Easy Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes

Leftover rotisserie chicken recipes are a lifesaver in the kitchen. It’s flavorful, versatile, and perfect for whipping up quick meals. Whether you’re looking to make hearty soups, creamy casseroles, or healthy salads, there are countless ways to transform this humble ingredient into delicious dishes. This guide will show you creative and easy ways to use leftover rotisserie chicken while saving time and reducing waste.

Understanding the Versatility of Leftover Rotisserie Chicken

Benefits of Using Leftover Rotisserie Chicken

Using leftover rotisserie chicken recipes is a fantastic way to save time in the kitchen. The chicken is already cooked, so it eliminates the hassle of starting from scratch. Plus, it’s cost-effective. Instead of buying more ingredients, you can repurpose what’s left from a meal.

Another big benefit? It helps reduce food waste. Every year, people toss out tons of perfectly good food. By reusing your chicken leftovers, you’re doing your part to cut down on that waste while creating tasty meals.

Storage Tips for Leftover Rotisserie Chicken

Proper storage is key to keeping your chicken fresh and safe to eat. Always refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking. Store them in an airtight container to lock in flavor and moisture. Leftover chicken stays good in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

If you’re not planning to use it soon, freeze it! Frozen chicken can last up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.

Safe Reheating Practices

Reheating chicken can sometimes dry it out, but there are ways to avoid this. Use a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts. Alternatively, reheat it on the stove with a little broth to keep it moist.

These simple tips ensure your leftover rotisserie chicken recipes turn out fresh and delicious every time.

Delicious Soups and Stews with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken

Transforming your leftover rotisserie chicken into warm, comforting soups and stews is both simple and satisfying. These recipes are perfect for quick dinners or cozy lunches, making the most of your leftovers.

Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound carrots, sliced diagonally
• 1 cup chopped celery
• ½ medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation Steps:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add carrots, celery, and onion; sauté until softened.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Add egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
5. Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken and heat through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This classic chicken noodle soup is a comforting way to utilize your leftover rotisserie chicken. For more inspiration, check out this Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe.

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked wild rice
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme for garnish

Preparation Steps:

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add carrots, celery, and onion; sauté until tender.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Add cooked wild rice and shredded rotisserie chicken; heat through.
5. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for a few minutes until the soup thickens slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

This creamy chicken and wild rice soup offers a rich and hearty option for your leftover rotisserie chicken recipes.

Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup corn kernels
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla strips, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro for garnish

Preparation Steps:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and jalapeño; sauté until softened.
2. Stir in ground cumin and chili powder; cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes with green chilies; bring to a simmer.
4. Add shredded rotisserie chicken and corn kernels; heat through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro.

This spicy chicken tortilla soup adds a zesty twist to your leftover rotisserie chicken recipes, perfect for those craving bold flavors.

Satisfying Casseroles Featuring Leftover Rotisserie Chicken

Casseroles are a fantastic way to create hearty, family-friendly meals using leftover rotisserie chicken. They’re easy to prepare and often combine proteins, vegetables, and grains into a single, satisfying dish.

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs for topping
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Mix well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
5. In a small bowl, combine crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs with melted butter; sprinkle over the casserole.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

This cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole is a comforting dish that makes excellent use of leftover rotisserie chicken. For more ideas, explore these 25 Comfort Food Casseroles That Start with Rotisserie Chicken.

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, milk, frozen peas and carrots, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Creative Sandwiches and Wraps Using Leftover Rotisserie Chicken

Transforming your leftover rotisserie chicken into delicious sandwiches and wraps is both easy and satisfying. These recipes are perfect for quick lunches or light dinners, offering a variety of flavors to keep your meals exciting.

Classic Chicken Salad Sandwich

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lettuce leaves
• Sliced bread or croissants

Preparation Steps:

1. In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, and lemon juice.
2. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place lettuce leaves on bread or croissant halves.
4. Spoon chicken salad onto the lettuce, top with the other half of the bread or croissant and serve.

This classic chicken salad sandwich is a delightful way to enjoy your leftover rotisserie chicken. For more sandwich ideas, check out our Ultimate Sandwich Recipes Collection.

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Wrap

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing
• Large tortillas

Preparation Steps:

1. In a bowl, toss shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until well coated.
2. Lay a tortilla flat and layer with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheddar cheese.
3. Add the buffalo chicken mixture on top.
4. Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
5. Roll up the tortilla, slice in half, and serve.

This spicy buffalo chicken wrap adds a zesty kick to your leftover rotisserie chicken recipes, perfect for those craving bold flavors.

Mediterranean Chicken Pita

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1/2 cup diced cucumbers
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup sliced red onions
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup tzatziki sauce
• Pita bread

Preparation Steps:

1. In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese.
2. Warm pita bread and slice to create pockets.
3. Spread tzatziki sauce inside each pita pocket.
4. Fill with the chicken mixture and serve.

This Mediterranean chicken pita offers a fresh and flavorful twist, making it a delightful addition to your leftover rotisserie chicken recipes.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Recipe Collection.

Flavorful International Dishes with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken

Exploring international cuisines can bring excitement to your meals, especially when using leftover rotisserie chicken. These recipes introduce diverse flavors and cooking styles, making your dining experience both educational and enjoyable.

Chicken Fried Rice

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Green onions for garnish

Preparation Steps:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked; remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
5. Stir in cooked rice, shredded chicken, soy sauce, and oyster sauce; mix well.
6. Fold in scrambled eggs and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

This chicken fried rice is a quick and tasty way to repurpose your leftover rotisserie chicken, bringing Asian-inspired flavors to your table.

Chicken Tacos

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup water
• Small tortillas
• Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa

Preparation Steps:

1. In a skillet, combine shredded chicken, taco seasoning, and water; cook over medium heat until heated through and well combined.
2. Warm tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
3. Fill each tortilla with the seasoned chicken mixture.
4. Add desired toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and salsa.
5. Serve immediately.

These chicken tacos are a versatile and family-friendly option, making excellent use of leftover rotisserie chicken in a Mexican-inspired dish.

Chicken Curry

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Cooked rice for serving

Preparation Steps:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté onions until translucent, then add garlic and ginger; cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in curry powder and cook for 1 minute to release flavors.
4. Add diced tomatoes and cook until they soften.
5. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Add shredded chicken and cook until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve over cooked rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

This chicken curry introduces rich and aromatic spices, providing a delightful international twist to your leftover rot.

Warm Soups and Stews with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken

Soups and stews are comforting meals, especially during colder months. They’re also a fantastic way to make the most of leftover rotisserie chicken.

Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup egg noodles
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps:

1. In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat and sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
3. Add noodles and cook until tender.
4. Stir in shredded chicken and season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Let it simmer for 5 minutes and serve hot.

This comforting classic is one of the easiest leftover rotisserie chicken recipes to prepare.

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1/2 cup wild rice
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps:

1. Cook wild rice according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a pot, melt butter and sauté onion, garlic, carrot, and celery.
3. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and mix well to create a roux.
4. Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Add shredded chicken and cooked rice to the pot.
6. Stir in heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 10 minutes.

This creamy soup is hearty and perfect for making the most of your leftovers.

Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup black beans, drained
• 1 cup corn
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla strips for topping

Preparation Steps:

1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and spices. Stir well.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Add shredded chicken and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Serve with tortilla strips on top.

This zesty soup is sure to satisfy and brings bold flavors to your leftover rotisserie chicken recipes.

Tips for Storing and Freezing Leftover Rotisserie Chicken

Proper storage ensures your leftover chicken stays fresh and ready for your next recipe. Following these tips will help you make the most of your chicken.

Storing Leftover Rotisserie Chicken in the Refrigerator

• Use an airtight container: Place the chicken in a sealed container to prevent it from drying out.
• Keep it within 2 hours of cooking: Refrigerate the chicken promptly to avoid bacterial growth.
• Consume within 3-4 days: For best results, use the chicken in leftover rotisserie chicken recipes before it spoils.

Freezing Leftover Rotisserie Chicken

• Shred the chicken before freezing: Shredding makes it easier to use later and saves time.
• Portion it out: Divide the chicken into small portions before freezing for convenience.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers: Label each with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Tips

• Use a microwave or stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water to keep the chicken moist.
• Avoid overheating: Reheat until just warm to prevent drying out the chicken.

With these tips, you can extend the life of your leftovers and always have delicious options for quick meals.

Kid-Friendly Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes

Getting kids to eat a balanced meal can sometimes be tricky, but using leftover rotisserie chicken in fun and creative ways makes it easier. These recipes are kid-approved and quick to prepare.

Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
• 4 large tortillas
• Butter or oil for cooking

Preparation Steps:

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with shredded chicken, cheese, and bell peppers.
3. Fold the tortilla in half and cook until the cheese melts and the tortilla is golden brown.
4. Flip and cook the other side for a few minutes.
5. Slice into wedges and serve with salsa or sour cream.

Quesadillas are a surefire hit with kids, and they’re one of the simplest leftover rotisserie chicken recipes to make.

Chicken Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked macaroni
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps:

1. In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in flour to form a roux.
2. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
3. Stir in shredded cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce.
4. Combine cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, and cheese sauce in a large bowl.
5. Season with salt and pepper, mix well, and serve.

This chicken mac and cheese is creamy, comforting, and sure to delight even picky eaters.

Mini Chicken Pizzas

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 4 English muffins, halved
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Optional toppings: diced veggies, pepperoni

Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread pizza sauce on each English muffin half.
3. Top with shredded chicken, cheese, and optional toppings.
4. Bake for 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

These mini pizzas are fun to assemble, making them a great activity to involve kids in the kitchen.

FAQs About Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes

Many people have questions about using leftover chicken. Here are some of the most common ones to help you make the most of your leftovers.

If you’re looking for even more ideas, check out our ultimate guide Fried Rice with Egg, Chicken, and Shrimp Recipe.

Creative International Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes

Using leftover rotisserie chicken to explore international flavors is a fantastic way to add variety to your meals. These recipes are inspired by global cuisines and are perfect for trying something new.

Chicken Pad Thai

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 8 ounces rice noodles
• 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
• Lime wedges and cilantro for garnish

Preparation Steps:

1. Soak rice noodles in hot water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, mix tamarind paste, fish sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Heat a large pan or wok over medium heat, sauté garlic, then push it to one side. Add eggs and scramble lightly.
4. Stir in noodles, sauce mixture, and shredded chicken. Toss until combined.
5. Add bean sprouts and cook for 2 more minutes. Serve with peanuts, lime wedges, and cilantro on top.

Mexican Chicken Enchiladas

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 can enchilada sauce
• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, cilantro

Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in a baking dish.
3. Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken, cheese, and onions, then roll tightly and place seam-side down in the dish.
4. Cover with remaining sauce and sprinkle with cheese.
5. Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden. Serve with toppings.

These enchiladas are flavorful, cheesy, and bring a touch of Mexico to your table.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Leftover Rotisserie Chicken

Leftover rotisserie chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into countless delicious meals. Whether you’re preparing a warm soup, a hearty casserole, or a kid-friendly dish, the possibilities are endless. With these recipes, you can save time, reduce food waste, and enjoy flavorful dishes that your whole family will love.

Don’t let leftovers go to waste try these leftover rotisserie chicken recipes and make your meals more exciting. For even more inspiration, explore additional recipes and tips to keep your kitchen creative and stress-free.