15 Delightful Meals with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken: Easy and Flavorful Ideas!

Introduction

Leftover rotisserie chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into a variety of delicious meals. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a hearty dinner, there are plenty of creative ways to use up your leftover chicken, In this article, we’ll explore 15 delightful meals with leftover rotisserie chicken that are easy to prepare and packed with flavor. From classic chicken salad to comforting chicken and dumplings, these recipes will help you make the most of your leftovers.

Why Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?

Using leftover rotisserie chicken in your meals offers several benefits, First, it saves you time and effort in the kitchen since the chicken is already cooked and flavored, Second, it helps reduce food waste by repurposing leftovers into new and exciting dishes, Additionally, rotisserie chicken is versatile and can be incorporated into a wide range of recipes, making it a great ingredient to have on hand.

15 Delightful Meals with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken

Chicken Salad

Chicken salad is a classic and versatile dish that’s perfect for using leftover rotisserie chicken. You can customize it with your favorite mix-ins and serve it as a sandwich, wrap, or on top of a bed of greens.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded leftover rotisserie chicken
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup grapes, halved (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, diced celery, red onion, grapes (if using), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add chopped fresh herbs if desired.
5. Serve chilled on bread, in a wrap, or over a bed of lettuce.

Chicken Soup

Chicken soup is a comforting and nourishing meal that’s perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken. You can make it as simple or as hearty as you like, depending on what ingredients you have on hand.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded leftover rotisserie chicken
• 2 quarts chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Noodles, rice, or potatoes

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, water, diced onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, and dried thyme.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the shredded chicken to the pot and simmer for another 10 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, add noodles, rice, or potatoes to the soup and cook until they are tender.
6. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Chicken Stir-Fry

Stir-frying leftover rotisserie chicken with veggies and your choice of sauce makes for a quick and healthy meal. You can use a variety of vegetables and sauces to create your own unique dish.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded leftover rotisserie chicken
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• Optional: Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced bell pepper, onion, broccoli, and mushrooms, and sauté until tender.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute.
4. Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and cook until heated through.
5. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch slurry.
6. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly.
7. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired, and serve over rice or noodles.

Chicken Quesadillas

Chicken quesadillas are a fun and easy way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken. They’re perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and can be customized with your favorite fillings.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded leftover rotisserie chicken
• 4 large tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: Sour cream, salsa, and guacamole for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced bell peppers and onions, and sauté until softened.
3. Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and cook until heated through.
4. Lay a tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle half of the cheese on one half of the tortilla, and top with half of the chicken mixture.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to cover the filling.
6. Cook until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown, then flip and cook the other side.
7. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, cheese, and chicken mixture.
8. Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve with sour cream, salsa, and guacamole if desired.

Chicken Fried Rice

Fried rice is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients. Using leftover rotisserie chicken adds a delicious protein boost to this classic dish.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded leftover rotisserie chicken
• 3 cups cooked rice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, etc.)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Optional: Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and sauté until tender.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
5. Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and cook until heated through.
6. Push the rice and chicken mixture to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the other side.
7. Scramble the eggs until cooked through, then mix everything together.
8. Add the soy sauce and sesame oil, and stir to combine.
9. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
10. Garnish with green onions if desired, and serve hot.

Chicken Pasta

Chicken pasta is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken. You can use any type of pasta and sauce you like to create your own unique dish.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded leftover rotisserie chicken
• 8 ounces pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, and dried basil to the skillet.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and cook until heated through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce.
10. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
11. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Chicken Curry

Chicken curry is a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken. You can adjust the spices to suit your taste and create a unique dish every time.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded leftover rotisserie chicken
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) coconut milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute.
4. Add the curry powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, and turmeric to the skillet, and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Add the coconut milk, chicken broth, and tomato paste to the skillet, and stir to combine.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and cook until heated through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Chicken Sandwiches

Chicken sandwiches are a quick and easy way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken. You can customize them with your favorite toppings and condiments to create a unique and delicious meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded leftover rotisserie chicken
• 4 buns or slices of bread
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup sliced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup sliced pickles
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Cheese slices, avocado, or bacon

Instructions:

1. Spread mayonnaise on both sides of the buns or bread slices.
2. Layer the shredded chicken, shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and sliced pickles on one half of the bun or bread.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add any optional toppings like cheese slices, avocado, or bacon if desired.
5. Top with the other half of the bun or bread slice.
6. Serve immediately or toast in a panini press for a crispy exterior.

Chicken Pizza

Chicken pizza is a fun and delicious way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken. You can customize it with your favorite toppings and create a unique and tasty meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded leftover rotisserie chicken
• 1 pre-made pizza crust
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup sliced onions
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• Optional: Olives, pepperoni, or pineapple

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven according to the pizza crust instructions.
2. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the pizza crust.
3. Sprinkle the shredded chicken evenly over the sauce.
4. Add the shredded mozzarella cheese, sliced bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to the pizza.
5. Add any optional toppings like olives, pepperoni, or pineapple if desired.
6. Bake the pizza according to the crust instructions until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
7. Slice and serve hot.

Chicken Casserole

Chicken casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables and create a unique and delicious meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded leftover rotisserie chicken
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, etc.)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cooked rice or pasta
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Breadcrumbs for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, milk, mixed vegetables, shredded cheese, and cooked rice or pasta.
3. Stir in the shredded chicken until everything is evenly combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown.
8. Serve hot.

Chicken Tacos

Chicken tacos are a fun and flavorful way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken. You can customize them with your favorite toppings and create a unique and delicious meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded leftover rotisserie chicken
• 8 small tortillas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, sour cream, salsa, and lime wedges

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the shredded chicken, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
3. Cook until the chicken is heated through and the spices are well combined.
4. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or in the microwave.
5. Fill each tortilla with a generous amount of the chicken mixture.
6. Top with your favorite toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, sour cream, salsa, and a squeeze of lime.
7. Serve immediately.

Chicken Enchiladas

Chicken enchiladas are a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken. You can customize them with your favorite fillings and create a unique and delicious meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded leftover rotisserie chicken
• 8 large tortillas
• 1 can (10 ounces) red enchilada sauce
• 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: Sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced onion, diced bell pepper, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a greased baking dish.
4. Fill each tortilla with a generous amount of the chicken mixture, roll it up, and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
5. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the enchiladas.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the enchiladas are heated through.
8. Serve hot with sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro if desired.

Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables and create a hearty and delicious meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded leftover rotisserie chicken
• 1 pie crust ( top and bottom)
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, etc.)
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Egg wash for brushing the crust

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mixed vegetables, diced onion, milk, and shredded chicken.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Line a pie dish with the bottom pie crust.
5. Pour the chicken mixture into the pie crust.
6. Top with the second pie crust, crimping the edges to seal.
7. Brush the top crust with an egg wash if desired.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Chicken and Vegetable Skewers

Chicken and vegetable skewers are a fun and easy way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken. You can grill or broil them for a quick and flavorful meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded leftover rotisserie chicken
• 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 onion, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, cut into chunks
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. Thread the chicken chunks, bell pepper, onion, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers.
3. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the skewers with the olive oil mixture.
5. Grill or broil the skewers for 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is heated through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot.

Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and dumplings is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables and create a delicious and satisfying meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded leftover rotisserie chicken
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, water, diced onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, and dried thyme.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the shredded chicken to the pot and simmer for another 10 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Add the milk and melted butter to the flour mixture and stir until just combined.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth.
8. Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
9. Serve hot.

FAQs

How Long Does Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Last in the Fridge?

Leftover rotisserie chicken will last in the fridge for up to four days if stored properly in an airtight container, Make sure to refrigerate it promptly after carving to ensure it stays fresh.

Can You Freeze Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze leftover rotisserie chicken, Freeze it in airtight containers or freezer bags, and it will keep for up to four months, Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.

What Are Some Healthy Ways to Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?

Some healthy ways to use leftover rotisserie chicken include making chicken salad with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, adding it to a hearty soup or stew, or using it in a stir-fry with lots of vegetables.

Can You Reheat Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?

Yes, you can reheat leftover rotisserie chicken. Make sure to reheat it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any bacteria. You can reheat it in the oven, on the stovetop, or in the microwave.

What Are Some Creative Ways to Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?,Some creative ways to use leftover rotisserie chicken include making chicken tacos, chicken enchiladas, or chicken pot pie, You can also use it in a breakfast hash or add it to a quiche.

Can You Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken in a Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can use leftover rotisserie chicken in a slow cooker, Add it to your favorite slow cooker recipe, such as chicken chili or chicken and dumplings, for a delicious and easy meal.

Conclusion

Leftover rotisserie chicken is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used in a variety of meals, From classic chicken salad to comforting chicken and dumplings, there are countless ways to transform your leftovers into amazing dishes, Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a hearty dinner, these 15 delightful meals with leftover rotisserie chicken have got you covered, So, next time you find yourself with leftover chicken, don’t let it go to waste, Get creative in the kitchen and enjoy a tasty meal!

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