What to Do with Leftover Breaded Chicken Cutlets: 12 Delicious Options

Leftover breaded chicken cutlets can seem like an afterthought – destined for a boring reheat or two before hitting the trash But I’m here to show you that with a little creativity, those leftovers can be transformed into exciting new dishes the whole family will love

As a busy mom trying to get dinner on the table every night, I’ve learned a few tricks for repurposing leftovers during the week Chicken cutlets are one of my secret weapons for quick, budget-friendly meals I often double my recipe for breaded cutlets so that I have leftovers ready to go. Then I get creative, using them in salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes and more.

So don’t let those leftover breaded cutlets go to waste! Here are 12 delicious ways to reinvent them into tasty new creations

1. Chicken Cutlet Sandwiches

My go-to lunch option is a crispy chicken cutlet sandwich. I just tuck the cutlets into a bun with some lettuce, tomato, and a flavorful spread like pesto mayo or sriracha ranch. It takes just minutes to assemble but feels special.

2. Chicken Caprese Panini

Another great sandwich option is a chicken caprese panini. Layer sliced chicken cutlets with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil leaves, and a balsamic drizzle on focaccia bread. Press in a panini maker for a hot, melty lunch.

3. Chicken Caesar Salad

Salads are a no-brainer way to use up leftover chicken. Chop or slice the cutlets and throw them on a bed of crisp romaine lettuce. Top with Parmesan cheese, croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing for a satisfying meal.

4. Chicken & Broccoli Pasta

Pasta and chicken are a perfect pair, so toss those sliced cutlets into any pasta dish. I love them mixed with broccoli florets, shredded cheese, and a simple cream sauce tossed with penne. Easy and delicious!

5. Chicken & Waffles

If you’re feeling adventurous, use those leftovers for a fun chicken and waffles dish! Set breaded chicken on top of Belgian waffles, and drizzle with maple syrup for a sweet and savory combo.

6. Chicken Quesadillas

Quesadillas are my go-to weeknight meal for using up leftovers. Just dice the chicken and combine it in a tortilla with shredded cheese, sautéed veggies, and salsa. Grill until the cheese melts for a quick and easy dinner.

7. Chicken Cordon Bleu

Channel your inner gourmet chef by using leftover cutlets to make an elegant chicken cordon bleu. Stuff the chicken with ham and Swiss cheese, bread and pan fry, then bake until bubbly and golden. Fancy restaurant quality!

8. Chicken Taco Salad

For a light, fresh meal, turn those cutlets into a chicken taco salad. Chop the chicken and toss with lettuce, beans, corn, avocado, cheese and crispy tortilla strips. Drizzle with a cilantro ranch dressing for a tasty Tex-Mex inspired dish.

9. Buffalo Chicken Wraps

Spice up those leftovers by dunking cutlets in Buffalo wing sauce. Fill a tortilla with the saucy chicken, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and ranch or blue cheese dressing. The flavors of Buffalo wings in easy wrap form.

10. Chicken Parmesan

Chicken parm is a great way to repurpose breaded cutlets – no extra breading required! Just top the cutlets with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese and bake until melted. Serve over pasta for an easy family favorite.

11. Chicken & Vegetable Stir Fry

Slice or dice the chicken and throw it into a veggie stir fry for a quick and healthy dinner. Cook with snap peas, bell peppers, broccoli – whatever you have on hand. Toss in teriyaki or stir fry sauce and serve over rice.

12. Chicken Pot Pie

For the ultimate comfort food, use those leftovers in a homemade chicken pot pie. Combine the chicken with veggies in a creamy sauce, topped with puff pastry. Warm and satisfying on a chilly night!

As you can see, breaded chicken cutlets are endlessly adaptable. With a little creativity, you can reinvent those leftovers into all kinds of mouthwatering dishes. No more boring old chicken – now your family can enjoy something deliciously new!