8 Easy Leftover Chicken Recipes: Leftovers often get a bad rap, but with the right recipes, they can be your ticket to quick and delightful meals throughout the week. Leftover chicken, versatile and ready to go, is a prime candidate for culinary repurposing.
1. Chicken Quesadillas: A Cheesy Delight
Quick and Satisfying
Quesadillas are the perfect quick-fix meal. Just take some tortillas, sprinkle cheese on one half, add your chopped or shredded leftover chicken, and whatever else you like such as onions, peppers, or beans. Fold, grill on a skillet, and voilà!
Why It Works
Cheese and chicken are a match made in heaven, and the crispy tortilla adds just the right crunch. Serve with salsa or guacamole for an extra kick!
2. Chicken Salad: Refresh Your Lunch
Light and Creamy
Mix chopped chicken with mayo, mustard, celery, onions, and a dash of lemon juice for a refreshing chicken salad. Spread it on bread for a sandwich or atop a bed of greens for a fulfilling salad.
Health Tip
Opt for Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a healthier version that’s just as creamy and delicious.
3. Chicken Fried Rice: An Asian Twist
Flavorful and Filling
Fried rice is great for using not just leftover chicken but also any veggies you need to clear out. Sauté onions, garlic, peas, and carrots in a wok, add rice and chicken, then toss everything with soy sauce and scramble in an egg.
Leftover Logic
This dish is all about flexibility; you can add almost any leftover vegetable or even pineapple for a sweet touch.
4. Chicken Pasta Bake: Comfort in a Dish
Hearty and Delicious
Combine cooked pasta, leftover chicken, a jar of pasta sauce, and mixed vegetables in a baking dish. Top with cheese and bake until bubbly. This easy bake is comforting and customizable to what’s in your fridge.
Perfect Pairing
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
5. Buffalo Chicken Wraps: Spice Things Up
Zesty and Fun
Toss your leftover chicken in buffalo sauce, wrap it in a flour tortilla with lettuce, diced tomatoes, and ranch or blue cheese dressing. These wraps are bursting with flavor and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Wrap Tip
For a lighter option, use a whole wheat tortilla or a large lettuce leaf as the wrap.
6. Chicken Soup: Soothe Your Soul
Warm and Comforting
Simmer chicken bones and leftover chicken with onions, carrots, celery, and herbs to make a soothing soup. This is ideal for cold days or when you need a little comfort food.
Soup-er Advice
Add noodles, rice, or even dumplings to turn it into a more substantial meal.
7. Chicken Pot Pie: A Classic Reimagined
Homestyle Cooking
Use leftover chicken, mixed vegetables, and a cream of chicken soup to fill a pie crust or puff pastry. Bake until golden for a delightful meal that feels like a hug in the form of food.
Making It Easy
For a quicker version, top with store-bought biscuit dough and bake as directed.
8. Chicken Tacos: A Fiesta of Flavors
Quick Mexican Feast
Warm up your leftover chicken with some taco seasoning, then serve it in soft or hard taco shells with lettuce, cheese, salsa, and sour cream for a taco night that comes together in a flash.
Taco Night Tip
Set out all the toppings in bowls and let everyone build their own perfect taco!
Conclusion
Leftover chicken doesn’t have to be a bore. With these eight recipes, you can turn it into a range of exciting meals that will keep your weeknights easy and delicious. So next time you find yourself with some leftover chicken, see it as an opportunity to get creative in the kitchen!