Transform your fried chicken leftovers into new and exciting dishes with these creative recipes. Whether you have 30 minutes or a little more time, these dinner recipes will give that golden brown goodness a new lease on life.
There are a lot of different ways to enjoy cooked chicken, from creamy chicken casseroles to pasta salads. Each recipe card promises a tasty recipe. So grab that casserole dish or air fryer, and lets get cooking!.
This Chicken Preparing this dish is a breeze and within 30 minutes, youll be taking a golden brown, bubbling casserole out of the oven, ready to satisfy those hungry bellies around the table.
Make sure to sprinkle a generous amount of parmesan cheese on top for that chicken parmesan casserole twist. Its a one-dish that brings together all the flavors of home-cooked perfection.
Chicken Waldorf Salad Bites are a delightful way to use up leftover fried chicken. These little appetizers are packed with fresh veggies and are perfect for when you want something light yet satisfying. Theyre so easy to put together, making them an excellent choice for a quick snack or a fancy addition to your party spread.
Simply chop your cooked chicken and mix it with the crisp textures of fresh produce. The combination is not only tasty but also presents beautifully, ensuring your guests or family are impressed with every bite.
For a hearty and refreshing meal, try this Fried Chicken Salad. Its a fantastic way to repurpose those fried chicken tenders, pairing them with fresh veggies and drizzled with creamy ranch dressing. Its the kind of dish that brings a satisfying crunch and rich flavors all in one bowl.
Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. This salad is not only a treat to your taste buds but also a visually appealing meal thats perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are a playful twist on classic buffalo chicken wings. The tender chicken is enveloped in spices and cream cheese, creating a mouthwatering filling thats scooped into the soft flesh of baked sweet potatoes. Topped with cheddar cheese, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream, each bite is a blend of spicy, creamy, and sweet flavors.
This dish is a creative potato bake alternative thats sure to impress your guests. The fresh herbs add a burst of freshness, and the enchilada sauce brings a zesty kick that ties everything together in harmony.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup is ideal for chilly nights or when youre in need of some coziness. This soup allows you to shred your leftover chicken and add it to a creamy, rich broth thats filled with soft, pillowy gnocchi and vegetables. Its a soothing dish thats both nourishing and indulgent.
Enjoy the warmth and heartiness of this soup with family or save leftovers for a quick lunch throughout the week. Its a recipe thats as satisfying to make as it is to eat, and is sure to become a new favorite.
Looking for a quick and flavorful meal? Peanut Noodles With Chicken is the perfect choice. In just 20 minutes, you can have a dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and savory sauce made from brown sugar and peanut butter. Its a simple yet exotic treat that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Thailand.
The sauce clings to every noodle, ensuring each forkful is as delicious as the last. This meal is not only quick to make but also incredibly satisfying, making it a weeknight winner in any household.
Recreate the classic chicken sandwich at home with this Popeyes Chicken Sandwich recipe. The result is a tender fried chicken on a soft bun, dressed with crisp lettuce and creamy mayo. For an extra twist, add sliced avocado to elevate the sandwich with a rich, buttery texture.
This homemade version brings all the flavor of the fast-food favorite right to your kitchen. Its a satisfying lunch or dinner option thats sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Who needs a drive-thru when you can make it better at home?
For an Asian-inspired meal, try this Fried Chicken Over Rice recipe. This dish takes chicken fried rice to the next level by incorporating juicy pieces of leftover fried chicken. The soy sauce and egg fried rice create a savory base thats perfect for the crispy chicken to nestle into.
Using leftover rice not only saves time but also ensures the perfect texture for your fried rice. This easy-to-make dish is great for a quick dinner and even better as next-day lunch, with flavors that continue to meld overnight.
Chicken Paksiw is a Filipino dish that gives a tangy and slightly sweet twist to your leftover fried chicken. It can be prepared in 30 minutes and is known for its unique blend of vinegar and garlic flavors. This dish is typically enjoyed with rice, soaking up the delicious sauce for a truly enjoyable experience.
Its a simple yet satisfying meal that showcases the versatility of fried chicken leftovers. The ease of preparation and depth of flavor make Chicken Paksiw a must-try for anyone looking to explore international cuisines in the comfort of their own kitchen.
Leftover Chicken Quesadillas offer a cheesy and delicious way to use up your fried chicken. With a prep and cook time totaling 30 minutes, you can have a warm, melty meal thats perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. The crispy exterior of the quesadilla perfectly complements the savory chicken and cheese filling inside.
These quesadillas are not only easy to make but also customizable with your favorite toppings and sides. Whether you prefer sour cream, salsa, or guacamole, these quesadillas will satisfy your Mexican food cravings.
Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a fresh and light option for a meal thats satisfying and healthy. The green onions and chili sauce add a punch of flavor to the cheesy chicken wrap, while the crisp lettuce leaves serve as the perfect vessel for the savory chicken meat.
This salad wrap is a great way to enjoy the flavors of a hearty meal without the heaviness. Plus, theyre fun to assemble, making them an interactive option for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Indulge in the Italian flavors of a Chicken Pesto Panini, where grilled chicken meets the aromatic taste of fresh basil and the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of mozzarella cheese. This sandwich is a gourmet treat thats surprisingly easy to put together, making it a great choice for a quick yet sophisticated meal.
The pesto adds a bright and herby flavor that perfectly complements the chicken, while the grilled bread adds a satisfying crunch. Its a delightful combination that will have you feeling like youre dining in a cafe along the cobblestone streets of Italy.
Transform your leftover fried chicken into something exciting with fried chicken tacos. Simply arrange the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet to reheat. Once warm, shred the fried chicken breast and tuck it into soft tortillas. These tacos are not just filling and delicious, but they are a cinch to make. For added freshness, top with your favorite veggies and a dollop of sour cream.
For a quick and tasty snack, chicken nachos are the way to go. Spread out some tortilla chips on a tray and scatter pieces of leftover fried chicken on top. Sprinkle it with cheese and pop it into the oven until melted. The sour cream adds a cool creaminess to the dish, complementing the added flavor from any salsa or guacamole you choose to add. A perfect dish for sharing or a solo treat!
When the craving for comfort food strikes, Tuscan style chicken soup is a heartwarming choice. Shred your leftover chicken and add it to a simmering pot of soup brimming with veggies and Italian herbs. This soup is not just nourishing, but its a great way to use up those pieces of chicken from the night before. Serve with crusty bread for the ultimate cozy meal.
Adding leftover fried chicken to any meal boosts the protein content and gives dishes a hearty twist. Whether its nachos for a casual get-together or a bowl of soup, your leftovers will never be boring. Always remember to bring your chicken to room temperature before incorporating it into your recipes for the best results. With these ideas, youll be turning last nights dinner into todays delicious creation.
Leftover Fried Chicken Recipes
Anyone ever look at their leftover fried chicken and wonder, “What the heck am I going to do with this?” We’ve all been there. That golden, crispy goodness that was so great yesterday tastes a little less exciting the next day. But don’t you dare throw it away! I’m about to show you some seriously delicious ways to turn those leftovers into meals that might even taste BETTER than the original.
As Merriam-Webster defines it, to “use” means “to put into action or service” or “to employ” something And that’s exactly what we’re gonna do with that chicken! We’re gonna put those leftovers to good USE (see what I did there?) instead of letting them go to waste
Why Leftover Fried Chicken Deserves a Second Chance
Before diving into recipes let’s talk about why leftover fried chicken is actually a blessing
- It’s already cooked – Half the work is done!
- The flavor has deepened – Sometimes chicken tastes even better the next day
- It’s versatile – Works in almost any dish that calls for cooked chicken
- Saves money – Repurposing food reduces waste and stretches your food budget
The good stuff now comes next: 15 clever and tasty ways to use up your leftover fried chicken.
1. Chicken & Dumpling Casserole – Comfort Food Heaven
This is one of my absolute favorites when I’ve got leftover breaded chicken! It takes that crispy coating and combines it with a cheesy casserole that’ll make your family think you spent hours in the kitchen.
What you’ll need:
- Leftover fried chicken, shredded or chopped
- Refrigerated biscuit dough
- Chicken broth
- Frozen mixed vegetables
- Cream of chicken soup
- Parmesan cheese
Simply mix everything except the biscuits and cheese, pour into a casserole dish, top with biscuit pieces, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until golden brown and bubbly (about 30 mins). The result? A one-dish wonder that tastes like home-cooked perfection!
2. Chicken Waldorf Salad Bites – Fancy Appetizers in Minutes
Need something that feels fancy but takes minimal effort? These little bites are perfect for using up leftover chicken tenders.
Chop your fried chicken into small pieces and mix with:
- Diced apples
- Grapes (halved)
- Celery
- Walnuts
- Light mayo or yogurt
Spread the mixture on crackers or lettuce leaves for a quick appetizer that will impress everyone!
3. Fried Chicken Salad – Healthy-ish Option
When you want something a bit lighter but still satisfying:
- Arrange mixed greens on a plate
- Top with chopped leftover fried chicken
- Add cucumber, tomatoes, and your favorite veggies
- Drizzle with ranch dressing (or vinaigrette if you’re feeling virtuous)
- Garnish with fresh parsley
The contrast between the crisp veggies and the rich chicken makes this salad something special!
4. Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes – Sweet Meets Spicy
OMG, you guys. This combo is INSANE. The sweet potato + spicy buffalo chicken = flavor explosion!
- Bake sweet potatoes until tender
- Shred leftover chicken and mix with buffalo sauce and a bit of cream cheese
- Split open potatoes and fill with chicken mixture
- Top with cheddar cheese, green onions, and sour cream
The spicy-sweet-creamy combo is seriously addictive.
5. Chicken Gnocchi Soup – Cozy Bowl of Comfort
Perfect for chilly evenings or when someone’s feeling under the weather:
Ingredients:
- Leftover fried chicken, skin removed and shredded
- Store-bought gnocchi
- Chicken broth
- Heavy cream
- Spinach
- Carrots and celery
- Italian seasoning
The chicken adds richness to the broth, and the gnocchi makes it extra filling. Plus, it’s ready in about 30 minutes!
6. Peanut Noodles With Chicken – Quick Asian-Inspired Meal
This is my go-to when I want something that tastes like takeout but is ready in 20 minutes:
- Cook spaghetti or rice noodles according to package
- Make a sauce with peanut butter, soy sauce, brown sugar, and a splash of rice vinegar
- Chop leftover chicken and toss with noodles and sauce
- Garnish with green onions and crushed peanuts
The sauce clings to every noodle, making each bite delicious!
7. Homemade Chicken Sandwich – Better Than Fast Food
Why go to Popeyes when you can make your own amazing sandwich?
- Warm up your leftover chicken (air fryer works great here!)
- Butter and toast a soft bun
- Add mayo (or spicy mayo), crisp lettuce, and pickles
- Optional: add sliced avocado for extra yumminess
It’s so simple but SO good.
8. Fried Chicken Over Rice – Asian-Inspired Comfort Food
This dish turns ordinary rice into something special:
- Make egg fried rice with leftover rice, soy sauce, and scrambled eggs
- Chop up your leftover chicken and warm it
- Place chicken over the fried rice
- Drizzle with sriracha or sweet chili sauce
It’s like chicken fried rice but with juicy pieces of fried chicken instead!
9. Chicken Paksiw – Filipino-Style Chicken
This is something different that’ll wake up your taste buds:
Ingredients:
- Leftover fried chicken
- Vinegar
- Garlic
- Soy sauce
- Brown sugar
- Bay leaves
Simmer everything together for about 15-20 minutes until the flavors meld. Serve over rice for a tangy, slightly sweet dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes!
10. Leftover Chicken Quesadillas – Cheesy Perfection
This is probably the easiest option on the list, but sometimes the simplest things are the most delicious:
- Shred or chop your leftover chicken
- Place between two tortillas with plenty of shredded cheese
- Add some diced jalapeños if you’re feeling spicy
- Cook in a skillet until golden and crispy on both sides
Serve with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole. YUM!
11. Chicken Lettuce Wraps – Light and Fresh
When you want something lighter:
- Chop leftover chicken into small pieces
- Mix with green onions, water chestnuts, and a sauce made from soy sauce, hoisin, and chili sauce
- Warm the mixture slightly
- Serve in crisp lettuce leaves
It’s like a salad and a wrap had a delicious baby!
12. Chicken Pesto Panini – Italian-Inspired Sandwich
Upgrade your sandwich game with this fancy option:
- Layer chicken, pesto, sliced tomato, and mozzarella between slices of good bread
- Brush outside with olive oil
- Grill in a panini press or heavy skillet until golden and cheese is melty
The pesto adds such amazing flavor to the chicken!
13. Fried Chicken Tacos – Taco Tuesday Upgrade
Tacos make everything better, including leftover chicken:
- Reheat chicken pieces on a baking sheet
- Shred the meat (you can leave some crispy bits attached)
- Warm corn tortillas
- Fill with chicken and top with slaw, avocado, and your favorite hot sauce
These are SO much better than basic ground beef tacos!
14. Chicken Nachos – Perfect for Game Day
The ultimate crowd-pleaser:
- Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet
- Top with chopped leftover chicken and plenty of cheese
- Bake until cheese melts
- Add dollops of sour cream, guacamole, and salsa
Pro tip: make individual portions so everyone gets plenty of toppings!
15. Tuscan Style Chicken Soup – Hearty and Satisfying
End our list with a comforting soup that’s perfect for any season:
Ingredients:
- Leftover fried chicken, shredded
- Cannellini beans
- Kale or spinach
- Diced tomatoes
- Italian herbs
- Chicken broth
- Garlic and onion
After letting it all cook together for 20 minutes, you’ll have a healthy meal that tastes like it took hours!
Tips for Working with Leftover Fried Chicken
To get the best results when repurposing your leftovers:
- Bring to room temperature before adding to recipes (unless you’re reheating first)
- Remove the skin if it’s gotten soggy (but keep it if it’s still crispy!)
- Don’t microwave if you want to maintain any crispiness (use oven or air fryer instead)
- Store properly in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days
Wrapping Up
Next time you’ve got leftover fried chicken sitting in your fridge, don’t just reheat it and call it a day! Try one of these creative recipes to give that chicken new life. Your taste buds (and wallet) will thank you.
And remember, these are just starting points. Feel free to get creative and adapt these ideas based on what you have in your pantry. The best meals sometimes come from improvisation!
Have you tried any of these recipes? Do you have other favorite ways to use leftover fried chicken? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!
Virginia Boys Kitchens offers premium wooden kitchenware that’s perfect for preparing and serving all these delicious leftover chicken creations. Check out their cutting boards and serving trays to elevate your cooking experience!
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Transform your fried chicken leftovers into new and exciting dishes with these creative recipes. Whether you have 30 minutes or a little more time, these dinner recipes will give that golden brown goodness a new lease on life.
There are a lot of different ways to enjoy cooked chicken, from creamy chicken casseroles to pasta salads. Each recipe card promises a tasty recipe. So grab that casserole dish or air fryer, and lets get cooking!.
Photo Credit: thecountrycook.net
This Chicken Preparing this dish is a breeze and within 30 minutes, youll be taking a golden brown, bubbling casserole out of the oven, ready to satisfy those hungry bellies around the table.
Make sure to sprinkle a generous amount of parmesan cheese on top for that chicken parmesan casserole twist. Its a one-dish that brings together all the flavors of home-cooked perfection.
Photo Credit: dontgobaconmyheart.co.uk
Chicken Waldorf Salad Bites are a delightful way to use up leftover fried chicken. These little appetizers are packed with fresh veggies and are perfect for when you want something light yet satisfying. Theyre so easy to put together, making them an excellent choice for a quick snack or a fancy addition to your party spread.
Simply chop your cooked chicken and mix it with the crisp textures of fresh produce. The combination is not only tasty but also presents beautifully, ensuring your guests or family are impressed with every bite.
Photo Credit: seriouseats.com
For a hearty and refreshing meal, try this Fried Chicken Salad. Its a fantastic way to repurpose those fried chicken tenders, pairing them with fresh veggies and drizzled with creamy ranch dressing. Its the kind of dish that brings a satisfying crunch and rich flavors all in one bowl.
Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. This salad is not only a treat to your taste buds but also a visually appealing meal thats perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Photo Credit: peasandcrayons.com
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are a playful twist on classic buffalo chicken wings. The tender chicken is enveloped in spices and cream cheese, creating a mouthwatering filling thats scooped into the soft flesh of baked sweet potatoes. Topped with cheddar cheese, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream, each bite is a blend of spicy, creamy, and sweet flavors.
This dish is a creative potato bake alternative thats sure to impress your guests. The fresh herbs add a burst of freshness, and the enchilada sauce brings a zesty kick that ties everything together in harmony.
Photo Credit: therecipecritic.com
Chicken Gnocchi Soup is ideal for chilly nights or when youre in need of some coziness. This soup allows you to shred your leftover chicken and add it to a creamy, rich broth thats filled with soft, pillowy gnocchi and vegetables. Its a soothing dish thats both nourishing and indulgent.
Enjoy the warmth and heartiness of this soup with family or save leftovers for a quick lunch throughout the week. Its a recipe thats as satisfying to make as it is to eat, and is sure to become a new favorite.
Photo Credit: damndelicious.net
Looking for a quick and flavorful meal? Peanut Noodles With Chicken is the perfect choice. In just 20 minutes, you can have a dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and savory sauce made from brown sugar and peanut butter. Its a simple yet exotic treat that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Thailand.
The sauce clings to every noodle, ensuring each forkful is as delicious as the last. This meal is not only quick to make but also incredibly satisfying, making it a weeknight winner in any household.
Photo Credit: littlesunnykitchen.com
Recreate the classic chicken sandwich at home with this Popeyes Chicken Sandwich recipe. The result is a tender fried chicken on a soft bun, dressed with crisp lettuce and creamy mayo. For an extra twist, add sliced avocado to elevate the sandwich with a rich, buttery texture.
This homemade version brings all the flavor of the fast-food favorite right to your kitchen. Its a satisfying lunch or dinner option thats sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Who needs a drive-thru when you can make it better at home?
Photo Credit: chopsticksandflour.com
For an Asian-inspired meal, try this Fried Chicken Over Rice recipe. This dish takes chicken fried rice to the next level by incorporating juicy pieces of leftover fried chicken. The soy sauce and egg fried rice create a savory base thats perfect for the crispy chicken to nestle into.
Using leftover rice not only saves time but also ensures the perfect texture for your fried rice. This easy-to-make dish is great for a quick dinner and even better as next-day lunch, with flavors that continue to meld overnight.
Photo Credit: panlasangpinoy.com
Chicken Paksiw is a Filipino dish that gives a tangy and slightly sweet twist to your leftover fried chicken. It can be prepared in 30 minutes and is known for its unique blend of vinegar and garlic flavors. This dish is typically enjoyed with rice, soaking up the delicious sauce for a truly enjoyable experience.
Its a simple yet satisfying meal that showcases the versatility of fried chicken leftovers. The ease of preparation and depth of flavor make Chicken Paksiw a must-try for anyone looking to explore international cuisines in the comfort of their own kitchen.
Photo Credit: gimmedelicious.com
Leftover Chicken Quesadillas offer a cheesy and delicious way to use up your fried chicken. With a prep and cook time totaling 30 minutes, you can have a warm, melty meal thats perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. The crispy exterior of the quesadilla perfectly complements the savory chicken and cheese filling inside.
These quesadillas are not only easy to make but also customizable with your favorite toppings and sides. Whether you prefer sour cream, salsa, or guacamole, these quesadillas will satisfy your Mexican food cravings.
Photo Credit: dailydiylife.com
Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a fresh and light option for a meal thats satisfying and healthy. The green onions and chili sauce add a punch of flavor to the cheesy chicken wrap, while the crisp lettuce leaves serve as the perfect vessel for the savory chicken meat.
This salad wrap is a great way to enjoy the flavors of a hearty meal without the heaviness. Plus, theyre fun to assemble, making them an interactive option for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Photo Credit: easyhealthyrecipes.com
Indulge in the Italian flavors of a Chicken Pesto Panini, where grilled chicken meets the aromatic taste of fresh basil and the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of mozzarella cheese. This sandwich is a gourmet treat thats surprisingly easy to put together, making it a great choice for a quick yet sophisticated meal.
The pesto adds a bright and herby flavor that perfectly complements the chicken, while the grilled bread adds a satisfying crunch. Its a delightful combination that will have you feeling like youre dining in a cafe along the cobblestone streets of Italy.
Photo Credit: joeats.net
Transform your leftover fried chicken into something exciting with fried chicken tacos. Simply arrange the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet to reheat. Once warm, shred the fried chicken breast and tuck it into soft tortillas. These tacos are not just filling and delicious, but they are a cinch to make. For added freshness, top with your favorite veggies and a dollop of sour cream.
Photo Credit: recipetineats.com
For a quick and tasty snack, chicken nachos are the way to go. Spread out some tortilla chips on a tray and scatter pieces of leftover fried chicken on top. Sprinkle it with cheese and pop it into the oven until melted. The sour cream adds a cool creaminess to the dish, complementing the added flavor from any salsa or guacamole you choose to add. A perfect dish for sharing or a solo treat!
Photo Credit: kitchensanctuary.com
When the craving for comfort food strikes, Tuscan style chicken soup is a heartwarming choice. Shred your leftover chicken and add it to a simmering pot of soup brimming with veggies and Italian herbs. This soup is not just nourishing, but its a great way to use up those pieces of chicken from the night before. Serve with crusty bread for the ultimate cozy meal.
Adding leftover fried chicken to any meal boosts the protein content and gives dishes a hearty twist. Whether its nachos for a casual get-together or a bowl of soup, your leftovers will never be boring. Always remember to bring your chicken to room temperature before incorporating it into your recipes for the best results. With these ideas, youll be turning last nights dinner into todays delicious creation.
HOW TO USE UP LEFTOVER FRIED CHICKEN FOR A QUICK MEAL/OLD SCHOOL SKILLET SMOTHERED CHICKEN
FAQ
What to do with leftover chicken fried chicken?
15 Best Leftover Fried Chicken Recipes You Have to TryChicken & Dumpling Casserole. Chicken Waldorf Salad Bites. Fried Chicken Salad. Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes. Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Peanut Noodles With Chicken. Popeyes Chicken Sandwich. Fried Chicken Over Rice.
What could I make with leftover cooked chicken?
Leftover chicken dinnersWaste-nothing chicken & dumpling stew. Easy leftover chicken curry. Leftover roast chicken pad Thai. Chicken & mushroom hot-pot. Chicken & leek filo pie. Spanish-style chicken pie. Roast chicken & pea risotto. Easy chicken & bean enchiladas.
What to do with left over KFC?
A Little KFC® Goes A Long WayCHICKEN BACON RANCH CRESCENT ROLL-UPS. ROLL THEM UP AND CHOW THEM DOWN. INGREDIENTS. BUFFALO CHICKEN MAC AND CHEESE. MAC AND CHEESE = GOOD. CHICKEN ENCHILADA NACHOS. IF YOU THOUGHT NACHOS COULDN’T GET ANY BETTER, YOU’D BE WRONG. KFC® SHEPHERD’S PIE. A BRITISH CLASSIC GETS A KENTUCKY FRIED TWIST.