Are you tired of the same old leftover grilled chicken dinner? Look no further! We’ve got 18 creative and delicious ways to repurpose your leftover grilled chicken into a whole new meal. From salads to wraps, sandwiches to casseroles, we’re showcasing the best and brightest ideas to breathe new life into last night’s dinner. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with your leftovers.
**Recipe 1: Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap**
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap
A classic twist on the traditional salad, this Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap combines juicy chicken, crispy romaine, and tangy Caesar dressing all wrapped up in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/4 cup croutons
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1 large flour tortilla
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Meanwhile, warm the tortilla in the microwave for 20 seconds.
3. Assemble the wrap by spreading Caesar dressing on the tortilla, followed by grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight wrap.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including grill time)
Spicy Grilled Chicken Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game with this spicy twist on a classic! Tender grilled chicken, crunchy peppers, and melted cheese come together in a flavorful fusion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salsa, sour cream, and avocado (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken; marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours.
3. Grill chicken until cooked through (about 5-6 minutes per side).
4. Meanwhile, grill onion and bell peppers until tender.
5. Assemble quesadillas by placing grilled chicken, vegetables, and cheese on tortillas. Fold in half.
6. Cook in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes or until crispy and melted.
7. Serve with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Avocado Sandwich
Savor the flavors of summer with this refreshing grilled chicken and avocado sandwich, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 ripe avocados, sliced
• 1 baguette, cut into 4 equal pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: lettuce, tomato, red onion, or your favorite toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together salt and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper mixture.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices by grilling them lightly on the grill or in a toaster.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing sliced grilled chicken, avocado, and any desired toppings onto toasted baguette.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Leftover Grilled Chicken Fried Rice
Transform last night’s grilled chicken into a tasty and satisfying meal with this simple fried rice recipe. Perfect for using up leftover ingredients, this dish is a great way to reduce food waste and enjoy a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced leftover grilled chicken
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted.
5. Add the diced chicken, mixed vegetables, and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir-fry everything together for about 2-3 minutes, until the ingredients are well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on a classic pasta salad, this recipe combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the tanginess of a homemade vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz. pasta (bow tie or penne work well)
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.
4. Slice grilled chicken into thin strips. Add to the bowl with the salad mixture.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Grilled Chicken Pizza
Get ready to take your pizza game to the next level with this mouth-watering BBQ Grilled Chicken Pizza recipe! A sweet and tangy twist on traditional pizza, this dish combines juicy grilled chicken, caramelized onions, and crispy bacon with a hint of BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 pre-made pizza crust or homemade dough
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, caramelize onions in olive oil over low heat for 15-20 minutes.
4. Roll out pizza crust and top with BBQ sauce, grilled chicken, caramelized onions, crumbled bacon, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken Tacos with Mango Salsa
This recipe combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the sweetness of mango salsa, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, cilantro, queso fresco
Mango Salsa Recipe:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Place chicken in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled chicken, mango salsa, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Grilled Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines smoky grilled chicken with sautéed mushrooms and a rich creamy sauce, all on a bed of al dente spaghetti. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in olive oil until tender. Add heavy cream and stir until combined.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips. Add to the mushroom sauce and toss to coat.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and chopped parsley (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Veggie Stir Fry
This recipe combines the smokiness of grilled chicken with the crunch and color of a vibrant stir-fry. It’s a great way to get your daily dose of protein and veggies in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add soy sauce to the veggies and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the veggie mixture. Stir-fry everything together for 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad
A classic salad gets a boost with the addition of grilled chicken and crispy bacon. This recipe is perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 6 oz mixed greens
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, blue cheese, cucumber, and walnuts.
3. Slice the grilled chicken into strips. Add to the salad along with crumbled bacon.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Black Bean Burritos
A flavorful twist on traditional burritos, this recipe combines the smokiness of grilled chicken with the savory taste of black beans. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa, sour cream, and cilantro for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest before slicing.
4. In a large skillet, cook onion, bell pepper, and garlic over medium heat until tender.
5. Add black beans to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble burritos with sliced chicken, black bean mixture, and shredded cheese (if using). Top with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leftover Grilled Chicken Noodle Soup
Transform leftover grilled chicken into a comforting and flavorful noodle soup with this easy recipe. Perfect for using up that extra chicken and making a meal out of scraps!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover grilled chicken, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked noodles (egg noodles or rice noodles work well)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, onion, and garlic. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add diced grilled chicken, cooked noodles, and thyme to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Simmer the soup for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
This recipe combines the flavors of grilled chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy ricotta cheese to create a deliciously stuffed shell dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken breasts until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
3. Let chicken rest, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
4. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and chopped spinach.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the ricotta mixture, followed by a spoonful of grilled chicken.
7. Place stuffed shells on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Cheese Quesadilla
Elevate your quesadilla game with this flavorful and satisfying recipe that combines the juiciness of grilled chicken with the creaminess of melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble quesadillas by placing grilled chicken on half of each tortilla, then topping with cheese and cilantro.
5. Fold tortillas in half and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and tortillas are crispy.
6. Serve hot and customize with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Rice Casserole
A flavorful and comforting casserole that combines the smokiness of grilled chicken with the simplicity of creamy rice and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, mixed vegetables, parsley, and cheddar cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and olive oil. Pour mixture over the rice mixture and stir until combined.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the casserole.
5. Transfer the casserole to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo
A creamy and flavorful twist on the classic chicken dish, this recipe combines grilled chicken with steamed broccoli and a rich Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Steam broccoli florets until tender.
6. Slice grilled chicken into strips. Serve with steamed broccoli, Alfredo sauce, and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash
This recipe combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all wrapped up in a crispy hash. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together sweet potatoes, olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until coated.
3. Grill chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. While chicken is cooking, place sweet potato mixture on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy.
5. Serve grilled chicken with sweet potato hash and garnish with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Corn Chowder
This hearty soup combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the sweetness of fresh corn, all in a creamy and comforting bowl. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups mixed corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let cool.
2. In a large pot, combine corn kernels, potatoes, onion, and garlic. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
4. Add grilled chicken, heavy cream, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir until heated through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your grilled chicken leftovers! This article presents 18 mouth-watering recipe ideas to breathe new life into yesterday’s dinner. From classics like Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap and Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad, to international twists like Grilled Chicken Tacos with Mango Salsa and Grilled Chicken and Black Bean Burritos, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food like Leftover Grilled Chicken Noodle Soup or a spicy kick from Spicy Grilled Chicken Quesadillas, these recipes are sure to delight.
