Are you tired of throwing away leftover food? Do you struggle to come up with creative ways to use up that extra chicken from last night’s dinner? Look no further! We’ve got 20 delicious and easy recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. And the best part? They all start with a humble rotisserie chicken, which means you can easily adapt them to whatever type of leftovers you have on hand.
From classic comfort foods like casseroles and soups, to international-inspired dishes like quesadillas and stir-fries, we’ve got something for everyone. And don’t worry if you’re short on time – these recipes are quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday afternoon. So go ahead, get creative, and make those leftovers shine!
Chicken and Cheese Quesadillas
These creamy, cheesy quesadillas are packed with shredded chicken and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 2 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together shredded chicken, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the chicken mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top of the chicken mixture.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake
A comforting and flavorful dish that combines the richness of chicken with the creaminess of pasta, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.
5. Stir in cream and mozzarella cheese; let simmer for 1-2 minutes or until sauce thickens.
6. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture in a baking dish.
7. Top with additional mozzarella cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps
A twist on the classic salad, these wraps combine the flavors of chicken, romaine lettuce, and Caesar dressing with the convenience of a handheld meal. Perfect for lunch or dinner on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 4 large tortilla wraps
– 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/2 cup shaved parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the chicken into thin strips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
3. Warm the tortilla wraps by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble the wraps by spreading Caesar dressing on each tortilla, followed by a layer of chopped lettuce, diced chicken, and shaved parmesan cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Chicken Fried Rice
Add a kick to your lunch or dinner with this flavorful Spicy Chicken Fried Rice recipe. Perfectly cooked chicken, veggies, and rice are combined with a spicy sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 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
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in frozen vegetables and cook until thawed.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the chicken and veggies.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and red pepper flakes. Pour over the rice mixture and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious stir fry that can be prepared in just 20 minutes. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
BBQ Chicken Pizza
This recipe combines the classic flavors of pizza with the tangy sweetness of BBQ sauce and the smokiness of grilled chicken, all on a crispy crust. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made pizza dough or crust
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Grill chicken breasts until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
3. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Spread BBQ sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Top with grilled chicken, red onion slices, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken, crunchy tortillas, and a blend of spices to create a deliciously creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into strips
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Add tortilla strips to the pot and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until they’re tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This casserole is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables and protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup crushed crackers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken, broccoli, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, milk, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked chicken mixture to the soup mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheese and crushed crackers.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Avocado Club Sandwich
This classic club sandwich gets a fresh twist with the addition of creamy avocado and juicy chicken breast. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 head of lettuce, chopped
– 2 tomatoes, sliced
– 2 tablespoons of bacon bits (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a separate pan, toast the bread slices.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise on each slice of bread, then topping with a chicken breast, lettuce, tomato, avocado, and bacon bits (if using).
4. Place the top slice of bread to complete the sandwich.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Risotto
This comforting Italian-inspired dish combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy Arborio rice, all infused with the rich flavors of white wine and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add white wine (if using); cook until absorbed.
6. Add chicken broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
7. Stir in butter and parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your stuffed pepper game with this bold and spicy recipe that combines the flavors of buffalo chicken, peppers, and cream cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, remove seeds, and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. Top each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, flavorful twist on traditional stuffed shells. Chicken and spinach add a delightful surprise to every bite.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine chicken, spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Cover shells with marinara sauce and top with additional mozzarella cheese (if desired).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Pot Pie
Classic Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
A comforting and satisfying dish perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering. This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce with a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, garlic, and carrots in butter until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add flour and stir to combine. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the chicken mixture and cover with remaining pie crust. Crimp edges to seal.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Enchiladas
Savor the rich flavors of this classic Mexican dish as tender chicken, wrapped in tortillas and smothered in a creamy sauce, comes together for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine cooked chicken, enchilada sauce, and shredded cheese. Stir until smooth.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
4. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of a tortilla, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Roll up tortilla and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Pour any remaining enchilada sauce over rolled tortillas and sprinkle with additional cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Rice Casserole
This classic casserole is a staple for any occasion, combining the simplicity of chicken, rice, and vegetables with the warmth of a comforting meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Combine cooked chicken mixture with peas and carrots, cream of chicken soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half the rice, then the chicken mixture, and finally the remaining rice.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Cobb Salad
This iconic salad is a staple of American cuisine, featuring juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and tangy dressing all nestled among crisp lettuce and crunchy croutons. With this simple recipe, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup croutons
– 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, and croutons.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle blue cheese crumbles on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Chicken and Dumplings
Classic comfort food at its finest! This simple recipe yields a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large celery stalk, sliced
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups milk or half-and-half
– 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the pot, then add the carrots, celery, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Gradually stir in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
6. Gradually stir in the chicken broth and milk, whisking until smooth.
7. Add the cooked chicken back to the pot and bring to a simmer.
8. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through.
Cook Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on traditional stuffed shells. This recipe combines the rich flavors of chicken alfredo sauce with the comfort of jumbo pasta shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup chicken alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix until smooth.
4. Stuff each shell with the chicken mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, followed by the chicken alfredo sauce.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Nachos Supreme
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this mouthwatering recipe that combines juicy chicken, crispy tortilla chips, and creamy cheese. Perfect for game day gatherings or cozy nights in, these nachos are sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 bag (12-14 oz) tortilla chips
– 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken breasts until browned and cooked through.
3. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Top with cooked chicken, black beans, diced tomatoes, cheese, and cilantro.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Black Bean Tacos
This recipe combines the savory flavors of chicken, black beans, and spices with the crunch of fresh toppings for a delicious taco experience. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, black beans, onion, bell pepper, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Grill the chicken mixture 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 mixture, and add your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover rotisserie chicken! With these 20 easy and delicious recipe ideas, you’ll never have to look at a plain old chicken breast again. From quesadillas and pasta bakes to salads and stuffed shells, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or comforting, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to please.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
