It’s here! Do you have a leftover rotisserie chicken and are wondering what to do with it? You’re not alone. Rotisserie chicken is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal, and its potential doesn’t end when you finish your first serving. Let’s dive into the many ways you can use rotisserie chicken to create terrific, new meals.
The Benefits of Rotisserie Chicken
Rotisserie chicken is not only tasty but also a time-saving, cost-effective way to include protein in your diet. It’s cooked perfectly, seasoned well, and ready to be used in various recipes. Plus, it saves you from the hassle of preparing and cooking raw chicken.
How to Store Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
Before we get into what to do with rotisserie chicken, let’s talk about storage. Store your leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. This helps maintain its flavor and prevents it from drying out.
Freezing Rotisserie Chicken
If you’re not planning to use it within a few days, consider freezing your rotisserie chicken. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container and it will last up to four months. This makes it easy to have a quick and healthy meal option on hand at all times.
Rotisserie Chicken Soup
One of the easiest ways to use leftover rotisserie chicken is in soup. Start by sauting some onions, carrots, and celery. Add in your shredded chicken, chicken broth, and some spices. Let it simmer for a bit, and you have a warm, comforting bowl of soup.
Chicken Salad Sandwiches
This is a classic use for rotisserie chicken. Mix your shredded chicken with mayo, celery, and a touch of mustard. Add some salt and pepper, and you have a delicious chicken salad. Serve it on bread, in a wrap, or over a bed of greens.
Chicken Tacos
Another quick meal option is chicken tacos. Use your shredded chicken as a base and add some taco seasoning. Warm it up in a skillet, and serve in tortillas with your favorite toppings. It’s a simple and tasty meal.
Chicken Casserole
For a hearty meal, consider making a chicken casserole. Mix your shredded chicken with some cooked pasta, a can of cream of mushroom soup, and a cup of shredded cheese. Top with breadcrumbs and bake until golden brown. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
Healthier Chicken Casserole
You can also make a healthier version by using quinoa instead of pasta and adding lots of vegetables. This keeps the dish nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
Chicken Fried Rice
Use your rotisserie chicken in a quick and easy chicken fried rice. Saut some veggies like peas, carrots, and onions. Add in your shredded chicken, some cooked rice, and a splash of soy sauce. Stir it all together, and you have a delightful dish ready in minutes.
Chicken Pizza
Why not add your rotisserie chicken to a pizza? Use your favorite pizza dough, spread some tomato sauce, and add your chicken along with other toppings. Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted. It’s a fun twist on pizza night.
Chicken Quesadillas
Quesadillas are another great way to use rotisserie chicken. Place your chicken and some cheese between two tortillas, and cook in a skillet until golden and crispy. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa and sour cream.
Chicken Pot Pie
This comfort food classic can easily be made with rotisserie chicken. Mix your chicken with some mixed vegetables and a creamy sauce. Pour into a pie crust, top with another crust, and bake until golden. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night.
Chicken Stir-Fry
For a quick and healthy meal, try making a chicken stir-fry. Saut some veggies, add your shredded chicken, and stir in a stir-fry sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Chicken Enchiladas
Enchiladas are a great way to use rotisserie chicken. Fill tortillas with your chicken and some cheese, roll them up, and place them in a baking dish. Top with enchilada sauce and bake until bubbly.
Chicken Alfredo
An easy dinner option is chicken Alfredo. Simply add your shredded chicken to a pot of cooked pasta and Alfredo sauce. Stir to combine, and you have a creamy, delicious meal ready in no time.
Chicken Avocado Salad
For a lighter option, try making a chicken avocado salad. Mix your shredded chicken with some avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime. Serve over greens for a refreshing and healthy meal.
Chicken Flatbreads
Flatbreads are another fun way to use rotisserie chicken. Top your flatbread with some pesto, chicken, and cheese. Bake until the flatbread is crispy and the cheese is melted. It’s a quick and delicious meal.
Chicken Pesto Pasta
Combine your shredded chicken with cooked pasta and some pesto sauce for an easy and flavorful dinner. Add some cherry tomatoes and Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Chicken Nachos
For a fun and easy appetizer, try making chicken nachos. Spread some tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with your shredded chicken, cheese, and any other toppings you like. Bake until the cheese is melted, and serve with salsa and sour cream.
Ways to Use Rotisserie Chicken in Meal Prep
Using rotisserie chicken in meal prep is a great way to save time and ensure you have healthy, delicious meals throughout the week. Here are a few ideas:
Chicken and Veggie Bowls
Combine your shredded chicken with some roasted vegetables and quinoa for an easy meal prep option. You can make a big batch and portion it out for the week.
Chicken Wraps
Make some chicken wraps with your shredded chicken, veggies, and a spread of hummus or guacamole. Wrap them up and store in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go meal.
Chicken Salad Lunches
Prepare your chicken salad ahead of time and portion it out into containers. Serve with some crackers or on a bed of greens for an easy lunch option.
Additional Resources
If you’re looking for more rotisserie chicken recipes, check out this guide by Kalorik. It has a wealth of information on how to make the best use of your rotisserie chicken.
For more chicken-related topics, explore these articles:
FAQ
Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken in cold dishes?
A1: Yes, rotisserie chicken is perfect for cold dishes like salads and sandwiches.
Q2: How long can I store leftover rotisserie chicken?
A2: You can store it in the fridge for up to four days or freeze it for up to four months.
Q3: What are some healthy ways to use rotisserie chicken?
A3: Try adding it to salads, wraps, or grain bowls for a healthy meal option.
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