Why leftover roast chicken is so useful
Leftover roast chicken already solves the hardest part of dinner: protein. The goal is not to recreate a full roast dinner. The goal is to pair the chicken with a fast base and something that adds moisture or flavor.
Best ways to use leftover roast chicken
- chicken fried rice
- chicken quesadillas
- chicken and vegetable pasta
- chicken soup with rice or noodles
- grain bowls with roasted vegetables
- sandwiches with mustard or mayonnaise
- chicken salad with herbs and lemon
- one-pan chicken and beans
Good ingredient pairings
Leftover roast chicken works especially well with:
- rice
- pasta
- tortillas
- potatoes
- frozen peas
- carrots
- spinach
- canned beans
- yogurt or mayonnaise
- mustard
- pesto
- stock
8 quick meal examples
1. Chicken fried rice
Use cooked rice, leftover chicken, frozen peas, soy sauce, and one egg if you have it.
2. Chicken pasta skillet
Warm the chicken with cooked pasta, olive oil, garlic, spinach, and grated cheese.
3. Chicken wrap
Add chicken, lettuce, yogurt or mayo, and any leftover vegetables to a tortilla.
4. Chicken soup
Simmer stock, chicken, carrots, onion, and noodles or rice until everything is hot and tender.
5. Chicken and beans
Cook onion, tomato paste, beans, and chicken together for a fast skillet meal.
6. Chicken toasties
Layer chicken, mustard, cheese, and greens between slices of bread.
7. Chicken grain bowl
Use rice or quinoa, chicken, roasted vegetables, and a strong sauce.
8. Chicken potato hash
Crisp potatoes in a pan, then add onions, chicken, and herbs.
Do not let it dry out
Leftover chicken improves when you add moisture. Use one of these:
- stock
- yogurt
- mayonnaise
- olive oil
- tomato sauce
- pesto
- lemon juice