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25 Leftover Chicken Recipes – Breast, Grilled, Healthy

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There are endless possibilities for reinventing your leftover chicken with these 25 unique and delicious recipes ! From flavorful tacos and hearty casseroles made from leftover chicken breasts to tasty salads and wraps using grilled chicken, there’s something for everyone.

Looking for healthier options? I’ve got you covered with an array of nutritious dishes packed with fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Turn your leftover chicken into the star of your next meal with these easy-to-follow recipes.

Whether you’re looking to impress at a family gathering or simply need quick meal prep ideas, these  recipes will transform your leftover chicken into delicious meals that cater to various dietary needs and taste preferences.

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Leftover Chicken Breast Recipes

This list comprises ten delectable and innovative ways to transform your leftover chicken breast into a variety of meals, ranging from hearty sandwiches and salads to comforting soups and nutritious stir-fries, each offering a unique blend of flavors and textures.

1. Chicken Breast Pasta Primavera

A Twist on an Italian Classic

This Chicken Breast Pasta Primavera takes your leftover chicken and transforms it into a vibrant, fresh Italian dish. A mix of colorful vegetables, creamy sauce, and juicy chicken chunks create a flavor fusion that’s hard to resist. This dish proves that lean protein and veggies can be perfectly indulgent.

A Perfect Dinner Option

This pasta dish is the ideal option for a weeknight dinner. The chicken and pasta provide a comforting base, while the vegetables add a burst of freshness. Enjoy it with a side of garlic bread and a glass of white wine for the perfect dining experience.

Tailor to Your Taste

Don’t hesitate to add your personal touch to this Pasta Primavera. You can switch up the veggies based on what you have on hand, or even add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a bit of heat.

Check this recipe.

2. Leftover Chicken Tacos

An Exciting, Flavorful Treat

Transform your leftover chicken into these exciting Chicken Tacos. They are easy to make, brimming with flavor, and customizable to the max. Served with a smoky salsa or tangy guacamole, these tacos can turn any meal into a fiesta.

Ideal for Sharing

Chicken Tacos are perfect for a casual family dinner or gathering with friends. The make-your-own-taco approach invites everyone to get involved and customize their own, making it a fun and interactive meal.

Customize Your Fillings

The beauty of tacos is their flexibility. Apart from your chicken, add anything from black beans to corn, shredded lettuce, or even some pickled jalapenos for a tangy crunch.

Check this recipe.

Chicken Shredder with Brush 10'' Pro Chicken Shredder Tool Twist Large Stable Anti-Slip BPA Free Meat Shredder Tool Twist Ergonomic Handle Meat Grinder Dishwasher-safe Transparent Lid Black
  • 【Strong Anti-Slip Chassis】: In order to better mince the chicken and prevent friction on the desktop, the chicken shredder uses high-grade strong glue to fix the non-slip strip, which is not easy to fall off even after multiple cleanings, ensuring better rotation
  • 【High-grade Diamond Design】: The handle and top cover are both designed with high-grade diamonds, which change with the light, showing a diamond-like luster, and the chicken shredder tool twist is more textured; the transparent top cover design can more clearly see the degree of shredding
  • 【Efficient and Comfortable Mincing】: The handle of the meat shredder is ergonomic and uses ultrasonic synthesis. The handle can rotate 360 ​​degrees but is not easy to fall; the top cover and base are both made of five-pointed star spikes, which can shred the chicken more quickly.(Note: The installation handle needs to be pressed down hard! )
  • 【Extra-large Brush for Fast Cleaning】: Equipped with an extra-large brush, the meat shredder tool twist can be cleaned quickly and comprehensively; of course, the chicken shredder also supports dishwasher cleaning, without worrying about corrosion
  • 【Perfect Gift】: The chicken shredder tool twist adopts high-grade diamond design, does not contain BPA, and has a wide range of uses. It can be used for burritos, chicken salads, fried tortillas, barbecue sandwiches, tacos, casseroles, and is very suitable as a gift for relatives and friends

3. Leftover Chicken Caesar Salad

A Healthier Take on a Classic Salad

This Leftover Chicken Caesar Salad is the perfect recipe to utilize leftover chicken breast while keeping things healthy and delicious. With the lean protein from chicken and the crunchy freshness of romaine lettuce, this classic Caesar salad becomes a balanced meal.

The Ideal Lunch

Pack this salad for a satisfying, easy-to-carry lunch, or enjoy it at home for a light dinner. The creamy Caesar dressing adds depth to the lean chicken and crispy lettuce, making each bite a delight.

Personalize Your Salad

Swap out the traditional croutons for whole grain ones, add in cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness, or sprinkle on some roasted seeds for extra crunch.

Check this recipe.

4. Leftover Chicken Fried Rice

A Quick and Nutritious Dish

Using your leftover chicken to make Chicken Fried Rice is an excellent way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. It’s a fast, one-pan dish that combines protein, grains, and vegetables for a balanced meal.

Read also: 25 Easy Rotisserie Chicken Recipes 

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect quick and easy meal for busy weeknights when you want something tasty and satisfying but are short on time.

Versatility is Key

This recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to add in extra vegetables, swap white rice for brown, or add different sauces for a new flavor profile.

Check this recipe.

5. Leftover Chicken Quesadillas

A Delicious Fusion of Flavors

Use your leftover chicken to create these enticing Chicken Quesadillas. With melting cheese, spiced chicken, and a crispy tortilla, this dish is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will satisfy your cravings.

Ideal for a Quick Lunch or Dinner

Quesadillas make for a quick, easy, and satisfying lunch or dinner option. Serve them with some salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for an extra flavor kick.

Make it Your Own

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, add some beans for extra protein, or throw in some sautéed veggies for added nutrients and texture.

Check this recipe.

Elite Gourmet EQD-118 Electric Non-Stick 11" Quesadilla Maker, Easy-Slice 6-Wedge, Grilled Cheese Corn Flour Tortilla Snacks, Red
  • 11-INCH COOKING SURFACE: Cook 6 quesadilla wedges on the large 11-inch nonstick cooking surface in just under 5-minutes. Cheesy, melty and delicious snacks
  • EASY CLEANUP: When you're done making the quesadillas on the nonstick hot plate, simply wipe clean the cooking surface, do not use abrasive cleansers
  • COMPACT STORAGE: The unit stands vertical for a convenient and tidy upright storage after you're done cooking
  • DRAINAGE RIM & DRIP TRAY: Catch any drippings in the drip tray located underneath the unit. Reduce grease for a healthy snack
  • INDICATOR LIGHTS: Two indicator lights let you know when the unit has power and when the unit is preheated and ready for cooking

6. Chicken Caesar Wraps

A Convenient, Healthy Meal

This Chicken Caesar Wrap takes your favorite Caesar salad elements and wraps them in a soft tortilla for a handy, on-the-go meal. The combination of leftover chicken, fresh lettuce, and creamy Caesar dressing makes for a tasty, nutrient-rich lunch or dinner.

Perfect for Lunch Boxes

These wraps are perfect for packing into lunch boxes for both kids and adults. They are satisfying without being overly heavy and provide a good balance of protein, greens, and carbs.

Customizable to Your Liking

Feel free to add in other salad ingredients you love, like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or even some bacon bits for a salty crunch.

Check this recipe.

7. Leftover Chicken and Vegetable Soup

chicken soup

A Comforting, Nutritious Meal

Transform your leftover chicken into a comforting, nourishing soup. This recipe pairs chicken with a medley of vegetables and herbs to create a dish that’s warming, wholesome, and delicious.

Ideal for Cold Days

This Chicken and Vegetable Soup is perfect for cold days when you crave something soothing and hearty. Pair it with some crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

Customize to Your Heart’s Content

Feel free to vary the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand, and experiment with different herbs to find your perfect blend.

Check this recipe.

8. Leftover Chicken Salad Sandwich

A Classic, Delicious Lunch

Use your leftover chicken to create this classic Chicken Salad Sandwich. Juicy chicken, creamy mayo, and crunchy celery make for a perfect sandwich filling that’s both hearty and refreshing.

Perfect for Picnics and Lunch Boxes

This sandwich is a lunch box hero, and it’s also perfect for picnics. It’s easy to assemble, travel-friendly, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Make It Your Own

You can customize your chicken salad with additions like grapes for sweetness, nuts for crunch, or fresh herbs for added flavor.

Check this recipe.

9. Leftover Chicken and Broccoli Stir-fry

A Quick, Balanced Meal

This Leftover Chicken and Broccoli Stir-fry is a quick, one-pan dish that’s full of flavor and nutrients. The tender chicken and crisp broccoli get coated in a savory sauce that brings the whole dish together beautifully.

Perfect for Weeknight Dinners

A stir-fry is the perfect option for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but still want a meal that’s satisfying and healthy. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Play with Ingredients

Feel free to mix and match different vegetables in your stir-fry. You could also try different sauces to keep things exciting.

Check this recipe.

BELLA Two Tier Food Steamer with Dishwasher Safe Lids and Stackable Baskets & Removable Base for Fast Simultaneous Cooking - Auto Shutoff & Boil Dry Protection, Stainless Steel, 7.4 QT, Black
  • COOK A VARIETY OF FOODS: Whether you're in the mood for japanese or chinese cuisine, or just want to steam some fresh vegetables, tofu, fish or meats for dinner, this steamer and rice cooker can do it all. Turn the switch and make a full meal with sides
  • TWO TIERS FOR SIMULTANEOUS COOKING: With the electric food steamer, you can cook multiple items at the same time without mixing them together! The steam pot comes with a guess-free steaming guide chart that makes it easy to make your favorite dishes
  • STACKABLE BASKETS & REMOVABLE BASE: The removable base makes it easy to clean your electric cooker and veggie steamer. The stackable Plastic baskets make it easy to store your food once it's done and can be removed safely washed in your dishwasher
  • EASY TO READ WATER LEVEL INDICATOR: No more guessing when it's time to refill your water! BELLA's vegetable steamer is equipped with a clear water level indicator that tells you exactly how much liquid is left so you can refill the steamer pot comfortably
  • AUTO SHUTOFF & BOIL DRY PROTECTION: The auto shutoff and boil dry protection will turn the rice steamer off automatically if it's left on for too long or runs out of water. This prevents any accidents from happening and makes it simple and safe to use

10. Leftover Chicken and Mushroom Risotto

A Creamy, Comforting Meal

Use your leftover chicken to create a creamy, satisfying Chicken and Mushroom Risotto. This Italian classic combines the umami-rich flavor of mushrooms with tender chicken to create a dish that’s comforting and full of flavor.

A Relaxing Cooking Experience

While risotto does require a bit of attention to get the perfect creamy texture, many find the process of stirring and gradually adding in broth to be a relaxing cooking experience. Plus, the end result is well worth it.

Customize to Your Liking

Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms for a variety of flavors and textures, or add some peas for a pop of color and sweetness.

Check this recipe.

Leftover Grilled Chicken Recipes

This list provides you with seven exciting recipes specifically designed for leftover grilled chicken, presenting an array of vibrant and satisfying dishes, including tacos, skewers, and a variety of salads, all exploiting the unique smoky flavor of grilled chicken for an enhanced dining experience.

1. Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad

A Light, Satisfying Meal

Transform your leftover grilled chicken into this delightful Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad. With a medley of fresh vegetables, pasta, and flavorful grilled chicken, this dish is a well-rounded meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Read also: 18 Sides For Lasagna 

Ideal for Potlucks and Picnics

This pasta salad is a fantastic choice for potlucks, picnics, or any gathering. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make in large quantities.

Customizable to Your Preferences

Feel free to add other veggies, switch the pasta type, or experiment with different dressings to make the salad uniquely yours.

Check this recipe.

2. Grilled Chicken Tostadas

A Crunchy, Flavorful Dish

Create Grilled Chicken Tostadas using your leftover chicken for a meal that’s crunchy, flavorful, and fun. The combination of crispy tostada, succulent chicken, and fresh toppings creates a balanced dish that’s a joy to eat.

Perfect for a Quick Dinner

These tostadas make a fast and satisfying dinner that’s also interactive, as everyone can add their own favorite toppings.

Customize Your Toppings

Feel free to experiment with different toppings like guacamole, salsa, black beans, or corn to make these tostadas exactly to your liking.

Check this recipe.

3. Grilled Chicken Pita Pockets

A Convenient, Tasty Dish

Use your leftover grilled chicken to create these delectable Grilled Chicken Pita Pockets. The combination of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing tucked inside a fluffy pita is both satisfying and flavorful.

Ideal for Lunch Boxes

These pita pockets are perfect for packing into lunch boxes or for a quick lunch at home. They’re satisfying without being overly heavy and provide a good balance of protein, greens, and carbs.

Customize to Your Liking

You can customize your pita pockets with additions like feta cheese, different dressings, or even some avocado for creaminess.

Check this recipe.

4. Grilled Chicken Tacos

A Fresh and Flavorful Meal

Put a twist on taco night with these Grilled Chicken Tacos. The smoky grilled chicken works wonderfully with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, and cheese, and the soft tortilla wraps it all up perfectly.

Perfect for a Fun Dinner

These tacos are perfect for a fun and interactive dinner, where everyone can customize their own tacos to their liking.

Make It Your Own

Add some guacamole, salsa, or a squeeze of lime to enhance the flavors. Or try using a different type of tortilla, such as a whole grain or gluten-free option, if you prefer.

Check this recipe.

5. Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Salad

chicken quinoa salad

A Protein-Rich, Satisfying Salad

Turn your leftover grilled chicken into a hearty Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Salad. This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and quinoa, and it’s filled with fresh veggies for added nutrients and crunch.

Perfect for Lunch or Dinner

This salad is a complete meal in one bowl, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s also a great option for meal prep, as it stays fresh in the fridge for several days.

Make It Your Own

Add other ingredients like nuts, dried fruit, or different vegetables to customize the salad to your tastes.

Check this recipe.

6. Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Skewers

A Fun, Tasty Dish

Create Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Skewers using your leftover grilled chicken. These skewers are fun to eat and are a great way to combine protein and veggies in a single dish.

Great for Outdoor Gatherings

These skewers are perfect for outdoor gatherings or barbecues. They’re also a great way to get kids to eat more vegetables.

Customize Your Skewers

Feel free to use your favorite vegetables or try different marinades for the chicken to create your own unique flavor combinations.

Check this recipe.

7. Grilled Chicken and Avocado Sandwich

A Healthy, Flavorful Lunch

Use your leftover grilled chicken to make this delicious Grilled Chicken and Avocado Sandwich. It’s a well-balanced meal with protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the avocado, and whole grains from the bread.

Perfect for On-the-Go

This sandwich is ideal for a packed lunch or a quick meal when you’re on the go. It’s satisfying, healthy, and delicious.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to switch out the bread for a bagel, a wrap, or even some lettuce for a low-carb option. You could also try adding some tomato, lettuce, or a spread like pesto for more flavor.

Check this recipe.

Healthy Leftover Chicken Recipes

This list features eight healthful recipes that creatively transform leftover chicken into nutritious meals, incorporating a variety of vegetables, grains, and flavors for balanced, hearty dishes.

1. Chicken and Kale Salad

A Protein and Vitamin-Rich Meal

Make a delicious and nutrient-dense Chicken and Kale Salad with your leftover chicken. This salad is a powerhouse of nutrients, featuring iron-rich kale and protein-packed chicken.

Ideal for Lunch or Dinner

Enjoy this light yet filling salad for lunch or dinner. It’s also a great choice for meal prep, as it holds up well in the fridge.

Customize It

Add additional toppings like roasted almonds, dried cranberries, or a sprinkle of feta cheese to enhance the flavors and textures.

Check this recipe.

2. Chicken and Veggie Lettuce Wraps

A Low-Carb, Flavorful Dish

Create a light and refreshing meal with these Chicken and Veggie Lettuce Wraps. It’s a fun and interactive meal that’s packed with fresh veggies and lean chicken.

Quick and Easy

These lettuce wraps can be made in a snap, making them ideal for a quick lunch or light dinner.

Make Them Your Own

Feel free to experiment with different veggies or sauces to create a lettuce wrap that you’ll love.

Check this recipe.

3. Chicken and Quinoa Soup

A Comforting, Nutrient-Packed Meal

Transform your leftover chicken into a comforting and nutrient-dense Chicken and Quinoa Soup. The protein-rich chicken and quinoa, coupled with a variety of vegetables, make this a well-rounded meal.

Great for Chilly Days

This soup is the perfect comforting meal for cooler days, and it’s packed with everything you need for a balanced meal.

Customize Your Soup

Feel free to add additional veggies or spices to suit your tastes and increase the nutrient content.

Check this recipe.

4. Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

A Fiber-Rich, Balanced Meal

This Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes recipe is a great way to utilize your leftover chicken. It combines the fiber of sweet potatoes, protein from chicken, and vitamins from spinach for a well-balanced, nutritious meal.

Perfect for a Hearty Dinner

This stuffed sweet potato recipe is hearty and satisfying, making it perfect for a filling dinner.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to add additional veggies or spices, or switch out the spinach for another leafy green to suit your preferences.

Check this recipe.

5. Chicken Zucchini Noodle Soup

A Light, Vegetable-Packed Soup

Use your leftover chicken to create this delightful Chicken Zucchini Noodle Soup. The zucchini noodles add a lightness to the dish while still providing plenty of nutrients.

Ideal for a Healthy Dinner

This soup is the perfect meal for those seeking a light, yet filling dinner. It’s also great for meal prep and reheats well.

Customize Your Soup

Add more vegetables or different herbs and spices to adjust the flavor to your liking. This versatile soup can accommodate a variety of additions.

Check this recipe.

6. Chicken, Apple, and Brussels Sprout Salad

A Fresh, Crunchy Salad

This Chicken, Apple, and Brussels Sprout Salad recipe is a flavorful and refreshing dish that’s perfect for using up leftover chicken. The tart apples, crunchy Brussels sprouts, and tender chicken make for a delicious combination.

Read also: 18 Chicken Crockpot Recipes 

Great for a Light Meal

This salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. It’s packed with nutrients and is sure to leave you satisfied without feeling heavy.

Customize Your Salad

Add in some nuts for extra crunch, or sprinkle some cheese on top for additional flavor. You could also swap out the dressing to suit your taste.

Check this recipe.

7. Chicken and Vegetable Stuffed Peppers

A Colorful, Nutrient-Rich Meal

Use your leftover chicken to make these delightful Chicken and Vegetable Stuffed Peppers. Packed with a variety of vegetables, this dish is as nutritious as it is colorful.

Ideal for Meal Prep

These stuffed peppers are perfect for meal prep. Make a batch, store them in the fridge, and reheat as needed for a quick and easy meal.

Make it Your Own

Feel free to change up the filling by adding different veggies or grains, or even swapping the bell peppers for other vegetables.

Check this recipe.

8. Chicken and Avocado Lettuce Wraps

A Low-Carb, Fresh Dish

These Chicken and Avocado Lettuce Wraps are a great, low-carb way to use up leftover chicken. The creaminess of the avocado pairs perfectly with the crisp lettuce and savory chicken.

Perfect for a Light Meal

These wraps are perfect for a quick, light meal. They’re easy to make and packed with healthy fats from the avocado and lean protein from the chicken.

Customize Your Wraps

Add in other veggies, like bell peppers or tomatoes, or sprinkle some cheese on top for added flavor and texture. This recipe is very versatile, so feel free to make it your own!

Check this recipe.

Conclusion

With these 25 diverse recipes, you can turn your leftover chicken into a range of delicious and filling meals that are sure to impress. Whether you want a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a healthy meal option, these recipes offer endless possibilities to suit every need.

By creatively reusing your leftover chicken, you’ll not only enjoy delicious dishes but also minimize food waste and make the most of your meals. So next time you find yourself with leftover chicken, remember these inspiring recipes and get ready for a delightful culinary adventure.


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