Love Your Leftovers: 7 Recipes Using Leftover Chicken

Discover 7 delicious recipes to transform your leftover chicken into quick, family-friendly meals! From classic chicken salad to zesty chicken tortilla soup, these dishes are easy, versatile, and perfect for busy weeknights. Save time and reduce waste with these creative leftover ideas!

Hey friends! If there’s one thing I know about busy weeknights, it’s that leftovers can be a lifesaver—or a mystery waiting to be solved. That roast chicken or baked breasts from Sunday dinner? Don’t let them sit forgotten in the fridge. Instead, transform them into something fresh and exciting. At Add a Pinch, we’re all about simple, delicious ways to stretch your meals without extra fuss.

Today, I’m sharing seven of my favorite recipes from the site that make the most of your leftover chicken. Each one is quick, family-approved, and uses just a handful of pantry staples. Let’s turn those extras into dinners (and lunches!) you’ll actually look forward to.

1. Classic Chicken Salad

Nothing beats a creamy, crunchy chicken salad for a no-cook lunch. This version is my go-to—tender chicken mixed with mayo, lemon juice, and celery for that perfect bite. Shred about 3 cups of your leftover chicken and toss it with the works. Serve it on bread, in lettuce wraps, or straight from the bowl. Ready in minutes, it’s ideal for meal prep and lasts up to 4 days in the fridge.

Classic Chicken Salad Recipe

5 from 1 vote

This Classic Chicken Salad is made with tender chicken, creamy mayonnaise, lemon juice, crunchy celery, and is ready in minutes!

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2. Best Chicken Salad with Grapes

Craving something a little sweeter? Add halved grapes and toasted pecans to your shredded leftovers for a salad that’s equal parts savory and fruity. It’s a crowd-pleaser at picnics or as a light supper with crackers. Use 4 cups of cooked chicken, and you’ll have enough for sandwiches or to top a bed of greens. The fresh crunch makes it feel fancy without the effort.

Chicken Salad with Grapes Recipe

4.95 from 154 votes

Chicken Salad with Grapes Recipe – This chicken salad recipe makes a delicious, quick meal. Made with chicken, grapes, and roasted nuts, it is always a favorite!

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3. Chicken Tortilla Soup

Warm up with this hearty soup that’s basically a hug in a bowl. Stir 2-3 cups of shredded leftover chicken into a pot with beans, corn, and my quick homemade enchilada sauce. Top with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and cilantro. It’s spicy, satisfying, and ready on the stovetop in under 30 minutes—or let it simmer in the slow cooker for zero hands-on time.

Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe (Slow Cooker, Instant Pot, and Stove Top)

5 from 17 votes

This Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe is a hearty, flavorful favorite filled with chicken, beans, corn, and homemade enchilada sauce. Easy to make in the slow cooker, Instant Pot, or on the stovetop, this dish is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

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4. Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits

Comfort food alert! Layer your chopped leftover chicken (about 3 cups) with carrots, peas, and a creamy sauce, then crown it with fluffy homemade biscuits. Bake until golden, and dinner is done in about 45 minutes. It’s freezer-friendly too—make a double batch and save one for a rainy day. Pair it with a simple side salad for the ultimate cozy meal.

Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits Recipe

4.73 from 11 votes

Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits makes a perfect, comforting family meal. Get this family favorite chicken pot pie with biscuits recipe.

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5. Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole

This Southern classic is pure nostalgia in casserole form. Mix 3 cups of shredded chicken with sour cream, cream of chicken soup (homemade or store-bought), and a sprinkle of poppy seeds, then bake under a buttery cracker topping. It comes together in 30 minutes and feeds a crowd—perfect for weeknight dinners or dropping off to a friend. The buttery crunch is amazing!

Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole Recipe

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My Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole is easy, comforting, and delicious! It comes together quickly and bakes into a family favorite casserole.

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6. Perfect Chicken Quesadillas

Crispy, cheesy quesadillas are a hit with kids and adults alike. Fold 1-2 cups of chopped leftover chicken into tortillas with cheese and a dash of taco seasoning, then grill until melty. Slice and serve with salsa or sour cream. They’re on the table in 15 minutes—great for using up just a smidge of chicken or turning it into a fun taco night twist.

Perfect Chicken Quesadilla Recipe

4.50 from 2 votes

Chicken Quesadilla make a favorite lunch or supper recipe perfect for the whole family. Get this family favorite perfect chicken quesadilla recipe you are sure to love.

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7. Fried Rice with Chicken

Stir-fry magic! Toss 2 cups of diced leftover chicken into day-old rice with veggies, scrambled eggs, soy sauce or coconut aminos, and sesame oil. It’s a 15-minute wonder that clears out the fridge while feeling like takeout. Customize with whatever’s on hand—peas, carrots, or green onions—and you’ve got a balanced meal that’s better than delivery.

Fried Rice Recipe

5 from 1 vote

This easy fried rice recipe makes a delicious, quick dish! Ready in 15 minutes! Customize with your favorite add-ins! Video included.

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There you have it—seven ways to love those leftovers and keep your kitchen creative. These recipes are flexible, so swap in what you have and make them your own. What’s your favorite way to use up chicken?

Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear!

Enjoy!
Robyn xo