Introduction
When you have leftover chicken breasts, dinner doesn’t have to be uninspired. You can transform those leftovers into unique, delicious meals the whole family will love. If you’re looking for some new ideas to spice up your dinner table, here are 5 delicious leftover chicken breast recipes to try in 2023.
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
This classic comfort dish is always a crowd-pleaser. To make it, cook a pound of broccoli florets and set aside. Then, in a separate saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add two cloves of minced garlic and cook for a minute or two. Add two tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for an additional minute. Slowly add two cups of milk and whisk until it thickens. Finally, add a cup of parmesan cheese, salt and pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Once the sauce has thickened, add the chicken and broccoli and cook for an additional two minutes. Serve with cooked pasta or mashed potatoes.
Chicken Burrito Bowls
For a light yet flavorful meal, try making chicken burrito bowls. Start by cooking one cup of long-grain rice according to package instructions. In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add one diced red onion, one diced bell pepper, and two cloves of minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened. Add the chicken and season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Cook until heated through. Assemble the burrito bowls by adding the cooked rice and topping with the chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, black beans, and your favorite toppings. Drizzle with salsa and sour cream.
Chicken Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a great way to use up leftover chicken. To make them, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add one diced onion and one diced bell pepper. Cook for two minutes and then add one cup of cooked chicken. Cook until everything is heated through. Assemble the quesadillas by placing a tortilla on a baking sheet. Spread the chicken mixture over half of the tortilla and then top with cheese and the other half of the tortilla. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Cut into wedges and serve with sour cream and salsa.
Chicken Fried Rice
This is a great way to use up leftover white rice. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add one diced onion, one diced carrot, and two cloves of minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened and then add one cup of cooked chicken. Cook for an additional two minutes and then add two cups of cooked white rice. Cook until heated through and then add two tablespoons of soy sauce, one tablespoon of sesame oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute and then serve.
Chicken Noodle Soup
Nothing says comfort food like a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup. To make it, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add one diced onion and two cloves of minced garlic. Cook for two minutes and then add one pound of diced carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook for an additional five minutes and then add eight cups of chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and then add one cup of cooked chicken and one cup of cooked noodles. Cook until the noodles are tender and then season with salt and pepper. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Conclusion
These 5 leftover chicken breast recipes are a great way to turn boring leftovers into something special. They’re easy to make and pack a lot of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of soup or a fun twist on classic dishes, these recipes are sure to please. So the next time your fridge is full of leftover chicken, try one of these delicious recipes.
