Let’s explore the endless possibilities of leftover rotisserie chicken recipes. We’ll show you how to make delicious meals from it. From casseroles to salads, these recipes will make your leftover chicken shine. Get ready to make your weeknight dinners better.
Why Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Leftover rotisserie chicken is a kitchen hero. It saves time and offers endless possibilities. It makes weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings easier.
Benefits of Using Rotisserie Chicken
Rotisserie chicken is tasty and practical. It’s pre-cooked, so you skip the long prep time. This lets you make a meal fast.
Time-Saving Meal Prep
Leftover rotisserie chicken makes cooking easy. You don’t have to cook and shred chicken. Just pull the meat off and use it in many recipes. It’s great for busy nights or feeding a crowd.
Versatile Ingredients
Leftover rotisserie chicken is versatile. You can make chicken salad, casseroles, tacos, and soups. Its flavor is neutral, so it works with many ingredients. It’s a canvas for your creativity.
Using leftover rotisserie chicken changes dinner prep. It’s convenient and offers endless options. It becomes a key part of your cooking.
Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
Elevate your leftover rotisserie chicken with this classic chicken salad recipe. It’s creamy and full of flavor. Enjoy it for lunch or dinner, and it will always satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4½ cups cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken
- ⅔ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 scallions, thinly sliced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
In a large bowl, mix the shredded rotisserie chicken, mayonnaise, sour cream, and lemon juice. Make sure the chicken is well-coated. Then, add the scallions, celery, dill, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
For the best taste, cover the bowl and chill the chicken salad for 30 minutes. This lets the flavors mix well and makes it easier to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this classic chicken salad in many ways:
- Serve on bread or croissants for a tasty sandwich
- Scoop onto lettuce leaves for a low-carb option
- Use as a topping for a fresh green salad
- Serve with crackers or crostini as an appetizer
- Stuff into hollowed-out tomatoes or avocado halves
For a full meal, pair the chicken salad with roasted potatoes, a crisp green salad, or a refreshing fruit salad. The options are endless!
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting meal. It has tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce. It’s a favorite among families and is easy to make.
Essential Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups cooked, shredded or diced chicken
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup dry white wine or chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Steps to Make the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in the white wine (or chicken stock) and the cream of chicken soup. Stir until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and the creamy sauce. Stir to coat the ingredients evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips for the Perfect Bake
To get the best results, make sure to spread the ingredients evenly in the dish. Avoid overcooking to keep it creamy and cheesy. You can also add veggies like broccoli or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition Facts | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 275 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 34 g |
Protein | 9 g |
Fat | 10 g |
Saturated Fat | 3 g |
Cholesterol | 22 mg |
Sodium | 718 mg |
Potassium | 339 mg |
Fiber | 2 g |
Sugar | 2 g |
Vitamin A | 5910 IU |
Vitamin C | 13.6 mg |
Calcium | 144 mg |
Iron | 1 mg |
This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole has been loved by families for over a decade. It was first shared on the blog in 2014. It’s a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken and make a tasty chicken casserole meal. Enjoy this cheesy, creamy dish for a delicious dinner any day.
Chicken Quesadillas for a Quick Meal
Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for making chicken quesadillas. These quesadillas are easy to make and loved by all. They’re a quick way to enjoy your leftover chicken in a tasty dish.
What You’ll Need
- Flour tortillas (medium-sized, around 8 inches in diameter)
- 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken
- 1/4 cup each of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese per quesadilla
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil for sautéing the vegetables (if desired)
- Chopped bell peppers, garlic, onion, and jalapeño (optional)
- Taco seasoning (for added flavor)
Cooking Instructions
To make the chicken quesadillas, follow these steps:
- Preheat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Lightly butter one side of the flour tortillas.
- Place the buttered tortillas, butter-side down, in the preheated skillet.
- Evenly distribute the shredded chicken and cheese mixture over half of each tortilla.
- Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
- Cook the quesadillas for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove the quesadillas from the skillet and slice them into triangles.
Variations and Add-Ons
To make your chicken quesadillas even better, try these:
- Sautéed bell peppers, garlic, onion, and jalapeño for added vegetables
- Taco seasoning or your favorite spices to season the chicken
- Barbecue sauce for a tangy, smoky twist on the classic quesadilla
- Butternut squash or other roasted vegetables for a more nutritious option
Top your chicken quesadillas with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and fresh cilantro. This makes for a complete and delicious meal.
Savory Chicken Soup Recipe
Make your chicken soup better with leftover rotisserie chicken! This recipe is comforting and smart. It turns tasty leftovers into a hearty, flavorful soup. Just a few ingredients make a delightful soup that warms your soul.
Key Ingredients for Flavor
- Shredded or cubed leftover rotisserie chicken
- Chicken broth or stock
- Carrots, celery, and onions (the classic soup vegetable trio)
- Fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or bay leaves
- Salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings
Cooking Instructions
To make the savory chicken soup, start by sautéing the chopped carrots, celery, and onions in a large pot or Dutch oven until they’re softened. Then, add the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Toss in the shredded or cubed rotisserie chicken, along with the fresh herbs and seasonings. Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust the seasoning to taste, and you’re ready to serve this comforting chicken soup.
Storing and Reheating the Soup
This chicken soup recipe can be easily stored and reheated for later enjoyment. Simply let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s piping hot. The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months, making it a great meal prep option.
Embrace the convenience of leftover rotisserie chicken and let it shine in this delectable chicken soup recipe. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the satisfaction of transforming those tasty leftovers into a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Flavorful Chicken Tacos
Leftover rotisserie chicken makes these chicken tacos amazing. With a few simple steps, you can turn leftovers into a tasty meal everyone will love. Let’s explore how to make these chicken taco recipes with your leftover rotisserie chicken.
Ingredients List
- 400 grams of cooked, diced or shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 60 ml boiling water
- 8 hard corn taco shells or soft flour tortillas
- 150 grams of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 12 cherry tomatoes, halved
Assembly Instructions
To make these tasty chicken taco recipes, start by heating the chicken in a skillet. Add taco seasoning and garlic, then pour in boiling water. Stir until the seasoning is mixed in and the chicken is hot, about 5 minutes.
Next, warm the taco shells or tortillas as the package says, usually 10-12 minutes at 375°F. This makes the shells crispy and the tortillas warm, perfect for the chicken filling.
Suggested Toppings
When the chicken and shells/tortillas are ready, start building your tacos. Put the seasoned chicken in each shell or tortilla. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, sliced avocado, and cherry tomatoes. You can also add lettuce, pico de gallo, cilantro, or sour cream for extra flavor.
These chicken taco recipes are quick and delicious. With just 20 minutes of prep, you can have a tasty Mexican-inspired meal ready. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information per Serving (3 Tacos) | Value |
---|---|
Calories | 578 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 25g |
Protein | 31g |
Fat | 17g |
Saturated Fat | 6g |
Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g |
Monounsaturated Fat | 2g |
Trans Fat | 0.1g |
Cholesterol | 94mg |
Sodium | 502mg |
Potassium | 344mg |
Fiber | 2g |
Sugar | 2g |
Vitamin A | 1143 IU |
Vitamin C | N/A |
Calcium | N/A |
Iron | N/A |
“These chicken tacos are a game-changer! The rotisserie chicken makes it so easy, and the toppings are perfect.”
Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Make your leftover rotisserie chicken into something special with Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps. This recipe is a light and refreshing way to enjoy your chicken. It’s full of vibrant flavors and crunchy textures, making it a hit with your family.
Essential Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut sauce (or sweet chili sauce)
- 8-12 butter lettuce leaves
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 1 large carrot, shredded
- 1/2 English cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup crushed peanuts (optional)
Preparation Steps
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken and peanut sauce, tossing to coat the chicken evenly.
- Arrange the lettuce leaves on a serving platter or plate.
- Spoon the chicken mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf.
- Top with the julienned bell pepper, shredded carrot, and sliced cucumber.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and crushed peanuts (if using).
Serving Ideas
These Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are perfect as an appetizer or a light main course. Serve them with a fresh salad or steamed rice for a bigger meal. Their crunchy texture and bold flavors make them a favorite at any gathering.
“These chicken lettuce wraps are a healthy and delicious way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken. The peanut sauce is so flavorful, and the fresh veggies add a lovely crunch. My family loved them!”
– Samantha, Food Blogger
Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Calories |
---|---|---|---|---|
20 minutes | 5 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 | 437 kcal per serving |
Nutrition per Serving | Value |
---|---|
Carbohydrates | 42g |
Protein | 37.3g |
Fat | 14.2g |
Saturated Fat | 2.6g |
Cholesterol | 81.3mg |
Sodium | 596mg |
Potassium | 389mg |
Fiber | 4.4g |
Sugar | 9.7g |
Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
Leftover rotisserie chicken can be turned into a tasty chicken Alfredo pasta bake. This dish is creamy, and cheesy, and combines tender chicken with rich Alfredo sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a hit with the whole family.
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound whole wheat pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves of garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 ¾ cups of milk (1%, 2%, or whole)
- Can low-sodium chicken broth (1 ¾ cups)
- 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning or a blend of dried thyme and dried basil
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- ½ cup low-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 3 ½ cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese for topping
Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened.
6. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add ½ cup of the Parmesan cheese and the Greek yogurt, and whisk until well combined.
7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and the Alfredo sauce. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly distributed.
8. Transfer the mixture to a 4-quart baking dish and top with the remaining 1 cup of Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips for a Creamy Sauce
To get a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, mix heavy cream or half-and-half, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Greek yogurt adds a velvety texture without making it too heavy.
Enjoy your delicious chicken Alfredo pasta bake, made with leftover rotisserie chicken and a homemade, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a comforting family dinner or meal prepping throughout the week.
Transforming Leftovers into New Dishes
Don’t let leftover rotisserie chicken go to waste! With a bit of creativity, you can turn it into many tasty dishes. Try making chicken enchiladas or buffalo chicken dip for a change.
Creative Recipe Ideas
Shredded rotisserie chicken is great for many recipes. You can make chicken pot pie soup, chicken fried rice, or a big chicken noodle casserole. It’s also perfect for meal prep, helping you save time during the week.
Meal Prep Strategies
Shred or chop leftover chicken and freeze it for up to 4 months. This makes adding protein to meals easy. Use it for chicken salad sandwiches, enchiladas, or a creamy chicken and broccoli bake.
Freezing Leftover Chicken
Use every part of the rotisserie chicken, including the bones. Simmer the bones to make flavorful chicken broth or stock. Freeze it for later use in soups and stews. This way, you reduce waste and get more value from your chicken.
FAQ
What are some easy recipes to make with leftover rotisserie chicken?
What are the benefits of using leftover rotisserie chicken?
How can I make a classic chicken salad with leftover rotisserie chicken?
What are the essential ingredients for a cheesy chicken and rice casserole?
What do I need to make chicken quesadillas with leftover rotisserie chicken?
What are the key ingredients for a savory chicken soup using leftover rotisserie chicken?
How can I make flavorful chicken tacos with leftover rotisserie chicken?
What ingredients are needed for Thai chicken lettuce wraps?
What are the main ingredients for a chicken Alfredo pasta bake?
What are some creative ways to use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Source Links
- https://amindfullmom.com/leftover-rotisserie-chicken-recipes/ – Easy Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g35785500/recipes-using-rotisserie-chicken/ – These Family Dinner Ideas All Start With a Rotisserie Chicken
- https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/ways-to-turn-rotisserie-chicken-into-dinner/?srsltid=AfmBOop7_AkbT8ilrnpcc51TSEUtNlJfml6aH9Pgpe5_jxEppLarlLii – 129 Recipes with Rotisserie Chicken Everyone Will Love
- https://www.laurafuentes.com/rotisserie-chicken-pasta/ – Rotisserie Chicken Pasta with Garlic, Herbs, & Olive Oil
- https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/ways-to-turn-rotisserie-chicken-into-dinner/?srsltid=AfmBOorqKvqrcKeF2DT2ipNjqz3zoe0wvaB9nVkv9aLwKghP5t1whUaU – 129 Recipes with Rotisserie Chicken Everyone Will Love
- https://www.southernliving.com/food/dish/casserole/casseroles-with-rotisserie-chicken?srsltid=AfmBOoqNS4XkHt7d4O96ocu86BQjZ5YUx4V1E_Jaaw77fzFy4Csv0N92 – 34 Casseroles You Can Make With Rotisserie Chicken
- https://www.onceuponachef.com/recipes/classic-chicken-salad.html – Classic Chicken Salad – Once Upon a Chef
- https://easyfamilyrecipes.com/rotisserie-chicken-salad/ – Rotisserie Chicken Salad
- https://www.theslowroasteditalian.com/classic-chicken-salad-recipe/ – Rotisserie Chicken Salad Recipe
- https://picky-palate.com/weeknight-cheesy-chicken-rice/ – Cheesy Chicken and Rice. Perfect weeknight dinner recipe!
- https://amindfullmom.com/creamy-and-cheesy-chicken-and-rice/ – Cheesy Chicken and Rice
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/233983/mamaws-chicken-and-rice-casserole/ – Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole
- https://wholefully.com/easy-chicken-quesadilla-recipe/ – How to Make Easy Chicken Quesadillas | Wholefully
- https://cravinghomecooked.com/chicken-quesadillas/ – Chicken Quesadillas
- https://www.southernliving.com/food/dish/soup/soup-with-rotisserie-chicken?srsltid=AfmBOopgpmmTbkIGvrGeo-4pfpo2kuHmMgVGW94f9cAaSOqAw1kwE4zp – 14 Soups You Can Make With Rotisserie Chicken
- https://peasandcrayons.com/rotisserie-chicken-tortilla-soup/ – Rotisserie Chicken Tortilla Soup
- https://www.laurafuentes.com/rotisserie-chicken-tacos/ – EASY Rotisserie Chicken Tacos
- https://www.chelseasmessyapron.com/rotisserie-chicken-tacos/ – Rotisserie Chicken Tacos
- https://www.effortlessfoodie.com/leftover-chicken-tacos/ – Easy Leftover Chicken Tacos
- https://beginwithbalance.com/rotisserie-chicken-lettuce-wraps/ – Rotisserie Chicken Lettuce Wraps With Easy Peanut Sauce | Begin With Balance
- https://www.onelovelylife.com/thai-chicken-lettuce-wraps/ – Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps With The BEST Peanut Sauce (Gluten-Free)
- https://www.thatskinnychickcanbake.com/shredded-chicken-lettuce-wraps/ – Shredded Chicken Lettuce Wraps – Better Than PF Changs – That Skinny Chick Can Bake
- https://www.laurafuentes.com/rotisserie-chicken-alfredo/ – Classic Chicken Alfredo with Rotisserie!
- https://www.theseasonedmom.com/dump-and-bake-chicken-alfredo-pasta-casserole/ – Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole – The Seasoned Mom
- https://www.wellplated.com/chicken-alfredo-bake/ – Chicken Alfredo Bake
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- https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/ways-to-turn-rotisserie-chicken-into-dinner/?srsltid=AfmBOop8SrTe390FfEPXBlydDFeeeIbe6aRuE1bGW7RT0uPezo4IJPaS – 129 Recipes with Rotisserie Chicken Everyone Will Love
- https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/how-to-use-up-a-supermarket-rotisserie-chicken/ – Delicious Rotisserie Chicken Recipes to Use Every Last Bite • Everyday Cheapskate