Sometimes, you find yourself with leftover rotisserie chicken and wonder how to make the most of it. Instead of letting it go to waste, you can create a variety of delicious dishes that are quick and easy to prepare. Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a smart way to save time and add flavorful protein to your meals.
Whether you want to whip up a fast weeknight dinner or a simple lunch, leftover rotisserie chicken can become the star ingredient. From soups and salads to casseroles and sandwiches, the possibilities are endless and will satisfy your cravings with minimal effort.
1) Chicken Alfredo Bake
Chicken Alfredo Bake is a delightful way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. The creamy sauce and tender pasta make a comforting meal.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Boil your pasta according to the package directions and drain. You can use penne or fettuccine for this dish.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded rotisserie chicken, and a jar of Alfredo sauce. Adding milk can make the sauce creamier.
Mix in some garlic powder, salt, and pepper for extra flavor. If you’d like, stir in veggies like peas or broccoli.
Pour the mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
This dish is perfect for busy nights. You can even prepare it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to eat. Enjoy your Chicken Alfredo Bake with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
2) Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo Chicken Dip is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any gathering. It’s creamy, spicy, and easy to make using leftover rotisserie chicken.
To start, you’ll need about 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and lightly grease a baking dish.
In a large bowl, mix together shredded chicken, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing. Stir until everything is well combined.
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly and sprinkle some extra cheese on top. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes or until bubbly.
For a variation, you can mix in some bleu cheese dressing or cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella. You can also add a bit of garlic powder for extra flavor.
Buffalo Chicken Dip goes great with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or carrot sticks. This dip is a simple, flavorful way to use up leftover chicken and it’s always a hit at parties.
3) Chicken Enchiladas
Chicken enchiladas are a tasty way to use leftover rotisserie chicken.
Start by shredding your leftover chicken with two forks. This makes sure the chicken is in small, bite-sized pieces.
To make the sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Whisk in flour until it turns golden brown. Add chicken stock and let it simmer until the sauce thickens.
Next, prepare your enchiladas. Lay out your tortillas and add a generous spoonful of chicken in each one. Roll them up tight and place them in a baking dish.
Pour the sauce over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Bake at 375°F until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve your chicken enchiladas hot with a side of sour cream, guacamole, or salsa. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or any gathering.
4) Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken Pot Pie is a comforting dish made with leftover rotisserie chicken.
Start by removing the skin from the rotisserie chicken and shredding the meat.
Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
Next, add flour, salt, and pepper. Stir until a paste forms, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
Pour in chicken broth and milk. Stir until the mixture thickens, roughly 5 minutes.
Then, add your shredded chicken and any vegetables you like, such as carrots and peas. Stir until everything is well combined.
Pour the filling into a pie dish. You can use either a pie crust or biscuits for the top.
If using pie crust, place it over the filling and crimp the edges. If using biscuits, arrange them on top.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until the crust or biscuits are golden brown and the filling is bubbly, about 20 to 25 minutes.
Let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is perfect for using leftover rotisserie chicken in a delicious and easy way.
5) Chicken Salad
Chicken salad is a simple and delicious way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by removing the meat from the bones. You can shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, and poultry seasoning. Add salt to taste. It’s important to combine these ingredients well to ensure an even coating for your chicken.
Next, add your chopped rotisserie chicken to the bowl. You can also include diced celery and onions for added crunch. Stir everything together until the chicken is well-coated with the mayonnaise mixture.
For added flavor, you can mix in dried cranberries or chopped nuts. This adds a nice texture and makes the salad more interesting. Serve your chicken salad on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or with crackers for a tasty meal.
This simple recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, making it a versatile option for busy days.
6) Chicken Fried Rice
Chicken fried rice is a quick and tasty way to use leftover rotisserie chicken.
Start by heating oil in a large wok over high heat. Add chopped onions, celery, carrots, and red pepper. Stir-fry until the vegetables begin to soften, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for a few more seconds.
Now, add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the wok. Pour in some soy sauce to taste. Stir-fry for another 5-10 minutes until the chicken starts to brown and get crispy.
In another pan, scramble the beaten eggs until they are cooked through. Set the eggs aside and add cooked rice to the wok with the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together well.
Add the scrambled eggs back into the mixture. If you have frozen peas, you can add them at this step. Continue cooking for another few minutes, making sure everything is well mixed and heated through.
Serving your chicken fried rice is easy. Simply dish it up hot, and consider adding some chopped green onions on top or extra soy sauce if needed. It’s a satisfying meal perfect for using up leftover chicken.
7) Chicken Quesadillas
Chicken quesadillas are a quick and delicious way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat and adding a bit of olive oil.
Add chopped onions and peppers to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and slightly charred. This usually takes about 7-8 minutes.
Next, stir in your leftover rotisserie chicken along with chili powder, cumin, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to coat the chicken with the spices.
Lay tortillas out on a cutting board. Spread the chicken mixture on one half of each tortilla. Top it with shredded cheese, then fold the other half over to cover the filling.
Carefully place one quesadilla in the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes, then flip it with a spatula and cook for another 2 minutes, until the tortilla is golden and the cheese is melted.
Repeat the process for the remaining quesadillas. Once done, remove them from the skillet and cut into wedges. Serve with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for a tasty meal.
8) BBQ Chicken Pizza
Turn your leftover rotisserie chicken into a delicious BBQ chicken pizza. This is an easy and quick meal that everyone will love. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
Roll out your pizza dough on a surface sprinkled with cornmeal. Transfer the dough to a baking sheet or pizza pan. Spread a thin layer of BBQ sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Take your leftover rotisserie chicken and shred it. Toss the shredded chicken with a few tablespoons of BBQ sauce to coat it well. Place the chicken evenly over the sauced dough.
Add some sliced red onion on top of the chicken. Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella cheese over the entire pizza. If you like, you can also add some cheddar cheese for extra flavor.
Bake the pizza in the preheated oven. It usually takes about 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden and crispy. Once out of the oven, you can garnish it with sliced green onions or fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
This BBQ chicken pizza is perfect for a quick dinner. It’s a great way to reinvent your leftover rotisserie chicken. Enjoy your homemade pizza with your family.
9) Chicken Tetrazzini
Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting dish that’s perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken.
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, mix together butter, cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
Add your shredded rotisserie chicken and cooked spaghetti or noodles to the creamy mixture. Make sure everything is evenly coated.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some shredded cheese over the top.
Bake for around 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool a bit before serving so it can set properly.
Chicken Tetrazzini is a fantastic way to turn your leftover chicken into a delicious meal the whole family will enjoy.
10) Chicken Noodle Soup
Using leftover rotisserie chicken for chicken noodle soup is a great way to make a comforting meal. The basics are simple, and the flavors are rich.
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add some olive oil and chopped onions. Cook until the onions are soft.
Next, add chopped carrots, celery, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic. Let the vegetables cook for about 5 minutes.
Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Then, add the shredded rotisserie chicken.
After that, add egg noodles to the pot. Cook until the noodles are tender, usually around 5-6 minutes.
Serve the soup hot. It’s a great way to use your leftover chicken and enjoy a tasty, homemade meal.
11) Chicken Tacos
Chicken tacos are a great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. They are quick to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
First, shred the leftover rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic. Cook until the onions are soft.
Add the shredded chicken to the skillet. Stir in salsa, tomato paste, and taco seasoning.
Cook until everything is well combined and heated through.
Warm your taco shells in the oven.
Fill each shell with the chicken mixture.
Top with shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, or any other toppings you like.
Serve with a side of sour cream or guacamole. Enjoy your tasty chicken tacos!
12) Chicken Caesar Wraps
Chicken Caesar Wraps are a tasty way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by shredding your chicken. You’ll need about 2 cups.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken with chopped romaine lettuce, grated Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing. Add cherry tomatoes for extra flavor, if you like.
Lay a large tortilla flat. Put a spoonful of the chicken mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Roll it up tightly, folding in the sides like a burrito.
To keep your wrap secure, you can use a toothpick. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling. This makes a great lunch or quick dinner!
13) Chicken and Rice Casserole
Chicken and rice casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish. It’s a great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, mix together diced rotisserie chicken, cooked rice, and a can of cream of chicken soup.
Add in diced celery, sliced almonds, and mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for extra flavor and texture.
Once the mixture is well combined, transfer it into the prepared baking dish.
Top with shredded cheese or crushed Ritz crackers if you like a bit of crunch.
Bake for 20-30 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot and enjoy this tasty meal with your family.
14) Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Chicken stuffed peppers are a tasty way to use your leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut your bell peppers in half and remove the seeds and stems. You can use red, yellow, or green bell peppers.
Mix your shredded rotisserie chicken with ingredients like cooked rice, salsa, and shredded cheese. This creates a flavorful filling.
Spoon the chicken mixture into each pepper half. Place them in a baking dish.
Sprinkle some additional cheese on top if you like. Mozzarella or cheddar works well.
Bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
These stuffed peppers are perfect for a quick and healthy meal. You can even prepare them ahead of time and bake when ready.
15) Chicken Burrito Bowls
You can make Chicken Burrito Bowls with leftover rotisserie chicken, which is both tasty and easy. Start by chopping or shredding the chicken into small pieces.
Prepare a base in your bowl with cooked rice and iceberg lettuce. Add your favorite beans, like pinto or black beans. Mix in some corn for extra flavor.
Top it off with fresh salsa and sliced avocado. You can also add sour cream for a creamy texture. Sprinkle some taco seasoning on the chicken for more flavor.
For a crunchy twist, fry some small pieces of flour tortilla until they are golden brown. These pieces can be used as a topping.
Chicken Burrito Bowls are versatile, so feel free to add or remove ingredients based on what you like.
Store any leftovers in the fridge and use them within a few days. Enjoy this quick and easy meal!
16) Chicken Lasagna
Chicken lasagna is a comforting and delicious dish that makes great use of leftover rotisserie chicken. It’s perfect for a family dinner and can be prepared ahead of time.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. You’ll need cooked, shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
The lasagna is layered with ricotta mixed with an egg, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Add some bechamel sauce to each layer to keep it creamy.
For the layers, begin with a bit of bechamel sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Place cooked lasagna noodles on top.
Spread the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then add shredded chicken. Top with spinach sauce if desired, and repeat the layers.
Bake the lasagna for about 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
This chicken lasagna is a great way to make a hearty meal with little effort. Plus, it’s a nice twist from the usual ground beef lasagna. Enjoy!
17) Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and Dumplings is a classic comfort food that can be made even easier with leftover rotisserie chicken. This dish combines tender dumplings with flavorful broth and vegetables.
Start by heating some butter or oil in a large pot. Add diced carrots, celery, and onions. Cook them until they start to soften.
Next, stir in some flour to coat the vegetables. This helps thicken the broth. Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
Once the broth is boiling, reduce the heat. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken. Stir well to combine.
For the dumplings, mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, mix milk and melted butter. Combine the wet and dry ingredients to form a dough.
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering pot. Cover the pot and let it cook until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
Chicken and Dumplings is a simple yet delicious way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken. Enjoy this hearty meal with your family.
18) Chicken Nachos
Chicken nachos are an easy and delicious way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by preheating your oven to high or 350°F. Get a large baking sheet or oven-safe dish ready.
Arrange a layer of tortilla chips on the sheet. Spread shredded rotisserie chicken evenly over the chips. You can add beans, corn, and sliced jalapeños if you like.
Next, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the chicken and chips. Repeat these layers if you want thicker nachos.
Place the dish in the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Once done, take the nachos out of the oven. Add your favorite toppings such as salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and chopped green onions. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!
19) Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan is a classic and comforting dish. It’s perfect for using up rotisserie chicken in a flavorful way. This recipe involves combining cooked pasta with marinara sauce and pieces of rotisserie chicken.
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a casserole dish. Mix pasta with marinara sauce. Place half of the pasta mixture in the dish. Add a layer of chicken and some Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers.
Bake for about 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can sprinkle fresh parsley on top for an added touch. This meal is great served with a side salad or garlic bread. It transforms your leftover rotisserie chicken into a delicious feast.
20) Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Chicken and broccoli stir fry is a quick, healthy dish perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken.
Start by cutting your chicken into small pieces. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add some cooking oil. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned.
Next, add broccoli florets. Toss them with the chicken and cook for another 2-3 minutes. You can steam the broccoli for 2 minutes by adding a bit of chicken broth or water and covering the skillet.
While the broccoli cooks, mix together a simple sauce. You can use soy sauce, a little cornstarch, and some minced garlic and ginger. This will give the stir fry a rich, savory flavor.
Pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli. Stir everything together until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients. This should take a couple of minutes.
Serve your chicken and broccoli stir fry hot. You can enjoy it as is or over a bed of rice or noodles. It’s a tasty way to make a nutritious meal with leftover rotisserie chicken.
21) Chicken Fajitas
Chicken fajitas are a delicious way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by removing the skin and bones from the chicken.
Slice the chicken into thin strips. This makes it easier to mix with other ingredients.
Prepare your vegetables. Bell peppers and onions are great choices. Slice them into narrow strips to keep everything even.
In a skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bell peppers and onions. Sauté until they are tender, which takes about 5-7 minutes.
Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add more olive oil if needed, then add the chicken strips along with your fajita seasoning.
Mix everything together until the chicken is hot and well-coated with spices. This should only take a couple of minutes.
Warm some tortillas in the oven or on a griddle. This helps to make them soft and easier to roll.
Now, place the chicken and vegetable mixture onto your tortillas. You can add your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Roll up the tortillas and enjoy your flavorful chicken fajitas!
22) Chicken Tortilla Soup
Chicken Tortilla Soup is a great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. It’s tasty and simple to make.
Start by heating oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Sauté chopped onions and garlic until tender. Add vegetables like diced tomatoes and corn. Mix in black beans and spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika.
Pour in the chicken broth and add salsa for extra flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Shred your leftover rotisserie chicken and add it to the pot. Let the soup cook for a few more minutes to heat the chicken.
For a nice touch, bake tortilla strips in the oven until crispy. Add them to the soup right before serving. You can also garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors.
23) Chicken Sliders
Chicken sliders are a tasty and quick way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken. To start, you’ll need some small rolls or slider buns. Hawaiian rolls work great for this recipe.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Slice the rolls in half horizontally and place the bottom halves in a baking dish.
Spread your shredded rotisserie chicken evenly over the bottom layer of the rolls. Next, add slices of provolone cheese over the chicken.
Place the tops of the rolls back on. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.
For added flavor, brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder or your favorite herbs. After baking, let the sliders cool slightly before serving.
These chicken sliders make a great snack or light meal. They’re also perfect for parties and gatherings. Enjoy!
24) Chicken Florentine
Chicken Florentine is a delicious way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. It features tender chicken, spinach, and a creamy sauce.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Squeeze all the water out of the spinach. In a bowl, mix chicken, spinach, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, parmesan cheese, and garlic.
Spread the mixture evenly in a medium casserole dish. Bake it covered for 30 minutes until bubbly and hot. You can also add pasta to make it more filling.
This dish blends well with the flavors of cheese and garlic, making it a family favorite. Serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy your Chicken Florentine!
25) Chicken Pesto Pasta
Chicken Pesto Pasta is a quick and flavorful way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by boiling your favorite pasta, such as penne or spaghetti, until it’s al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining to use later.
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the rotisserie chicken pieces and cook them until they are golden brown and heated through.
Next, add a generous amount of store-bought or homemade pesto sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
Combine the cooked pasta with the chicken and pesto sauce in the pan. Toss everything together until well mixed. You can also add cherry tomatoes or toasted pecans for extra flavor and texture.
Serve the Chicken Pesto Pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped basil. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option for lunch.
26) Chicken Chili
Chicken chili is a perfect way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. It’s hearty, warm, and full of flavor. You can make it quickly, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Start by heating oil in a large pot. Cook chopped onion until it’s soft. Add minced garlic and cook for a couple more minutes.
Pour in chicken broth, white beans, and a can of diced green chiles. Stir in your shredded rotisserie chicken. Add spices like cumin, chili powder, and oregano for a rich flavor.
Let the chili simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This gives the flavors time to blend together. Mash some beans against the side of the pot to thicken the chili.
Finish by adding a squeeze of lime juice for a fresh touch. Top your chicken chili with shredded cheese, sour cream, or cilantro if you like. Serve it hot with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips.
Health Benefits of Rotisserie Chicken
Rotisserie chicken is a popular choice that offers several health benefits.
High in Protein:
Rotisserie chicken is an excellent source of protein. A single serving provides a significant portion of your daily protein needs. This helps with muscle repair and growth.
Low in Fat (Skinless):
Removing the skin can lower the fat content significantly. Chicken breast is particularly lean, making it a healthier option for those watching their fat intake.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals:
Rotisserie chicken contains important vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, which support energy metabolism, and zinc, which boosts your immune system.
Convenient and Versatile:
Its ease of preparation helps you avoid unhealthy fast food options. You can use rotisserie chicken in a variety of recipes, ensuring you consume balanced, nutritious meals.
Gluten-Free:
For those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, rotisserie chicken is a safe and tasty protein source, as long as it’s not seasoned with gluten-containing spices or sauces.
Cost-Effective:
Buying a whole rotisserie chicken can be more economical compared to buying individual cuts of chicken. This helps you maintain a healthy diet without breaking the bank.
Rotisserie chicken offers a combination of convenience, nutrition, and versatility, all of which can contribute to a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
Proper storage and reheating methods are crucial to keep your leftover rotisserie chicken tasty and safe to eat. Correct storage prevents spoilage, while the right reheating techniques ensure the chicken stays moist and flavorful.
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your rotisserie chicken fresh, transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store the chicken in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within 3-4 days.
If you wish to keep the chicken longer, freezing is an excellent option. Portion the chicken into meal-sized servings before freezing. Store these portions in zip-lock freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label each bag with the date for easy tracking.
You can also use vacuum-sealed bags for longer storage times. This method helps prevent freezer burn and maintains the chicken’s quality for up to 3 months.
Best Methods for Reheating
When reheating leftover rotisserie chicken, the goal is to maintain its moisture and flavor. The oven is a reliable method that ensures even heating. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and add about 1/2 to 1 cup of chicken broth to the bottom of the dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the skin.
For a quick option, use the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and sprinkle with a small amount of chicken broth. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat on high for one minute. Continue heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Another fast method is using a skillet. Warm the chicken on medium heat, adding a bit of broth or water to the pan. Cover and heat for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Leftover Chicken
Reusing leftover rotisserie chicken can be convenient, but it’s important to handle it properly. Here are a couple of common mistakes you should be aware of to ensure your dishes turn out great.
Overcooking the Chicken
Overcooking leftover chicken is a frequent mistake. When reheating, avoid using high heat. Microwave on a lower setting to prevent the meat from becoming dry and tough. Better yet, use a method that adds moisture, like baking in the oven with a bit of broth or covering tightly with foil.
Remember, rotisserie chicken is already cooked, so your goal is to reheat it gently. Avoid recooking it entirely. Also, cut it into smaller pieces to help heat through more evenly. This prevents the outside from becoming too dry while the inside is still cold.
Incorrect Storage
Storing leftover chicken improperly can lead to spoilage or contamination. Place the chicken in an airtight container as soon as possible. If it’s left out for more than two hours, bacteria can start growing. Make sure your fridge is set at the right temperature, below 40°F (4°C).
Mark the date on the container to keep track of how long it has been stored. Leftover chicken is best used within 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Split into smaller portions and freeze. This not only preserves the meat but also makes it easier to defrost just what you need.
