10 Easy Rotisserie Chicken Leftover Recipes

As a busy mom, finding quick and tasty dinners for the family can be tough. That’s why I always rely on rotisserie chicken. A quick grocery trip gets me a flavorful bird, allowing me to create many tasty meals from it.

These rotisserie chicken leftover recipes will transform your chicken into something new and exciting. You’ll save time and money in the kitchen with options ranging from cozy casseroles to fresh salads, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Key Takeaways

• Rotisserie chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of recipes, from soups and casseroles to quesadillas and pizza.
• Utilizing leftover rotisserie chicken can save you valuable time in the kitchen, as it is already cooked and ready to be incorporated into your favorite dishes.
• Rotisserie chicken is a cost-effective option, as it can be stretched across multiple meals and provides a protein-packed base for a variety of dishes.
• Incorporating rotisserie chicken leftovers into your cooking can add a flavorful twist to classic recipes and introduce new culinary experiences for your family.
• These recipes offer a range of meal options, from comforting and nostalgic dishes to healthy and versatile options, catering to diverse taste preferences.

Why Rotisserie Chicken is a Great Idea for Leftovers

Rotisserie chicken is a versatile and convenient ingredient. It can turn your leftovers into delicious, nutritious meals. Its juicy meat and flavorful seasoning make it perfect for busy home cooks.

Nutritional Benefits of Rotisserie Chicken

Rotisserie chicken is a lean protein source. It provides essential nutrients without too much fat or calories. It has less skin and more meat than other chicken, making it healthier.

This makes it an excellent option for those wanting to eat more healthy chicken recipes.

Cost-Effectiveness of Buying Rotisserie Chicken

Buying a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save money, especially for busy families. It’s a ready-to-use protein source that saves time and money. This makes it a great choice for meal prep ideas that are budget-friendly.

Convenience in Meal Prep with Rotisserie Chicken

Rotisserie chicken is convenient for rotisserie chicken benefits. The meat is already cooked and can be shredded, sliced, or diced easily. This makes meal prep quicker and easier, without the extra time needed for raw chicken.

Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week, rotisserie chicken is a great choice. Its nutritional value, cost-effectiveness, and convenience make it a smart pick for busy home cooks.

Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Try this creamy chicken and rice casserole for a comforting meal. It’s been a favorite since 2014, loved by many.

Ingredients Needed for the Casserole

• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
• 4 cups of cooked rice
• 3 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the cubed chicken and sauté until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the chicken broth and cooked rice, and heat through.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips for Baking the Perfect Casserole

For best results, cook the rice a day in advance. This chicken casserole is great for busy nights. You can add broccoli for extra nutrition.

Leftovers can be stored for up to four days or frozen for three months.

Adding sharp Cheddar cheese or frozen broccoli makes it even better. It’s a family favorite for busy nights.

Spicy Chicken Quesadillas

Craving a delicious Mexican-inspired meal that’s easy to make? Try these Spicy Chicken Quesadillas. They mix shredded rotisserie chicken, zesty spices, melted cheese, and creamy chipotle dressing. This makes leftover chicken into a dish you’ll love.

Ingredients for Delicious Quesadillas

To make these spicy chicken quesadillas, you need a few things:

• Large flour-style tortillas
• Shredded rotisserie chicken
• Buffalo wing sauce
• Chopped green onions
• Shredded Mexican cheese blend
• Ranch dressing for dipping

How to Assemble and Cook Quesadillas

Assembling these quesadillas is easy. Just put shredded chicken, buffalo wing sauce, green onions, and cheese between tortillas. Cook them in a skillet or on a griddle until they’re crispy and the cheese is melted. Serve them hot, warm, or at room temperature with ranch dressing for dipping.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Spicy Chicken Quesadillas are great for a quick lunch or light dinner. You can enjoy them alone or with a salad, guacamole, or refried beans. The creamy ranch dressing and zesty flavors are perfect for game day snacks or casual gatherings.

“The perfect balance of spicy, cheesy, and downright delicious. These quesadillas are a game-changer for any leftover chicken you have on hand.”

Rotisserie Chicken Salad for Lunch

Make your lunchtime special with a tasty rotisserie chicken salad. It’s easy to make and uses leftover chicken. Just a few ingredients and quick steps make a meal that’s both healthy and delicious.

Ingredients for a Fresh Chicken Salad

• 5 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup of diced celery
• 1/2 cup of diced onion
• 3/4 cup of mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon of poultry seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Easy Steps to Make the Salad

Making this rotisserie chicken salad is simple. Just mix the chicken, celery, and onion in a bowl. Add mayonnaise, lemon juice, and poultry seasoning. Season with salt and pepper. Your salad is now ready to eat or save for later.

Variations to Elevate Your Salad

Want to try something new with your rotisserie chicken salad? Here are some ideas:

• Green Goddess Chicken Salad Dip: Add 1/2 cup of chopped herbs and 1/4 cup of sour cream for a creamy dip.
• Cobb Chicken Salad: Mix in bacon, avocado, and hard-boiled egg for a filling salad.
• Fruit-Infused Chicken Salad: Add 1/2 cup of grapes, apple, or cranberries for sweetness.
• Nutty Chicken Salad: Sprinkle 1/4 cup of chopped nuts for crunch.

These rotisserie chicken salad recipes are great for a quick, healthy lunch. You can serve it on bread, in a lettuce wrap, or with crackers. Feel free to try different combinations to find your favorite!

Hearty Chicken Soup

Turn your leftover rotisserie chicken into a cozy chicken soup. Chicken soup is a classic comfort food, great for any time of the year. With a few simple ingredients, you can make a delicious and filling chicken soup for your family.

Essential Ingredients for the Soup

• 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup fresh or frozen corn
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions for Flavorful Soup

To make a comforting chicken soup, mix all the ingredients in a big pot. Boil it, then lower the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes. This lets the flavors blend, making a warm, nourishing soup for a cold day.

Best Sides to Enjoy with Soup

Enjoy your homemade chicken soup with classic sides like crusty bread, crackers, or a fresh salad. The soup’s rich broth goes well with crunchy toppings like tortilla chips, diced avocado, and a bit of fresh lime juice. This easy chicken soup recipe is great on its own or as part of a big comfort food meal.

Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

Get cozy with a creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake. It’s great for using leftover rotisserie chicken. This casserole has tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and al dente pasta. It’s a hit with families.

Ingredients for a Creamy Bake

• 3 tablespoons of butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 cup of half & half or heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Optional: 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
• 16 ounces of fettuccine pasta
• 2 1/2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken

Directions for Assembling the Dish

First, heat your oven to 425°F. Cook the fettuccine pasta a bit less than the package says. This ensures it’s just right after baking. Drain and set aside.

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then, pour in half & half or heavy cream and whole milk. Whisk until combined. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens a bit.

Take the saucepan off the heat. Stir in 1 cup of Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if you like. Add the cooked fettuccine and chicken to the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything well.

Put the chicken Alfredo pasta mix in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole bubbles.

Tips for Perfect Pasta Texture

To keep pasta al dente, slightly undercook it before mixing. This way, it will cook perfectly in the oven.

Adding sautéed veggies like broccoli or spinach makes the dish healthier and tastier. It’s a great way to boost nutrition.

Tacos with Rotisserie Chicken

Rotisserie chicken makes quick and tasty tacos. These dishes are easy to make and full of flavor. They’re perfect for busy nights or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients for Tasty Chicken Tacos

To make rotisserie chicken tacos, you’ll need a few things:

• Shredded rotisserie chicken (about 2 1/2 cups or half a chicken)
• Taco seasoning (1 packet or homemade blend)
• Boiling water or chicken broth (about 1/4 cup)
• Corn or flour tortillas (8-12 shells)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (around 150g)
• Desired toppings like diced onion, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, salsa, and lime wedges

Simple Instructions for Taco Night

Making these chicken tacos is easy:

1. In a skillet, mix the shredded chicken and taco seasoning. Add boiling water or broth. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is hot and flavors mix well.
2. Warm the tortillas as the package says, in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven.
3. Put the seasoned chicken in the tortillas. Add shredded cheese, diced onion, cilantro, and any other toppings you like.

Creative Toppings to Try

Make your chicken tacos special with different toppings. Here are some ideas:

• Guacamole or sliced avocado
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Shredded lettuce or cabbage
• Diced tomatoes or salsa
• Pickled red onions
• Roasted corn and black bean salsa
• Lime wedges for a fresh, tangy finish

With rotisserie chicken and many toppings, these tacos will be a hit. They’re easy and delicious, perfect for Mexican-inspired dinners. Enjoy!

Stuffed Peppers with Chicken

Try a new dinner idea with stuffed peppers and rotisserie chicken. These colorful peppers are great for leftover chicken. They make a tasty, low-carb meal.

Ingredients and Equipment Required

• 6 bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange)
• 2-3 cups shredded cooked rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup rinsed black beans
• 1 cup cooked rice (optional for non-low-carb version)
• 2 teaspoons taco seasoning
• Shredded Pecorino Romano cheese for topping
• 7-5/8″ Petite Chef knife for food preparation
• Santoku-Style Cheese Knife for cutting grape tomatoes

Directions for Stuffing and Baking

First, heat your oven to 375°F. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and take out the seeds and membranes. In a big bowl, mix the chicken, salsa, black beans, rice (if using), and taco seasoning. Make sure the flavors are well mixed.

Stuff the pepper halves with the chicken mix. Put them in a baking dish. Sprinkle Pecorino Romano cheese on top. Bake for 15 minutes. The peppers should be soft, and the cheese melted.

Alternative Fillings and Substitutions

For a low-carb version, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. You can also try ground turkey or beef, sautéed mushrooms, or veggies. There are many options!

Enjoy these stuffed peppers with chicken with a fresh tomato salad. It’s a complete and healthy chicken meal.

“These stuffed peppers with chicken are a delicious and low-carb dinner idea that my whole family loves. The rotisserie chicken makes it so easy to put together, and the flavors are out of this world.”

Rotisserie Chicken Pizza

Turn leftover rotisserie chicken into a tasty homemade pizza. It’s a meal everyone will love. You only need a few ingredients to make it, making it perfect for weeknights or family gatherings.

Essential Ingredients for Homemade Pizza

• Store-bought or homemade pizza dough
• Tomato sauce or BBQ sauce
• Shredded rotisserie chicken
• Shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend)
• Desired toppings (such as onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or fresh herbs)

Steps for Assembling the Pizza

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) for your pizza dough.
2. Roll or stretch the dough into your shape and place it on a greased baking sheet or pizza pan.
3. Spread tomato sauce or BBQ sauce over the dough, leaving a small border.
4. Sprinkle shredded rotisserie chicken and cheese over the sauce.
5. Add toppings like onions, bell peppers, or fresh herbs.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is melted.

Fun Toppings and Variations

Be creative with your pizza toppings! Try a BBQ Chicken Pizza with BBQ sauce, red onions, pineapple, and cilantro. For a White Chicken Pizza, use white sauce, rotisserie chicken, and toppings like spinach, artichoke hearts, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Rotisserie chicken pizza is a delicious, family-friendly meal. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a homemade pizza night!

Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Turn leftover rotisserie chicken into a quick, healthy stir-fry for a busy weeknight. This recipe is full of protein, fiber, and flavor. It’s great for chicken stir-fry recipes, quick dinner ideas, and healthy chicken dishes.

Ingredients for a Balanced Stir-Fry

• 2 cups shredded or cubed rotisserie chicken
• 2 cups frozen stir-fry vegetable blend (such as broccoli, carrots, and snow peas)
• 8 oz stir-fry noodles or 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 tablespoons stir-fry sauce
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Quick Cooking Method Explained

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the frozen vegetable blend and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until they’re crisp-tender. Then, add the shredded rotisserie chicken and stir-fry sauce and sweet chili sauce. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until the chicken is hot and the sauces coat everything evenly.

Serve the chicken and vegetable stir-fry over noodles or rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Stir-Frying

1. Use a hot, well-seasoned wok or large skillet to maintain high heat and ensure even cooking.
2. Cut all the ingredients into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
3. Add the vegetables first and stir-fry them for a few minutes before adding the chicken to prevent overcooking.
4. Combine the stir-fry sauce and sweet chili sauce in a small bowl before adding to the pan for a balanced flavor.
5. Serve the stir-fry immediately over cooked noodles or rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking method, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy chicken dish on a busy weeknight. The mix of tender rotisserie chicken and crisp-tender vegetables in a savory sauce is sure to be a hit with your family.

Storage Tips for Rotisserie Chicken Leftovers

Storing your rotisserie chicken leftovers right is key to keeping them fresh and safe. Follow these easy steps to keep your chicken tasty and ready to eat.

Proper Storage Techniques

Put your leftovers in an airtight container or wrap them well in plastic wrap. This keeps moisture in and prevents drying. Refrigerate them for 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for 2 to 6 months.

How to Reheat Leftovers Safely

When you reheat your chicken, make sure it reaches 165°F to kill bacteria. You can use the microwave, oven, or stovetop for reheating.

Creative Uses for Any Remaining Chicken

Don’t waste any of that tasty rotisserie chicken! Use leftovers in soups, salads, sandwiches, or other dishes. Rotisserie chicken is super versatile, making it great for quick, tasty meals all week.

FAQ

What are some quick and easy recipes to use up leftover rotisserie chicken?

You can turn leftover rotisserie chicken into tasty meals with these 10 easy recipes. Try comforting casseroles or healthy salads. They save time and money.

What are the benefits of using rotisserie chicken for leftovers?

Rotisserie chicken is great for quick meals. It’s lean and has fewer calories than other chicken. Buying one is also cheaper and saves time, perfect for busy parents.

How can I use rotisserie chicken in a creamy casserole?

Use rotisserie chicken in a creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole. It’s easy to make with shredded chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, and cheese.

What is a quick and tasty way to use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Try Spicy Chicken Quesadillas for a tasty meal. You’ll need shredded chicken, tortillas, cheese, and spices.

How can I make a refreshing chicken salad with rotisserie chicken?

Make a refreshing chicken salad with leftover rotisserie chicken. Mix shredded chicken, mayonnaise, celery, grapes, and nuts. Serve on bread or greens.

How can I turn rotisserie chicken into a comforting soup?

Turn rotisserie chicken into a comforting soup. Try Chicken Pot Pie Soup or Creamy Chicken and Corn Chili. Use shredded chicken, vegetables, and broth.

How can I make a delicious Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake with rotisserie chicken?

Make a delicious Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake. Use pasta, Alfredo sauce, shredded chicken, and cheese. Layer and bake until bubbly.

How can I make quick and delicious tacos with rotisserie chicken?

Make quick tacos with rotisserie chicken. You’ll need shredded chicken, taco seasoning, tortillas, and toppings. Heat the chicken with seasoning and assemble tacos.

How can I make nutritious stuffed peppers with rotisserie chicken?

Make nutritious stuffed peppers with rotisserie chicken. Use bell peppers, shredded chicken, rice, cheese, and seasonings. Stuff peppers and bake until tender.

How can I make a delicious pizza with rotisserie chicken?

Make a delicious pizza with rotisserie chicken. Use pizza dough, tomato sauce, shredded chicken, and cheese. Assemble and bake until crispy.

How can I create a quick and healthy stir-fry with rotisserie chicken?

Create a quick stir-fry with rotisserie chicken. Use shredded chicken, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, and oil. Stir-fry in a wok or skillet until heated.

How should I store and reheat rotisserie chicken leftovers?

Store rotisserie chicken leftovers in an airtight container or plastic wrap for 3-4 days. Freeze for up to 2-6 months. Reheat to 165°F.