Leftover chicken is versatile and easy to repurpose. It works in soups, casseroles, sandwiches, and more.
These 42 recipes help turn it into delicious meals. Try these ideas for something new and satisfying.
1. Chicken and Waffle Sliders
Layer shredded chicken with a drizzle of maple syrup and melted cheese between mini waffles. Toast the sliders until the waffles are crisp and the cheese is gooey and melted.
Add a drizzle of hot honey or spicy mayo for extra heat and sweetness combined. These sliders are perfect for a hearty brunch or as a quick, satisfying party snack.
Full recipe: click here.
2. Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Combine shredded chicken with hot sauce, ranch dressing, and a pinch of black pepper for heat. Stuff this mixture into oven-roasted sweet potatoes to balance the spicy and sweet flavors.
Top the filled potatoes with blue cheese crumbles, chopped green onions, and a sprinkle of parsley. This dish is quick to assemble, filling, and packed with flavors that excite every bite.
Full recipe: click here.
3. BBQ Chicken Nachos
Layer tortilla chips with shredded chicken tossed in tangy BBQ sauce, black beans, and shredded cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is fully melted and the chips are crispy.
Top the nachos with diced jalapeños, dollops of sour cream, and fresh guacamole for extra zest.
This recipe is ideal for game day gatherings, quick dinners, or a satisfying midday snack.
Full recipe: click here.
4. Chicken Pizza Tacos
Fill soft tortillas with shredded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and slices of pepperoni. Bake the tortillas in the oven until the cheese melts and the edges are lightly crisped.
Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves for a burst of freshness and an Italian-inspired flavor touch. This taco-pizza combination brings the best of both worlds to the table in a fun format.
Full recipe: click here.
5. Chicken Pot Pie Empanadas
Combine shredded chicken with creamy sauce, diced carrots, peas, and celery for a classic filling. Spoon the filling into pastry dough circles, seal the edges tightly, and bake until golden brown.
Each bite of these handheld pies delivers flaky crust with a creamy and flavorful interior. Perfect for packed lunches, quick dinners, or even a comforting snack on the go.
Full recipe: click here.
6. Chicken Alfredo Flatbread
Spread a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce on flatbread, then layer with chicken, spinach, and mozzarella. Bake in a hot oven until the flatbread is crispy and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Slice into squares or wedges for an appetizer or serve whole for a simple, tasty dinner. This dish combines the creamy richness of Alfredo with the satisfying crunch of baked flatbread.
Full recipe: click here.
7. Chicken Fried Rice
Sauté diced chicken with cold rice, soy sauce, garlic, and scrambled eggs in a hot wok. Add peas, carrots, and a drizzle of sesame oil for bold flavors and great textures combined.
Toss in green onions at the end for a pop of freshness and a mild crunch. This one-pan dish is quick to prepare, hearty, and ideal for using leftover rice and chicken.
Full recipe: click here.
8. Spicy Chicken Quesadillas
Layer shredded chicken, melted cheese, and jalapeños between two tortillas for a crispy, gooey filling. Grill on a skillet until the tortillas turn golden brown and the cheese is perfectly melted.
Serve with sides of salsa, sour cream, and guacamole to balance the spice and enhance flavors. Each bite offers a blend of cheesy richness, spicy heat, and satisfying crunch for every palate.
Full recipe: click here.
9. Chicken Caesar Wraps
Mix shredded chicken with creamy Caesar dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, and croutons for texture. Wrap this mixture in a soft tortilla along with fresh lettuce for added crunchiness.
Cut the wrap in halves or quarters to create a portable and mess-free meal option. This wrap delivers the classic Caesar salad flavors in a convenient, hand-held package for any occasion.
Full recipe: click here.
10. BBQ Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
Cut bell peppers in half lengthwise, remove seeds, and stuff with shredded BBQ chicken and cooked rice. Top with shredded cheese and bake until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Add fresh parsley or cilantro as a garnish to enhance the visual appeal and flavor. These stuffed peppers are colorful, hearty, and packed with smoky, cheesy, and savory goodness.
Full recipe: click here.
11. Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Layer soft tortillas, shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, and shredded cheese in a greased baking dish. Repeat the layers until the dish is full, ending with a layer of melted cheese.
Bake until the casserole is bubbly and the flavors meld into a rich, cheesy dish. Serve with sour cream, fresh cilantro, and diced avocado for added freshness and creaminess.
Full recipe: click here.
12. Greek Chicken Pita Pockets
Fill warm pita bread with shredded chicken, creamy tzatziki sauce, chopped cucumber, tomato, and red onion. Add a sprinkle of feta cheese and a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness and tang.
These pockets are fresh, flavorful, and bring the essence of Mediterranean cuisine to your table. Serve with a side of hummus or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Full recipe: click here.
13. Chicken Ramen Stir-Fry
Cook shredded chicken with sesame oil, soy sauce, and garlic in a hot skillet or wok. Add cooked ramen noodles, sliced bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas for texture.
Toss everything together with a splash of oyster sauce for a rich, umami-packed flavor. Finish with a fried egg on top and sprinkle sesame seeds for a restaurant-style dish at home.
Full recipe: click here.
14. Chicken Tortilla Soup
Simmer shredded chicken with chicken broth, black beans, tomatoes, and spices for a hearty soup. Top with crispy tortilla strips, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
The combination of bold flavors and warm spices makes this soup comforting and filling. Serve with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips to round out the meal.
Full recipe: click here.
15. Pulled Chicken Sliders
Mix shredded chicken with tangy BBQ sauce and pile it onto soft slider buns. Add crunchy coleslaw, sliced pickles, or jalapeños for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
These sliders are great for gatherings or casual dinners with minimal preparation and maximum taste. Each bite is a blend of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors wrapped in soft, pillowy bread.
Full recipe: click here.
16. Chicken Stir-Fry Lettuce Wraps
Sauté chicken with hoisin sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger for bold flavors. Spoon the mixture into crisp lettuce leaves and top with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds.
These wraps are light, refreshing, and bring a satisfying crunch to every bite. Serve as an appetizer or a main dish for a low-carb, flavorful meal.
Full recipe: click here.
17. Chicken and Veggie Sheet Pan Bake
Toss chicken, potatoes, carrots, and broccoli with olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Spread everything evenly on a baking sheet and roast until golden brown and tender.
This one-pan meal is simple, wholesome, and requires minimal cleanup while delivering bold flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for a burst of brightness before serving.
Full recipe: click here.
18. Chicken Tikka Masala Bowls
Cook shredded chicken in a creamy tikka masala sauce made with tomatoes, spices, and heavy cream. Serve the flavorful chicken over basmati rice or alongside warm naan bread for dipping.
Top with fresh cilantro and a dollop of plain yogurt for a cooling contrast to the spices. This rich and aromatic dish offers a satisfying take on Indian-inspired comfort food.
Full recipe: click here.
19. Classic Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Combine shredded chicken with mayonnaise, diced celery, a splash of lemon juice, and mustard. Spread the mixture on sandwich bread and layer with lettuce and tomato.
This timeless recipe is quick, easy, and delivers creamy, tangy, and crunchy textures in every bite. Serve with potato chips, pickles, or a green salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Full recipe: click here.
20. Chicken and Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups
Spread a mixture of shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, and sautéed spinach over cooked lasagna noodles. Roll the noodles tightly and top with marinara and shredded cheese.
Bake until the cheese is melted and golden, and the flavors are rich and blended. These roll-ups are easy to portion and offer a fun twist on traditional lasagna.
Full recipe: click here.
21. Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
Cook shredded chicken in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce until the flavors are fully absorbed. Serve the chicken over steamed rice, adding sautéed vegetables on the side.
Top with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for a fresh, vibrant garnish. This dish is simple yet satisfying, offering a balance of sweet, salty, and earthy flavors.
Full recipe: click here.
22. Crispy Chicken Tacos
Fill hard taco shells with shredded chicken, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese. Drizzle with chipotle mayo or your favorite hot sauce for a smoky, spicy kick.
Top with fresh avocado slices or guacamole for a creamy contrast to the crispy shell. These tacos are quick to prepare, customizable, and bursting with bold, fresh flavors.
Full recipe: click here.
23. Chicken Pho
Simmer shredded chicken in a fragrant broth infused with star anise, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Add cooked rice noodles to the broth and let them absorb the rich, spiced flavors.
Top each bowl with bean sprouts, basil, lime wedges, and thinly sliced jalapeños for freshness. This comforting Vietnamese soup balances warmth, brightness, and a hearty depth of flavor.
Full recipe: click here.
24. Chicken and Dumpling Soup
Simmer shredded chicken, carrots, celery, and onions in a rich, flavorful chicken broth. Drop spoonfuls of biscuit dough or homemade dumplings into the simmering soup to cook gently.
The dumplings puff up into soft, pillowy bites that perfectly complement the savory soup base. This recipe is the ultimate in comfort food, ideal for cold or rainy days.
Full recipe: click here.
25. Spicy Chicken Pasta Bake
Mix shredded chicken with cooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, chili flakes, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Pour the mixture into a casserole dish, top with more cheese, and bake.
The hint of spice from the chili flakes adds a lively kick to this creamy, cheesy bake. This dish is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a family or preparing ahead.
Full recipe: click here.
26. Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Combine shredded chicken, cooked broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Pour the mixture into a casserole dish and top with seasoned breadcrumbs for crunch.
Bake until the breadcrumbs are golden and the casserole is warm and bubbling throughout. This dish is a classic, family-friendly option that is both nutritious and easy to make.
Full recipe: click here.
27. Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Hollow out zucchini halves and fill with shredded chicken, marinara sauce, and Parmesan cheese. Bake until tender, and the filling is warm and bubbling with melted cheese.
Top with fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch of freshness and a burst of flavor. These zucchini boats are a low-carb, colorful, and satisfying way to repurpose leftover chicken.
Full recipe: click here.
28. Chicken Cobb Salad
Layer shredded chicken, hard-boiled eggs, diced bacon, avocado, and blue cheese on a bed of greens. Drizzle with ranch dressing or a tangy vinaigrette for a balanced flavor.
This salad is packed with protein, healthy fats, and bold flavors that work beautifully together. It’s a colorful and refreshing dish that’s hearty enough to serve as a complete meal.
Full recipe: click here.
29. Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Simmer shredded chicken, orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables in a light broth with lemon juice and zest. The lemon adds a refreshing flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and orzo.
Finish the soup with fresh dill or parsley for an aromatic and herby touch. This soup is light yet filling, making it an excellent choice for any season.
Full recipe: click here.
30. Chicken Parmesan Subs
Layer breaded chicken cutlets with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese on a sub roll. Toast the sandwich until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted and gooey.
Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, adding extra flavor to every bite. These hearty subs are a warm, cheesy, and satisfying twist on a classic Italian dish.
Full recipe: click here.
31. Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice Noodles
Stir-fry shredded chicken with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a mix of colorful vegetables. Add cooked rice noodles and toss everything together until fully coated in the savory sauce.
Top with sesame seeds and a squeeze of lime juice for a fresh, tangy finish. This dish is quick, versatile, and packed with bold, delicious flavors.
Full recipe: click here.
32. Chicken and Cheese Taquitos
Roll shredded chicken, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar inside small tortillas for a creamy filling. Bake until the tortillas are golden and crispy, then serve with sour cream or salsa.
The creamy, cheesy filling contrasts perfectly with the crispy exterior of the baked tortilla. These taquitos are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a quick and satisfying dinner.
Full recipe: click here.
33. Thai Chicken Coconut Curry
Simmer shredded chicken in a coconut milk base with red curry paste and fresh vegetables. Add lime juice, fish sauce, and brown sugar for a balance of tangy, savory, and sweet flavors.
Serve over jasmine rice and top with fresh cilantro or Thai basil for an aromatic finish. This dish is fragrant, flavorful, and perfect for anyone craving a taste of Thai cuisine.
Full recipe: click here.
34. Chicken Shepherd’s Pie
Layer shredded chicken with sautéed vegetables and a creamy gravy in a baking dish. Top the mixture with mashed potatoes, spreading them evenly to form a smooth, golden crust.
Bake until the potatoes are golden and the filling is hot and bubbling underneath. This comforting twist on shepherd’s pie is hearty, satisfying, and easy to make with leftovers.
Full recipe: click here.
35. Chicken Pasta Primavera
Toss shredded chicken with cooked pasta, olive oil, garlic, and a mix of fresh seasonal vegetables. Add cheese and fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added depth and brightness.
This dish is light, colorful, and perfect for showcasing the flavors of fresh produce. It’s a versatile recipe that works beautifully for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.
Full recipe: click here.
36. Chicken Tacos Al Pastor
Marinate shredded chicken in a blend of pineapple juice, chili powder, and cumin for bold flavor.
Grill the marinated chicken until caramelized and slightly charred for smoky, sweet notes.
Serve in soft corn tortillas and top with diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
These tacos are a perfect mix of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors in every bite.
Full recipe: click here.
37. Chicken Stroganoff
Sauté shredded chicken with mushrooms, onions, and garlic in a creamy sour cream-based sauce. Serve the sauce over egg noodles or mashed potatoes for a hearty main dish.
Add a sprinkle of parsley and a dash of paprika for added color and flavor depth. This comforting dish is a simple, satisfying way to use leftover chicken in a classic recipe.
Full recipe: click here.
38. Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls
Sauté shredded chicken with bell peppers, onions, and fajita seasoning for a flavorful base. Serve the chicken mixture over a bed of cooked rice, adding beans or corn if desired.
Top with guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream for extra richness. These rice bowls are customizable, colorful, and deliver bold Tex-Mex flavors in every bite.
Full recipe: click here.
39. Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
Toss shredded chicken, cooked pasta, and cherry tomatoes with fresh basil pesto for a vibrant dish. Add mozzarella balls and arugula to bring texture and balance to the bold pesto flavors.
Serve the pasta salad chilled or at room temperature for an easy, no-fuss meal option. This refreshing salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick lunches during busy days.
Full recipe: click here.
40. Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Fill jumbo pasta shells with a mixture of shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, and sautéed spinach. Arrange the filled shells in a baking dish, top with marinara sauce, and sprinkle with mozzarella.
Bake until the shells are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly for a perfect finish. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and an excellent way to elevate leftover chicken.
Full recipe: click here.
41. Chicken and Corn Chowder
Simmer shredded chicken with sweet corn, diced potatoes, and onions in a creamy, rich broth. Add crispy bacon crumbles and fresh thyme for a savory, smoky touch that enhances the flavor.
This thick and hearty chowder is perfect for cooler days when you need a warm, filling dish. Serve with crusty bread or crackers to make the most of the creamy, satisfying soup.
Full recipe: click here.
42. Chicken and Wonton Soup
Simmer shredded chicken with tender wontons, fresh bok choy, and ginger in a light broth. The delicate wontons pair perfectly with the savory chicken and fresh, crisp vegetables.
Add green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil for a subtle, aromatic finishing touch. This soup is light yet flavorful, offering a simple and elegant meal for any occasion.
Full recipe: click here.
Final Thoughts
Leftover chicken can turn into dishes from soups to casseroles and tacos to salads. These recipes offer variety and flexibility.
Try experimenting with ingredients you already have. Making something new is always worth it!
Featured image credit to ©alittlebityummy.
