Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes: Quick, Easy, and Delicious Ideas

Rotisserie chicken recipe is a kitchen staple that many home cooks rely on for quick and easy meals. Whether you’re cooking for a family, preparing a meal for one, or simply trying to save time, leftover rotisserie chicken recipes is incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide variety of dishes. It’s already cooked, flavorful, and convenient, making it a fantastic base for creating delicious meals without the hassle.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best leftover rotisserie chicken recipes, from soups and casseroles to wraps and salads. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create mouthwatering dishes that are quick, easy, and budget-friendly. Plus, we’ll provide tips on how to store and reheat your leftovers, so you can maximize the use of this delicious ingredient.

Benefits of Using Leftover Rotisserie Chicken

Using leftover rotisserie chicken has many benefits, making it a go-to ingredient in your meal planning:

• Time-saving: The chicken is already cooked, which means you can skip the cooking time and get straight to preparing your meal. This is especially useful for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time but still want a homemade meal.
• Cost-effective: Rotisserie chicken is often less expensive than buying raw chicken, and using the leftovers means you’re getting multiple meals for the price of one.
• Versatile: Whether you’re craving a hearty soup, a fresh salad, or a comforting casserole, leftover rotisserie chicken can be used in a wide range of recipes.
• Flavorsome: Since rotisserie chicken is typically seasoned before roasting, it adds a rich, savory flavor to any dish, making your meals more delicious with minimal effort.

By incorporating leftover rotisserie chicken into your meal plan, you can save both time and money, while enjoying a wide variety of flavorful meals. For inspiration on quick meal ideas, check out these comforting casseroles for weeknight meals.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Rotisserie Chicken

Before diving into the recipes, let’s talk about how to store and reheat leftover rotisserie chicken. Proper storage and reheating will ensure your chicken stays fresh and safe to eat.

Storing Leftover Rotisserie Chicken:

• Refrigeration: After your meal, store leftover rotisserie chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume the chicken within 3-4 days for the best flavor and safety.
• Freezing: If you don’t plan to use the leftovers within a few days, you can freeze the chicken for later use. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. It will last up to 4 months in the freezer.

Reheating Leftover Rotisserie Chicken:

• Microwave: To reheat in the microwave, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
• Oven: If you prefer a crispy texture, you can reheat the chicken in the oven. Place it on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, depending on the amount of chicken. Again, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

By following these simple storage and reheating tips, you can extend the life of your leftover rotisserie chicken and ensure it tastes just as good the second time around.

Delicious Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes

Now that you know the basics of storing and reheating your chicken, let’s dive into some delicious leftover rotisserie chicken recipes. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or need a meal prep option for the week, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.

1. Salads and Wraps

Leftover rotisserie chicken is a perfect addition to fresh salads and wraps. It adds a protein boost and can be paired with a variety of vegetables, greens, and dressings to create a light but satisfying meal.

Rotisserie Chicken Avocado Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 avocado, diced
• 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or kale)
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
• Dressing of choice (balsamic vinaigrette, ranch, or lemon dressing)

Preparation:

1. In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens, avocado, and red onion together.
2. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken and gently toss to combine.
3. Drizzle with your favorite dressing and sprinkle with feta cheese, if desired.
4. Serve immediately for a fresh, healthy meal.

This salad is quick to make and perfect for a light lunch or dinner. You can even meal prep it by keeping the chicken, avocado, and salad components separate until you’re ready to eat.

Chicken Caesar Wraps

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large tortillas
• Romaine lettuce, shredded

Preparation:

1. In a bowl, toss the shredded rotisserie chicken with Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese.
2. Lay the tortillas flat and spread a layer of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla.
3. Top with shredded Romaine lettuce, then wrap it up tightly.
4. Serve immediately or wrap in foil for an on-the-go lunch.

These wraps are not only tasty but incredibly easy to make. You can switch up the dressing or add other ingredients like tomatoes or bacon for extra flavor.

2. Soups and Stews

Soups and stews are comforting, hearty, and easy to make using leftover rotisserie chicken. The chicken adds a rich depth of flavor to the broth, making for a delicious meal with minimal effort.

Marry Me Chicken Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup carrots, chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Preparation:

1. In a large pot, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and seasonings.
2. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken, carrots, and celery, and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

This creamy chicken soup is comforting and rich, making it perfect for a chilly evening or when you need a quick, filling meal.

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup corn kernels
• 1/4 cup black beans
• 1 teaspoon cumin

Preparation:

1. In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, and cumin.
2. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken and bring the soup to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
4. Top with crispy tortilla strips, sour cream, and a sprinkle of cilantro.

This soup is hearty and satisfying, with the perfect balance of savory chicken, beans, and corn. The crispy tortilla strips add a nice crunch!

3. Casseroles and Bakes

Casseroles and bakes are a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken, especially if you need to feed a family or group of people. They’re easy to assemble, and many recipes can be made ahead of time.

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Preparation:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded rotisserie chicken, cream of mushroom soup, and cheddar cheese.
3. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

This casserole is a one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy nights. The creamy sauce and melty cheese make it irresistible.

Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Bake

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 10 corn tortillas
• 1 can enchilada sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Preparation:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Layer the tortillas, shredded rotisserie chicken, and enchilada sauce in a baking dish.
3. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

This cheesy casserole is inspired by classic enchiladas but requires less work. The layers of chicken, sauce, and cheese make for a flavorful and satisfying dish.

4. Pasta Dishes

Pasta dishes are another easy and filling way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. These recipes come together quickly and can be made in just one pot or pan for easy cleanup.

Rotisserie Chicken Alfredo

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 lb fettuccine
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese

Preparation:

1. Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions.
2. In a large pan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat, then add the shredded rotisserie chicken and Parmesan cheese.
3. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated and heated through.

This creamy Alfredo dish is indulgent yet simple, with the rotisserie chicken adding extra flavor.

Chicken Pesto Pasta

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 lb pasta of choice
• 1/4 cup pesto sauce
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes

Preparation:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with shredded rotisserie chicken, pesto sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Serve with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

This pesto pasta is a fresh and flavorful way to use leftover chicken, with the pesto adding a burst of vibrant flavor.

FAQs

How long is leftover rotisserie chicken good in the fridge?

Leftover rotisserie chicken can be safely stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure it is stored in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic or foil to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.

How to best use a rotisserie chicken?

A rotisserie chicken is incredibly versatile. Some great ways to use it include:

• Making soups or stews by adding the chicken to a flavorful broth.
• Shredding the meat and using it in tacos, wraps, or sandwiches.
• Adding it to salads for a protein-packed meal.
• Creating casseroles by combining the chicken with rice, vegetables, and a creamy sauce.
• Mixing it with pasta to make a quick and easy pasta dish.

What does Costco do with unsold rotisserie chicken?

Costco typically donates unsold rotisserie chicken to local food banks at the end of the day. They have a policy to ensure that the chickens are not wasted and that they support their local communities. In some locations, they may also offer discounted rotisserie chickens in the late afternoon to ensure they don’t go unsold.

Is rotisserie chicken just as healthy as chicken breast?

Rotisserie chicken can be as healthy as chicken breast, but it depends on how it is prepared. While rotisserie chicken is typically lower in fat and calories than some other cuts, it can also contain added sodium and preservatives from the seasoning and cooking process. For a healthier option, consider removing the skin, which contains most of the fat. A plain, skinless rotisserie chicken breast is a great source of lean protein. However, a grilled or baked chicken breast with minimal seasoning may have fewer calories and sodium compared to store-bought rotisserie chicken.

Conclusion

With these leftover rotisserie chicken recipes, you can create a variety of delicious meals with minimal effort. Whether you’re making salads, soups, casseroles, or pasta dishes, this convenient ingredient can help you save time, reduce waste, and make tasty meals the whole family will love!