Chicken is a popular choice for meals, but leftovers can get boring fast. Don’t let that extra chicken go to waste!
With the right recipes, you can turn those leftovers into tasty new dishes your family will love.
These leftover chicken recipes will help you create quick, easy meals that are both delicious and budget-friendly.
From soups and sandwiches to salads and casseroles, there are many ways to use up that extra chicken.
You’ll find options for lunch, dinner, and even snacks that will make your taste buds happy.
1. Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Peppers
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Peppers are a tasty way to use leftover chicken. You’ll need bell peppers, cooked chicken, and Alfredo sauce.
Cut the peppers in half and remove the seeds.
Mix shredded chicken with Alfredo sauce and cheese. Spoon this mixture into the pepper halves.
Bake the stuffed peppers at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes. The peppers should be tender and the filling hot and bubbly.
This dish is easy to make and full of flavor. It’s a great option for a quick weeknight dinner.
You can add extra vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
2. Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo chicken dip is a tasty way to use up leftover chicken. You can easily transform this popular appetizer into new dishes.
Try spreading it on tortillas to make quesadillas. Add some shredded cheese for extra flavor.
Another option is to stuff pasta shells with the dip. Bake them in marinara sauce for a spicy twist on stuffed shells.
For a quick snack, spoon the dip into wonton wrappers and bake until crispy. These buffalo chicken cups make great bite-sized appetizers.
You can also use it as a pizza topping or mix it into cooked pasta for a creamy buffalo chicken pasta bake.
3. Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps
Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps are a tasty way to use leftover chicken. You’ll need tortillas, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing.
Start by mixing your chicken with the other ingredients in a bowl.
Add a big spoonful to each tortilla and roll it up like a burrito.
For extra flavor, try warming the tortillas first. This makes them easier to fold too.
You can also add cucumber sticks or bell peppers for more crunch.
These wraps are perfect for quick lunches at home or work. They’re easy to make and pack well for on-the-go meals.
4. Barbecue Chicken Pizza
Got leftover chicken? Turn it into a tasty BBQ chicken pizza.
Start with a pre-made or homemade pizza crust. Spread BBQ sauce over the base instead of tomato sauce.
Top with shredded leftover chicken, red onions, and bell peppers. Add some mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese melts.
For extra flavor, try adding bacon bits or pineapple chunks. You can also grill the pizza for a smoky taste.
This quick meal is perfect for using up chicken and pleasing the whole family.
5. Chicken Quesadillas
Chicken quesadillas are a quick and tasty way to use up leftover chicken.
Start by shredding your cooked chicken.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly oil a tortilla.
Place the tortilla in the pan and add a layer of shredded cheese. Sprinkle on the chicken, along with any extras like diced onions or peppers.
Top with another layer of cheese and a second tortilla.
Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden, then flip and cook the other side. The cheese should be melted and gooey.
Cut into wedges and serve hot.
For extra flavor, try adding some cumin or chili powder to your chicken.
You can also experiment with different cheeses or vegetables to make it your own.
6. Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
Got leftover chicken? Turn it into tasty teriyaki bowls.
Chop up your cooked chicken and heat it with teriyaki sauce in a pan.
Cook some rice and steam broccoli for sides.
Put the rice in a bowl, add the teriyaki chicken, and place the broccoli next to it.
For extra flavor, sprinkle green onions on top. You can also add carrots or other veggies you like.
This quick meal takes about 30 minutes to make and uses up your extra chicken nicely.
7. Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry
Chicken and vegetable stir fry is a quick and tasty way to use leftover chicken. You can throw in any veggies you have on hand.
Heat oil in a pan or wok.
Add your favorite vegetables and cook until they’re crisp-tender.
Toss in cubed leftover chicken to warm it up.
For flavor, make a simple sauce with soy sauce, chicken broth, and a touch of sugar. Mix in some cornstarch to thicken it.
Pour the sauce over your chicken and veggies.
Stir everything together and cook for a few more minutes.
Serve your stir fry over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
8. Chicken Curry
Chicken curry is a tasty way to use up leftover chicken. You can make it on the stove in about 30 minutes.
Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in oil.
Add curry powder, tomatoes, and coconut milk to make a flavorful sauce.
Cut your leftover chicken into chunks and stir it in. Let everything simmer until heated through.
Serve your curry over rice with some naan bread on the side.
It’s an easy meal that transforms plain leftover chicken into something new and exciting. You can adjust the spices to make it as mild or spicy as you like.
9. Chicken Enchiladas
Chicken enchiladas are a great way to use up leftover chicken. You can make this tasty Mexican dish in under an hour.
Start by shredding your leftover chicken.
Mix it with cream cheese, diced green chilies, and taco seasoning for extra flavor.
Roll the mixture in corn tortillas and place them in a baking dish.
Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
Bake the enchiladas at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. They’re done when the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve your chicken enchiladas hot. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal with friends and family.
10. Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie is a great way to use leftover chicken. You can make it with a flaky pie crust or top it with biscuits.
Start by mixing cooked chicken with veggies and a creamy sauce. Good veggie choices include peas, carrots, and onions.
Pour the filling into a pie dish. Cover it with pie crust or drop biscuits on top.
Bake until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
This comfort food dish is perfect for cold days.
You can make a big batch and freeze individual portions for quick meals later.
11. Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is a great way to use leftover chicken. You can transform your roast chicken into a comforting bowl of soup in about 30 minutes.
Start by sautéing diced onions, carrots, and celery in a large pot.
Add your leftover chicken, broth, and noodles. Simmer until the vegetables are tender and noodles are cooked.
For extra flavor, toss in some herbs like thyme or parsley.
You can use rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand. This soup freezes well, so make a big batch to enjoy later.
Chicken noodle soup is perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s a simple, tasty way to stretch your leftovers into another meal.
12. Chicken Fried Rice
Chicken fried rice is a tasty way to use leftover chicken. You can whip up this dish quickly with a few simple ingredients.
Start by heating oil in a wok or large pan. Scramble some eggs, then set them aside.
Next, stir-fry diced vegetables like carrots and broccoli. Add minced garlic for extra flavor.
Toss in your leftover chicken and day-old rice. Using cold rice helps prevent mushiness.
Pour in some soy sauce and chicken broth. Stir everything together until heated through.
Add the scrambled eggs back in at the end. Give it a final mix and serve your delicious homemade chicken fried rice.
13. Chicken Tacos
Chicken tacos are a tasty way to use up leftover chicken. You can make them quickly and easily with just a few ingredients.
Start by warming up your leftover chicken. Shred or chop it into small pieces.
Add some taco seasoning for extra flavor.
Warm up some tortillas. Corn or flour both work well.
Fill them with the seasoned chicken. Top with your favorite taco toppings.
Try diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and cheese. Sour cream, avocado, and salsa are great choices too.
You can customize the toppings to your liking.
Chicken tacos make a fun family meal. They’re also good for casual get-togethers with friends.
Everyone can build their own tacos just how they like them.
14. Chicken Fajitas
Chicken fajitas are a tasty way to use up leftover chicken.
Start by slicing your cooked chicken into thin strips.
Heat oil in a skillet and add sliced bell peppers and onions. Cook until they’re soft and slightly charred.
Add the chicken to the pan with fajita seasoning. Warm it through, stirring to combine with the veggies.
Serve your fajita mixture in warm tortillas.
Top with your favorite extras like salsa, sour cream, or avocado.
This quick meal comes together in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
It’s a flavorful twist that transforms your leftover chicken into an exciting new dish.
15. Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Chicken Parmesan sliders are a tasty way to use leftover chicken. They’re quick to make and perfect for parties or easy meals.
Start by slicing Hawaiian rolls in half. Place the bottom halves in a baking dish.
Spread marinara sauce over the rolls.
Add pieces of breaded chicken on top of the sauce. Cover with mozzarella cheese and more marinara. Put the top halves of the rolls on.
Brush the tops with a savory butter mixture for extra flavor.
Bake the sliders in a 350°F oven until the cheese melts and they’re warm throughout.
These mini sandwiches are great for feeding a crowd.
You can make them ahead and reheat when needed. They’ll stay good in the fridge for up to 2 days.
16. Chicken Salad with Grapes
Chicken salad with grapes is a tasty way to use leftover chicken. Mix shredded chicken with mayonnaise, diced celery, and halved grapes for a sweet and savory combo.
Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Serve your chicken salad on a bed of lettuce, between slices of bread, or in a croissant.
It also works great as a dip with crackers or veggie sticks.
This refreshing salad keeps in the fridge for 3-4 days.
It’s perfect for quick lunches or light dinners on warm days.
17. Chicken Tortilla Soup
Chicken tortilla soup is a tasty way to use leftover chicken. You can make this Mexican-inspired dish in about 15 minutes.
Start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pot.
Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and spices like cumin and chili powder.
Shred your leftover chicken and add it to the pot.
Simmer for 5-10 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Serve the soup with tortilla strips, cheese, and avocado on top.
This soup is warm, filling, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you want an easy meal.
18. Chicken Gumbo
Chicken gumbo is a great way to use leftover chicken. This hearty dish combines chicken with vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and celery.
To make it, start by creating a roux with oil and flour.
Add the vegetables and cook until soft. Stir in your leftover chicken and broth.
Season with Creole spices and let it simmer.
You can add other ingredients like okra or sausage if you like. Serve your gumbo over rice for a filling meal.
This recipe is flexible, so you can adjust the spice level to your taste. Use mild or hot salsa to control the heat.
19. Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers
Lemon herb chicken skewers are a tasty way to use leftover chicken.
Cut your cooked chicken into cubes and thread them onto skewers. Mix lemon juice, zest, olive oil, garlic, and herbs like rosemary and thyme in a bowl.
Brush this mixture over the chicken skewers. Grill the skewers for 5-7 minutes, turning once.
You can also bake them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Serve your lemon herb chicken skewers hot as a main dish or appetizer. They pair well with a side salad or grilled vegetables.
20. Chicken Marsala
Chicken Marsala is a tasty way to use up leftover chicken. This Italian-inspired dish combines chicken with a rich sauce made from Marsala wine and mushrooms.
To make it, sauté sliced mushrooms in butter and olive oil. Add Marsala wine and simmer to reduce. Stir in some chicken broth and cream to make a silky sauce.
Warm your leftover chicken in the sauce until heated through. Serve over pasta or with mashed potatoes. For extra flavor, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top before eating.
This quick and easy meal transforms plain leftover chicken into something special. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for guests too.
21. Thai Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Thai Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a tasty way to use leftover chicken. You can make them in about 10 minutes for a quick meal.
Mix shredded chicken with diced veggies like onions, carrots, and bell peppers. Add a flavorful peanut sauce to bring it all together.
Serve the chicken mixture in lettuce leaves for a light and fresh wrap. The crisp lettuce pairs well with the savory chicken and rich peanut flavor.
You can store extra chicken filling in the fridge for 3-4 days. Keep the peanut sauce separate and it will last up to a week.
22. Chicken Pesto Pasta
Chicken pesto pasta is a tasty way to use up leftover chicken. You can make this dish in about 30 minutes.
Cook your favorite pasta according to the package directions. While it’s cooking, warm up your leftover chicken.
Mix the warm chicken with store-bought or homemade pesto sauce. Add the sauce to your cooked pasta and stir well.
For extra flavor, toss in some cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can eat it cold or reheat it in the microwave for a quick meal.
23. Chicken Burrito Bowls
Chicken burrito bowls are a tasty way to use leftover chicken. You can easily make these at home with a few simple ingredients.
Start by layering rice in a bowl. Add your leftover chicken on top. Then, pile on black beans, corn, and chopped tomatoes.
For extra flavor, include sliced red onions and bell peppers. Top it off with some shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream.
Don’t forget the avocado! Add slices or make a quick avocado sauce to drizzle over your bowl. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice finish it off perfectly.
24. Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
Chicken and wild rice casserole is a tasty way to use leftover chicken. You’ll need cooked chicken, wild rice, and mushrooms as the main ingredients.
Start by cooking the wild rice according to package directions. While it cooks, sauté sliced mushrooms in butter until soft.
Mix the cooked rice, mushrooms, and chopped leftover chicken in a baking dish. Pour cream of mushroom soup over the mixture for a creamy sauce.
Top with shredded cheddar cheese and bake until hot and bubbly. This comforting casserole is perfect for chilly evenings.
25. Chicken Tikka Masala
Got leftover chicken? Transform it into a tasty chicken tikka masala. This popular Indian-inspired dish is quick and easy to make at home.
Start by heating some oil in a pan. Add spices like garam masala, cumin, and turmeric. Stir in diced onions and cook until soft.
Add your leftover chicken pieces and some tomato sauce or pureed tomatoes. Let it simmer for a few minutes. Pour in some cream or yogurt for a rich, creamy texture.
Serve your homemade chicken tikka masala over rice. It’s ready in about 20 minutes and tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
26. Chicken Piccata
Chicken piccata is a tasty way to use leftover chicken. You can slice your cooked chicken and warm it in a pan with butter.
Make a sauce by mixing chicken stock, white wine, and lemon juice. Add capers for extra flavor and heat this mixture in a pan.
Pour the warm sauce over your chicken slices. Serve with pasta or a salad for a quick meal. The tangy lemon and salty capers give the dish a bright taste.
You can also turn your chicken piccata into a hearty soup. Add broth, onions, and garlic to create a comforting dish.
27. Chicken Cacciatore
Chicken cacciatore is a tasty way to use up leftover chicken. This Italian dish combines chicken with tomatoes, herbs, and vegetables.
To make it, start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil. Add bell peppers and mushrooms, cooking until soft. Mix in diced tomatoes, wine, and Italian seasoning.
Add your leftover chicken pieces to the sauce. Let everything simmer together for about 15 minutes. The flavors will blend and the chicken will warm through.
Serve your chicken cacciatore over pasta or with crusty bread. It’s a quick and easy meal that transforms your leftovers into something new and delicious.
28. Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo is a great way to use leftover chicken. This creamy pasta dish combines tender chicken pieces with crisp broccoli florets.
To make it, cook your favorite pasta according to the package directions. Add broccoli to the pasta water in the last few minutes of cooking.
In a separate pan, warm up store-bought or homemade Alfredo sauce. Mix in your leftover shredded chicken.
Drain the pasta and broccoli, then combine with the chicken Alfredo mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
You can serve it right away or bake it in a casserole dish for a crispy top. This quick and tasty meal will be ready in about 30 minutes.
29. Chicken Florentine
Chicken Florentine is a tasty way to use up leftover chicken. This dish combines chicken with spinach and a creamy sauce.
You can make it with chicken breast or rotisserie chicken. The recipe is quick and easy to prepare.
Start by cooking some spinach in a pan. Add garlic for extra flavor. Then make a creamy sauce with butter, flour, and milk or cream.
Put the chicken on top of the spinach and pour the sauce over everything. Some recipes call for baking it in the oven to heat through.
Chicken Florentine goes well with pasta or rice. It’s a comforting meal that turns basic leftover chicken into something special.
30. Mango Chicken Salad
Mango chicken salad is a tasty way to use leftover roast chicken.
Mix shredded chicken with diced mango, avocado, and cucumber. Add baby salad leaves for crunch. Make a simple dressing with lime juice, sweet chili sauce, and olive oil.
Toss everything together and chill for a few hours to let the flavors blend. This salad keeps well in the fridge for about a week. Stir before serving.
You can prep the chicken ahead of time and assemble the salad later. For extra flavor, try adding diced bell peppers, green onions, or apple. Serve as a light meal or refreshing side dish.
31. Chicken Zucchini Enchiladas
This dish gives a healthy twist to classic enchiladas. Instead of tortillas, you’ll use thin zucchini slices to wrap the filling.
Start by cooking onions and garlic in a skillet. Add cumin, chili powder, and oregano for flavor. Mix in shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, and green chiles.
Slice zucchini into thin sheets using a peeler or mandoline. Lay out 3 overlapping slices and add some chicken mixture on top. Roll up and place in a baking dish.
Pour more enchilada sauce over the rolls and top with cheese. Bake at 375°F until the cheese melts and the zucchini is tender.
This recipe lets you use up leftover chicken while adding more veggies to your meal. It’s a tasty, low-carb option for enchilada lovers.
32. Orange Glazed Chicken
Orange glazed chicken is a tasty way to use leftover chicken. You can make a quick glaze with orange juice, marmalade, and a splash of vinegar.
Heat the glaze in a pan until it thickens slightly. Add your cooked chicken pieces and toss to coat. The sweet and tangy flavors will bring new life to your leftovers.
Serve your orange glazed chicken over rice or noodles. You can also add some steamed veggies on the side for a complete meal. This dish works well with both white and dark meat chicken.
33. Chicken Ramen
Chicken ramen is a great way to use up leftover chicken. Start by boiling some ramen noodles according to the package instructions.
While the noodles cook, shred your leftover chicken. Add it to the pot with the cooked noodles and broth.
You can enhance the flavor by adding soy sauce, rice vinegar, and mirin. Throw in some veggies like chopped onions or leftover vegetables from other meals.
For extra protein, consider adding a soft-boiled egg on top. Cook it for about 6 minutes, then cool in an ice bath before peeling.
This quick and easy meal takes only about 20 minutes to make. It’s a comforting dish that transforms your leftovers into something new and tasty.
34. Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Chicken and spinach stuffed shells are a tasty way to use leftover chicken.
You’ll need jumbo pasta shells, cooked chicken, spinach, ricotta cheese, and marinara sauce. Mix the chopped chicken with ricotta, spinach, and seasonings.
Stuff this mixture into cooked pasta shells. Place the shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce. Bake the stuffed shells until hot and bubbly.
The result is a comforting meal that combines protein, veggies, and pasta in one dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make ahead and reheat.
35. Chicken Souvlaki
Chicken souvlaki turns leftover chicken into a tasty Greek-inspired meal. Cut your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Toss it with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like oregano and mint.
Thread the chicken onto skewers with colorful vegetables like bell peppers and onions. Grill or pan-fry the skewers until the veggies are tender and slightly charred.
Serve your chicken souvlaki with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a fresh Greek salad. This quick meal brings Mediterranean flavors to your table in minutes.
36. Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Honey garlic chicken thighs are a tasty way to use leftover chicken. You can make this dish in about 30 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
The sauce is made with honey and garlic, giving the chicken a sweet and savory flavor. You can use boneless or bone-in thighs for this recipe.
To reheat, warm the chicken gently on the stove. The dish stays good in the fridge for 3-4 days when stored in a sealed container.
Serve your honey garlic chicken thighs with rice or pasta and a side of veggies for a full meal. The extra sauce is great drizzled over your sides too.
37. Chicken Cobb Salad
Chicken Cobb salad is a tasty way to use leftover chicken. You can make this classic dish with romaine lettuce, crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and fresh veggies.
Add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado for extra flavor and texture. Crumble some blue cheese on top for a tangy kick.
Mix up a simple dressing with olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard. You can also use your favorite store-bought dressing to save time.
This salad is easy to customize. Try different greens like spring mix or arugula. Swap blue cheese for feta if you prefer. The possibilities are endless!
38. Chicken Empanadas
Chicken empanadas are a tasty way to use leftover chicken. You can make these savory pastries easily at home.
Start by mixing shredded chicken with spices, onions, and garlic.
Roll out empanada dough or use store-bought pastry circles.
Put a spoonful of filling on each circle. Fold the dough over and seal the edges.
Brush with egg wash for a golden finish.
Bake the empanadas in a 400°F oven for about 20 minutes. They’re done when the crust is crisp and brown.
Serve your chicken empanadas hot as a snack or meal. They’re great with salsa or guacamole for dipping.
39. Chicken Satay Skewers
Chicken satay skewers are a tasty way to use leftover chicken. You can make them by cutting cooked chicken into chunks and threading onto skewers.
Mix coconut milk, curry powder, salt, and pepper for a quick marinade. Then, brush this over the skewered chicken.
Grill the skewers for a few minutes until heated through and lightly charred.
For added flavor, serve with a peanut dipping sauce.
You can store any extra skewers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil.
40. General Tso’s Chicken
General Tso’s chicken is a tasty way to use leftover chicken. You can make this Chinese-inspired dish at home with a few simple ingredients.
Start by cutting your leftover chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Then, make a sauce with soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and spices.
Heat oil in a pan and cook the chicken until it’s crispy.
Pour the sauce over the chicken and let it simmer until thick.
Serve your homemade General Tso’s chicken over rice. Add steamed broccoli on the side for a complete meal.
You can store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.
41. Chicken Shawarma
Chicken shawarma is a tasty way to use leftover chicken. You can make it at home without a spit roaster. Just slice your cooked chicken thinly.
Mix spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. Then, toss the chicken with the spices and some olive oil.
Heat it in a pan until warm and slightly crispy.
Serve your homemade shawarma in pita bread or on rice. Add toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and a tangy yogurt sauce.
You can also make shawarma bowls with veggies and hummus.
This Middle Eastern inspired dish turns plain leftover chicken into an exciting meal. It’s quick to make and full of flavor.
Health Benefits of Chicken
Chicken offers several health benefits as part of a balanced diet. It’s a versatile protein source that can support your overall well-being.
High Protein Content
Chicken is packed with protein. A 3-ounce serving provides about 26 grams of protein. This makes it great for building and repairing muscles.
Protein also helps you feel full longer. This can aid in weight management and control hunger.
For athletes and active people, chicken’s protein content supports muscle recovery after workouts. It’s a go-to food for many fitness enthusiasts.
Nutritional Value
Chicken is rich in essential nutrients. It contains vitamins B3, B6, and B12, which support brain function and energy production.
It’s also a good source of selenium, an antioxidant that boosts immune health.
Chicken also provides phosphorus and zinc, important for bone health and immune function.
White meat chicken is low in fat, especially when eaten without the skin. This makes it a heart-healthy choice for many diets.
Chicken also contains tryptophan, an amino acid that may help improve mood and sleep quality.
Storing Leftover Chicken Safely
Proper storage is key to keeping leftover chicken fresh and safe to eat. Follow these tips to store your chicken in the fridge or freezer.
Refrigeration Best Practices
Put leftover chicken in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking. Use airtight containers or wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
Keep your fridge at 41°F or below to slow bacteria growth.
Label containers with the date you cooked the chicken. This helps you track how long it’s been stored.
Eat refrigerated chicken within 3-4 days for best quality and safety. When reheating, make sure the chicken reaches 165°F throughout.
Don’t leave chicken out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temp.
Freezing Leftover Chicken
Freeze chicken if you won’t eat it within a few days. Use freezer-safe bags or containers to prevent freezer burn. Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
Cut large pieces into smaller portions for quicker freezing and thawing. Label containers with the contents and freezing date.
Frozen cooked chicken stays good for 2-3 months. For best quality, use it within this time frame.
Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight. Never thaw on the counter. Use thawed chicken within 1-2 days.
You can reheat chicken straight from frozen. Just add extra cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.
Tips For Reheating Chicken
Reheating chicken can be tricky. You want to warm it up without losing flavor or making it dry. Here are some key tips to help you reheat chicken perfectly every time.
Avoiding Dryness
To keep chicken moist when reheating, add some liquid. Put a tablespoon of broth or water in the dish before heating.
Cover the chicken with a damp paper towel or lid to trap steam.
Heat chicken slowly at a lower temperature. Aim for 350°F in the oven or 50% power in the microwave.
Check often and stop heating as soon as it’s warm through.
Cut large pieces into smaller chunks. This helps heat more evenly and quickly. Avoid reheating more than once, as this dries out the meat.
Best Methods To Retain Flavor
The oven is great for reheating chicken. Place chicken in a baking dish with a splash of broth.
Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
For crispy skin, use the air fryer. Set to 350°F and heat for 3-4 minutes. Flip halfway through.
Stovetop reheating works well too. Put chicken in a pan with a little oil or butter.
Cover and heat on medium-low, flipping once.
Avoid the microwave if possible. If you must use it, heat in 30-second bursts and let it rest between each burst.