Canned chicken is a versatile and convenient ingredient to have in your pantry. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a creative way to spice up your dishes, canned chicken offers countless possibilities. This article will provide you with 25 easy and delicious recipes that make good use of canned chicken, perfect for any occasion.
From salads and casseroles to appetizers and main courses, canned chicken can be used in a variety of culinary styles. You’ll discover new favorite meals that are not only easy to prepare but also nutritious and satisfying. With these recipes, you can turn a simple can of chicken into a flavorful and hearty dish your whole family will enjoy.
1) Classic Chicken Salad
Start by draining your canned chicken breasts and placing them in a large bowl. Use a fork to break the chicken into small pieces. Add mayonnaise to create a creamy base.
Next, chop up some celery and onions for crunch. Mix them into your chicken and mayo mixture.
For added flavor, you can also include chopped pecans and sliced red grapes. These ingredients offer a sweet and nutty touch.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If you like, add lemon juice for a bit of tanginess. Mix everything well to ensure even coating.
Serve your classic chicken salad on a sandwich, in a wrap, or with crackers. This simple, tasty recipe makes a great meal any time of the day.
2) Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo Chicken Dip is a flavorful and creamy appetizer that’s perfect for parties. You can quickly whip it up using canned chicken, hot sauce, and a few other simple ingredients. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, and hot sauce. Add canned chicken and half of the Cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.
Spread the mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese on top. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the dip is hot and bubbly. This dip pairs well with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or even crackers.
This recipe is great for any occasion where you need a quick and tasty dish to share. Enjoy the delicious flavors of buffalo wings in a convenient dip form.
3) Chicken Alfredo Bake
Chicken Alfredo Bake is a delicious and easy dish you can prepare with canned chicken.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
While the oven heats up, cook your pasta. You can use any type of pasta, but penne or wide noodles work best. Cook them according to the package directions. Add frozen peas in the last minute of cooking the pasta for extra flavor and nutrition. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
Next, in a large frying pan, heat some oil and sauté diced green pepper and onion until they are tender. Add in your canned chicken, making sure it’s drained well. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is heated through.
Now combine the cooked pasta, sautéed veggies and chicken, and Alfredo sauce in a large bowl. Stir well to mix everything. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
Transfer the mixture to a medium baking dish. Sprinkle with some cheese on top to get a nice, golden crust. Bake in the oven for about 30 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve hot and enjoy your comforting Chicken Alfredo Bake!
4) Chicken Enchiladas
Chicken enchiladas are a quick and tasty dinner option using canned chicken. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, combine the canned chicken, diced green chiles, and 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce. Add 3/4 cup of cheddar cheese and 3/4 cup of pepper jack cheese to the mixture.
Spread 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in the dish.
Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the enchiladas. Sprinkle with more cheese if you like.
Bake for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your chicken enchiladas are now ready to serve. Enjoy!
5) BBQ Chicken Pizza
BBQ Chicken Pizza is a tasty meal you can quickly make using canned chicken. Start by preheating your oven to 450 degrees F. If you have a pizza stone, heat that too.
Roll out your pizza dough and prebake it for 6 minutes. This helps create a crispy crust.
Spread a layer of barbecue sauce on the pre-baked dough. Bbq sauce brings a tangy flavor to the pizza.
Mix the canned chicken with some more barbecue sauce. Spread this on the pizza, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Add shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken. You can mix in some cheddar cheese too for extra flavor.
Top with sliced red onions. These add a bit of crunch and sweetness.
Bake the pizza in the oven for about 10-15 minutes. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned.
If you like, garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving. These herbs add a fresh touch and a pop of color.
Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Pizza hot, straight out of the oven. It’s a simple yet delicious way to use canned chicken.
6) Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken Pot Pie is a comforting, hearty dish that you can easily prepare using canned chicken.
Start by preheating your oven to around 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This ensures your pie will bake evenly.
In a large bowl, mix together your drained canned chicken, mixed vegetables, and cream of chicken soup. If you like extra flavor, add some garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Take a 9-inch pie dish and place a bottom pie crust in it. Make sure it’s pressed well into the edges.
Pour your chicken mixture into the pie crust and spread it out evenly. Now, cover it with a top pie crust.
To let steam escape, cut a few slits into the top crust. This helps the pie bake properly and prevents it from getting soggy.
Crimp the edges of the crust together to seal it. This ensures the filling stays inside while baking.
Bake your Chicken Pot Pie for about 45 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
This simple recipe makes a delicious dinner option that’s quick to prepare, especially on busy days.
7) Chicken Caesar Wraps
Chicken Caesar Wraps are a tasty and easy way to enjoy a classic salad in a handheld form. You can use canned chicken to save time.
Start by mixing canned chicken with Caesar dressing in a bowl. Make sure the chicken is well coated.
Next, prepare your tortillas. You can warm them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to make them more flexible.
Add the chicken mixture to the center of each tortilla. Then, top it with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated Parmesan cheese, and croutons.
Fold the sides of the tortilla in and roll it up tightly, just like a burrito. Secure with toothpicks if needed, to keep everything in place.
These wraps are great for a quick lunch or an easy dinner. You can also make them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day.
8) Chicken Tacos
Chicken tacos are a quick and delicious meal you can prepare with canned chicken.
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
Next, add the canned chicken to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through.
Warm your tortillas in another skillet or microwave. Fill the tortillas with the heated chicken mixture.
Top your tacos with pico de gallo, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful tacos.
9) Chicken Quesadillas
Chicken quesadillas are easy to make with canned chicken. Start by draining and flaking the canned chicken.
Mix the chicken with shredded cheese. You can also add canned tomatoes and chiles if you like a bit of spice.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place a tortilla in the skillet and spoon some of the chicken mixture onto half of it.
Fold the tortilla over to cover the filling. Let it cook for a few minutes until the bottom is brown and crispy. Then, flip it and cook for another couple of minutes until the cheese melts.
You can also add bell peppers, onions, and garlic for extra flavor. Just sauté them with taco seasoning before adding them to your chicken mixture.
For a quick meal, use an electric skillet set to 325 degrees or cook on the stove at medium-high heat. It takes only a few minutes to get a delicious, crispy quesadilla.
Serve your chicken quesadillas with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole. They make a great snack or meal that’s perfect for any time of the day.
10) Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort dish. It’s easy to make and perfect for any season. Using canned chicken makes it even quicker.
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a bit of olive oil. Sauté some chopped onions, carrots, and celery until they’re tender. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
Add garlic and dried thyme to the pot. Cook for another minute. Pour in your chicken broth. Let it come to a boil.
Once boiling, add egg noodles. After a few minutes, add the canned chicken to the pot. Stir everything together. Let it simmer until the noodles are fully cooked.
Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Serve the soup hot. This meal is both nourishing and delicious.
11) Chicken Fried Rice
Chicken fried rice is a great way to use canned chicken. Start by draining the liquid from the chicken. Set it aside while you prepare the rest.
Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add some oil and scramble a couple of beaten eggs. Push the eggs to one side of the pan.
In the empty space, add some chopped onions and other veggies like peas, carrots, or bell peppers. Stir-fry until they start to soften.
Next, add the drained chicken to the pan and cook for a few minutes. Then, add cooked rice. It’s best if the rice is leftover and slightly dry. Fresh rice can become mushy.
Pour soy sauce over the mixture. Sometimes, a bit of garlic powder and ginger can boost the flavor. Stir everything well to make sure the rice is evenly coated with sauce.
Cook for several more minutes, stirring frequently. Make sure the chicken is heated through and the veggies are cooked but still crisp. Your chicken fried rice is now ready to serve.
12) Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings are a classic comfort food. Using canned chicken makes this recipe quick and easy.
You start by cooking onions, celery, and carrots in a pot with a bit of butter. This adds great flavor. After about 6-8 minutes, when the vegetables are tender, add the canned chicken.
Next, stir in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add evaporated milk and a can of cream of chicken soup. This thickens the broth and makes it creamy.
For the dumplings, you can use canned biscuit dough. Cut the biscuits into quarters. Drop the pieces into the simmering soup.
Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes. The dumplings will puff up and cook through. Stir gently to make sure the dumplings are evenly cooked.
Serve hot and enjoy! This dish is warm, filling, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
13) Chicken Chili
Chicken chili is a hearty and flavorful dish. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of spices and textures. You can use canned chicken, which makes it a quick and easy meal to prepare.
Start by heating some olive oil in a large pot. Add chopped onions and cook until they are soft and slightly brown. Then, add black beans, canned chicken, and diced tomatoes with green chilies.
Season your chili with cumin and taco seasoning. You can also add oregano and a bit of cayenne pepper if you like it spicy. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
For an even easier version, consider an 8-can chicken chili. Just empty cans of chicken, beans, and tomatoes into a pot. Add some corn and spices. Heat through and serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream and shredded cheese.
You can also try making white chicken chili. Use white beans and green chilies. Add some chicken broth and let it simmer. Cooked in a slow cooker, this chili becomes incredibly rich in flavor.
Chicken chili is versatile. Whether you like it mild or hot, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
14) Chicken Cordon Bleu
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a tasty dish that combines chicken, ham, and cheese. You start by layering ham and Swiss cheese on flattened chicken breasts. Roll them up and secure them with toothpicks.
Next, you’ll coat the chicken rolls. Dip them in a mixture of beaten eggs and milk. Then, roll them in breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese. This gives the chicken a crispy outer layer.
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
To make it even better, serve with a Dijon cream sauce. In a small saucepan, melt butter and whisk in some flour. Cook briefly, then add milk, Dijon mustard, and a bit of chicken broth. Stir until it’s smooth and thickened.
Chicken Cordon Bleu can be enjoyed on weeknights or for special occasions. The combination of flavors and textures makes it special. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is a winner.
15) Chicken Fajitas
Chicken fajitas are a quick and delicious meal you can prepare using canned chicken. Start by cooking sliced peppers and onions in a pan with some oil over medium heat. Once the vegetables are soft, drain the canned chicken and mix it with some additional oil and seasoning in a plastic bag.
After the chicken is well-coated with the seasoning, add it to the pan with the vegetables. Cook until the chicken is heated through and everything is well-mixed. Make sure to stir the contents occasionally to avoid burning.
Warm up some tortillas using your microwave. Stack 4-6 tortillas on a plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave for about 30 seconds. This helps make the tortillas soft and pliable for easy filling.
When ready to serve, place a mixture of chicken and vegetables in each tortilla. You can also add toppings like sour cream, salsa, or shredded cheese. Enjoy your flavorful chicken fajitas!
16) Chicken Stir Fry
Chicken stir fry with canned chicken is quick and easy. This dish is perfect when you need a fast meal but still want something tasty and nutritious.
Start by heating oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. This will bring out its flavor.
Next, toss in your mixed vegetables. Stir-fry them for 5 to 7 minutes until they are tender. You can use any vegetables you have on hand like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas.
Drain your canned chicken and add it to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is heated through.
Mix in some soy sauce, a bit of sugar, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir well to make sure everything is evenly coated and cook for another minute.
Serve your chicken stir fry over cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal. This recipe is so flexible, you can easily adjust it to your taste and what you have available. Enjoy your delicious and quick stir fry!
17) Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan is a classic dish that’s surprisingly easy to make with canned chicken.
Start by combining bread crumbs, parsley, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper on a plate. This will be the coating for your chicken.
Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Dip the canned chicken into an egg mixture, then press it into the bread crumb mixture so it’s well-coated. Fry the chicken in the skillet until brown on both sides.
To finish, bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F until it’s heated through and the cheese has melted. Serve it hot with your favorite pasta or a side salad for a complete meal.
This recipe is a great way to use canned chicken while still enjoying the flavors of a traditional Chicken Parmesan.
18) Chicken Marsala
Chicken Marsala is a delicious Italian-American dish you can easily prepare with canned chicken. You’ll need Marsala wine, mushrooms, garlic, and a few essential spices.
First, melt some butter in a pan and add the canned chicken. Cook until it’s heated through. Next, add sliced mushrooms and cook until they’re soft.
Pour in Marsala wine and let it simmer until the alcohol evaporates. This usually takes about a minute.
Add chicken broth to the pan and let it boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few minutes.
Season with salt, pepper, and a bit of oregano. You can serve Chicken Marsala over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. For extra flavor, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top.
19) Chicken and Rice Casserole
Chicken and rice casserole is a comforting dish that is easy to make and versatile. You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry already. Using canned chicken simplifies the prep, so you can have dinner ready with minimal effort.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine canned chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, and your favorite vegetables. Peas, carrots, or celery work well. Add shredded cheese for extra flavor. Mix everything thoroughly.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle some more cheese on top if you like it cheesy.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil, and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbly. You can also add a crispy topping by mixing Ritz cracker crumbs with melted butter and sprinkling it over the casserole.
This dish is great for busy weeknights and can be customized to suit your taste.
20) Chicken Tortilla Soup
Chicken Tortilla Soup is a tasty and hearty dish. Using canned chicken makes this recipe quick and easy. Start by sautéing some chopped onions and garlic in a pot until they are tender.
Next, add chicken broth, corn, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and the canned chicken. Stir in some taco seasoning, cumin, chili powder, and black pepper.
Bring everything to a boil, then let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to mix the flavors well.
While the soup is simmering, you can fry some tortilla strips or use store-bought tortilla chips.
Once the soup is ready, top it with the crispy tortilla strips. You can also add grated cheese, a squeeze of lime juice, and fresh cilantro for extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup.
21) Chicken Piccata
Chicken Piccata is a delicious and simple dish you can make using canned chicken. To start, you’ll need to sauté the chicken until it’s slightly browned. This helps add a nice texture and flavor.
Next, you’ll make the sauce. Combine chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers in the same pan. This mixture will create a tangy and slightly salty sauce.
After the sauce starts to thicken, return the chicken to the pan. Let it simmer for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. Finally, add a small amount of butter to make the sauce rich and smooth.
Serve your Chicken Piccata over pasta or rice. It’s also great with steamed vegetables on the side. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal that’s both tasty and easy to prepare.
22) Chicken Burritos
Chicken burritos are a tasty and quick meal you can whip up using canned chicken. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F.
In a large bowl, mix shredded canned chicken, corn, black beans, salsa, and taco seasoning. Lay a tortilla flat and add a portion of this mixture to the center.
Add some shredded cheese on top. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up. Place the rolled burritos in a baking dish.
Brush the tops with a bit of oil or melted butter for a crispy finish. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the burritos are golden and heated through. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite salsa.
These chicken burritos are not only easy but also highly customizable. You can add rice, extra veggies, or even a splash of hot sauce if you like it spicy.
23) Chicken Lo Mein
Chicken Lo Mein is a delicious and quick meal you can make at home. It’s a comforting dish with soft noodles, tender chicken, and a flavorful sauce.
Start by boiling lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set them aside.
For the sauce, mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil in a small bowl. You can add a bit of brown sugar and rice wine vinegar for extra flavor.
In a pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add sliced chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan.
Next, stir-fry your vegetables. Cabbage, carrots, and onions work well. Cook them on high heat for a few minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
Return the chicken to the pan and add the cooked noodles. Pour the sauce mixture over everything. Toss the ingredients together until well coated and heated through.
You can garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving. This way, you get a tasty and satisfying meal in no time.
24) Hot Chicken Sandwiches
Hot chicken sandwiches are a great option for a quick and tasty meal.
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Mix a can of chicken with some Buffalo wing sauce and shredded cheese in a bowl.
Spread the mixture on kaiser rolls and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 to 15 minutes until the sandwiches are toasted and hot inside.
For a creamy version, combine shredded canned chicken with cream of chicken soup and crushed crackers. Cook the mixture in a saucepan over medium heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. Serve warm on buns.
Using a crockpot, you can also make hot chicken sandwiches. Cook canned chicken with chicken soup on low for a few hours. Add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers and continue to cook for another hour or so. Shred the chicken and mix everything before serving on buns.
You can customize these with different sauces, cheeses, and seasonings to suit your taste. Enjoy!
25) Chicken Florentine
Chicken Florentine is a tasty and easy dish to make with canned chicken. This flavorful meal combines chicken with spinach and a creamy sauce.
Start by draining your canned chicken and setting it aside. In a pan, cook some chopped garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
Add a cup of chicken broth and a cup of heavy cream to the pan. Stir in some salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach and cook until it wilts. This should take about two minutes.
Return the canned chicken to the pan. Let it warm through for a few minutes. Serve the mixture over cooked pasta or rice.
Enjoy your Chicken Florentine with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top. This dish is sure to be a hit!
Health Benefits of Canned Chicken
Canned chicken is a great option for quick, healthy meals. It offers solid nutritional value and is very convenient due to its long shelf life.
Nutritional Value
Canned chicken is packed with protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. A single serving can provide a significant portion of the daily protein requirement. It is also low in fat, making it a lean option for your diet.
You will also find beneficial vitamins and minerals in canned chicken, such as B vitamins, which help with energy metabolism, and zinc, which supports your immune system. Another nutrient often present is phosphorus, crucial for healthy bones and teeth.
Additionally, canned chicken is a good source of essential amino acids, which your body cannot produce on its own. These nutrients contribute to your overall health and well-being.
Convenience and Shelf Life
The convenience of canned chicken cannot be overstated. It is pre-cooked and ready to use right out of the can, saving you significant meal prep time. This makes it an excellent option for quick dinners or emergency meals.
Canned chicken also boasts a long shelf life, often lasting up to two years if stored properly. This makes it a reliable pantry staple, always available when you need it. The long shelf life reduces food waste and ensures you always have a protein source on hand.
Because it is shelf-stable, you can stock up without worrying about it going bad quickly. This makes canned chicken a practical and economical choice for busy households.
How to Choose the Best Canned Chicken
When choosing canned chicken, it’s crucial to focus on ingredients and quality. This will ensure you get a healthy and tasty product.
Ingredients to Look For
Look for canned chicken with minimal ingredients. The ideal list includes chicken, water, and salt. Avoid products with too many preservatives or additives like MSG, artificial flavors, or unnecessary fillers.
Check the sodium content. High sodium levels can be a concern, especially if you’re watching your salt intake. Pick options labeled as low-sodium or no-salt-added.
Consider the type of chicken. White meat, like breast pieces, is usually leaner and has a better texture. Some cans might mix white and dark meat, so look at the label to match your preference.
Organic and free-range options might be available. These can be pricier but often have fewer chemicals and a better taste.
Brands and Quality Standards
Established brands with a good reputation are usually a safer bet. Brands like Swanson, Kirkland, and Hormel are known for quality and consistency.
Read reviews or ask for recommendations. Customer feedback can give insight into the taste and texture. It’s also wise to check for recent recalls on any brand.
Look for certifications. Labels like USDA Organic or Non-GMO can indicate higher quality standards. These certifications ensure the chicken meets specific health and safety guidelines.
By focusing on these factors, you can find canned chicken that is both delicious and nutritious.
