Leftover roast chicken is a versatile ingredient that can instantly be transformed into delicious dishes throughout your week. So, why not get creative instead of letting your extra chicken go to waste? Here are seven ways to use leftover roast chicken to delight your taste buds positively with every bite.
Quick disclaimer: many of these recipes won’t mention salt, pepper, or other seasonings, but know that we recommend at least the first two with every single one and to get creative with touches of things like garlic powder or cumin with the rest!
Roast Chicken Rice Dish
Image Credit: gkrphoto/Shutterstock.
This dish is from my childhood. Take the leftover roast chicken and shred it into small pieces. Add it to a pot of cooked rice, add some fresh or frozen vegetables (corn, peas, and carrots are great), and mix it together. It takes minutes to make, and it is delicious. Serve it with soy sauce or a spicy sauce for extra flavor. Trader Joe’s Green Dragon Sauce is really good on this.
Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocados
Chicken salad stuffed avocados make for a light and refreshing meal. Simply mix shredded roast chicken with mayonnaise, diced celery, chopped almonds (or other nuts you might have on hand; pecans or pine nuts are excellent alternatives), and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Cut ripe avocados, remove the pit, and fill the center with the chicken salad mixture. This dish is delicious, but more than that, it’s packed with healthy fats and protein.
Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Stir fries are a godsend for using up leftover ingredients, and that certainly includes chicken. Heat a wok or skillet with some oil, add your favorite vegetables (we really like bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and water chestnuts), then toss in the shredded chicken after a few minutes. Season with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a colorful meal served over rice or noodles.
Chicken and Spinach Quesadillas
Quesadillas are the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish, and you can easily customize them with various fillings. To make chicken and spinach quesadillas, layer shredded roast chicken, sautéed spinach or other greens you have on hand, and shredded cheese between two tortillas. Cook in a skillet until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy. Serve with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole for a satisfying meal with minimal time and effort (our fave!).
Chicken and Rice Soup
A warm bowl of chicken and rice soup is the ultimate comfort food, especially on a chilly day. Combine chicken broth, diced vegetables like carrots, celery, onions, cooked rice, and shredded roast chicken in a large pot. Season with herbs like thyme and parsley, and let the soup simmer until the flavors meld together. This hearty soup is perfect for a cozy night in.
Chicken Pesto Pasta
Pesto pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be made even better with the addition of leftover roast chicken. Cook your favorite pasta according to package instructions, then toss it with homemade or store-bought pesto sauce. Add shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, and pine nuts for extra texture and taste. It’ll quickly become a weeknight classic at your home; we guarantee it!
Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Casseroles are a convenient way to use up leftovers and create a satisfying meal. To make a chicken and broccoli casserole, combine cooked broccoli florets, shredded roast chicken, cooked pasta, and a bechamel, which is just a fancy term for a creamy sauce made from butter, flour, milk, cheese, and seasonings. Top with a mixture of breadcrumbs and french-fried onions (you’ll thank us later) and bake until bubbly and golden brown. It’s a masterclass in delicious, efficient meal prep!
BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza
We’re always in the mood for BBQ chicken flatbread pizza! Start yours with a store-bought flatbread or naan bread as a quick hack, then top it with BBQ sauce, shredded roast chicken, red onions, and plenty of melty cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, basil, green onions, or all three for a burst of flavor and freshness.
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