Mom’s Leftover Magic: 15 Clever Chicken Recipes for Round Two

Quick and tasty dishes are what every busy family needs, right? Repurposing leftovers helps with meal planning, reduces waste, and keeps meals fresh and exciting. With these inventive recipes, the chicken won’t just be good for round one but will improve with every meal. From tacos to soups, get ready for some kitchen magic to happen. Treat every leftover as an opportunity for something delicious rather than just a chore to finish.

Kung Pao Chicken in a bowl with a bowl of rice in the background.
Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Vintage Chicken Divan

Two cast-iron skillets filled with creamy, baked casserole topped with golden breadcrumbs and garnished with fresh thyme sprigs, set on a wooden surface. A fork rests in one serving.
Vintage Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Vintage Chicken Divan is right up there when thinking of comfort food classics. This dish mixes leftover chicken with broccoli and a creamy sauce. It’s then topped with cheese and breadcrumbs for a comforting crunch. Ideal for weeknight dinners, this dish brings retro flavors back with style. Your family will request this old favorite over and over.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Chicken Divan

Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

A stack of chicken and pineapple on a vertical skewer on a cutting board.
Smoked Chicken Al Pastor. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Want to spice things up? Try Smoked Chicken Al Pastor for a new take on leftovers. This recipe uses bold spices and a smoky kick to make your chicken unforgettable. Whether in tacos or on its own, it’s sure to please. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience you’ll want again next week.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Ever wish you could bring restaurant magic home? Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken gets you close. This dish transforms chicken into a delicious delight, featuring that famous honey mustard sauce, bacon, and cheese. Perfect for impressing guests or pampering your family, it’s a winner. Make sure to bookmark this recipe for many repeats.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Chicken Marsala Meatballs

Chicken Marsala Meatballs in a black dish.
Chicken Marsala Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Creativity takes a flavorful turn with Chicken Marsala Meatballs. This recipe combines classic Italian flavors with leftover chicken. Instead of a traditional dish, you get meatballs swimming in rich Marsala sauce. It’s a comforting meal that’s both unique and familiar, perfect for those who love classic flavors with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marsala Meatballs

Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Two bowls of Copycat Carrabba's Mama Mandola's Sicilian Chicken Soup, accompanied by two spoons, a black pepper grinder, and a napkin.
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Eyebrows will lift when you serve Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. This hearty bowl combines leftover chicken with veggies and a rich broth. It’s like gifting yourself a warm hug on a chilly day. Easy to make yet full of flavor, it’s a soup that stands out. Make extra because everyone will want a second helping.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Chicken Paprikash

Three pieces of chicken smothered in a creamy, orange-hued sauce topped with chopped herbs, served on a white rectangular plate.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving Hungarian cuisine? Chicken Paprikash is here to save your leftovers. This recipe turns your chicken into a paprika-infused delight. Rich and comforting, it pairs perfectly with egg noodles or rice. It’s a sure way to bring international flair to the dinner table without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken served on a white plate.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Make every meal special with Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. This dish uses leftover chicken to create something with spice and depth. Slow roasting ensures the flavors meld together beautifully. It’s a masterpiece of leftovers, ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Everyone will ask for the secret recipe, but you decide to share.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fast and flavorful, Chicken Fried Rice is your go-to for busy nights. Leftover chicken gets a new life when mixed with veggies and rice. A quick stir-fry ensures everything cooks perfectly. This dish is ideal for those who love takeout but want to cook at home. It’s a one-pan wonder that you’ll add to your regular rotation.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Chicken cordon bleu casserole on a black plate with a fork.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Classic flavors meet convenience in Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole—leftover chicken paired with ham and cheese in a creamy sauce. Topped with breadcrumbs, it’s baked to golden perfection. This dish simplifies a traditionally involved recipe, making it weeknight-friendly. Perfect for those who crave elegance without the effort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken Cacciatore on a serving platter.
Chicken Cacciatore. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Enjoy an Italian feast with Chicken Cacciatore. This recipe turns your leftover chicken into a rustic delight with tomatoes and peppers. It’s all simmered together for a rich, hearty meal. Whether served over pasta or on its own, it satisfies any craving. Perfect for a cozy night with flavors that transport you to Italy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore

4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

4 ingredient slow cooker chicken on a black platter.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Keep things simple but delicious with 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken. This recipe uses minimal ingredients to transform your leftovers into a new meal. Just pop everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. It is ideal for those who love minimal effort with maximum flavor. It’s convenient and tastes all in one pot.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

Chicken Piccata

Two chicken piccata on a white plate with parsley and lemon wedges.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Restaurant-quality dining at home with Chicken Piccata. Leftover chicken gets a makeover with lemon, capers, and a light sauce. It’s a dish that impresses without much time or effort. It’s elegant on a plate that is great for special dinners or just treating yourself. Make sure to serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Impress with minimal effort using Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. This recipe transforms leftovers into an exciting dish. Air frying ensures a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside juicy. Perfect for those who love traditional flavors without the deep fryer mess. It’s quick, convenient, and oh-so-yummy.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice things up with Chicken Tinga. Leftover chicken becomes a smoky delight in this traditional dish. Great for tacos or tostadas, it adds robust flavors without much effort. It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for casual dinners or when friends come over. You’ll find yourself making extra to ensure there are leftovers!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken in a bowl with a bowl of rice in the background.
Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Recreate a favorite with Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. This recipe turns leftovers into a takeout delight. With just the right amount of spice, it’s sure to impress. It is ideal for quick dinners or when you’re craving that signature taste. There is no need to order out when you can make it this good at home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

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