Leftovers again? Making dinner from what's in the fridge might not seem like the most exciting option, but these leftover chicken recipes are full of fresh ideas so you will never be bored.
1/45
Creamy Chicken Enchiladas
From the Recipe Creator:
My daughter has the best sour cream and cream cheese chicken enchiladas recipe I've ever tried. She brought 10 pans of it to my wedding reception and they were the biggest hit of all the food. So many guests wanted the recipe, we sent it out with our Christmas cards. —Pat Coffee, Kingston, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
2 enchiladas: 651 calories, 38g fat (18g saturated fat), 151mg cholesterol, 1392mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 37g protein.
One of our most popular chicken dinners ever, these creamy enchiladas are the perfect chicken dinner recipe for your 13×9-inch pan. Layer tortillas stuffed with leftover chicken, cream cheese and spices, then pour a quick enchilada sauce over the dish. Feel free to add or subtract chiles or include vegetables like chopped peppers or corn.
2/45
Barbecue Chicken Sandwich
From the Recipe Creator:
With four small children at home, I need quick yet filling meals. This family-favorite barbecue chicken sandwich filling is a cinch to make. For a spicier taste, eliminate the ketchup and increase the amount of salsa to 1 cup. —Leticia Lewis, Kennewick, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 284 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 770mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 3g fiber), 18g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat.
Leftover chicken is a natural fit for sandwiches. These saucy sammies are so easy to toss together even though they use a homemade sauce (you could swap in one of our favorite store-bought barbecue sauces as well). Serve with a quick side of canned or frozen corn.
3/45
Easy Chicken and Dumplings
From the Recipe Creator:
Using precooked chicken and ready-made biscuits, this hearty dish is comfort food made simple. It's the perfect way to warm up on chilly nights. —Lakeya Astwood, Schenectady, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 420 calories, 20g fat (5g saturated fat), 83mg cholesterol, 1443mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 34g protein.
Rather than making dumplings from scratch, this recipe calls for a quick substitute: frozen biscuits. The buttery, savory biscuits soften as they soak up the sauce. This gives them a squishy, dumpling-like texture (and plenty of flavor).
4/45
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
This dish always gets rave reviews! Using rotisserie chicken makes it super easy to assemble and gives it an extra boost in flavor. Sometimes I like to add smoked paprika to the sauce and a little seasoned salt to the bread crumbs. —Mary Brehm, Cape Coral, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 489 calories, 29g fat (15g saturated fat), 156mg cholesterol, 899mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 41g protein.
5/45
Thai Peanut Chicken Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
I used traditional pizza sauce and toppings in this recipe for years. After becoming a fan of Thai peanut chicken pizza, I decided to use those flavors instead. Serve this dish with stir-fried vegetables or a salad with sesame dressing for an easy, delicious meal. —Katherine Wollgast, Troy, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 490 calories, 25g fat (8g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 1013mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 1g fiber), 26g protein.
This dinner recipe looks so impressive, layered with a tasty nutty sauce, chicken, mushrooms and veggies, but it’s incredibly easy to put together. The secret? Use leftover chicken, prepared peanut sauce and store-bought biscuits.
6/45
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
A good friend made us this rich, comforting soup after the birth of our son. It was such a help to have dinner taken care of until I was back on my feet. This yummy dish is so simple to fix that now I give a pot of it (along with the recipe) to other new mothers. —Joanna Sargent, Sandy, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 218 calories, 9g fat (4g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 980mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 15g protein.
A great dish to make for new parents (or a recipe for anyone who needs meal train ideas), this chicken noodle soup is a classic. Though it’s flavorful and creamy, it calls for only six ingredients plus water.
7/45
Nectarine Chicken Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
When guests are coming for lunch or dinner in the warm summer months, I like to serve this attractive, colorful salad. The dressing is refreshingly tart. A neighbor shared the recipe years ago and I've passed it on many times. —Cathy Ross, Van Nuys, California
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 266 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 76mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (21g sugars, 5g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
8/45
Chicken Potpie
From the Recipe Creator:
This is the best chicken potpie recipe! Chock-full of chicken, potatoes, peas and corn, this recipe makes two golden pies. Serve one at supper and save the other for a busy night. —Karen Johnson, Bakersfield, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 475 calories, 28g fat (14g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 768mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 15g protein.
9/45
Baked Egg Rolls
From the Recipe Creator:
These egg rolls are low in fat but the crispiness from baking will fool you into thinking they were fried! —Barbara Lierman, Lyons, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
1 egg roll: 146 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 250mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 9g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
This takeout copycat recipe for crispy egg rolls is 100% restaurant-worthy but also quick to make in your own kitchen. The crispy shells are packed with fresh vegetables. And chopped leftover chicken gives them enough heft to be a main dish. As a bonus, they’re baked, not fried!
10/45
Garlicky Chicken Pizza
From the Recipe Creator:
Tomatoes, olives and goat cheese really brighten up this white pizza. I like to cook extra chicken for this recipe while making another meal. Just make sure the tomatoes are well drained to keep the crust nice and crispy. —Teri Otte, Cannon Falls, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 418 calories, 19g fat (6g saturated fat), 73mg cholesterol, 957mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 25g protein.
Homemade pizza is surprisingly simple to make, especially if you use store-bought pie dough. Once you start topping your own pies—controlling the amount of sauce, cheese and toppings—you might never go back to delivery. Sliced or chopped leftover chicken is a nice protein to add that matches literally everything.
11/45
Chicken Tortilla Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
Mother frequently made this comforting chicken tortilla casserole when I was growing up. Our family would scrape the pan clean. Chicken, cheese and zippy green chiles are a mouthwatering mix. —Jerri Moror, Rio Rancho, New Mexico
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 359 calories, 17g fat (8g saturated fat), 81mg cholesterol, 1007mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 25g protein.
As delicious as individual burritos taste, they’re time-consuming to wrap one by one. This casserole makes it quick and easy to serve a crowd. Layer tortillas with green chiles, cheese, chicken and creamy sauce. Then bake and watch your eaters clean the pan.
12/45
BBQ Chicken and Apple Bread Pudding
From the Recipe Creator:
To me, bread pudding is the epitome of comfort food and it's simply too good to reserve only for dessert. This sweet and savory twist on the classic is a delicious new way to enjoy an old favorite. —Shauna Havey, Roy, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 465 calories, 25g fat (13g saturated fat), 156mg cholesterol, 1028mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 3g fiber), 21g protein.
This recipe pulls out all the creative stops! Savory toppings turn bread pudding into a totally acceptable dinner recipe. Swapping in cubed cornbread from the best cornbread mix for plain bread adds tons of flavor. Chicken and barbecue sauce create a hearty filling, while cut-up apples add sweetness and crunch.
13/45
Cherry Chicken Croissants
From the Recipe Creator:
I had a similar chicken salad at a restaurant and created my own version. It may seem like an odd combination, but the ingredients work really well together. My children love it, and it takes only a few minutes to cut everything up—so easy! —Katrina Gladdish, Grawn, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 616 calories, 39g fat (12g saturated fat), 92mg cholesterol, 613mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 3g fiber), 24g protein.
Instantly elevate chicken salad sandwiches by serving them on croissants. What a treat! Like every good chicken salad recipe, this one combines a variety of flavors and textures: sweet fruits, crunchy nuts and vegetables, and savory bursts of bacon. Of course, you can swap in your favorite toppings. Or, serve the chicken salad over lettuce for an easy gluten-free option.
14/45
Creamy Slow-Cooker White Chicken Chili
From the Recipe Creator:
My friend Caroline Gray and I came up with this creamy slow-cooker white chicken chili. It's unusual because it calls for Alfredo sauce. —Cindi Mitchell, St. Marys, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 336 calories, 15g fat (9g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 772mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 7g fiber), 24g protein.
This easy, cozy recipe has a secret ingredient: Alfredo sauce. The jarred white sauce adds tons of creaminess and is mild enough to take on the robust chili seasonings. You can make this recipe on the stovetop, too, just make sure to simmer it long enough for the flavors to develop.
15/45
Chicken Pasta Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
My family loves pasta salads, but usually they have too much mayonnaise or oily dressing. Using hummus gives this dish a great taste and texture, while also increasing its nutritional profile. Adding chicken (store-bought rotisserie chicken works well) makes this pasta salad a complete meal. —Jenny Lynch, Rock Island, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 263 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 405mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 7g fiber), 16g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 2 starch, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.
Looking for a pasta salad that’s not too loaded with mayo or oil? Try this light, refreshing option tossed in a savory, flavorful sauce of Italian dressing and hummus. The mix-ins include leftover chicken, spinach, feta and olives, but you can add any fresh veggies and cheese you like.
16/45
Chicken Florentine Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
Creamy and comforting, this chicken and spinach bake is sure to be a hit at dinnertime. The toasty bread crumb topping delivers a bit of a crunch. —Dori Jackson, Gulf Breeze, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 539 calories, 36g fat (13g saturated fat), 111mg cholesterol, 1006mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 36g protein.
Wondering how to get fussy eaters to eat spinach? Transform it into a bright green note in a cheesy, herby chicken casserole. Serve this as a one-dish meal, or double up the greens with a side salad.
17/45
Quick Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry
From the Recipe Creator:
This Asian chicken and broccoli stir-fry is a household best bet. The spicy sauce works with chicken, seafood, pork or beef. Add whatever veggies you have on hand. —Kristin Rimkus, Snohomish, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup chicken mixture with 1/2 cup rice: 387 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 765mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
This quick chicken stir-fry gets a huge boost of flavor from a seven-ingredient sauce that includes fragrant fish sauce, savory soy sauce, chicken broth and chili garlic sauce.
18/45
Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
This comforting supper is like a jalapeno popper in casserole form. The dish is rich and cheesy, and it has just a bit of heat from the jalapenos. It's a perfect way to use up leftover chicken or turkey. —Kerry Whitaker, Carthage, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 701 calories, 53g fat (24g saturated fat), 116mg cholesterol, 1648mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 22g protein.
19/45
Arizona Chicken in Acorn Squash
From the Recipe Creator:
Give stuffed acorn squash a taste of the Southwest with this comforting recipe. We love the crunch of the toasted almonds, the heat of the green chiles and the creamy texture of the avocado. —Martha Sparlin, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed squash half: 492 calories, 28g fat (11g saturated fat), 89mg cholesterol, 404mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 9g fiber), 25g protein.
Try this cool trick with your favorite winter squash: Scoop out the seeds and fill the hollow with a mix of meat, sauce and vegetables. Baked all together, the squash turns into an edible, healthy bowl while the filling flavors the entire dish. This is a versatile, easy weeknight dinner idea.
20/45
Simple Creamy Chicken Enchiladas
From the Recipe Creator:
This chicken enchilada recipe is one of the first dishes I created and cooked for my husband right after we got married. He was so impressed! We fix these creamy enchiladas for friends regularly. —Melissa Rogers, Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
2 enchiladas: 828 calories, 40g fat (17g saturated fat), 132mg cholesterol, 1738mg sodium, 72g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 7g fiber), 42g protein.
21/45
Chicken Cashew Pasta Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I’ve tried many chicken salad recipes over the years, but this is my very favorite. It’s fresh, fruity and refreshing, and the cashews add wonderful crunch. Every time I serve it at a potluck or picnic, I get rave reviews—and I always come home with an empty bowl! —Kara Cook, Elk Ridge, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 661 calories, 37g fat (6g saturated fat), 44mg cholesterol, 451mg sodium, 59g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 4g fiber), 23g protein.
There’s no rule that main dishes have to be savory. This pasta salad has a savory base (ranch dressing = yum), but it’s loaded with sweet notes: canned pineapple, dried cranberries and fresh grapes.
22/45
Korean Chicken Crunch Wrap
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe came about on one of those days when everything in the fridge looked like a pile of random ingredients, and neither my husband nor I wanted to admit we were too tired (and too broke) to order takeout. We'd been talking about how much we missed going out for Korean barbecue, so we decided to get creative! —Stephanie Luc, Vienna, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 600 calories, 22g fat (8g saturated fat), 88mg cholesterol, 1526mg sodium, 64g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 7g fiber), 37g protein.
23/45
Curried Chicken & Peach Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a very healthy and simple salad to make; even my non-cooking husband can whip it together in minutes. We’ve served this to friends over the years, and they always ask for the recipe. —Radelle Knappenberger, Oviedo, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 286 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 315mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 4g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable, 1 fruit.
Wanna know how to make a fresh summer recipe in minutes? Top bagged salad greens with jazzed-up leftover chicken. Fresh peaches are a sweet note that compliments this curried chicken salad perfectly, but you can swap in any juicy fruit: Tomatoes, nectarines, apples or even berries will work.
24/45
Chicken Broccoli Shells
From the Recipe Creator:
This cheesy entree is a make-ahead dream. Just assemble it ahead of time and put it in the oven when company arrives. I round out the meal with a tossed salad and warm bread. —Karen Jagger, Columbia City, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
3 shells: 355 calories, 16g fat (9g saturated fat), 72mg cholesterol, 453mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 24g protein.
This pasta dish looks impressive, but it’s so easy to make. Just fill big pasta shells with a mixture of Alfredo sauce, diced chicken and broccoli, then bake. You can even prepare it ahead of time and bake it right before serving.
25/45
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
My colleagues and I made a pact to eat healthier, and we took turns sharing dishes. I'm happy to report that thanks to recipes like this crisp and tangy salad, we all trimmed down. —Teresa Jordan, Springville, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
2 cups: 422 calories, 22g fat (5g saturated fat), 75mg cholesterol, 416mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 5g fiber), 30g protein.
26/45
Chicken Zucchini Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
A co-worker shared this chicken zucchini casserole recipe that was originally her grandmother's. When I make it, I use precooked chicken from the grocery store and fresh zucchini that my neighbor gives me from his garden. —Bev Dutro, Dayton, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 481 calories, 31g fat (18g saturated fat), 115mg cholesterol, 1174mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 21g protein.
Have a bumper crop of squash and need an easy zucchini recipe? Chop the zucchini and turn it into a juicy, flavorful filling for this summery casserole. The recipe is so flexible. Add other chopped veggies, cooked or raw, or your favorite cheese.
27/45
Chicken and Dumplings
From the Recipe Creator:
Perfect for fall nights, my simple version of comforting chicken and dumplings is speedy, low in fat and a delicious one-dish meal. —Nancy Tuck, Elk Falls, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 260 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 964mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 27g protein.
You can make chicken soup even more comforting than it already is by topping it with puffy, buttery dumplings. This recipe calls for a biscuit mix to make the dumplings extra simple.
28/45
Chicken Divan Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
This tasty chicken divan recipe was given to me by a friend years ago, and it's been a family favorite ever since. My daughters enjoy making this dish in their own homes and get the same enthusiastic compliments I always do! —Mary Pat Lucia, North East, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 412 calories, 24g fat (12g saturated fat), 98mg cholesterol, 798mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 22g protein.
This top-rated recipe starts with a homemade cream sauce, thickened the old-fashioned way with a roux. The final dish is especially creamy and unctuous thanks to this easy (we promise!) step.
29/45
Chicken Gnocchi Pesto Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
After tasting a similar soup at a restaurant, I created this quick and tasty version. It is rich and creamy, and couldn’t be easier to make! —Deanna Smith, Des Moines, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 586 calories, 26g fat (11g saturated fat), 158mg cholesterol, 1650mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 31g protein.
30/45
Chicken Enchilada Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
Your family is going to gobble up this cheesy southwestern chicken enchilada casserole and will ask for it again and again. It’s real comfort food! —Melanie Burns, Pueblo West, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 428 calories, 27g fat (14g saturated fat), 103mg cholesterol, 709mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 32g protein.
Enchiladas are some of our most popular chicken recipes, and it’s easy to see why. They’re oh, so easy to make and please every eater in the family. This recipe uses corn tortillas, making it an easy gluten-free dinner.
31/45
Biscuit Chicken Potpie
From the Recipe Creator:
This hearty meal-in-one takes just 10 minutes to assemble before you can pop it in the oven. —Dorothy Smith, El Dorado, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 376 calories, 14g fat (4g saturated fat), 103mg cholesterol, 966mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 5g fiber), 23g protein.
There’s nothing homier than pulling a bubbling casserole dish from the oven! Even busy cooks can capture the feeling since this potpie takes just 10 minutes to throw together. Assemble it ahead of time, then slide it into the oven when you get home from work.
32/45
Chicken Tomato Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
Cumin, chili powder and cayenne pepper give my slow-cooked specialty its kick. I serve bowls of it with crunchy tortilla strips that bake in no time. Leftover soup freezes well for nights I don’t feel like cooking. —Margaret Bailey, Coffeeville, Mississippi
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 196 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 49mg cholesterol, 800mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 19g protein.
Want the equation for the easiest dinner ever? Combine leftover chicken with a good slow-cooker chicken soup recipe. This flavorful, spicy soup calls for frozen and canned vegetables.
33/45
Chicken and Swiss Stuffing Bake
From the Recipe Creator:
I love to cook but just don't have much time. This casserole is both comforting and fast, which makes it my favorite kind of recipe. I serve it with a green salad. —Jena Coffey, Sunset Hills, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 247 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 42mg cholesterol, 658mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 3g fiber), 22g protein.
If you’re eating stuffing only on Thanksgiving, you’re missing out! The savory, crumbling bread dish makes a hearty casserole filling. Here, broccoli, chicken, cream of mushroom soup and Swiss cheese layer into a flavorful dinner.
34/45
Chicken Potpie Galette with Cheddar-Thyme Crust
From the Recipe Creator:
This gorgeous galette takes traditional chicken potpie and gives it a fun open-faced spin. The rich filling and flaky cheddar-flecked crust make it taste so homey. It's lovely for fall and winter dinners, but you can enjoy it anytime. —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 342 calories, 21g fat (12g saturated fat), 81mg cholesterol, 594mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 16g protein.
Although it relies on leftover chicken for filling, this galette is a delicious meal special enough for an occasion. The from-scratch crust gets an extra savory kick from cheddar cheese, and the filling is rich with mushrooms, chard and chicken.
35/45
Chicken Alfredo Lasagna
From the Recipe Creator:
My family was growing tired of traditional red sauce lasagna, so I created this fun twist using a creamy homemade Alfredo sauce. Store-bought rotisserie chicken keeps prep simple and fast. —Caitlin MacNeilly, Uncasville, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 421 calories, 25g fat (13g saturated fat), 99mg cholesterol, 688mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 31g protein.
Two favorite pasta dishes unite in this scrumptious casserole. Alfredo sauce, chicken, ham and cheese layer between noodles.
36/45
Brown Rice Mulligatawny
From the Recipe Creator:
My friends tell me this is one of the best soups they’ve ever had. One even said it’s “perfect.” No one guesses that it’s healthy! —Sarah Ott, Blanchardville, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup with 1 tablespoon sour cream: 229 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 60mg cholesterol, 689mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
Want a twist on classic chicken soup? Try this mulligatawny, an Indian-inspired soup packed with vegetables and lightly seasoned with curry spices. Brown rice makes for a healthy whole grain filling.
37/45
Green Chile Chicken Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
This casserole makes good use of leftover meat and is very filling. —Lois Keel, Alburquerque, New Mexico
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 410 calories, 21g fat (14g saturated fat), 111mg cholesterol, 647mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 26g protein.
Casseroles are the easiest one-dish meals. This creamy, cozy, slightly spicy dinner is filling and flavorful, and you can even make it ahead.
38/45
Chicken Biscuit Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
Golden biscuits cover this homespun dish laden with chicken, broccoli and cheese. The biscuits are then topped with a celery seed mixture. My family requests this all-in-one dinner once a month. —Karen Weirick, Bourbon, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 527 calories, 31g fat (9g saturated fat), 150mg cholesterol, 1245mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 32g protein.
39/45
Chicken Chalupa
From the Recipe Creator:
I wanted an easy alternative to deep-fried chalupas, so I bake them with the filling on top. —Magdalena Flores, Abilene, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 chalupa: 206 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 400mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
One of our favorite Mexican-inspired dishes, chalupas are usually deep-fried and rich. This recipe simplifies them for the home cook, baking them instead of frying but not giving up a bit of flavor.
40/45
Buffalo Chicken Wing Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I love Buffalo chicken wings, so we created a soup with the same zippy flavor. It's very popular with guests. Start with a small amount of hot sauce, then add more as needed to suit your family's tastes. —Pat Farmer, Falconer, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 1/3 cups: 572 calories, 29g fat (11g saturated fat), 180mg cholesterol, 1308mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 57g protein.
Add leftover chicken to any soup recipe and you’ll have a fresh bowl in a hurry. This rotisserie chicken recipe transforms plain leftovers into a creamy, kicky soup inspired by chicken wings.
41/45
Chicken Tamale Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
When I serve this Mexican-style casserole, everyone scrapes the plate clean. Offer fresh toppings like green onions, tomatoes and avocado. —Jennifer Stowell, Smithville, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 364 calories, 17g fat (7g saturated fat), 81mg cholesterol, 851mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 4g fiber), 21g protein.
This ooey-gooey casserole dish is comfort food the whole family can enjoy. Serve it with guacamole and chips for a festive Friday night dinner.
42/45
Chicken & Blue Cheese Pizza
From the Recipe Creator:
The blue cheese in place of the expected mozzarella gives this pizza a surprising and sophisticated taste. It's excellent as an entree or appetizer—it can be prepared in a round pizza pan as well. —Beverly Lynch, Sugar Grove, Illinois
This pizza breaks the convention that tomato sauce and mozzarella are requirements. Using olive oil as a base lets the flavors of the toppings shine, while blue cheese packs in savory flavor.
43/45
Swiss Chicken Sliders
From the Recipe Creator:
Friends came over for a spur-of-the-moment bonfire, and I dreamed up these quick chicken sliders so we'd have something to eat. Bake them till the cheese is gooey. —Sara Martin, Whitefish, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
2 sliders: 508 calories, 27g fat (6g saturated fat), 100mg cholesterol, 894mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 37g protein.
There’s something about sliders that feels so fun, even though they’re as easy to make as any sandwich. Load buns with ham, sliced chicken and Swiss, then bake in a casserole dish until the cheese is melty. These are perfect for a casual dinner party menu or a family dinner!
44/45
Curried Chicken Skillet
From the Recipe Creator:
This protein-packed skillet dish is loaded with bright flavor. A little curry and fresh ginger make the veggies, chicken and quinoa pop. —Ruth Hartunian-Alumbaugh, Willimantic, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts:
2 cups: 367 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 450mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 6g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2-1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
This quick curry skillet puts a superfood at its base: quinoa. The protein-packed grain is naturally gluten-free and full of fiber, and it’s quick to cook too. Making a quick curry seasoning ties the whole dish together.
45/45
Chicken Chiles Rellenos Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband likes Mexican food and casseroles, so I combined the two. This chicken with poblanos and chiles satisfies our craving for dinner at a Mexican restaurant. —Erica Ingram, Lakewood, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 610 calories, 34g fat (16g saturated fat), 151mg cholesterol, 987mg sodium, 51g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 5g fiber), 27g protein.
A ceiling of savory, tender cornbread blankets this cheesy, spicy chicken casserole. Make this dish on a cold night for an easy winter dinner and you’ll instantly feel oh, so cozy.
Leftover Chicken Recipes FAQ
What are the best ways to use up leftover chicken?
The best ways to use leftover chicken infuse the meat with moisture and flavor so the chicken is tender and anything but bland. Outside of dinner or lunch ideas, from soups and casseroles to dressed sandwiches, I love to toss cubed or shredded leftover chicken into breakfast dishes, including quiche recipes, a potato brunch hash and a quick omelet for a protein-rich way to start the day.
How long does leftover chicken last?
For cooked chicken, leftovers last three to four days in the refrigerator and last in the freezer for up to four months. To ensure the best texture and taste, storing leftovers correctly is essential. Cool the chicken quickly to prevent spoilage and then seal it in airtight storage containers. If you just want the meat, pull it off the bone while it’s still warm, but don’t forget to store the bones separately for making homemade chicken broth.
How do you avoid dry leftover chicken?
To prevent dry leftover chicken, it should be cooked properly (one of many reasons you need an instant-read meat thermometer!) and stored correctly to lock in its juiciness. Overcooked chicken can become dry, especially chicken breasts leaner than legs and thighs, so it’s important to ensure it’s just cooked through. Bone-in chicken tends to be more tender than boneless. Let the chicken rest before carving, and store it in airtight containers.
