15+ Easy Recipes to Make with Leftover Chicken

I sometimes have leftover chicken and am always searching for recipes to use it up. That’s why I made a list of my favorite chicken recipes to make with leftover chicken. These ideas can be made with already-cooked chicken—just shred, chop, or slice it up, and you’re halfway to dinner or a snack.

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You’ll find chicken recipe ideas that work as appetizers for a party, tasty snacks, lunch box fillers, and even a few easy dinner options.

Check out also my Chicken Appetizer and Chicken Dinner Recipe Ideas!

Crack Chicken Pinwheels

These creamy, cheesy little roll-ups are made with ranch seasoning, bacon, and chicken, all wrapped in a tortilla. They’re great for parties, lunchboxes, or even a quick dinner on the go.

Southwest Chicken Pinwheels

Packed with black beans, corn, and just the right amount of spice, these Southwest chicken pinwheels are colorful, flavorful, and perfect for using up shredded chicken.

Cheesy Ranch Chicken Wonton Cups

Crispy wonton wrappers filled with creamy chicken ranch mixture and melted cheese—yes, please! These bite-sized appetizers are great for game day or holiday gatherings.

Bold, Cheesy, and Spicy Chicken Dip

This hot dip is loaded with chicken, cheese, and a little kick of spice. Serve it with tortilla chips, crackers, or even veggie sticks for an easy party snack.

Tex-Mex Chicken Enchilada Pinwheels

If you love enchiladas but don’t want the fuss, these pinwheels are the shortcut you need. Rolled up with chicken, cheese, and Tex-Mex flavors, they make a tasty lunch or appetizer. Grab the recipe here!

Chicken Taco Pinwheels

Another pinwheel recipe—these taco-inspired roll-ups are filled with seasoned chicken and cheese. They’re quick, easy, and kid-approved.

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Celery

Crispy celery stuffed with creamy buffalo chicken filling is a lighter option that still delivers big flavor. Great for parties or just a quick afternoon snack.

Buffalo Chicken Salad

When time is short, this recipe is a great option. Toss shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and dressing, and you’ve got a zesty chicken salad that can be served in sandwiches, wraps, or on top of lettuce.

Chicken and Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

This one is for a quick and easy dinner option. Pair leftover chicken with broccoli and drizzle everything in a creamy garlic sauce for a comforting meal that comes together fast.

Cheesy Chicken Taco Casserole with Black Beans

If you’re craving something hearty, this cheesy casserole is the way to go. Leftover chicken, beans, and plenty of cheese bake together into a warm, filling dinner your whole family will love.

Cracked Out Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

This Cracked Out Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is a cheesy, creamy casserole with layers of tater tots, shredded chicken (leftover chicken), bacon, and cheese.

Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

This Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is an easy, comforting meal with tender chicken (or use your leftover chicken), mixed vegetables, and a creamy sauce baked between buttery crescent rolls. 

Chicken Noodle Casserole

This Chicken Noodle Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish with tender chicken (or use your leftover chicken), egg noodles, vegetables, and a golden, buttery cracker topping.

Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a simple dinner recipe that’s creamy, flavorful, and topped with a buttery, crispy cracker layer. 

Chicken Chopped Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing

This chicken chopped salad with honey mustard dressing is a quick, fresh, and flavorful meal. Packed with veggies, shredded chicken (or leftover), and a tangy-sweet dressing.

No-Fry Crispy Baked Chicken Tacos

These crispy baked chicken tacos are made with shredded chicken (or leftover) cooked in salsa and taco seasoning, then folded into warm corn tortillas with melted cheese and baked until golden and crunchy. 

Buffalo Chicken Potato Skins with Blue Cheese Drizzle

These Buffalo Chicken Potato Skins are made with crispy potato halves loaded with spicy buffalo chicken, melted cheese, and a drizzle of blue cheese dressing.