisfying meal in about 30 minutes. This soup freezes well, so you can save some for later.
12. Chicken and Rice Casserole
Chicken and rice casserole is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken. You can create a delicious meal with just a few ingredients.
Start by mixing diced chicken with cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, and mayonnaise. Add some diced celery and onions for crunch and flavor.
Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Top it with crushed crackers or cornflakes mixed with melted butter for a crispy topping.
Bake the casserole at 350°F for about 45 minutes until it’s hot and bubbly. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
13. Chicken Burritos
Chicken burritos are a tasty way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by shredding the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Mix the chicken with black beans, corn, and your favorite salsa. Add some taco seasoning for extra flavor.
Warm up large tortillas and place the chicken mixture in the center. Top with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream.
Roll up the tortillas tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. You can eat them right away or bake them for a crispy outside.
For a quick meal, make a batch of burritos and freeze them. Just wrap each one in foil before freezing. Heat them up whenever you need a fast dinner.
14. Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Chicken and broccoli stir-fry is a quick way to use your leftover rotisserie chicken. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes until it’s warmed through.
Toss in broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. Pour in some chicken broth or water, cover the pan, and let the broccoli steam for 2 minutes.
For extra flavor, add minced garlic and ginger. You can also make a simple sauce with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil.
Serve your stir-fry over rice or noodles for a fast, tasty meal.
15. Chicken Noodle Soup
Got leftover rotisserie chicken? Turn it into a comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup. Start by sautéing carrots, celery, and onions in a pot. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Shred your leftover chicken and toss it in. Simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. Add egg noodles and cook until tender, usually 6-8 minutes.
Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley. Your homemade chicken noodle soup is ready to warm you up on a chilly day.
16. Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Chicken stuffed peppers are a tasty way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Cut bell peppers in half and remove the seeds. Mix diced chicken with cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.
Fill the pepper halves with the chicken mixture. Top with extra cheese if you like. Bake the stuffed peppers in a 375°F oven until they’re tender and the cheese is melted.
You can add variety by using different cheeses or sauces. Try mozzarella and tomato sauce for a chicken parmesan flavor. Or use cheddar and salsa for a Mexican twist.
This dish is great for meal prep. Make a batch on Sunday and enjoy them throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.
17. Chicken and Vegetable Skewers
Chicken and vegetable skewers are a tasty way to use your leftover rotisserie chicken. Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks and thread onto skewers with colorful veggies like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.
Brush the skewers with olive oil and sprinkle with your favorite seasoning blend. Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the veggies are tender and lightly charred.
Serve your skewers over rice or with a side salad for a quick and easy meal. You can also pair them with tzatziki sauce or hummus for dipping.
18. Hawaiian Chicken Sliders
Hawaiian chicken sliders are a tasty way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, and chili powder for a sweet and tangy flavor.
Cut Hawaiian rolls in half and place the bottom layer in a baking dish. Spread the chicken mixture on top and add slices of provolone cheese.
Place the top half of the rolls over the cheese. Brush with melted garlic butter for extra flavor. Bake at 350°F until the cheese melts and the rolls are golden brown.
These sliders are perfect for parties or quick family meals. You can add bacon or green onions for extra crunch and flavor.
19. Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Pulled chicken sandwiches are a tasty way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. You can make them quickly and easily.
Start by shredding your leftover chicken. Mix it with barbecue sauce in a pan. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat for 5-10 minutes.
Serve the warm chicken on soft buns. Add toppings like coleslaw or pickles if you like. These sandwiches are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
You can customize the flavor by using different types of barbecue sauce. Try a spicy version or a sweet and tangy one for variety.
20. Chicken Nachos
Chicken nachos are a tasty way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by spreading tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Add shredded chicken on top.
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken and chips. You can use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend. Pop the sheet in a preheated oven until the cheese melts.
Add your favorite toppings. Try diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or black beans. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa on the side.
This quick meal is perfect for game day or a casual dinner. You can customize it based on what you have in your fridge.
21. Chicken Wraps
Chicken wraps are a quick and easy meal using leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by chopping the chicken into small pieces. Mix it with your favorite sauce or dressing for extra flavor.
Lay out a large tortilla and add the chicken mixture. Top with lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese. You can also add avocado, cucumber, or bell peppers for crunch.
Roll up the tortilla tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Cut the wrap in half for easier eating. Serve with chips or a side salad for a complete meal.
Chicken wraps are perfect for lunch or a light dinner. You can make them ahead of time for grab-and-go meals during busy days.
22. Chicken Tortilla Soup
Chicken tortilla soup is a perfect way to use your leftover rotisserie chicken. You can create this flavorful Mexican-inspired dish quickly and easily.
Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and jalapeños in a pot. Add chicken broth, shredded rotisserie chicken, diced tomatoes, and black beans. Spice it up with cumin, chili powder, and a dash of hot sauce.
Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes to blend the flavors. Serve it hot, topped with crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. This hearty soup makes a satisfying meal on its own.
23. Chicken Marsala
You can make a tasty Chicken Marsala with leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by slicing mushrooms and dredging shredded chicken in flour.
Heat oil and butter in a skillet. Brown the chicken, then set it aside. Cook mushrooms and onions in the same pan.
Add Marsala wine and chicken broth to create a sauce. Return the chicken to the pan and simmer until the sauce thickens.
Serve your quick Chicken Marsala over pasta or with a side of vegetables. This dish turns simple leftovers into an impressive meal in no time.
24. Chicken Cobb Salad
Chicken Cobb Salad is a tasty way to use your leftover rotisserie chicken. This dish combines crisp romaine lettuce with protein-packed toppings.
You’ll need chopped chicken, bacon bits, hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, and avocado. Add cucumber and red onion for extra crunch and flavor.
Arrange these ingredients in rows on top of the lettuce. This creates an eye-catching presentation. Blue cheese crumbles add a tangy kick.
Choose your favorite dressing to complete the salad. Ranch or blue cheese dressing work well. This filling meal is perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
25. Chicken Paninis
Chicken paninis are a tasty way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. You can make these hot sandwiches with just a few simple ingredients.
Start by slicing some crusty bread. Spread pesto or mayo on one side. Add sliced chicken, cheese, and veggies like tomatoes or spinach.
Grill the sandwich in a panini press or on a skillet. Cook until the bread is crispy and the cheese melts.
For extra flavor, try adding bacon or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also use BBQ sauce instead of pesto for a tangy twist.
Chicken paninis make a quick lunch or easy dinner. They’re perfect for using up leftover chicken in a new way.
26. Chicken Pita Pockets
Chicken pita pockets are a quick and tasty way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by slicing whole wheat pita bread in half to create pockets.
Stuff each pocket with shredded chicken, hummus, spinach, cucumber slices, and tomato. Add some crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor.
For a Greek-inspired version, mix Greek yogurt with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread this inside the pita before adding the other ingredients.
You can warm the pitas slightly before filling them if you prefer. These portable sandwiches make great lunches or light dinners.
Nutritional Benefits of Rotisserie Chicken
Rotisserie chicken is a tasty and nutritious option for your meals. It offers several health benefits that can support your diet and well-being.
High-Quality Protein
Rotisserie chicken is packed with protein. A 3-ounce serving gives you about 24 grams of protein. This is nearly half of what most adults need daily.
Protein helps build and repair your muscles. It also keeps you full longer. This can help you manage your weight.
Chicken is a complete protein. This means it has all nine essential amino acids your body needs.
Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Rotisserie chicken is rich in important nutrients. It’s a good source of B vitamins, especially niacin and B6.
These vitamins help your body turn food into energy. They also support brain function and red blood cell formation.
You’ll also get minerals like selenium and phosphorus from rotisserie chicken. Selenium acts as an antioxidant in your body. Phosphorus is key for strong bones and teeth.
Rotisserie chicken also contains iron, which helps carry oxygen in your blood. This can boost your energy levels and brain function.
Storage Tips for Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
Proper storage keeps your leftover rotisserie chicken safe and tasty. Follow these tips to enjoy your chicken for days to come.
Proper Refrigeration
Put your leftover chicken in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking. This stops bacteria growth. Take the meat off the bones first. Store it in airtight containers or wrap it tightly in foil.
Keep the chicken in the coldest part of your fridge. The back of the bottom shelf works best. Set your fridge to 40°F (4°C) or below.
Use refrigerated chicken within 3-4 days. After that, it’s best to freeze or toss it. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating.
Optimal Freezing Methods
Freezing extends your chicken’s life by months. Cut the meat into small pieces first. This makes thawing easier later.
Use freezer bags or airtight containers. Push out as much air as you can. Label each package with the date.
Freeze chicken at 0°F (-18°C) or lower. It will stay good for up to 4 months. For best quality, use it within 2-3 months.
Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight. Never thaw on the counter. Use thawed chicken within 1-2 days.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
Leftover rotisserie chicken can be transformed into tasty new meals. Try these ideas to breathe new life into your chicken and create exciting dishes.
Incorporating into Salads
Add shredded rotisserie chicken to your salads for a protein boost. Toss it with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for a quick lunch.
You can also make a chicken Caesar salad by combining the meat with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing. For a heartier option, mix the chicken with cooked pasta, vegetables, and Italian dressing for a cold pasta salad.
Try a southwestern-style salad with black beans, corn, avocado, and a lime vinaigrette. The chicken adds substance and pairs well with these bold flavors.
Making Hearty Soups
Turn your leftover chicken into comforting soups. Start with a basic chicken noodle soup by simmering the meat with carrots, celery, and egg noodles in chicken broth.
For a creamy option, make a chicken and wild rice soup. Combine the chicken with cooked wild rice, sautéed vegetables, and a creamy broth.
Try a spicy chicken tortilla soup with diced tomatoes, corn, and black beans. Top it with crispy tortilla strips and avocado for added texture.
You can also make an Asian-inspired chicken soup with ginger, garlic, and bok choy. Add rice noodles for a filling meal.
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