This post is set to show you smart ways to use leftover chicken and enjoy it as well.
We’ve all been there. You roasted a beautiful chicken for dinner, but now you’re staring at a pile of leftovers, wondering how many chicken sandwiches you can really eat.
Don’t let that perfectly good chicken sit in the fridge, waiting to be forgotten! Leftover chicken is like a blank canvas, versatile, packed with flavor, and just begging to be transformed into something exciting.
After reading the ideas here, you will agree with me that there are endless ways to turn those leftovers into something new and delicious.
17 good ways to use leftover chicken
1. Chicken Tacos
Chicken tacos are a quick, flavorful way to repurpose leftover chicken. Shredded chicken works best for tacos, and it’s as simple as warming it up and tossing it with some taco seasoning or your favorite salsa.
Heat some tortillas (either corn or flour, depending on your preference), then add the chicken. Toppings are where you can get creative: fresh pico de gallo, guacamole, shredded lettuce, cheese, and a squeeze of lime juice all add brightness and texture.
The beauty of chicken tacos is that they’re customizable, so you can make them spicy, mild, or somewhere in between.
This is an ideal leftover meal that transforms dinner into a fresh, flavorful experience with minimal effort.
2. Chicken Salad
Chicken salad is one of the easiest ways to use leftover chicken, especially if you’re looking for a quick lunch option. Shredded or diced chicken is mixed with mayo, mustard, and your favorite mix-ins.
Some people love adding celery for crunch, grapes for sweetness, or even walnuts for a nutty texture. The possibilities are endless—you can keep it classic or get creative with different herbs like dill or parsley.
Serve the chicken salad in a sandwich, wrap, or on a bed of lettuce for a light yet satisfying meal. For an even healthier twist, try swapping out the mayo for Greek yogurt.
3. Chicken Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a go-to option when you want something cheesy, crispy, and satisfying. Take your leftover chicken and chop or shred it finely.
Place a tortilla on a hot skillet, sprinkle some shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack works well), and then add your chicken.
For added flavor, throw in some sautéed onions, peppers, or jalapeños. Once the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown, fold the quesadilla in half and slice it into wedges.
Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for dipping. The melted cheese and crispy tortilla paired with the chicken make for a comforting, satisfying meal that comes together in minutes.
4. Chicken Stir-Fry
Stir-frying is a quick way to use up leftover chicken while incorporating lots of fresh veggies. In a hot skillet or wok, stir-fry vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, and carrots in a bit of oil.
Add garlic, ginger, and soy sauce for flavor, then toss in your leftover chicken to warm it through. Stir-fries are incredibly versatile—you can switch up the veggies depending on what you have on hand, and you can adjust the seasoning to your liking by adding a splash of sesame oil, chili flakes, or hoisin sauce.
Serve the stir-fry over rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. It’s a light, nutritious, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy nights.
5. Chicken Pot Pie
Turn leftover chicken into a comforting classic with chicken pot pie. This dish is hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor. Start by making a filling with shredded chicken, onions, carrots, peas, and potatoes.
Simmer these ingredients in a creamy sauce made from chicken broth and a bit of cream or milk, then transfer the mixture into a pie dish. Top it with a pie crust or puff pastry, and bake until the crust is golden brown and flaky.
Chicken pot pie is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights when you want something warm and satisfying. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken in a dish that feels like a special, home-cooked meal.
6. Chicken Fried Rice
Fried rice is a fantastic way to give leftover chicken new life, and it’s a quick and easy meal to throw together. Start by stir-frying cold, day-old rice (the texture is better than freshly cooked rice) with vegetables like peas, carrots, and onions.
Push the veggies to one side of the pan and scramble an egg on the other side. Once the egg is cooked, mix everything together and add in your leftover chicken, diced or shredded.
Finish with soy sauce and a splash of sesame oil for flavor. You can also add a bit of ginger or garlic for an extra kick. Chicken fried rice is a one-pan meal that’s packed with protein, veggies, and satisfying flavors.
7. Buffalo Chicken Wraps
If you love buffalo chicken wings, you’ll love turning leftover chicken into buffalo chicken wraps. Start by shredding the chicken and tossing it in buffalo sauce.
Warm up some tortillas, then layer the buffalo chicken, lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing. Wrap everything up tightly, slice in half, and you’ve got a quick, spicy lunch or dinner.
These wraps are perfect for a game-day meal or a casual weeknight dinner. You can also make them ahead of time and pack them for lunch—they hold up well in the fridge.
8. Chicken Enchiladas
Chicken enchiladas are a flavorful and comforting way to use leftover chicken. Start by mixing shredded chicken with a bit of enchilada sauce, then roll it up in tortillas.
Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish, cover them with more enchilada sauce and shredded cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.
Top with sour cream, avocado, or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. Chicken enchiladas are great for feeding a crowd, and they’re easy to make ahead and reheat.
You can customize the filling with beans, corn, or even sautéed spinach for added nutrition.
9. Chicken Soup
Chicken soup is one of the best ways to repurpose leftover chicken, especially when you want something warm and comforting.
Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery, then add chicken broth, your leftover chicken, and herbs like thyme and bay leaves.
You can add noodles, rice, or even potatoes to make the soup heartier. Let it simmer until all the flavors meld together, and you’ll have a rich, savory soup that’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
It’s a nourishing, satisfying meal that’s incredibly versatile—you can switch up the vegetables and seasonings to suit your taste.
10. Chicken Pizza
Why not use leftover chicken as a pizza topping? Start with a pizza crust (store-bought or homemade), and spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce or pesto.
Add shredded chicken, sliced red onions, and shredded cheese, then bake until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted.
The smoky barbecue sauce pairs perfectly with the chicken, and the onions add a nice crunch. For a more traditional pizza, use marinara sauce and top the chicken with mozzarella and fresh basil.
Chicken pizza is a fun, creative way to use leftovers, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
11. Chicken Tostadas
Chicken tostadas are a crunchy, flavorful meal that’s easy to make with leftover chicken. Start by frying or baking corn tortillas until they’re crispy, then spread a layer of refried beans on each tostada.
Top with shredded chicken, lettuce, cheese, salsa, and a drizzle of sour cream. The combination of the crunchy tostada, creamy beans, and flavorful chicken makes for a satisfying, quick meal.
You can also add extras like avocado, cilantro, or pickled onions for even more flavor and texture. Tostadas are great for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun, interactive meal where everyone can build their own.
12. Chicken Fajitas
Fajitas are another great way to use leftover chicken, and they’re a quick meal that’s full of flavor. Sauté sliced bell peppers and onions until they’re tender and slightly caramelized, then toss in your shredded or diced chicken to warm it through.
Serve the mixture in warm tortillas with toppings like guacamole, sour cream, salsa, and shredded cheese.
The sizzling veggies combined with the seasoned chicken create a vibrant, colorful dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or even a casual get-together with friends.
13. Chicken Caesar Salad
Leftover chicken turns a simple Caesar salad into a hearty meal. Chop up romaine lettuce, toss it with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese, then top it with sliced or shredded chicken.
The chicken adds protein, making this salad a complete meal. You can also add extras like avocado, bacon, or hard-boiled eggs for even more flavor and texture.
This is a great option for a light lunch or dinner that’s both filling and refreshing.
14. Chicken Tetrazzini
Chicken tetrazzini is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for using up leftover chicken. Start by cooking pasta (spaghetti or linguine works best) and making a creamy sauce with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Toss in your shredded chicken and sautéed mushrooms, then combine everything in a casserole dish. Top with breadcrumbs and more cheese and bake until bubbly and golden.
Chicken tetrazzini is rich, indulgent, and perfect for a cozy night in. It’s also a great dish to make ahead and reheat for leftovers.
15. Chicken and Rice Casserole
Chicken and rice casserole is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make with leftover chicken. Combine cooked rice with sautéed vegetables like onions, carrots, and peas, then stir in your chicken and a creamy sauce made from chicken broth and cream.
Top the casserole with shredded cheese and bake until everything is hot and bubbly. This dish is hearty, filling, and perfect for feeding a family. Plus, it’s easy to customize by adding different vegetables or seasonings.
16. Chicken Nachos
Turn your leftover chicken into a fun, shareable meal by making chicken nachos. Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with shredded chicken, cheese, beans, and any other toppings you like (jalapeños, olives, corn, etc.).
Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, then top with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. Chicken nachos are perfect for game day, movie night, or anytime you want a quick, satisfying snack that’s packed with flavor.
17. Chicken Sliders
For a fun and easy meal, use leftover chicken to make mini sliders. Toss the chicken with barbecue sauce or buffalo sauce, then pile it onto slider buns with coleslaw or pickles.
The combination of tangy sauce and tender chicken with the crunchy slaw makes for a delicious, satisfying sandwich.
Chicken sliders are great for parties, casual dinners, or even as a snack. They’re easy to make ahead of time and are always a hit with both kids and adults.
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