What to do with leftover rotisserie chicken when you have extra from last night’s dinner? Instead of letting it go to waste, turn it into quick, delicious, and budget-friendly meals. Rotisserie chicken is already cooked and packed with flavor, making it a perfect ingredient for easy soups, casseroles, sandwiches, and more.
Not only does using leftover rotisserie chicken save you time in the kitchen, but it also helps you create flavorful dishes with minimal effort. Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of soup, a fresh and healthy salad, or a cheesy chicken casserole, there are countless ways to transform those leftovers into something amazing. Let’s dive into some of the best ways to repurpose your rotisserie chicken!
Table of contents
- Why Leftover Rotisserie Chicken is a Kitchen Staple
- Delicious Soups & Stews Using Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
- Fresh & Flavorful Chicken Salads Using Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
- Comforting Chicken Casseroles Using Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
- Tasty Sandwiches & Wraps Using Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
- Quick & Delicious Pasta Dishes Using Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
- Conclusion
Why Leftover Rotisserie Chicken is a Kitchen Staple
What to Do with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken: The Benefits
What to do with leftover rotisserie chicken goes beyond just reheating and eating it plain. This versatile ingredient is a time-saver, perfect for creating quick and flavorful meals without the hassle of cooking from scratch. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a way to reduce food waste, repurposing leftover rotisserie chicken is a smart kitchen hack.
Why You Should Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
- Saves Time – Since the chicken is already cooked, you can prepare meals in minutes.
- Packed with Flavor – Rotisserie chicken is seasoned and juicy, adding depth to any dish.
- Reduces Waste – Instead of throwing away leftovers, turn them into creative meals.
- Budget-Friendly – Stretch your grocery budget by using every part of the chicken.
How to Properly Store Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
To get the most out of your leftover rotisserie chicken, proper storage is key. Follow these simple steps:
- Refrigerate Promptly: Store in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of purchase.
- Use Within 3-4 Days: For best quality, consume within a few days.
- Freeze for Longer Storage: Shred or portion the chicken, place in freezer-safe bags, and freeze for up to three months.
Now that you know the benefits and best storage practices, let’s explore delicious ways to transform your leftover rotisserie chicken into new, mouthwatering meals!
Wondering what to make with extra chicken? Try these easy and delicious Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes
Delicious Soups & Stews Using Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
What to Do with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken in Soups
What to do with leftover rotisserie chicken when you’re craving something warm and comforting? Turn it into a hearty soup or stew! Leftover rotisserie chicken adds depth of flavor and protein to soups, making them both delicious and filling. Plus, these recipes come together quickly since the chicken is already cooked.
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Nothing beats a bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup, especially when it’s made effortlessly with leftover rotisserie chicken. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Add garlic, thyme, and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the shredded leftover rotisserie chicken and noodles.
- Cook until noodles are tender, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot!
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
For a rich and creamy twist, try this easy chicken and rice soup that makes the most of leftover_rotisserie chicken.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté carrots and celery in a large pot until tender.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add leftover_rotisserie chicken, rice, and seasonings.
- Stir in heavy cream for a creamy texture.
- Simmer for a few minutes, then serve warm!
Why Soups Are the Perfect Way to Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
- Quick & Easy: No need to cook chicken from scratch.
- One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup required.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers.
If you’re wondering what to do with leftover rotisserie chicken, making a comforting soup is one of the best ways to enjoy it. Next, let’s explore how to turn it into delicious salads!
Fresh & Flavorful Chicken Salads Using Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
What to Do with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken in Salads
What to do with leftover rotisserie chicken when you need a quick, healthy meal? Turn it into a delicious, protein-packed salad! Whether you prefer something creamy and classic or light and refreshing, leftover_rotisserie chicken makes the perfect base for easy salads. These recipes are great for lunch, meal prep, or even as a sandwich filling.
Classic Chicken Salad
This creamy and flavorful chicken salad is a perfect way to use leftover_rotisserie chicken for a quick meal. Serve it on toast, in a wrap, or over fresh greens.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine leftover_rotisserie chicken, celery, onion, and almonds.
- Mix in mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Chill for 10 minutes and serve in a sandwich, wrap, or salad bowl.
Avocado Chicken Salad
For a fresh and creamy twist, try this avocado chicken salad, packed with healthy fats and protein.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mash avocado with Greek yogurt and lime juice.
- Stir in leftover_rotisserie chicken, cucumber, and cilantro.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve in lettuce wraps, on toast, or over greens for a refreshing meal.
Why Salads Are a Great Way to Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
- Healthy & Nutritious: High in protein and packed with fresh ingredients.
- Quick & Easy: No cooking required—just mix and serve!
- Versatile: Enjoy as a sandwich filling, wrap, or bowl.
If you’re wondering what to do with leftover rotisserie chicken, making a simple and flavorful salad is a perfect option. Next, let’s turn those leftovers into warm, comforting casseroles!
Comforting Chicken Casseroles Using Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
What to Do with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken in Casseroles
What to do with leftover rotisserie chicken when you need a hearty and comforting meal? Turn it into a delicious, cheesy casserole! Casseroles are perfect for using up extra rotisserie chicken while creating a satisfying dish for the whole family. Whether you love classic flavors or a spicy twist, these easy recipes will turn your leftovers into something special.
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
This creamy, cheesy casserole is a classic way to use leftover rotisserie chicken for a cozy and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 1/2 cups steamed broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix leftover_rotisserie chicken, rice, broccoli, soup, milk, and seasonings.
- Spread mixture into the baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Buffalo Chicken Casserole
If you love spicy flavors, this buffalo chicken casserole is a great way to transform leftover_rotisserie chicken into a bold, cheesy dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 3 cups diced potatoes (or frozen hash browns)
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix leftover_rotisserie chicken, potatoes, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and seasonings.
- Spread into the baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Sprinkle blue cheese and green onions on top before serving.
Why Casseroles Are a Great Way to Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
- One-Pan Meal: Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and reheat throughout the week.
- Family-Friendly: Creamy, cheesy flavors everyone loves!
If you’re wondering what to do with leftover rotisserie chicken, a warm and comforting casserole is a great choice. Up next—let’s explore delicious sandwiches and wraps!
Tasty Sandwiches & Wraps Using Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
What to Do with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken in Sandwiches & Wraps
What to do with leftover rotisserie chicken when you need a quick and satisfying meal? Turn it into a delicious sandwich or wrap! Whether you’re in the mood for something tangy, cheesy, or spicy, leftover_rotisserie chicken makes the perfect filling for an easy handheld meal. These recipes are ideal for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
BBQ Chicken Sandwich
This sweet and smoky BBQ chicken sandwich is a fantastic way to use leftover_rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 burger buns
- 1/2 cup coleslaw (for topping)
- Pickles (optional for extra tang)
Instructions:
- In a pan, heat leftover_rotisserie chicken with barbecue sauce, honey, and smoked paprika. Stir until warm.
- Toast the burger buns lightly.
- Pile the BBQ chicken onto the buns and top with coleslaw and pickles.
- Serve immediately and enjoy a messy, delicious bite!
Buffalo Chicken Wrap
If you love spicy flavors, this Buffalo chicken wrap is a fantastic way to repurpose leftover_rotisserie chicken into a bold and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large tortillas
Instructions:
- Toss leftover_rotisserie chicken with buffalo sauce.
- Lay out tortillas and add shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.
- Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture over the veggies.
- Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Roll up the wrap tightly, slice in half, and serve!
Why Sandwiches & Wraps Are a Great Way to Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
- Fast & Easy: Ready in minutes with minimal prep.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings and sauces.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and grab on the go.
If you’re wondering what to do with leftover rotisserie chicken, making a delicious sandwich or wrap is a quick and satisfying option. Next, let’s explore how to turn those leftovers into flavorful pasta dishes!
Quick & Delicious Pasta Dishes Using Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
What to Do with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken in Pasta Dishes
What to do with leftover_rotisserie chicken when you need a fast and comforting meal? Turn it into a flavorful pasta dish! Whether you’re craving something creamy, garlicky, or cheesy, adding rotisserie chicken to pasta creates a hearty and satisfying dinner in no time.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
This rich and creamy garlic chicken pasta is an easy way to use leftover_ rotisserie chicken for a quick and indulgent meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain.
- In a pan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and black pepper.
- Add leftover_rotisserie chicken and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Toss in the cooked pasta and mix well.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
Chicken Alfredo with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
A classic Chicken Alfredo is one of the best ways to turn leftover_ rotisserie chicken into a rich and satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook fettuccine pasta and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Add leftover_rotisserie chicken and let it heat through.
- Toss in the cooked pasta and coat with the Alfredo sauce.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Why Pasta Dishes Are a Great Way to Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
- Quick & Easy: Cooks in under 30 minutes.
- Rich & Flavorful: The chicken absorbs the creamy, garlicky sauce.
- Perfect for Families: A crowd-pleasing meal that everyone loves!
If you’re wondering what to do with leftover rotisserie chicken, turning it into a pasta dish is a fantastic choice. Next, let’s explore how to use those leftovers in tacos and quesadillas!
Conclusion
Now that you know what to do with leftover rotisserie chicken, you’ll never have to let those delicious leftovers go to waste! From hearty soups and cheesy casseroles to flavorful tacos, sandwiches, and stir-fries, there are endless ways to turn rotisserie chicken into easy, mouthwatering meals.
By storing it properly in the fridge or freezer, you can always have leftover_rotisserie chicken ready for quick dinners and meal prep. Whether you crave comfort food, a healthy salad, or a spicy wrap, these recipes prove that rotisserie chicken is one of the most versatile ingredients in your kitchen.
Next time you bring home a rotisserie chicken, remember—you’re not just getting one meal, but multiple delicious dishes with minimal effort. Try out these ideas, get creative with your flavors, and enjoy stress-free cooking with leftovers that taste just as amazing as the first bite!
More flavors, more fun! Follow butteryrecipes on Pinterest and Facebook for tasty ideas!
14 thoughts on “what to do with leftover rotisserie chicken”