As a busy parent, I know how hard it is to make a good dinner on weeknights. That’s why I’m excited to share 10 easy leftover rotisserie chicken recipes. They turn a simple store-bought chicken into many tasty meals.
Rotisserie chicken is a big help for families on the go. These recipes show how creative you can be with it. You’ll find creamy casseroles, comforting soups, flavorful salads, and noodle dishes. They’re all easy to make, cut down on waste, and save time. Explore these ideas for your next weeknight dinner!
Key Takeaways
- 10 quick and easy recipes that transform leftover rotisserie chicken into delicious weeknight dinners
- Variety of flavors, from casseroles and pasta to soups and salads
- Recipes that help reduce food waste and save time in the kitchen
- All recipes are suitable for busy families and can be prepared in under an hour
- Utilizes common ingredients often found alongside rotisserie chicken, such as cheese, rice, and broccoli
Making the Most of Your Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken
Rotisserie chicken is a versatile and time-saving ingredient. It can make your weeknight dinners better. Whether you want a comforting casserole or a refreshing salad, leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect. Let’s look at the benefits of using this convenient protein and some tips to use it well.
Benefits of Using Rotisserie Chicken
Rotisserie chicken is a kitchen game-changer. It saves you time and effort compared to cooking a whole chicken. It also gives you delicious, flavorful meat for many dishes. This chicken is a great protein source, good for soups, casseroles, salads, and sandwiches.
Tips for Properly Storing Leftover Chicken
- Refrigerate leftover rotisserie chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- If you won’t use it in 3-4 days, shred or dice it and freeze for up to 3-4 months.
- Always remove the meat from bones and skin to keep it fresh and prevent bacteria.
Basic Shredding Techniques
Shredding leftover rotisserie chicken is easy in a few ways:
- Use two forks to pull the meat apart in a shredding motion.
- Use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment for easy shredding of large amounts.
- For a finer shred, try a box grater or food processor.
Learning these shredding techniques lets you quickly add leftover rotisserie chicken to your favorite recipes.
“Rotisserie chicken is a game-changer in the kitchen. Not only does it save you the time and effort of cooking a whole chicken, but it also imparts delicious, flavorful meat that can be easily incorporated into a variety of dishes.”
Essential Tools and Ingredients for Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes
Creating tasty dishes with leftover rotisserie chicken is easier with the right tools and ingredients. Make sure your kitchen is stocked with these essentials. This will help you cook faster and enjoy more flavorful meals.
Pantry Essentials
- Pasta – From spaghetti to penne, keep a variety of pasta shapes on hand to pair with your leftover chicken.
- Rice – White, brown, or flavored, rice is a quick and easy base for chicken-centric dishes.
- Canned beans – Kidney, black, or garbanzo beans can add protein and texture to your recipes.
- Spices and seasonings – Cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and dried herbs like thyme, oregano, and basil are must-haves.
- Sauces and condiments – Barbecue sauce, hot sauce, pesto, and mayonnaise can transform your leftover chicken into a flavorful masterpiece.
Kitchen Tools
- Sharp knives – A good chef’s knife and a paring knife will make quick work of shredding or dicing your leftover rotisserie chicken.
- Mixing bowls – Versatile bowls of various sizes allow you to combine ingredients and toss together salads or casseroles.
- Baking dishes – From casserole dishes to sheet pans, having the right bakeware on hand is essential for roasting, baking, and assembling one-pan meals.
- Food processor or shredder – This kitchen appliance can quickly shred or dice the chicken for recipes like chicken salad or enchiladas.
- Slow cooker or Instant Pot – These handy appliances can transform leftover chicken into hearty soups, stews, and casseroles with minimal effort.
Stock your pantry and kitchen with these essentials to make a variety of tasty meals. You’ll get the most out of your rotisserie chicken. Enjoy delicious dishes all week long.
Creamy Buffalo Chicken Casserole
Turn your leftover rotisserie chicken into a tasty buffalo chicken casserole. It mixes spicy buffalo sauce with a creamy cheese sauce. This makes a great meal for any weeknight.
Shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and creamy cheeses come together. They make a casserole that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a lighter casserole, use Greek yogurt instead of some cream cheese. This cuts down on fat and calories but keeps it creamy. Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper Jack for more flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the casserole with a fresh green salad or roasted veggies. Serve it with crusty bread or breadsticks to soak up the sauce. Add sliced green onions on top for color and freshness.
Storage Tips
Store leftover casserole in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Each serving has 24 grams of protein and 7 net carbs. It’s a healthy and filling meal. The recipe has a 3.75-star rating from 80 votes. It makes 8 servings, with 387kcal per serving.
Quick and Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Enjoy a restaurant-worthy Chicken Alfredo in just 20 minutes. Use rotisserie chicken and a simple homemade Alfredo sauce. This creamy pasta dish combines tender chicken with a rich sauce for a comforting meal.
To make the Alfredo sauce, you’ll need heavy cream or half & half, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Simmering these ingredients creates a luxurious, flavor-packed sauce. It coats every strand of fettuccine perfectly.
The recipe calls for about 2 ½ cups of cooked rotisserie chicken. This is roughly half a chicken. It makes the dish come together quickly, as the chicken is already seasoned.
| Nutrition Facts (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 530 |
| Carbohydrates | 61g |
| Protein | 31g |
| Fat | 17g |
To serve, toss the fettuccine and shredded chicken pasta recipes with the creamy easy Alfredo sauce. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. This quick and easy dish is sure to become a new family favorite!
“The best part about this Chicken Alfredo is how easy it is to make, yet it tastes like it came straight from a fancy Italian restaurant.”
Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes for Busy Weeknights
Life can get busy, and cooking dinner shouldn’t be a hassle. Leftover rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver! It’s quick and easy to use, making delicious meals with little effort.
Time-Saving Preparation Tips
Save time by prepping ahead. Shred chicken and chop veggies on the weekend. This way, you can quickly assemble meals during the week.
Try one-pan meals and sheet pan dinners for less cleanup. Cook in bulk and freeze for later. Use pre-cut veggies and canned beans to speed up prep.
Meal Prep Strategies
- Shred or dice leftover rotisserie chicken on the weekend for quick additions to recipes throughout the week.
- Chop and store veggies like onions, peppers, and celery in the fridge to have them ready to go.
- Cook extra rice, quinoa, or pasta in advance to use as a base for meals.
- Batch prepare sauces, dressings, and marinades to have on hand.
- Freeze individual portions of cooked dishes for easy reheating later.
| Recipe | Calories | Fat (g) | Cholesterol (mg) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Lo Mein | 437 | 10 | 62 | 31 |
| Chicken Poke Bowl | 539 | 26 | 64 | 25 |
| Chicken Pesto Stuffed Peppers | 521 | 31 | 62 | 25 |
Plan ahead and use leftover rotisserie chicken for quick chicken recipes and meal prep with rotisserie chicken on busy weeknights. Enjoy the ease and taste of these dishes.
Southwestern Chicken Tostada Casserole
Make your weeknight dinner special with the Southwestern Chicken Tostada Casserole. It’s a mix of tacos and casseroles, with crispy tostadas, seasoned chicken, green chiles, black beans, and corn. It’s perfect for using up leftover chicken tostada casserole or Southwestern chicken recipes.
This recipe is easy and flexible. It uses a rotisserie chicken, making it ready in 20 minutes. The cream of chicken and mushroom soups add a creamy texture. Ro-Tel tomatoes with green chiles give it a Southwestern flavor.
To make it, layer tortilla strips, chicken, beans, corn, and cheeses in a dish. Bake until it’s hot and bubbly. Top it with sour cream, cilantro, and lime for a complete meal. You can freeze it for up to three months, perfect for busy nights.
For more flavor, try different soups or cheeses. Add diced bell peppers, tomatoes, or spinach for extra nutrition. This Southwestern Chicken Tostada Casserole is a hit for any meal.
| Nutrition Facts (per serving) | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 626 |
| Fat | 30g (46% DV) |
| Saturated Fat | 14g (88% DV) |
| Cholesterol | 174mg (58% DV) |
| Sodium | 1150mg (50% DV) |
| Potassium | 964mg (28% DV) |
| Carbohydrates | 39g (13% DV) |
| Fiber | 8g (33% DV) |
| Sugar | 6g (7% DV) |
| Protein | 50g (100% DV) |
Classic Chicken Salad with a Twist
Chicken salad is a timeless classic. With pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, making it is easier than ever. Add unique ingredients to give it a delightful twist.
Flavor Variations
Try adding grapes, toasted nuts, curry powder, and fresh herbs to your chicken salad. These ingredients boost the flavor.
- Grapes: For a burst of sweetness and texture.
- Toasted nuts: Such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts, for a satisfying crunch.
- Curry powder: A pinch of this spice blend adds an exotic, aromatic flair.
- Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley, tarragon, or dill can lend a refreshing herbal note.
Serving Ideas
Chicken salad is versatile. Try these ideas to enjoy your creation:
- Serve on croissants or sandwich bread for a classic chicken salad sandwich.
- Scoop onto a bed of mixed greens or lettuce cups for a light and healthy meal.
- Stuff into halved avocados or tomatoes for a visually appealing presentation.
- Serve with crackers, pita chips, or cucumber slices as an appetizer or snack.
For a creamier texture, mix mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. The yogurt adds tanginess and reduces fat.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Rotisserie Chicken, shredded | 3 cups |
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup |
| Greek Yogurt | 1/4 cup |
| Dijon Mustard | 2 tbsp |
| Lemon Juice | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Black Pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Celery, diced | 1/2 cup |
| Red Onion, finely chopped | 1/4 cup |
By using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and adding unique ingredients, you can create a chicken salad that is both delicious and visually appealing. Experiment with different flavor combinations to find your perfect chicken salad recipes for quick and satisfying weeknight dinners or elegant luncheons.
20-Minute Thai Peanut Chicken Noodles
Craving Thai flavors? Try this quick and healthy Thai chicken recipes dish. It has shredded rotisserie chicken, colorful veggies, and a tasty peanut-ginger sauce. It’s ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
The Saucy Peanut Noodles with Chicken recipe takes 15 to 20 minutes to make. You can make the peanut sauce up to a week in advance. Leftover noodles can be stored in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
To make it, toss shredded rotisserie chicken with rice noodles, crunchy veggies, and a homemade peanut-ginger sauce. Adjust the chili sauce to your heat preference. Top with chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for extra flavor and texture.
“This dish is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. The peanut sauce is so flavorful, and the noodles and chicken make it a satisfying meal.”
This Thai chicken recipes dish has 264 calories, 26.4g of carbs, 13.8g of protein, and 13g of fat. It has 468.5mg of sodium per serving. Each serving also has 4.8g of fiber and 7g of sugar.
Looking for a quick weeknight dinner or Thai cuisine? This 20-Minute Thai Peanut Chicken Noodles recipe is perfect. Enjoy its bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Comforting Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delectable Chicken and Gnocchi Soup. It combines the savory flavors of rotisserie chicken, tender gnocchi, and a creamy broth. This soup is a true delight for the senses. It’s perfect for a satisfying meal on a chilly day or a cozy way to use up leftover chicken.
Make-Ahead Instructions
This soup is great for meal prepping and making ahead. Prepare the soup base, leaving out the gnocchi, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup and add the gnocchi. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes to keep the gnocchi light and fluffy.
Freezing Guidelines
For long-term storage, freeze this Chicken and Gnocchi Soup for up to 3 months. Prepare the soup without the gnocchi, then cool it down. Transfer it to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. To enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat and add the gnocchi before serving.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion, chopped | 1/2 large |
| Celery, chopped | 1 cup |
| Carrots, shredded | 1 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 2 teaspoons |
| Flour | 1/4 cup |
| Chicken broth | 32 oz. |
| Half and half or whipping cream | 1 cup |
| Fresh thyme sprigs | 5 |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Pepper | to taste |
| Chicken, cubed | 2 cups |
| Fresh spinach, packed | 1 cup |
| Potato gnocchi | 16 oz. |
The DeLallo Potato Gnocchi is a key ingredient in this chicken soup recipes. It makes up a big part of the dish. Each serving has about 435 calories, 42g of carbs, 25g of protein, and 19g of fat, making it a balanced meal.
This gnocchi soup can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. It’s flexible for meal planning and prep. Serve it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or bruschetta for a complete meal. It can also be made gluten-free or dairy-free by swapping out ingredients.
Sheet Pan Chicken Nachos Supreme
Turn leftover rotisserie chicken into a hit with Sheet Pan Chicken Nachos Supreme. Layer tortilla chips, seasoned chicken, cheese, and toppings. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
This dish is great for game days or family dinners. Prep takes just 30 minutes, and baking is 10 minutes. You’ll have tasty chicken nachos ready fast.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread a 13-ounce bag of tortilla chips in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
- Top the chips with 2 1/2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken and 3 cups of shredded Mexican-style cheese.
- Bake the sheet pan recipes for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the nachos from the oven and top with your favorite toppings, such as diced Roma tomatoes, black beans, thawed frozen corn, chopped red onion, diced jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro.
This chicken nachos dish will impress everyone. The mix of rotisserie chicken, cheese, and toppings is delicious and satisfying.
“These sheet pan nachos are my new go-to for quick and easy weeknight dinners. The leftover chicken makes it so simple to put together, and the toppings are endlessly customizable to suit everyone’s tastes.” – Samantha, Food Blogger
Serve the sheet pan recipes right away for the best taste. Pair them with a fresh salad or Mexican coleslaw for a full meal. Enjoy!
Conclusion
Rotisserie chicken is a great ingredient for quick, tasty meals. This guide shows 10 easy recipes to make your weeknights better. These easy rotisserie chicken meals help you save time and reduce waste.
Looking for something creamy or spicy? Or maybe a pasta dish? This guide has it all. It proves how versatile rotisserie chicken is. You can turn leftover chicken into weeknight dinner ideas that are both healthy and delicious.
When you’re in a hurry, try La Rosa Chicken & Grill’s gourmet chicken wraps. They’re a quick, tasty option. So, use rotisserie chicken to make fast, satisfying meals for your family.
FAQ
What are some easy leftover rotisserie chicken recipes for quick weeknight dinners?
The article shares 10 easy and tasty recipes. They turn a rotisserie chicken into many dishes. You can make casseroles, pasta, soups, salads, and more. These recipes are great for busy weeknights and reduce food waste.
How can I properly store leftover rotisserie chicken?
Store leftover rotisserie chicken in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days. This keeps it fresh and prevents waste.
What are some basic techniques for shredding rotisserie chicken?
Use two forks to pull the meat apart. For more, a stand mixer works well.
What essential tools and ingredients should I keep on hand for cooking with leftover rotisserie chicken?
Keep pasta, rice, and canned beans in your pantry. They go well with rotisserie chicken. Also, have good knives, mixing bowls, and baking dishes for casseroles and one-pan meals.
How can I make a creamy buffalo chicken casserole using rotisserie chicken?
The article shares a recipe for a Creamy Buffalo Chicken Casserole. It mixes rotisserie chicken, hot sauce, and cheese for a quick meal. It also gives tips on substitutions and serving ideas.
What is the recipe for a quick and easy chicken Alfredo pasta dish using rotisserie chicken?
The article has a recipe for Quick and Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta. It uses rotisserie chicken and homemade Alfredo sauce. This dish is ready in just 20 minutes.
What are some time-saving tips for preparing leftover rotisserie chicken recipes on busy weeknights?
Prep ingredients ahead of time. Use one-pan meals and sheet pan dinners. Batch cook and add convenience items like pre-cut veggies or canned beans to save time.
How can I make a Southwestern-style chicken tostada casserole with rotisserie chicken?
The article offers a recipe for Southwestern Chicken Tostada Casserole. It layers tostadas with rotisserie chicken, green chiles, black beans, and corn. Top with cheese and bake until golden.
What are some creative ways to use leftover rotisserie chicken in a chicken salad recipe?
Add unique ingredients like grapes, nuts, or curry powder to traditional chicken salad. Use rotisserie chicken for a twist. Serve on croissants, in lettuce wraps, or on a bed of greens.
How can I make a quick and healthy Thai-inspired chicken noodle dish with rotisserie chicken?
The article shares a recipe for 20-Minute Thai Peanut Chicken Noodles. It combines shredded rotisserie chicken, rice noodles, colorful veggies, and a homemade peanut-ginger sauce. It’s a healthy weeknight meal.
What is the recipe for a comforting chicken and gnocchi soup using leftover rotisserie chicken?
The article provides a recipe for Comforting Chicken and Gnocchi Soup. It uses rotisserie chicken, potato gnocchi, and veggies in a creamy broth. It also offers make-ahead and freezing tips.
How can I transform rotisserie chicken into a delicious sheet pan chicken nachos dish?
The article includes a recipe for Sheet Pan Chicken Nachos Supreme. It layers tortilla chips with rotisserie chicken, cheese, and toppings. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’s perfect for game day or family dinner.