45 Easy Leftover Chicken Recipes

Updated on March 11, 2019 by Food Network Canada Editors

Transform last night’s chicken into a brand new dish with these easy meals. From creamy leftover casseroles and enchiladas to panko-crusted chicken and Caesar-salad inspired tacos, these inventive recipes will inspire you to breathe new life into an otherwise simple supper.

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Shortcut Chicken Enchiladas

A leftover chicken casserole recipe that comes together in a flash, thanks to store-bought helpers. Rotisserie chicken, jarred salsa, canned refried beans and tortilla shells are brought together for a tasty, Mexican-inspired chicken dinner in under an hour. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/shortcut-chicken-enchiladas/21353/" target="_blank">Shortcut Chicken Enchiladas</a>
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15-Minute Chicken Pot Pie

Add summertime BBQ flavour to autumnal comfort food with grilled chicken. Stir, bake and devour – chicken pot pie really can be that easy. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/15-minute-chicken-pot-pie/18070/" target="_blank">15-Minute Chicken Pot Pie</a>
Renee’s Gourmet Dressings

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Parmesan and Panko Crusted Chicken

The secret to this tasty oven-baked chicken? Dipping each breast in Renée's® Classic Ranch Dressing before coating in bread crumbs and grated Parmesan for an extra dose of fresh-tasting flavour. Even better: the easy-to-follow recipe will have dinner on the table in 35 minutes flat. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/parmesan-and-panko-crusted-chicken/22451/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Parmesan and Panko Crusted Chicken</a>
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Zucchini Enchiladas

A zucchini enchilada casserole that replaces carbs with veggies. Zucchini wraps up chicken and cheese, before being baked with salsa. Try this fast, fresh and healthy leftover cooked chicken recipe for dinner tonight. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/zucchini-enchiladas/21360/" target="_blank">Zucchini Enchiladas</a>
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Chicken Carbonara

For a quick and delicious leftover chicken pasta dinner, mix shredded chicken together with pancetta, then add the spaghetti and cheesy, herb cream sauce and finish it off with walnuts and lemon zest. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-carbonara/15474/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Chicken Carbonara</a>
The Food Group

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Chicken Caesar Salad Tacos

If you have leftover chicken and intended to toss it into a simple salad – we can do you one better. Create Parmesan cheese “taco shells” and stuff each with all the classic Caesar salad fixings, including romaine lettuce, thick-cut bacon, homemade croutons and Renée's® Gourmet Caesar Dressing. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-caesar-salad-tacos/22531/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Chicken Caesar Salad Tacos</a>
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Italian Chicken Pasta Salad

A simple chicken and pasta recipe that packs up well for lunch at the office or on a picnic blanket. This chicken pasta salad recipe is also fabulous side dish for grilled dinners. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/italian-chicken-pasta-salad/21366/" target="_blank">Italian Chicken Pasta Salad</a>
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Chicken Spaghetti Squash

Leftover chicken casserole recipes can often feel like the same old, same old. This recipe replaces the usual noodles or rice with vitamin-rich, low-carb spaghetti squash. Cream, cheese, mushrooms, peppers and spices bring richness and a gentle heat. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-spaghetti-squash/21364/" target="_blank">Chicken Spaghetti Squash</a>
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Tyler Florence's Chicken Noodle Soup

Turn Sunday’s roast chicken into a luxurious chicken soup with onions, carrots and celery, then jazz it up with whole black peppercorns, bay leaf and fresh parsley tied together with kitchen twine. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tyler-florences-chicken-noodle-soup/17387/" target="_blank">Tyler Florence's Chicken Noodle Soup</a>
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Chicken Tortilla Casserole

A Mexican take on lasagna, this yummy casserole features layers of tortillas, rice, salsa verde, tomatoes, corn, chicken and beans, cheese and enchilada sauce. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-tortilla-casserole/17686/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Tortilla Casserole</a>
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Three-Pepper Chicken Chili

Dice up leftover chicken breast to fill out Anna Olson’s fiery chili that includes white kidney beans, tomatoes, carrots and jalapeños. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/three-pepper-chicken-chili/10143/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Three-Pepper Chicken Chili</a>
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Chicken Taco Salad

For a quick and easy meal the whole family will love, turn to this leftover chicken taco salad. Add fresh corn, tomatoes, grated cheese, avocados, green onions, cilantro, crushed tortilla chips and leftover shredded chicken to a bed of crisp lettuce, and you're set. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-taco-salad/15509/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman’s Chicken Taco Salad</a>
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Be honest: it probably never occurred to you to turn chicken cordon bleu into a delicious casserole that’s a meal unto itself. Luckily for us, The Pioneer Woman had the idea and the result is this spectacular spin on an old classic that turns up the heat with a bit of cayenne. Use leftover cooked chicken to make this casserole even easier. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/the-pioneer-womans-chicken-cordon-bleu-casserole/18532/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole</a>
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Chicken Pot Pie

If you’re in a rush, using prepared pie dough or rotisserie chicken can shave some preparation time off of this creamy pot pie. Layer it into a larger casserole or smaller, oven safe ramekins and freeze, then defrost and bake until golden when you want to enjoy a homey treat. Get the recipe for <a href=" https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-chicken-pot-pie/15430/" target="_blank"> Ina Garten’s Chicken Pot Pie</a>
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Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole with Cauliflower

Comfort food at its best, though made even better with the helping hand of leftover grilled chicken. The pasta, chicken and cauliflower are baked in a decadent cream sauce for the antithesis of grilled chicken salad. Sometimes, you’ve got to treat yourself! Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-tetrazzini-casserole-with-cauliflower/15718/" target="_blank">Rachael Ray's Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole with Cauliflower</a>
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Chicken and Wild Rice Salad Pitas

Last night's chicken dinner turns into tomorrow's chicken salad pita. These pitas are stuffed with chicken, fresh chives, wild rice, dried cranberries and a creamy dressing to hold it all together. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-and-wild-rice-salad-pitas/16756/" target="_blank">Ricardo Larrivée's Chicken and Wild Rice Salad Pitas</a>
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Buffalo Chicken Dip

This recipe using leftover cooked chicken brings the flavours of Buffalo chicken wings into a big-batch dip. Keep celery sticks on hand for scooping up the fiery, creamy goodness. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/buffalo-chicken-dip/21354/" target="_blank">Buffalo Chicken Dip</a>
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Buffalo Chicken Wing Salad with Blue Cheese

Amp up the flavour of an ordinary salad by cubing leftover chicken breast and tossing it in flour for a quick fry. Then, douse the chicken in a spicy buffalo wing sauce, add blue cheese and mix toss salad greens. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/buffalo-chicken-wing-salad-with-blue-cheese/7981/" target="_blank">Michael Smith's Buffalo Chicken Wing Salad with Blue Cheese</a>
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BBQ Chicken Sliders

Slider buns are loaded with shredded rotisserie chicken and covered in a deliciously sweet and savoury sauce — a sure win at your next party. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/knorr-bbq-chicken-sliders/13446/">Anna Olson's BBQ Chicken Sliders</a>
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Asian Chicken Salad

Leftover roasted chicken makes this crunchy, Asian-inspired salad come together in a snap. Thai basil, fresh mint and a sweet-salty peanut dressing gives it a burst of flavour. A low-carb leftover chicken recipe that packs a taste punch. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/asian-chicken-salad/16025/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Asian Chicken Salad</a>
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Shortcut Fried Chicken and Dumplings

Leftover fried chicken can be underwhelming the next day. Instead of just reheating, transform it into a creamy skillet dinner that’s topped with flakey biscuit-like dumplings. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/shortcut-fried-chicken-and-dumplings/20477/" target="_blank">Shortcut Fried Chicken and Dumplings</a>
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Sriracha Chicken Salad Sandwich

A healthy leftover chicken recipe you can pack for lunch. This spicy chicken sandwich uses leftover chicken breast that’s been tossed with mayonnaise, Sriracha, chili flakes and some raw minced onion for crunch. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sriracha-chicken-salad-sandwich/14850/" target="_blank">Sriracha Chicken Salad Sandwich</a>
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Spicy Chicken Salad Bagelwiches

Spicy cream cheese is layered on a chewy sesame seed bagel and topped with a mound of creamy chicken salad made of avocado, corn, veggies and lime juice for a bit of zing. Get the recipe <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spicy-chicken-salad-bagelwiches/8741/" target="_blank">Spicy Chicken Salad Bagelwiches</a>
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Curry Chicken Pot Pie

Forget pot pies that take hours to assemble — this quickened-up recipe employs store-bought puff pastry, cooked chicken (use up those leftovers) and tons of frozen veggies. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/curry-chicken-pot-pie/15930/" target="_blank">Alton Brown's Curry Chicken Pot Pie</a>
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Enchilada Lasagna Roll-Ups

All your favourite flavours of chicken enchiladas but without a tortilla in sight! Instead we’ve rolled tender chicken and cheese inside lasagna noodles and baked for a creamy, comforting casserole. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/enchilada-lasagna-roll-ups/21511/" target="_blank">Enchilada Lasagna Roll-Ups</a>
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Shredded Chicken and Tomatillo Tacos with Queso Fresco

If you've got leftover rotisserie chicken, you've got the fixings for these mouthwatering Mexican tacos from Bobby Flay. Blue corn tortillas are lightly grilled then loaded up with shredded chicken that's been cooked in a spicy tomatillo mixture, queso fresco and served with a wedge of lime. Get the recipe <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/shredded-chicken-and-tomatillo-tacos-with-queso-fresco/15862/" target="_blank">Bobby Flay's Shredded Chicken and Tomatillo Tacos with Queso Fresco</a>
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Roast Chicken Enchilada Suizas Stacked Casserole

A delicious recipe using leftover rotisserie or roast chicken. This crowd-pleasing Mexican chicken enchilada casserole is packed with bold flavour, and is bound to satisfy the whole family. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/roast-chicken-enchilada-suizas-stacked-casserole/15717/" target="_blank">Rachael Ray's Roast Chicken Enchilada Suizas Stacked Casserole</a>
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Fried Chicken BLT Melt

Indulge in this killer BLT sandwich made with juicy fried chicken, crisp bacon, lots of melted cheese and all the fixings. It's a great way to use leftover chicken breasts whether they've been poached, baked or grilled. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/fried-chicken-blt-melt/15695/" target="_blank">Nancy Fuller's Fried Chicken BLT Melt </a>
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Chicken and Quinoa Soup

Loaded with veggies and a little Cajun seasoning, this soup of hearty with a kick of heat. Since it calls for shredded rotisserie chicken, it also comes together quickly – great for those weeknight dinners. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-and-quinoa-soup/18029/" target="_blank">Chicken and Quinoa Soup</a>
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Artichoke Pasta Salad

This pasta salad skips the mayo, instead using a homemade herb oil with heart-healthy olive oil. Artichokes add filling fibre, and cubes of leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken bring the protein to the pasta party. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/artichoke-pasta-salad/16084/" target="_blank">Alton Brown's Artichoke Pasta Salad</a>
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Waldorf Chicken Salad Sandwiches

These easily transportable sandwiches are a one-stop shop when you’re looking for a tasty and nutritious meal: tender roast chicken, grapes, walnuts, apples and celery all wrapped up in hearty whole wheat bread. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/waldorf-chicken-salad-sandwiches/16933/" target="_blank">Nancy Fuller's Waldorf Chicken Salad Sandwiches</a>
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Chicken Noodle Casserole

It doesn't get more comforting than everyone's favourite soup in casserole form. The extra-wide egg noodles soak up all the delicious flavours of this hearty dish, which will appeal to even the pickiest of eaters. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-noodle-casserole/19096/" target="_blank">Chicken Noodle Casserole</a>
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Caesar Club Sandwich

This delicious sandwich packed with chicken, crispy pancetta, arugula, sun-dried tomatoes and shaved Parmesan packs well for picnics and tastes just as great as it would freshly made. Use last night's leftover chicken to keep things easy. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/caesar-club-sandwich/15419/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Caesar Club Sandwich</a>
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Chicken Summer Rolls

A great recipe for leftover grilled, roasted, poached or rotisserie chicken. Vibrant summertime flavours are wrapped up in rice paper wrappers and served with homemade peanut sauce. This appetizer skips the deep-fryer for a snack-sized, portable salad or light meal. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-summer-rolls/20321/" target="_blank">Chicken Summer Rolls</a>
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Chicken Mozzarella Pasta

Basil, garlic, onion, red pepper flakes and mozzarella add depth to this flavourful pasta marinara with chicken (use up those leftovers here!). Parmesan finishes it off at the table. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-mozzarella-pasta/15584/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Mozzarella Pasta</a>
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Bobby Flay’s Spice-Rubbed Chicken Breast Tacos

This flavourful taco recipe cranks up the heat thanks to grilled poblano peppers, while BBQ onions, coleslaw and seasoned chicken breasts round out the meal. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spice-rubbed-chicken-breast-tacos-with-grilled-poblanos-bbq-onions-and-coleslaw/15893/" target="_blank">Bobby Flay’s Spice-Rubbed Chicken Breast Tacos</a>
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Buffalo-Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

A crowd-pleasing leftover rotisserie chicken pasta recipe. Chock-full of nutritious chicken and veggies, three types of cheese and mouth-watering Buffalo flavour, this hearty casserole is bound to become a family favourite. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/buffalo-chicken-macaroni-and-cheese/18023/" target="_blank">Buffalo-Chicken Macaroni and Cheese</a>
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Grilled Chicken Caesar Sandwich

Chicken Caesar salad is turned on its head with this crowd-pleasing sandwich. This stretches leftover grilled chicken, so you can feed a crowd. And it packs well, making it a great choice for those summertime picnics. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/best-ever-grilled-chicken-caesar-salad-sandwich-35523/" target="_blank">Grilled Chicken Caesar Sandwich</a>
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Quinoa Bowl with Chicken and Avocado Cream

For those after a healthy leftover chicken recipe, turn to the familiar and modern bowl concept for lunch or dinner. Filled with protein, whole grains, healthy fats, fibre, dynamic texture and great flavour, this is a feel-good dish you can meal-prep for the busy week ahead. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/quinoa-bowl-with-chicken-and-avocado-cream/21362/" target="_blank">Quinoa Bowl with Chicken and Avocado Cream</a>
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Chicken and Spinach Waldorf Salad

Juicy roast chicken is a delicious addition to this classic, nut-filled salad that makes a tasty lunch. You’ll love the combo of kale, spinach and baby frisee, while sharp cheddar, crispy bacon and sweet grated apple will please your palate. Leftover chicken is perfect for this dish when you need a light and easy dinner that satisfies all the senses. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-and-spinach-waldorf-salad/20407/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Chicken and Spinach Waldorf Salad</a>
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Baked Chicken and Pastina

Use leftover cooked chicken to make this easy chicken noodle casserole. Pastina can come in many shapes, such as stars and circles, making it the perfect pasta to tempt finicky children. The rest of the family can also enjoy this tomato and mozzarella baked pasta, whatever the shape. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/italian-baked-chicken-and-pastina/18132/" target="_blank">Italian Baked Chicken and Pastina</a>
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Chinese Chicken Salad with Red Chile Peanut Dressing

Side and main course combine in this bold Asian-inspired slaw. Leftover grilled chicken soaks up a robust, chili-peanut dressing, while crisp cabbage keeps things refreshing. To make it a meal, serve this with a side of warm sticky rice or brown rice. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chinese-chicken-salad-with-red-chile-peanut-dressing/15863/" target="_blank">Bobby Flay's Chinese Chicken Salad with Red Chile Peanut Dressing</a>
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Chicken Rice Soup

Everything you love about chicken noodle soup, but with rice instead. Use leftovers all week long for warm, yummy lunches. Start with rotisserie chicken to skip a step. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-rice-soup/15639/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Rice Soup</a>
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Roast Chicken Noodle Soup

Take your Dutch oven for a spin with this no-fuss recipe. You can stretch a rotisserie chicken into this hearty pot of delicious soup you can enjoy all week long. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/moroccan-chicken-with-lentils/4816/" target="_blank">Michael Smith's Roast Chicken Noodle Soup</a>
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Eight-Layer Chicken Chili Dip

If you’re wondering what to cook with leftover roast chicken, this Tex-Mex-inspired recipe is the way to go. With black beans, cheese, sour cream, cilantro, cornbread and more, it’s a meal-sized bowl that your guests and family will love. All you need is raw veggies or tortilla chips for diving in. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/eight-layer-chicken-chili-dip/21347/" target="_blank">Eight-Layer Chicken Chili Dip</a>
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