Smoked chicken is always a crowd pleaser. The smoky, savory flavor makes it a go-to for backyard barbecues, weeknight dinners, and holiday feasts alike. However, you may sometimes find yourself with leftover pieces of smoked chicken breast, thighs, or wings after the meal is over. Rather than relegating them to boring sandwiches or salads, get creative with these 12 delicious ways to transform leftover smoked chicken into entirely new dishes!
Elevate Enchiladas
Enchiladas are the perfect vessel for repurposing leftover smoked chicken The rich, complex flavors pair beautifully with the smokiness of the meat To make smoked chicken enchiladas, simply shred or dice the chicken and mix it with enchilada sauce, cheese, onions, beans, rice, or whatever other fillings you desire. Stuff the mixture into tortillas, top with more sauce and cheese, and bake until melted and delicious. The enchiladas can be assembled in advance and frozen for even easier weeknight meals.
Pile on Smoky Nachos
Nachos are always a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish. To give basic nachos an upgrade, top the tortilla chips with shredded smoked chicken, peppers, beans, salsa, guacamole, and plenty of gooey cheese. The array of textures and flavors – crispy chips, tender chicken, cool toppings – makes these nachos extra appealing. Not to mention the smoky chicken adds tons of extra flavor!
Chicken Corn Chowder
Looking for a hearty comforting soup? Smoked chicken corn chowder is the answer. Simply cook potatoes corn kernels, onions, and celery in broth. Add milk or cream, then shred and add the leftover smoked chicken. The smoky flavor infuses the entire pot of chowder. Garnish with bacon bits or croutons for extra crunch. This chowder is ideal for chilly nights when you crave a cozy bowl of goodness.
Quesadilla Dip Time
Quesadilla dip is easy to throw together, but feels gourmet. Shredded smoked chicken combines with salsa, beans, cheese, and spices in a skillet until heated through. Scoop with tortilla chips for a fun twist on nachos! The creamy, cheesy interior makes this baked dip ultra appealing. Plus you can customize the flavors to match whatever you have on hand.
Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Every good cook knows a quality chicken salad starts with an excellent base of chicken. Swap rotisserie or boiled chicken for smoky pulled chicken in any chicken salad recipe – either classic mayo or unique twists with fruits, nuts, or curry. The possibilities are endless for customizable chicken salads to enjoy between slices of bread, stuffed in lettuce wraps, or scooped on top of greens.
Smoky Chicken Pot Pie
Pot pie is comfort food at its finest. Make it next level by using smoked chicken as the star ingredient. Sauté vegetables like peas, carrots, celery, and onions. Add chicken, gravy or cream sauce, then transfer to a pie crust. Top with a second crust or biscuit dough and bake until golden. The smoked chicken adds so much depth of flavor to this hearty, satisfying pot pie.
Smoked Chicken Pizza
Homemade pizza night gets an upgrade with smoked chicken as a topping. Stretch out or roll pizza dough, then top with barbecue sauce or tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. Add shredded smoked chicken along with any other desired toppings – peppers, mushrooms, pineapple, etc. The possibilities are endless for creative pizza combinations! The smoked chicken adds a wonderfully distinctive flavor.
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Tortilla soup is a southwestern favorite for good reason – it’s packed with flavor. To make it with leftover smoked chicken, sauté onions, garlic, and peppers. Add chicken broth, tomatoes, corn, beans, seasoning, and the shredded chicken. Top with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, cilantro, and lime juice. The smokiness infuses throughout each spoonful of this hearty soup.
Chicken & Waffles
This soul food classic gets an upgrade with smoked chicken. Simply heat leftover chicken in a skillet until warmed through and crispy. Serve atop waffles or pancakes along with maple syrup for sweetness. The smoky chicken pairs perfectly with the fluffy, sweet waffles. An ideal combination of savory and sweet flavors!
Smoked Chicken Wraps
Shredded chicken makes the easiest filling for healthy wraps and sandwiches. Spread your favorite wrap or bread with hummus, tahini, pesto, or avocado. Top with smoked chicken, vegetables, cheese, nuts, or whatever sounds good. The smoked chicken adds next-level flavor to basic sandwich staples. Wrap up for an easy hand-held meal.
Chicken Fried Rice
Take leftover rice to new heights by stir-frying with shredded smoked chicken. Simply cook the rice according to package directions. Then sauté diced veggies like carrots, onions, peas, and eggs. Add shredded chicken and soy sauce to coat. Quick and easy, but such a flavor punch! The smoky chicken really shines here.
BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza
Flatbreads or naan make excellent personal-sized pizzas. Top them with shredded smoked chicken, mozzarella, red onion, cilantro, and barbecue sauce for a quick meal. The flatbreads cook quickly under the broiler or on the grill. The combination of flavors here is simple but so satisfying. Warm, crisp flatbread topped with savory, saucy chicken.
Endless Possibilities
As you can see, the possibilities are endless when it comes to repurposing leftover smoked chicken. A flavorful smoked chicken breast or leg can be transformed into so many dishes, from hearty casseroles to fresh, healthy salads and more. Get creative with spices, sauces, and other mix-ins to keep your meals exciting. With a little innovation, you’ll never get bored of leftover smoked chicken again.
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Transform your leftover smoked chicken into mouth watering meals with these recipes. Whether its tender chunks of chicken from a pellet grill creation or creamy smoked chicken breast enhancements, these recipes will inspire you to see leftovers in a new light. So grab that leftover meat, fresh vegetables, and chopped cilantro, and lets get cooking!
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This smoked chicken enchiladas recipe is perfect for those who love their pellet grill creations. The dish allows you to enjoy the smoky flavors of smoked chicken, whether you opt for the convenience of meal prep or desire a freshly baked meal.
The layers of flavor in this recipe have you appreciate the rich potential of leftover smoked chicken. Its a dish that transforms humble ingredients into something truly special. Whether served fresh or as a meal prep solution, these enchiladas will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Photo Credit: cleaneatingmag.com
Next on the menu are smoky chicken tostadas, a dish that combines the bold flavors of smoked chicken with the zest of chipotle chile slaw. This recipe is a fiesta of taste and texture, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal thats both flavorful and health-conscious. The smoky chicken is the centerpiece, with the slaw adding a spicy crunch.
These tostadas are not only easy to assemble but also bring a burst of color and nutrition to your table. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, theyre a fantastic way to use up any leftover smoked chicken.
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For a cozy bowl of goodness, try using your smoked chicken leftovers into this smoked chicken corn chowder recipe. The smoked chicken breast adds depth to the chowder, enriching every spoonful with its robust flavors. Its a perfect dish for those leftover pieces that deserve a second chance to impress.
The creamy base, dotted with sweet corn and tender chicken, makes for a warm and welcoming dish thats ideal for any season. Dive into this chowder and let the smoky aroma take you on a culinary journey right in the comfort of your own home.
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What happens when you combine a casserole with mac and cheese? You get the King Ranch chicken mac and cheese, a dish that can be on your table in just 30 minutes. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, blending the richness of cheese sauce with the smokiness of leftover chicken.
Not only is this dish a time-saver, but it also offers an explosion of flavors. Its a creative way to turn your smoked chicken into a new family favorite. So when youre in a pinch for time but still want to serve up something spectacular, remember this quick and delicious solution.
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When the days get chilly, or you simply crave something warm and nourishing, the quick chicken and barley stew is a fabulous choice. Ready in just 30 minutes, this stew tells of the versatility and convenience of smoked chicken. Each bite is packed with wholesome barley and tender vegetables, creating a well-rounded meal thats as healthy as it is delicious.
This recipe is an excellent option for a no-fuss dinner that doesnt skimp on taste. Its a wonderful way to use up smoked chicken leftovers while providing your family with a meal that feels both home-cooked and gourmet.
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This chili is all about letting the natural flavors of smoked chicken shine, complemented by a blend of spices and your favorite toppings. Its a comforting meal thats perfect for any occasion, whether youre gathering with friends or enjoying a quiet night in.
The beauty of this chili is in its simplicity and the freedom to customize it with whatever toppings you love most. From sour cream to fresh herbs, the possibilities are endless, ensuring that each bowl is a unique experience.
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Looking for a dish that brings the taste of outdoor cooking inside? The stove top casserole with smoked chicken is your answer. This one-pot meal is perfect for those seeking minimal cleanup without sacrificing flavor. Its a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger spread, perhaps alongside a classic chicken salad or a chicken salad sandwich recipe.
This casserole is a harmonious mix of chicken rice and cheese-filled tortellini, topped with a golden layer of bread crumbs for that satisfying crunch.
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This creamy and cheesy concoction is a perfect match for your cast iron skillet, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully as it heats. Its a simple yet impressive dish that pairs wonderfully with chips or fresh veggies for dipping.
Whether youre hosting a game day event or looking for a fun twist on dinner, this quesadilla dip is a no-brainer. Its the sort of recipe that makes you the hero of the hour, providing a delicious and interactive eating experience.
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Reinvent a classic with this smoked chicken pot pie recipe. It features a luscious cream sauce that envelops every morsel of chicken and vegetable. This dish takes the traditional chicken pot pie to new heights by adding the flavor of smoked chicken.
Each bite is a reminder of home-cooked meals, with the added twist of smoked chicken elevating the dish. The golden crust and creamy interior are a perfect pairing, making this pot pie a memorable meal.
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Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen with these light and zesty chicken bites. This dish is a perfect way to put a new spin on smoked chicken, combining it with bright and fresh ingredients for a meal thats both healthy and flavorful.
Whats wonderful about this recipe is its simplicity and the speed with which it can be prepared. In no time at all, you can have a dish thats bursting with the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or when youre craving something a little different.
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Unleash the full potential of your smoked chicken leftovers with this chicken nachos recipe. Its a fun and flavorful dish that combines the smokiness of the chicken with the heartiness of the nachos, resulting in a perfect balance of taste and texture.
Layer upon layer of chicken, cheese, and vegetables create a colorful and appetizing dish thats just as enjoyable to look at as it is to eat. Whether youre in the mood for a chicken vegetable medley or something a little more indulgent, these nachos are sure to satisfy.
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For a light and refreshing option, this smoked chicken salad recipe is a must-try. Ready in just 15 minutes, its an ideal choice for meal prep or a quick lunch. The shredded smoked chicken is the star, offering a smoky twist to the delicious chicken salad. Its a wholesome dish thats perfect for those who enjoy the lighter side of smoked chicken.
What sets this salad apart is its ability to be both simple and sophisticated. Whether youre pairing it with crockpot shredded chicken for a heartier meal or enjoying it with a pasta bake, the possibilities are endless. Even on a busy Taco Tuesday, this salad can offer a quick and tasty option that doesnt skimp on flavor.
After exploring these recipes, its clear that leftover smoked chicken can be transformed into a variety of dishes. From savory chicken wraps to a refreshing leftover smoked chicken salad, theres no shortage of ways to whip up a batch of something special. These recipes prove that leftovers should never be underestimated and can indeed be the foundation of meals that are both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.
So the next time you find yourself with smoked chicken in the fridge, remember these recipes and get creative in the kitchen. With a little imagination and some basic ingredients, you can turn those leftovers into a meal thats as delightful as it is satisfying. Happy cooking!
Leftover BBQ Chicken
FAQ
How to use leftover smoked chicken for dinner?
- Smoked Chicken Enchiladas (Two Ways) …
- Smoky Chicken Tostadas with Chipotle Chile Slaw. …
- Smoked Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe. …
- King Ranch Chicken Mac And Cheese. …
- Quick Chicken And Barley Stew. …
- White Lightning Chicken Chili. …
- Stove Top Casserole.
How long is leftover smoked chicken good for?
Storing and Reheating Store leftover smoked chicken breasts in a food storage container with an air-tight lid, in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it should be good for up to 4 days. You can easily freeze the chicken to extend its shelf life and make your meal prep easy later on.
What is smoked chicken good for?
Protein: Smoked chicken is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. Low in Carbs: It is typically low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets.
What to make with leftover smoked meat?
- Smoked Brisket Breakfast Tacos.
- Texas BBQ Brisket Nachos.
- Brisket and Sausage Frito Pie.
- Smoked Beef Brisket Benedict.
- Brisket Tacos with Triple Salsa.
- Smoked Beef Brisket and Corn Chowder.
- Brisket Stuffed Poblano with Queso.
- BBQ Nachos.