Canned chicken is a versatile ingredient that can help you make quick and tasty meals. It’s ready to use right out of the can and works well in many recipes.

You can use it to make sandwiches, salads, soups, and more.

With canned chicken, you can create delicious dishes in no time. This article will show you over 26 recipes that use canned chicken.

You’ll find ideas for easy lunches, quick dinners, and simple snacks. These recipes are great for busy days when you need a fast meal.

1. Buffalo Chicken Dip

Buffalo chicken dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s easy to make with canned chicken. You’ll need cream cheese, cheddar cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing.

Mix the ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes until bubbly and browned.

For extra flavor, add chopped celery, green onions, or garlic powder.

You can make this dip ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking.

Serve hot with chips, crackers, or veggie sticks for dipping. This recipe is perfect for parties and can easily be doubled to feed a larger group.

2. Chicken Caesar Wraps

Chicken Caesar wraps are a tasty way to use canned chicken. You’ll need canned chicken, Caesar dressing, romaine lettuce, and tortillas.

Drain the chicken well. Mix it with Caesar dressing in a bowl. Add chopped romaine lettuce and some grated Parmesan cheese.

Lay out a tortilla and spoon the chicken mixture onto it. Roll it up tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.

For extra crunch, add some croutons to your wrap. You can also include diced tomatoes for more flavor and nutrition.

These wraps make a quick lunch or light dinner. They’re portable, so they’re great for picnics or packed lunches too.

3. BBQ Chicken Pizza

BBQ chicken pizza is a tasty way to use canned chicken. You can make it quickly for a fun dinner or party snack.

Start with a pre-made pizza crust. Spread BBQ sauce on top instead of tomato sauce. This gives the pizza a tangy, sweet flavor.

Add shredded canned chicken on top of the sauce. Mix in some extra BBQ sauce with the chicken for more flavor. Sprinkle cheese over everything.

You can add other toppings like sliced red onions or bell peppers.

Bake the pizza until the crust is crispy and the cheese melts.

This easy recipe turns simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers with friends.

4. Canned Chicken Tacos

Canned chicken tacos are a quick and tasty meal option. You can have them ready in about 15 minutes.

Start by heating olive oil in a skillet. Add diced onions and garlic, then sauté until soft.

Next, add the canned chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes to heat through. Stir in taco seasoning for flavor.

To serve, place the chicken mixture in taco shells. Top with lettuce, cheese, and sour cream.

You can also add salsa or hot sauce for extra kick. These tacos are easy to customize with your favorite toppings.

5. Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Chicken Alfredo pasta is a quick and tasty meal you can make with canned chicken. You’ll need pasta, Alfredo sauce, and canned chicken.

Cook your pasta according to the package directions. While it cooks, warm up the Alfredo sauce in a pan. Add the canned chicken to heat through.

Mix the cooked pasta with the chicken and sauce. For extra flavor, sprinkle in some grated Parmesan cheese.

You can add vegetables like peas or broccoli for more nutrition. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking the pasta.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling and delicious.

6. Chicken Salad Sandwiches

Chicken salad sandwiches are a tasty way to use canned chicken. You can make them quickly for an easy lunch or dinner.

Mix canned chicken with mayo, celery, and onion. Add salt and pepper to taste. Spread the mixture on bread for a simple sandwich.

Try adding extras like chopped apples, grapes, or nuts for more flavor. You can also use yogurt instead of mayo for a healthier option.

Serve your chicken salad on whole wheat bread, a croissant, or in a wrap. Add lettuce and tomato for extra crunch and freshness.

7. Chicken Quesadillas

Canned chicken makes whipping up quesadillas a breeze. You can have a tasty meal ready in about 20 minutes.

Start by draining a can of chunk chicken. Mix it with salsa, shredded cheese, and chopped onions. Spread this mixture on flour tortillas.

Fold the tortillas in half and cook them in a skillet or griddle. A few minutes on each side until golden brown is all it takes.

For extra flavor, try adding canned tomatoes with green chiles to your chicken mixture. You can also sprinkle some garlic salt for a flavor boost.

Serve your quesadillas hot, perhaps with sour cream or guacamole on the side. This quick and easy meal is sure to satisfy your hunger.

8. Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie is a tasty way to use canned chicken. You can make it quickly with just a few ingredients.

Mix canned chicken with cream of chicken soup and frozen veggies. Pour this into a pie crust. Top with another crust and bake until golden.

For extra flavor, add some herbs or cheese to your filling. You can use pre-made crusts to save time.

This comfort food is perfect for cold days. It’s also great for using up leftover canned chicken. Serve it with a side salad for a complete meal.

9. Chicken Enchiladas

Chicken enchiladas are a tasty way to use canned chicken. You can make them quickly for a satisfying meal.

Start by mixing canned chicken with cheese and green chiles in a bowl.

Warm up some tortillas and fill them with the chicken mixture. Roll them up and place them in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle on more cheese.

Bake the enchiladas until the cheese melts and gets bubbly. You can add toppings like sour cream or cilantro when serving. This easy recipe works great for busy weeknight dinners.

10. Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food you can easily make with canned chicken. It’s quick and perfect for busy weeknights.

Start by sautéing diced onions, carrots, and celery in a pot. Add canned chicken broth and canned chicken. Bring to a simmer.

Toss in egg noodles and cook until tender. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley.

For extra richness, stir in a can of condensed cream of chicken soup. This adds body and flavor to your soup.

You can make a big batch and freeze portions for later. Just leave out the noodles when freezing. Add them fresh when reheating.

11. Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice is a tasty way to use canned chicken. You can whip up this dish in no time.

Start by cooking some rice and setting it aside.

In a pan, heat oil and stir-fry veggies like peas, carrots, and onions. Push them to the side and scramble some eggs in the same pan.

Add your canned chicken and cooked rice. Mix everything together. Pour in some soy sauce for flavor. Stir until heated through.

Your homemade chicken fried rice is ready to eat. It’s a quick meal that’s filling and delicious. You can add other veggies or seasonings you like too.

12. Chicken Burritos

Canned chicken makes whipping up tasty burritos a breeze. You can have a satisfying meal on the table in just 15 minutes.

Start by warming flour tortillas. Mix the canned chicken with black or pinto beans, corn, and your favorite burrito seasoning.

Spoon the filling onto each tortilla. Add shredded cheese, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream if you like. Roll up tightly.

For extra flavor, try baking the burritos. Place them seam-side down in a baking dish, top with enchilada sauce and more cheese, then bake until hot and bubbly.

Serve your chicken burritos with rice, guacamole, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

13. Chicken Curry

Chicken curry is a tasty way to use canned chicken. You can make it quickly with just a few ingredients.

Start by heating oil in a pan and adding diced onions.

Next, stir in curry powder, cumin, and garlic. Add your drained canned chicken and cook for a few minutes. Pour in coconut milk and let it simmer.

For extra flavor, mix in some spinach or other veggies. Thicken the sauce with a bit of arrowroot or cornstarch if needed. Serve your curry over rice or with naan bread.

This easy meal brings exotic flavors to your table in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something different.

14. Chicken Fajitas

You can make tasty chicken fajitas using canned chicken. Start by draining the canned chicken and setting it aside.

Heat oil in a skillet and cook sliced bell peppers and onions until soft. Add fajita seasoning to the vegetables for flavor.

Add the drained chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables. Heat everything through until the chicken is warm.

Serve your canned chicken fajitas with warm tortillas, cheese, sour cream, and any other toppings you like. This quick meal brings Tex-Mex flavors to your table using pantry staples.

15. Chicken Parmesan

You can make tasty chicken Parmesan using canned chicken. This quick version saves time but still delivers great flavor.

Start by draining the canned chicken. Mix it with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs. Form the mixture into patties.

Pan-fry the patties until golden brown. Top each with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Broil briefly to melt the cheese.

Serve your canned chicken Parmesan over pasta or with a side salad. It’s a simple way to enjoy this classic Italian dish on busy weeknights.

16. Chicken Stir Fry

Canned chicken makes a quick and tasty stir fry. Heat oil in a pan and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add mixed vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.

Stir in the canned chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes. Push everything to one side and scramble eggs in the empty space. Mix it all together.

Add cooked rice and frozen veggies. Stir-fry for a few minutes. Pour in soy sauce and sprinkle garlic powder. Mix well and cook for 2 more minutes.

For extra flavor, try adding ginger or making a simple sauce with broth, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Serve your stir fry over rice for a fast, filling meal.

17. Chicken Casserole

Chicken casserole is a comforting dish you can easily make with canned chicken. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick meal.

To make it, mix canned chicken with cooked pasta, vegetables, and cream of chicken soup. Add shredded cheese for extra flavor. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.

Bake until golden and bubbly.

This casserole is versatile – you can add different veggies or spices to suit your taste. It’s a great way to use pantry staples and feed a family with minimal effort.

18. Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Chicken lettuce wraps make a tasty, light meal using canned chicken. You can whip these up quickly for lunch or dinner.

Start by mixing drained canned chicken with chopped green onions and red bell peppers. Add some mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper to bind it together.

Spoon the chicken mixture into large lettuce leaves. Butter lettuce or romaine work well. Top with extras like shredded carrots or chopped peanuts if you like.

These wraps are easy to customize. Try adding different vegetables or seasonings to suit your taste. They’re a great way to use up leftover canned chicken.

19. Chicken Chili

Chicken chili is a tasty and simple meal you can make with canned chicken. You’ll need canned chicken breast, beans, tomatoes, and corn.

Add some broth, green chilis, and spices like cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. These give your chili great flavor.

Mix everything in a pot and let it simmer. The flavors will blend as it cooks. You can serve it with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.

This hearty dish is perfect for cold days. It’s also good for busy nights when you need a quick dinner.

20. Chicken Sliders

Chicken sliders are a tasty way to use canned chicken. Mix the chicken with mayo, diced celery, and seasonings.

Spread this on small buns or rolls. Top with cheese and lettuce for extra flavor.

You can make a big batch quickly for parties or game nights. For a twist, try BBQ sauce instead of mayo.

Add coleslaw on top for crunch. These mini sandwiches are easy to eat and fun to customize.

Chicken sliders work great as a light meal or appetizer. Kids and adults alike enjoy these handheld treats.

21. Chicken Club Sandwich

Canned chicken makes whipping up a tasty club sandwich quick and easy. Drain a can of chicken and mix it with a bit of mayo, salt, and pepper.

Spread the chicken mixture on toasted bread. Top with crispy bacon, lettuce, and tomato slices.

Add another slice of toast and repeat the layers. Finish with a third piece of toast on top.

Cut your triple-decker sandwich diagonally and secure each half with toothpicks. This protein-packed meal is perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

You can customize your club sandwich by adding cheese, avocado, or your favorite condiments. Canned chicken gives you a head start on this classic sandwich.

22. Chicken Nachos

Chicken nachos are a tasty and easy meal you can make with canned chicken. Start by spreading tortilla chips on a baking sheet.

Open a can of chicken and drain the liquid. Mix the chicken with taco seasoning for extra flavor.

Spread the seasoned chicken over the chips. Add shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and sliced jalapeños on top.

You can also include black beans or corn for more texture and nutrition. Bake the nachos in the oven until the cheese melts.

Serve hot with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa on the side. This quick dish is perfect for snacks or casual dinners.

23. Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

Chicken Alfredo Lasagna combines two comfort food favorites into one delicious dish. You’ll love this creamy twist on traditional lasagna.

Start by making a rich Alfredo sauce with butter, flour, and milk. Cook it until it thickens, then add garlic for extra flavor.

Layer lasagna noodles with the Alfredo sauce, cooked chicken, and a mixture of cheeses. Ricotta and Parmesan work well together in this recipe.

Add some spinach between layers for a pop of color and extra nutrients. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve your Chicken Alfredo Lasagna with a side salad and garlic bread. It’s a filling meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

24. Chicken Quinoa Salad

Chicken quinoa salad is a tasty and healthy meal option. You can make it easily using canned chicken.

Start by cooking quinoa according to package directions. Let it cool before mixing with other ingredients.

Open and drain a can of chicken. Chop it into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken to a bowl with the cooled quinoa.

Mix in your favorite vegetables. Try cucumber, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. For extra flavor, include canned artichokes.

Dress the salad with a simple mix of yogurt and mayonnaise. Add lemon juice for brightness. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This salad is great for lunch or a light dinner. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for quick meals.

25. Chicken Empanadas

Chicken empanadas are a tasty treat you can make with canned chicken. These handheld pies are perfect for quick meals or party snacks.

To make them, mix canned chicken with spices like garlic, onion, and chili powder. Add some tomato paste for extra flavor and color.

Fill store-bought empanada dough with your chicken mixture. Seal the edges and bake until golden brown.

You can customize your empanadas by adding cheese, corn, or diced bell peppers to the filling. Serve them warm with salsa or guacamole for dipping.

Empanadas freeze well, so make a big batch to enjoy later. Just reheat in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

26. Chicken Stromboli

Chicken stromboli is a tasty twist on pizza. It’s like a rolled-up pizza with chicken inside. You can make it with canned chicken for a quick meal.

Start by rolling out pizza dough into a rectangle. Spread pizza sauce on the dough.

Add canned chicken, shredded cheese, and any veggies you like. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from a long side.

Pinch the edges to seal. Place it on a baking sheet with the seam side down.

Brush the top with olive oil and sprinkle with herbs. Bake until golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Serve your chicken stromboli with extra sauce for dipping. It’s great for dinner or as a party snack.

Nutritional Benefits of Canned Chicken

Canned chicken packs a big nutritional punch. It gives you lots of good stuff your body needs without too many calories. Let’s look at the key nutrients you get from this handy food.

Protein Content

Canned chicken is full of protein. You get about 21 grams in just 3 ounces. That’s a lot!

Protein helps build and fix your muscles. It also keeps you feeling full longer.

Protein is great for:

• Building strength
• Healing wounds
• Making hormones
• Boosting your immune system

If you’re trying to eat more protein, canned chicken is an easy way to do it. You can add it to salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes for a quick protein boost.

Vitamin and Mineral Richness

Canned chicken gives you more than just protein. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals too. Here are some key ones:

• B vitamins: Help your body make energy
• Iron: Carries oxygen in your blood
• Zinc: Helps your immune system work well
• Selenium: An antioxidant that protects your cells

These nutrients help keep your body working right. They support your energy, blood health, and ability to fight off sickness.

Canned chicken is also low in fat. This makes it a good choice if you’re watching your weight. You get all the good stuff without extra calories from fat.

Tips for Selecting Quality Canned Chicken

Picking the right canned chicken can make a big difference in your meals. Look for key things on labels and learn about proper storage to get the best quality.

Reading Labels Effectively

Check the ingredients list first. Choose cans with just chicken, water, and maybe salt. Avoid ones with added oils or preservatives.

Look at sodium levels too. Pick low-sodium options when you can. They’re better for your health.

Check the protein content. Higher is usually better. Good cans have about 20-25 grams per serving.

Look for USDA inspection stamps. These show the chicken meets safety standards.

Pay attention to the type of chicken. Some cans use white meat, others dark meat or a mix. Pick what you like best.

Storage and Shelf Life

Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place. A pantry or cupboard works well.

Keep them off the floor and away from heat sources.

Check expiration dates before buying. Most canned chicken lasts 2-5 years. But for best quality, use within 1-2 years of purchase.

Once opened, transfer leftover chicken to an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge and use within 3-4 days.

Don’t use cans that are dented, rusty, or bulging. These may not be safe to eat.

Freeze leftover canned chicken to make it last longer. It will keep for 2-3 months in the freezer.