Are you tired of letting leftovers go to waste? Look no further! When it comes to using up smoked chicken, the possibilities are endless. From savory soups and stews to flavorful salads and sandwiches, we’ve got 18 delicious leftover smoked chicken recipes that will satisfy your cravings and inspire your cooking.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, showcasing creative ways to repurpose smoked chicken into mouthwatering meals. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and bold or comforting and creamy, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron, get ready to cook, and let’s dive into these 18 flavorful recipes!
Smoked Chicken Quesadillas with Spicy Salsa
Experience the perfect blend of smoky flavor and spicy kick with this recipe for Smoked Chicken Quesadillas. Tender smoked chicken, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas come together in a delicious combination that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Spicy Salsa ingredients:
+ 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
+ 1/2 cup diced red onion
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ 2 tbsp lime juice
+ Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, brown sugar, and garlic powder. Rub the mixture all over the chicken breast.
3. Smoke the chicken for 4-5 hours or until tender.
4. Shred the cooked chicken and set aside.
5. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with shredded cheese and some of the smoked chicken.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve with Spicy Salsa (see below).
Spicy Salsa:
1. Combine diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice in a bowl.
2. Season with salt to taste.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: Approximately 5 hours (including smoking time)
Creamy Smoked Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken, wild rice, and creamy goodness. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless smoked chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed wild rice blend
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the smoked chicken breast and cook until heated through.
3. Add the wild rice blend, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until rice is tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream and thyme. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Chicken Cobb Salad with Avocado Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this Smoked Chicken Cobb Salad, featuring tender smoked chicken, crunchy veggies, and a creamy Avocado Dressing. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, and olive oil. Brush the mixture evenly onto the chicken breast.
3. Smoke or grill the chicken for 4-5 hours or until cooked through.
4. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and smoked chicken.
6. For the Avocado Dressing: Combine diced avocado with 2 tbsp lemon juice and 1 tsp salt. Blend until smooth.
7. Drizzle the Avocado Dressing over the salad and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking/grilling time) + 10 minutes (assembling the salad)
Smoked Chicken and Cheddar Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your snack game with this savory and satisfying recipe that combines the richness of smoked chicken, cheddar cheese, and bell peppers. This flavorful combination is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, smoked (or use leftover)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix smoked chicken, cheddar cheese, cooked rice, and parsley.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Chicken Nachos with Jalapeños and Cheese
Smoked Chicken Nachos with Jalapeños and Cheese: A flavorful twist on classic nachos, this recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken with the spicy kick of jalapeños and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 8-10 corn tortilla chips
– 1 can (16 oz) of refried beans
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced jalapeños
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts.
3. Smoke the chicken for 30 minutes using your preferred method (e.g., smoker or slow cooker). Let it cool.
4. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet. Spoon refried beans over the chips, followed by diced jalapeños and shredded cheese.
5. Top with smoked chicken and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Chicken and Corn Chowder
Smoked Chicken and Corn Chowder Recipe
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the rich taste of smoked chicken with the sweetness of corn, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless smoked chicken breast or thighs, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the diced smoked chicken, frozen corn kernels, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Chicken Caesar Wrap with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your wrap game with this mouthwatering combination of tender smoked chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and creamy garlic aioli. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp smoked paprika
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups romaine lettuce
– 1 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup garlic aioli (recipe below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Garlic Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C). Season chicken with apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
2. Smoke chicken for 2-3 hours or until tender. Let cool before shredding.
3. Assemble wraps by spreading garlic aioli on tortillas, followed by shredded chicken, romaine lettuce, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook Time: 2-3 hours (smoking) + 10 minutes (assembly)
Smoked Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on traditional stuffed shells. Smoky chicken and wilted spinach add a savory depth to these creamy, cheesy shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb cooked smoked chicken, shredded
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells al dente, then set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each shell with the chicken-spinach mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Chicken Fried Rice with Vegetables
Transform leftover rice into a flavorful and filling meal with this simple recipe. Smoky chicken adds depth to the dish, while colorful vegetables provide a nutritious boost.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced smoked chicken
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir in the smoked chicken, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until everything is well combined and heated through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Smoked Chicken and Black Bean Enchiladas
This recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken with the comfort of black beans and melted cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup black beans, cooked
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Smoke the chicken according to your preferred method or use leftover smoked chicken.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add cooked black beans and stir to combine.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
5. Assemble enchiladas by placing a spoonful of the chicken mixture onto a tortilla, rolling it up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
Smoked Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust: A Hearty Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken and creamy filling with a flaky, buttery crust, making for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Smoke the chicken according to your preferred method.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the mixed vegetables and garlic powder until tender.
4. Add the smoked chicken, heavy cream, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
5. Roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Spoon the filling into a pie dish, then top with the puff pastry, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush the crust with beaten egg and cut slits for steam vents.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: approximately 45 minutes
Smoked Chicken and Bacon Mac and Cheese
A creamy macaroni and cheese dish elevated by the smoky flavors of chicken and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked smoked chicken
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove sauce from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Add cooked macaroni, smoked chicken, and crumbled bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Chicken Tacos with Mango Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this unique fusion of smoky chicken and sweet mango salsa!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 1 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, cilantro, diced onions
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C). Season chicken with smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Smoke chicken for 4-5 hours, or until tender and slightly charred.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos with smoked chicken, mango salsa, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4.5 hours (including smoking time)
Smoked Chicken and Mushroom Risotto
Smoked Chicken and Mushroom Risotto Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of smoked chicken and earthy mushrooms in this creamy risotto dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 8 oz smoked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini and shiitake), sliced
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted.
- Add warmed chicken broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next. This process should take about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
- Stir in diced smoked chicken, sliced mushrooms, and white wine (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the flavors are well combined.
- Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
Approximately 30-35 minutes, including cooking time for smoked chicken breast.
Smoked Chicken Panini with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your panini game with this sweet and savory combination of smoked chicken, caramelized onions, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 slices of artisanal bread ( Ciabatta or Baguette work well)
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook the onions over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Assemble the paninis by spreading butter on each bread slice, followed by a layer of smoked chicken, caramelized onions, and mozzarella cheese.
4. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, perfect for a satisfying breakfast or brunch. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Place the chicken in the smoker for 4-5 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. While the chicken is smoking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and cook for 20-25 minutes or until they’re tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Once the chicken is done, chop it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the skillet with the sweet potatoes.
7. Stir in chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking time) + 25 minutes (sweet potato cooking time)
Smoked Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
A creamy and comforting pasta bake that combines the flavors of smoked chicken, alfredo sauce, and tender noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless smoked chicken breasts, shredded
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup alfredo sauce
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add shredded chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine with mushrooms.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken-mushroom mixture, alfredo sauce, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Chicken and Kale Caesar Salad
Elevate your salad game with this savory and tangy combination of tender smoked chicken, crispy kale, and creamy Caesar dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. Season chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Smoke for 4-5 hours, or until tender and slightly charred.
3. In a large bowl, toss kale with olive oil, salt, and pepper until crispy.
4. Slice smoked chicken into strips.
5. Combine chicken, kale, Caesar dressing, and croutons in a serving bowl.
6. Toss to coat and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking), 10 minutes (assembling salad)
Summary
Get creative with your leftover smoked chicken and try out these delicious recipes! From Smoked Chicken Quesadillas with Spicy Salsa to Smoked Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy creamy soups like Creamy Smoked Chicken and Wild Rice Soup or hearty casseroles like Smoked Chicken and Cheddar Stuffed Bell Peppers. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try a Smoked Chicken Cobb Salad with Avocado Dressing or a refreshing Smoked Chicken Tacos with Mango Salsa. These 18 flavorful recipes will inspire you to get cooking!
