So you’ve got some leftover chicken sitting in the fridge and you’re not quite sure what to do with it. Well, fear not, because we’ve got some fantastic ideas for you! In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to use up leftover chicken, ensuring that none of it goes to waste. Whether you’re looking for quick and easy weeknight meals, delicious lunches, or creative twists on classic dishes, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to transform that leftover chicken into mouth-watering dishes that will have you eagerly looking forward to your next meal.
Chicken Salad
Classic Chicken Salad
Chicken salad is a classic and versatile dish that is easy to make and perfect for using up leftover chicken. It’s a refreshing and delicious option for lunch or a light dinner. The classic chicken salad typically includes chopped chicken, mayonnaise, celery, and seasonings. You can also add ingredients like grapes, apples, nuts, or herbs to add extra flavor and texture. Serve it on toasted bread, in a wrap, or on a bed of lettuce for a satisfying meal.
Cobb Salad with Chicken
If you’re looking for a heartier and more filling option, try making a Cobb salad with leftover chicken. This salad is a meal in itself, packed with protein and a variety of vegetables. The traditional Cobb salad includes chopped lettuce, hard-boiled eggs, avocado, bacon, tomatoes, blue cheese, and chicken. You can customize it to your liking by adding or substituting ingredients based on what you have on hand. Drizzle your favorite dressing over the top, and you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Greek Chicken Salad
For a Mediterranean twist, try making a Greek chicken salad with your leftover chicken. This salad is bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. It typically includes chopped chicken, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a lemon-herb dressing. You can also add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or artichoke hearts for extra crunch and flavor. Serve it with warm pita bread or over a bed of mixed greens for a light and refreshing meal.
Buffalo Chicken Salad
If you’re a fan of spicy and tangy flavors, then a buffalo chicken salad is the perfect choice for you. This salad combines the heat of buffalo sauce with the coolness of crisp lettuce and creamy dressing. Start by tossing your leftover chicken in buffalo sauce, then add it to a bed of mixed greens. Top it with diced celery, shredded carrots, blue cheese crumbles, and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing. It’s a delicious and satisfying salad that is sure to spice up your meal.
Chicken Sandwiches
Chicken Salad Sandwich
A chicken salad sandwich is a classic option for using up leftover chicken. Simply mix your chopped chicken with mayonnaise, celery, and seasonings, then spread it between two slices of bread. You can also add lettuce, tomatoes, or pickles for extra crunch and freshness. This sandwich is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or can be packed for a picnic or a day out.
BBQ Chicken Sandwich
For a more flavorful and smoky option, try making a BBQ chicken sandwich with your leftover chicken. Toss your chopped chicken in your favorite BBQ sauce, then pile it high on a bun. Top it with coleslaw, pickles, or crispy onions for added texture and taste. This sandwich is perfect for a summer cookout or a casual dinner with friends and family.
Chicken and Avocado Sandwich
If you’re looking for a healthier and more nutritious option, try making a chicken and avocado sandwich. Mash a ripe avocado and spread it on whole-grain bread, then add sliced chicken and your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, or sprouts. Avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats to the sandwich, while the chicken provides protein to keep you satisfied. It’s a delicious and filling option for a light lunch or a post-workout meal.
Caprese Chicken Sandwich
For a fresh and Italian-inspired option, try making a caprese chicken sandwich with your leftover chicken. Layer sliced chicken, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil leaves on a crusty baguette or ciabatta roll. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or pesto for extra flavor. This sandwich is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, and it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken in a creative way.
Chicken Wraps
Buffalo Chicken Wrap
If you’re a fan of buffalo chicken, then a buffalo chicken wrap is a must-try. Start by tossing your leftover chicken in buffalo sauce, then place it on a tortilla wrap. Add lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheese, and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing. Roll it up tightly and enjoy a flavorful and satisfying wrap. It’s a great option for a quick lunch or a grab-and-go meal.
Chicken Caesar Wrap
For a classic and timeless option, try making a chicken Caesar wrap with your leftover chicken. Spread Caesar dressing on a tortilla wrap, then layer sliced chicken, romaine lettuce, and grated Parmesan cheese. You can also add croutons or bacon for extra crunch. Roll it up, slice it in half, and you’ll have a delicious and portable meal that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
Mediterranean Chicken Wrap
If you’re craving Mediterranean flavors, then a Mediterranean chicken wrap is the way to go. Start by spreading hummus on a tortilla wrap, then add sliced chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese. You can also add olives, roasted red peppers, or tzatziki sauce for extra flavor. Roll it up tightly, and you’ll have a flavorful and filling wrap that’s perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Teriyaki Chicken Wrap
For an Asian-inspired option, try making a teriyaki chicken wrap with your leftover chicken. Toss your chopped chicken in teriyaki sauce, then place it on a tortilla wrap. Add sliced bell peppers, carrots, and green onions for added crunch and flavor. You can also drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce or soy sauce if desired. Roll it up and enjoy a delicious and satisfying wrap that’s packed with flavor.
Chicken Stir-Fry
General Tso’s Chicken
Craving some Chinese takeout? Why not make your own General Tso’s chicken stir-fry at home using leftover chicken? Start by sautéing garlic and ginger in a hot pan, then add your chopped chicken and cook until heated through. Pour in a homemade or store-bought General Tso’s sauce and toss to coat the chicken. Add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition. Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete and flavorful meal.
Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry
If you’re a fan of the combination of chicken and cashews, then this stir-fry is for you. Start by stir-frying your leftover chicken with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Add vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots and cook until crisp-tender. Throw in a handful of cashews and toss everything together. The cashews add a satisfying crunch to the dish, and the combination of flavors is simply irresistible.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry
For a lighter and refreshing option, try making a lemon garlic chicken stir-fry with your leftover chicken. Start by sautéing garlic in a hot pan, then add your chopped chicken and cook until heated through. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and add lemon zest for extra flavor. Throw in your favorite vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms, and cook until tender. The lemon and garlic combination adds a bright and tangy flavor to the dish, making it a perfect choice for a quick and healthy meal.
Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry
If you’re craving some spicy and flavorful Chinese cuisine, then a Szechuan chicken stir-fry is a great option. Start by stir-frying your leftover chicken with garlic, ginger, and Szechuan sauce. Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or green beans for added texture and taste. If you like it extra spicy, add some dried red chili flakes or Szechuan peppercorns. Serve over steamed rice or noodles and enjoy the bold and vibrant flavors of this delicious stir-fry.
Chicken Pasta
Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo is a classic pasta dish that is quick and easy to make using leftover chicken. Start by cooking your choice of pasta until al dente. In a separate pan, sauté garlic in butter until fragrant, then add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Toss in your chopped chicken and cooked pasta, and mix until well coated. Season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs for extra flavor. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and enjoy a comforting and creamy dinner.
Chicken Pesto Pasta
For a fresh and vibrant option, try making a chicken pesto pasta with your leftover chicken. Cook your choice of pasta until al dente. In a blender or food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil to make a homemade pesto sauce. In a separate pan, sauté your chopped chicken and toss it with the cooked pasta and pesto sauce. Add cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and color. This pasta dish is bursting with the flavors of summer and is perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Chicken Carbonara
Craving a rich and indulgent pasta dish? Try making a chicken carbonara with your leftover chicken. Cook your choice of pasta until al dente. In a hot pan, sauté chopped bacon until crispy, then add your chopped chicken and cook until heated through. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the pan with the bacon and chicken. Pour the egg mixture over the pasta and toss everything together until the sauce thickens. Add more cheese and seasonings if desired. This pasta dish is creamy, satisfying, and full of flavor.
Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta
For a lighter and refreshing option, try making a lemon herb chicken pasta with your leftover chicken. Cook your choice of pasta until al dente. In a separate pan, sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then add your chopped chicken and cook until heated through. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and add lemon zest for extra flavor. Toss in your favorite herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme, and mix until well combined. Season with salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese. This pasta dish is light, flavorful, and perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Chicken Soup
Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is a comforting and classic dish that is perfect for using up leftover chicken. In a large pot, sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until softened. Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add your chopped chicken and simmer for a few minutes until heated through. Throw in your choice of egg noodles, rice, or orzo and cook until tender. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and dried herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added freshness. This soup is warm, nourishing, and perfect for a cozy night in.
Chicken and Rice Soup
For a heartier and more filling option, try making a chicken and rice soup with your leftover chicken. In a large pot, sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until softened. Add chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add your chopped chicken and simmer for a few minutes until heated through. Stir in cooked rice and cook for a few more minutes until the flavors meld together. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and dried herbs like thyme or oregano. You can also add vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach for added nutrition. This soup is a complete and satisfying meal on its own.
Lemon Chicken Soup
If you’re looking for a bright and refreshing soup, try making a lemon chicken soup with your leftover chicken. In a large pot, sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until softened. Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add your chopped chicken and simmer for a few minutes until heated through. Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup and add lemon zest for extra flavor. Stir in cooked orzo or rice and cook until tender. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and dried herbs like dill or parsley. This soup is light, tangy, and perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup
If you’re craving some bold and spicy flavors, a Mexican chicken tortilla soup is a great option. In a large pot, sauté chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic until softened. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and your choice of beans like black beans or pinto beans. Bring the soup to a boil, then add your chopped chicken and simmer for a few minutes until heated through. Season the soup with chili powder, cumin, and paprika for a delicious Mexican flavor. Serve the soup topped with crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and sliced avocado for added texture and taste. This soup is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a fiesta-inspired meal.
Chicken Tacos
Grilled Chicken Tacos
Grilled chicken tacos are a flavorful and healthy option for using up leftover chicken. Start by marinating your chopped chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lime juice, and your favorite seasonings like cumin, chili powder, or garlic powder. Grill the chicken until cooked through and slightly charred. Warm up corn or flour tortillas, then fill them with the grilled chicken and your choice of toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped onions, and salsa. You can also add guacamole or sour cream for extra creaminess. These tacos are fresh, vibrant, and perfect for a Mexican-inspired meal.
Buffalo Chicken Tacos
For a unique and spicy twist, try making buffalo chicken tacos with your leftover chicken. Start by tossing your chopped chicken in buffalo sauce until well coated. Warm up corn or flour tortillas, then fill them with the buffalo chicken and your choice of toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, crumbled blue cheese, and ranch dressing. You can also add celery or carrots for added crunch. These tacos are spicy, tangy, and perfect for when you’re craving some hot and bold flavors.
Korean BBQ Chicken Tacos
If you’re a fan of Korean cuisine, then Korean BBQ chicken tacos are a must-try. Start by marinating your chopped chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Grill the chicken until cooked through and slightly charred. Warm up corn or flour tortillas, then fill them with the grilled chicken and your choice of toppings like shredded cabbage, sliced cucumbers, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of spicy chili sauce. These tacos are packed with flavor, and the combination of sweet and savory will keep you coming back for more.
Chicken Fajita Tacos
For a classic and crowd-pleasing option, try making chicken fajita tacos with your leftover chicken. In a hot pan, sauté sliced bell peppers and onions until softened and slightly caramelized. Add your chopped chicken and heat it through. Warm up corn or flour tortillas, then fill them with the chicken and fajita vegetables. Top with shredded cheese, salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for added flavor and creaminess. These tacos are delicious, versatile, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together.
Chicken Pizza
BBQ Chicken Pizza
If you’re a fan of both pizza and BBQ flavors, then a BBQ chicken pizza is the perfect choice. Start by spreading your favorite BBQ sauce on a pizza crust or a homemade dough. Top it with shredded or chopped chicken, sliced red onions, and grated cheese like mozzarella or cheddar. You can also add diced bell peppers, pineapple chunks, or cilantro for extra flavor and freshness. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This pizza is a delicious and tangy twist on a classic favorite.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
For a spicy and bold option, try making a buffalo chicken pizza with your leftover chicken. Start by tossing your chopped chicken in buffalo sauce until well coated. Spread blue cheese or ranch dressing on a pizza crust or a homemade dough. Top it with the buffalo chicken, sliced celery, and grated cheese like mozzarella or blue cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Drizzle with more buffalo sauce or dressing if desired. This pizza is perfect for those who love a little heat in their meal.
Chicken Alfredo Pizza
If you’re a fan of creamy and indulgent flavors, then a chicken Alfredo pizza is a great choice. Spread Alfredo sauce on a pizza crust or a homemade dough. Top it with chopped chicken, sliced mushrooms, and grated cheese like mozzarella or Parmesan. You can also add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted garlic for extra flavor. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and golden. This pizza is rich, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy night in.
Chicken Pesto Pizza
For a fresh and vibrant option, try making a chicken pesto pizza with your leftover chicken. Spread homemade or store-bought pesto sauce on a pizza crust or a homemade dough. Top it with sliced chicken, sliced tomatoes, and grated cheese like mozzarella or feta. You can also add sliced red onions, black olives, or fresh basil for added flavor and color. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden. This pizza is bursting with the flavors of summer and is perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Chicken Quesadillas
Classic Chicken Quesadilla
A classic chicken quesadilla is a quick and easy option for using up leftover chicken. Start by warming up a tortilla in a hot pan. Sprinkle shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack on one half of the tortilla, then add your chopped chicken and any desired toppings like sliced onions, bell peppers, or salsa. Fold the tortilla in half and press it lightly with a spatula. Cook until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden and crispy. Slice it into wedges, and you’ll have a delicious and satisfying quesadilla.
BBQ Chicken Quesadilla
For a smoky and flavorful twist, try making a BBQ chicken quesadilla with your leftover chicken. Warm up a tortilla in a hot pan, then sprinkle shredded cheese like smoked gouda or mozzarella on one half of the tortilla. Add your chopped chicken tossed in BBQ sauce and any desired toppings like caramelized onions, roasted corn, or cilantro. Fold the tortilla in half and cook until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. Slice it into wedges, and you’ll have a tangy and mouthwatering quesadilla.
Buffalo Chicken Quesadilla
If you’re a fan of spicy flavors, then a buffalo chicken quesadilla is the way to go. Warm up a tortilla in a hot pan, then sprinkle shredded cheese like cheddar or pepper jack on one half of the tortilla. Add your chopped chicken tossed in buffalo sauce and any desired toppings like blue cheese crumbles, diced celery, or ranch dressing. Fold the tortilla in half and cook until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden and crispy. Slice it into wedges, and you’ll have a fiery and delicious quesadilla.
Chicken and Spinach Quesadilla
For a healthier and more nutritious option, try making a chicken and spinach quesadilla with your leftover chicken. Warm up a tortilla in a hot pan, then sprinkle shredded cheese like mozzarella or feta on one half of the tortilla. Add your chopped chicken and a handful of fresh spinach leaves. You can also add sliced tomatoes, red onions, or black olives for extra flavor. Fold the tortilla in half and cook until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. Slice it into wedges, and you’ll have a wholesome and tasty quesadilla.
Chicken Fried Rice
Classic Chicken Fried Rice
Chicken fried rice is a crowd-pleasing and flavorful dish that is perfect for using up leftover chicken. Start by sautéing chopped onions, garlic, and carrots in a hot pan until softened. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and add beaten eggs to the other side. Scramble the eggs until cooked through, then mix them with the vegetables. Add your chopped chicken and cooked rice to the pan, then drizzle with soy sauce and toss everything together until well combined. Add frozen peas or any other desired vegetables and cook until heated through. This fried rice is a complete meal on its own and is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice
For a sweet and tangy twist, try making pineapple chicken fried rice with your leftover chicken. Start by sautéing chopped onions, garlic, and carrots in a hot pan until softened. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and add beaten eggs to the other side. Scramble the eggs until cooked through, then mix them with the vegetables. Add your chopped chicken, cooked rice, and diced pineapple to the pan. Drizzle with soy sauce and a splash of pineapple juice, then toss everything together until well combined. The pineapple adds a burst of sweetness to the dish, making it a delightful and tropical meal.
Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice
If you’re a fan of teriyaki flavors, then teriyaki chicken fried rice is a must-try. Start by sautéing chopped onions, garlic, and carrots in a hot pan until softened. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and add beaten eggs to the other side. Scramble the eggs until cooked through, then mix them with the vegetables. Add your chopped chicken and cooked rice to the pan, then drizzle with teriyaki sauce and toss everything together until well combined. Add frozen peas or any other desired vegetables and cook until heated through. The teriyaki sauce adds a savory and umami flavor to the fried rice, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.
Spicy Thai Chicken Fried Rice
If you’re craving some spicy and exotic flavors, try making spicy Thai chicken fried rice with your leftover chicken. In a hot pan, sauté chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and add beaten eggs to the other side. Scramble the eggs until cooked through, then mix them with the vegetables. Add your chopped chicken, cooked rice, and a spicy Thai sauce like Sriracha or Thai red curry paste to the pan. Toss everything together until well combined. Add sliced green onions, fresh basil, and chopped peanuts for added texture and taste. This fried rice is a flavor-packed and fiery meal that will transport your taste buds to Thailand.
