Leftover chicken is one of the most versatile ingredients you can have in your fridge. Whether you’ve roasted a whole chicken or have some extra from last night’s dinner, it’s the perfect base for quick, easy, and delicious lunch recipes.
Instead of letting your leftover chicken go to waste, why not transform it into mouthwatering meals?
From sandwiches and salads to soups and wraps, there are countless ways to use leftover chicken for a satisfying lunch that saves both time and money.
In this blog article, we’ve compiled over 50 creative leftover chicken lunch recipes that will take your leftovers to the next level.
Whether you’re craving something light and fresh or hearty and filling, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your taste and make the most out of your leftover chicken.
Let’s dive into the world of easy, tasty, and satisfying lunches that are both quick to prepare and full of flavor.
50+ Easy Leftover Chicken Lunch Recipes for Every Taste and Craving
Leftover chicken is an incredible ingredient that can be transformed into so many different meals. From hearty soups and salads to comforting sandwiches and wraps, there’s no limit to what you can create.
These 50+ leftover chicken lunch recipes not only help reduce food waste but also ensure that you’re enjoying a flavorful, satisfying meal every time.
Whether you’re looking for a quick fix or something a bit more elaborate, these recipes will inspire you to make the most out of your leftovers and turn them into something exciting.
Say goodbye to boring meals and hello to creative, delicious lunch ideas that everyone will love.
Get cooking, and discover how easy it is to make the most of your leftover chicken!
Leftover Chicken Salad Wraps
Leftover chicken can easily be transformed into a light and fresh meal by making a chicken salad wrap. Packed with protein and crunchy vegetables, this wrap is perfect for a quick lunch. The combination of tender chicken, creamy dressing, and crisp veggies wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover chicken, shredded or chopped
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 small carrot, shredded
- ½ red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 whole wheat tortillas
- Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the leftover chicken, Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), Dijon mustard, honey (if using), lemon juice, and parsley. Mix well.
- Add the chopped celery, shredded carrot, and red onion to the bowl and stir until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Lay the tortillas flat on a clean surface. If desired, place a few lettuce leaves on each tortilla.
- Spoon the chicken salad mixture onto each tortilla, then roll them up tightly to form wraps.
- Slice the wraps in half and serve immediately, or wrap them in foil for a packed lunch.
This chicken salad wrap recipe is an ideal way to breathe new life into your leftover chicken. It’s versatile enough to adjust to your tastes—add fruits like grapes or apples for extra sweetness or throw in some nuts for crunch. Whether enjoyed fresh or packed for a later lunch, these wraps offer a balanced, satisfying meal that’s both quick and nourishing.
Leftover Chicken Fried Rice
Transform your leftover chicken into a hearty and flavorful fried rice dish that’s both filling and easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients like day-old rice, vegetables, and savory soy sauce, this dish is a great way to clear out the fridge while enjoying a delicious meal. It’s an ideal lunch that you can customize to suit your flavor preferences.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover chicken, diced
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Once hot, add the beaten eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and soft.
- Add the diced leftover chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through.
- Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for another 2-3 minutes until tender.
- Add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and rice vinegar. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the rice to crisp slightly on the edges.
- Add the scrambled eggs back into the pan and stir everything to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Leftover chicken fried rice is the perfect lunch solution for those who want a satisfying, savory meal that comes together in minutes. It’s a customizable dish—feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the seasoning to suit your tastes. The key to this recipe is using day-old rice, which creates that ideal texture and absorbs the flavors beautifully. Whether as a solo meal or paired with a side salad, this fried rice is sure to become a go-to dish for leftovers.
Leftover Chicken Quesadillas
These cheesy and crispy leftover chicken quesadillas are a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty lunch with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and seasoned fillings all tucked inside a golden tortilla makes for a flavor-packed meal. Ideal for a satisfying and quick lunch, these quesadillas are sure to please everyone in the family.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover chicken, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Salsa, sour cream, and guacamole for dipping (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until softened and slightly caramelized.
- Add the shredded chicken to the skillet along with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the chicken.
- Heat a separate large skillet over medium-high heat. Place one tortilla in the pan and sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
- Add a quarter of the chicken mixture over the cheese, then place another tortilla on top.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the bottom tortilla is golden and crispy. Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the skillet and slice into wedges. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Serve the quesadillas with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole on the side.
Leftover chicken quesadillas are a quick, easy, and utterly delicious lunch option. With the crunchy tortillas, melty cheese, and flavorful chicken filling, these quesadillas are sure to satisfy even the hungriest appetites. They’re perfect for customizing with additional toppings or sides like avocado or a simple salad. Whether enjoyed solo or shared with others, these quesadillas offer the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken while creating a memorable meal.
Leftover Chicken and Avocado Sandwiches
Transform your leftover chicken into a creamy and satisfying sandwich with this easy recipe. The addition of creamy avocado, fresh vegetables, and your favorite bread makes for a delicious, filling lunch. This sandwich offers a great balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, and it’s perfect for a quick meal that feels both indulgent and nutritious.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover chicken, shredded or sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 4 slices whole-grain bread (or your preferred bread)
- 1 tomato, sliced
- Lettuce or spinach leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mash the avocado and mix it with the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a creamy spread.
- Toast the bread slices to your desired level of crispness.
- Spread the avocado mixture evenly onto each slice of toasted bread.
- On two slices of bread, layer the leftover chicken, tomato slices, and lettuce or spinach.
- Top with the remaining slices of bread and serve immediately.
This leftover chicken and avocado sandwich is a flavorful, wholesome lunch that combines creamy avocado with the savory richness of chicken. It’s an easy recipe to prepare and customize—add pickles, onions, or even a slice of cheese to make it your own. The combination of textures and flavors makes each bite satisfying, while the healthy fats from the avocado ensure you feel nourished and full. Ideal for busy days, this sandwich will quickly become a go-to for a delicious, no-fuss meal.
Leftover Chicken Pesto Pasta
If you’re craving a flavorful and comforting lunch, this leftover chicken pesto pasta is the perfect solution. The rich, herby pesto pairs beautifully with tender chicken and pasta, creating a dish that feels indulgent but comes together quickly. It’s a versatile recipe that you can adjust based on your preferred pasta shape or pesto ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups cooked pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite shape)
- ½ cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced or shredded leftover chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
- Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the chicken and stir in the pesto, making sure everything is well-coated.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve the pasta garnished with fresh basil, if desired.
This leftover chicken pesto pasta is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that can be made in under 20 minutes. The pesto gives the chicken and pasta a rich, aromatic flavor that elevates the entire meal. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken while enjoying a comforting, satisfying lunch. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this dish is perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight lunch. The fresh basil and Parmesan add a touch of elegance, making it feel like a special treat without the fuss.
Leftover Chicken Tacos
Leftover chicken makes an excellent filling for tacos, creating a tasty and customizable lunch in no time. Paired with your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, and sour cream, these tacos are an easy way to use up leftover chicken while satisfying your cravings for something flavorful and fun to eat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover chicken, shredded
- 8 small soft corn or flour tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup diced onion
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Salsa, sour cream, or hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded leftover chicken and sprinkle with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for about 5 minutes, until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
- While the chicken cooks, warm the tortillas in a separate skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
- Once the chicken is ready, assemble the tacos by spooning the chicken into each tortilla.
- Top with diced onions, tomatoes, lettuce, and avocado slices.
- Add salsa, sour cream, or hot sauce for extra flavor, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Leftover chicken tacos are a quick and delicious way to turn leftovers into a fun, handheld lunch. The taco format lets you customize each one with your favorite toppings, from tangy salsa to creamy avocado. The spiced chicken brings a savory depth to each bite, making these tacos an exciting and satisfying meal. Perfect for a casual lunch or a light dinner, these tacos are always a hit and can be easily adapted to suit your dietary preferences or what’s available in your fridge. Whether for a solo meal or a family gathering, leftover chicken tacos are a crowd-pleaser.
Leftover Chicken Caesar Salad
Turn your leftover chicken into a hearty and refreshing Caesar salad with this simple yet delicious recipe. The savory dressing, crunchy croutons, and fresh greens create a classic Caesar salad, while the addition of chicken transforms it into a fulfilling, protein-packed lunch. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for warm days or when you want a light yet satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover chicken, shredded or chopped
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- ½ cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for grilling chicken)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- If desired, heat a skillet with olive oil over medium heat and briefly warm the leftover chicken, just for 2-3 minutes, until heated through. This step is optional if you prefer the chicken cold.
- In a large bowl, toss the chopped romaine lettuce with the Caesar dressing, ensuring the leaves are evenly coated.
- Add the shredded or chopped chicken to the salad and toss again to combine.
- Top the salad with grated Parmesan cheese and croutons for crunch.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh citrus touch.
Leftover chicken Caesar salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an easy and satisfying lunch. The creamy Caesar dressing pairs beautifully with the protein-rich chicken, while the crunchy croutons add that classic touch. This salad is customizable, so you can add extras like cherry tomatoes, bacon bits, or even avocado to suit your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a filling meal, this Caesar salad with chicken is quick to make and always delicious.
Leftover Chicken and Black Bean Chili
This hearty leftover chicken and black bean chili is a perfect comfort food lunch that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Combining tender chicken with fiber-rich black beans, tomatoes, and a mix of spices creates a savory and filling chili that’s easy to make and perfect for any time of year. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken while enjoying a flavorful, one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover chicken, shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped cilantro and sour cream for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Stir in the shredded leftover chicken, black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Allow the chili to cook for 15-20 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve the chili hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Leftover chicken and black bean chili is a comforting and satisfying lunch that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy days. The hearty chicken, fiber-rich black beans, and aromatic spices create a rich and flavorful dish that will warm you up from the inside out. You can easily customize this chili by adding other vegetables like corn or zucchini, or even top it with shredded cheese for extra richness. Whether you’re making it for yourself or serving it to a group, this chili is a great way to enjoy your leftover chicken in a hearty and delicious way.
Leftover Chicken Frittata
Leftover chicken makes a wonderful addition to a frittata, which is a versatile and satisfying dish perfect for lunch. This Italian-inspired recipe combines eggs, chicken, and fresh vegetables, all cooked together into a fluffy, golden frittata. It’s a great way to use leftovers while enjoying a delicious, protein-packed meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover chicken, shredded or diced
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (or cream for a richer frittata)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup spinach or kale (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add the shredded leftover chicken and spinach or kale (if using) to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes, just to heat through.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the frittata.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the frittata is set and golden brown on top.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve.
A leftover chicken frittata is a wonderful way to enjoy a hearty, nutritious lunch with minimal effort. The combination of eggs, chicken, and vegetables creates a filling dish that is both satisfying and packed with protein. You can easily customize the frittata with different veggies or cheeses based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile meal for any occasion. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this frittata is perfect for meal prep and is a great way to use up leftover chicken while enjoying a delicious, wholesome lunch.
Leftover Chicken Quesadilla
A leftover chicken quesadilla is the ultimate quick and satisfying lunch, perfect for busy days or when you have a craving for something cheesy and savory. Combining leftover chicken with cheese, spices, and tortillas, this easy recipe is packed with flavor and texture. With its crispy exterior and melty interior, this quesadilla is a go-to option for a tasty meal in minutes.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover chicken, shredded
- 4 flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Sour cream and salsa for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and cook for 4-5 minutes until soft.
- Add the shredded leftover chicken to the pan along with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through.
- Heat a separate skillet over medium heat and place one tortilla in the pan. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top of the tortilla.
- Spoon half of the chicken mixture evenly over the cheese, then top with another layer of cheese.
- Place a second tortilla on top and press down gently. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the bottom tortilla is golden and crispy.
- Flip the quesadilla carefully and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the second side is golden brown and the cheese has melted inside.
- Remove from the pan and cut into wedges. Serve with sour cream and salsa if desired.
Leftover chicken quesadillas are a fantastic way to use up extra chicken while enjoying a flavorful, cheesy meal. The combination of melted cheese, savory chicken, and spices creates a rich, satisfying dish with a crispy crunch. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch, and the best part is that you can customize the filling with whatever ingredients you have on hand—adding things like jalapeños, corn, or avocado for extra flavor. Whether you’re craving comfort food or something easy to prepare, this quesadilla is sure to hit the spot.
Leftover Chicken Fried Rice
Leftover chicken fried rice is a quick and flavorful lunch that turns your leftovers into an entirely new dish. Packed with veggies, rice, and tender chicken, this dish is not only a delicious way to repurpose leftover chicken but also an easy and customizable option. With a few pantry staples and a wok or skillet, you can create a satisfying, one-pan meal in no time.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover chicken, diced
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the peas and carrots to the pan and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them with the vegetables.
- Add the diced leftover chicken and rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps of rice.
- Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, and sugar, and cook for 4-5 minutes until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy on the bottom.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Leftover chicken fried rice is a fantastic way to transform leftover chicken into a flavorful, hearty lunch. The combination of savory soy sauce, vegetables, and tender chicken creates a well-rounded meal that can be made in just one pan. This recipe is customizable, so feel free to add any leftover veggies or extra spices to match your taste. Whether you’re making it for yourself or for the whole family, chicken fried rice is a satisfying and easy dish that’s perfect for a quick and delicious lunch.
Leftover Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Leftover chicken stuffed peppers are a delicious and healthy lunch option that turns your leftover chicken into a comforting, flavorful dish. The chicken is mixed with rice, spices, and cheese, then stuffed into bell peppers and baked until golden and tender. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to add other veggies or top the peppers with your favorite cheese for extra flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover chicken, shredded or diced
- 4 large bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
- 1 cup cooked rice
- ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup salsa (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded leftover chicken, cooked rice, black beans (if using), cumin, chili powder, and half of the cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stuff the bell peppers with the chicken and rice mixture, pressing it down gently.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of each pepper, and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve with salsa if desired.
Leftover chicken stuffed peppers are a nutritious and filling lunch that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare. The combination of chicken, rice, and spices creates a delicious filling, while the roasted bell peppers add sweetness and texture. This dish is not only a great way to use up leftover chicken, but it’s also a fun, customizable meal that can be tailored to your preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a complete dinner, stuffed peppers are a great way to enjoy leftovers in a new and exciting way.
Leftover Chicken Pita Wraps
Leftover chicken pita wraps are a quick, delicious, and portable lunch option that combines tender chicken with fresh veggies, creamy dressing, and a warm pita. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily customized with your favorite toppings or condiments. Perfect for busy days, these wraps are easy to assemble and offer a well-balanced meal in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover chicken, shredded or diced
- 4 whole wheat or regular pita pockets
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 tomato, sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup hummus or tzatziki sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Warm the pita pockets slightly in the microwave or on a skillet for 1-2 minutes, making them soft and easy to fold.
- Spread a tablespoon of hummus or tzatziki sauce inside each pita pocket.
- Layer the shredded leftover chicken inside the pita, followed by the shredded lettuce, cucumber, tomato, and onion slices.
- Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Fold the pita into a wrap, securing the fillings inside, and serve immediately.
Leftover chicken pita wraps are a wonderful way to enjoy a balanced and flavorful lunch with minimal effort. The tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy hummus or tzatziki create a satisfying meal that is both light and filling. These wraps are perfect for meal prep or as a quick midday snack, and you can easily adjust the fillings to your preference, adding ingredients like olives, avocado, or feta cheese. Whether you’re at home or on the go, this is a delicious way to make the most of your leftover chicken.
Leftover Chicken and Avocado Toast
Avocado toast gets a savory upgrade with the addition of leftover chicken in this easy, satisfying lunch. The creamy avocado, protein-packed chicken, and toasted bread combine for a delicious meal that’s both quick and nutritious. It’s perfect for days when you want something light yet filling, and it’s highly customizable to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of whole-grain bread, toasted
- 2 cups leftover chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Toast the slices of bread to your desired level of crispness.
- In a small bowl, mash the avocado with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the mashed avocado mixture evenly over each slice of toast.
- Top the avocado toast with the shredded or diced leftover chicken, pressing it gently into the avocado.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a little kick and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Leftover chicken and avocado toast is a delightful and easy lunch that combines healthy fats, protein, and fiber. The creamy avocado complements the tender chicken perfectly, creating a delicious topping for the toasted bread. This recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can add extra toppings like a poached egg, tomatoes, or hot sauce to personalize it further. Whether you’re making a quick lunch or brunch, this simple meal will leave you feeling full and satisfied without spending much time in the kitchen.
Leftover Chicken and Spinach Soup
Leftover chicken and spinach soup is a warm and comforting lunch that’s both nutritious and easy to make. This hearty soup is perfect for cold weather or when you’re craving a light yet filling dish. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, it combines the rich flavors of tender chicken and spinach in a savory broth that is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover chicken, shredded or diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the shredded leftover chicken, dried thyme, basil, and salt and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the chopped spinach to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach is wilted and tender.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
Leftover chicken and spinach soup is a comforting and wholesome meal that’s perfect for a cozy lunch. The tender chicken, nutritious spinach, and flavorful broth come together to create a satisfying dish that’s full of vitamins and protein. This soup is a great way to make use of leftover chicken while enjoying a nutritious, low-calorie meal. It’s also highly customizable, so you can add other vegetables, beans, or even pasta to suit your taste. This easy recipe will warm you up and keep you full, making it a great option for busy days.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!