Leftover chicken doesn’t have to go to waste. With a few everyday cupboard staples, you can turn it into something new and satisfying. These recipe ideas show how versatile chicken can be when combined with ingredients you already have at home.
This content is for general information only. Results may vary depending on ingredients and preparation. Images are for illustration purposes.
1. Quick Chicken Quesadillas
Shred leftover chicken and layer it between tortillas with grated cheese, spring onions, and a little hot sauce. Cook in a dry frying pan until the tortillas are golden on both sides.
Cut into wedges and serve with sides such as sour cream, guacamole, or a fresh salad for a fast and filling meal.
2. Chicken Noodle Soup
Gently cook onion, carrot, and celery in a pot, then add chicken stock, noodles, and shredded chicken. Simmer until the vegetables are tender and the noodles are cooked.
A squeeze of lemon just before serving brightens the flavour, making it a comforting option for cooler days.
3. BBQ Chicken Pizza
Spread a pizza base with barbecue sauce, then top with chicken, sliced red onion, and cheese. Bake until the cheese has melted and the crust is crisp.
Fresh coriander added after baking gives a hint of colour and freshness to this simple homemade pizza.
4. Chicken Pesto Pasta
Cook pasta and stir through pesto, chicken, and cherry tomatoes. This simple dish works well with either homemade or shop-bought pesto.
Adding a handful of spinach or a splash of cream changes the flavour and texture to suit different preferences.
5. Chicken Fajitas
Fry sliced peppers and onions with fajita seasoning, then add chicken. Warm tortillas and serve with toppings such as salsa, cheese, or sour cream.
This is a good option for a casual family meal where everyone can assemble their own.
6. Chicken Ramen
Simmer chicken stock with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. Add cooked noodles to bowls, then pour over the broth and top with chicken.
Soft-boiled eggs, spring onions, or leftover vegetables make good additions for extra flavour and colour.
7. Chicken And Avocado Wrap
Mash avocado with lime juice and spread over a tortilla wrap. Add chicken, salad leaves, and a pinch of chilli flakes if you like some heat.
Roll up tightly and cut in half for an easy lunch or light dinner that requires no cooking.
8. Chicken Curry
Cook chopped onions and garlic with curry powder, then add tinned tomatoes. Simmer briefly before stirring in the chicken to heat through.
Serve with rice and any chutneys or pickles you have in the cupboard for a quick and filling dinner.
9. Chicken Enchiladas
Mix chicken with tinned tomatoes, beans, sweetcorn, and spices. Roll in tortillas, place in a baking dish, and top with extra sauce and cheese.
Bake until the top is golden. This dish also freezes well, making it useful for batch cooking.
10. Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake
Combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, frozen vegetables, and white sauce in a baking dish. Top with grated cheese and bake until bubbling and lightly browned.
Adding a pinch of dried herbs gives extra flavour, and it’s an easy way to make a small amount of chicken feed several people.
