Cooking dinner every night can be time-consuming, but it doesn't have to be. With a rotisserie chicken, you can create delicious meals in no time. Why spend hours when you can whip up a tasty dinner in 30 minutes or less?
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As someone who loves great food but values convenience, I've discovered many ways to transform rotisserie chicken into amazing dinners. These meals are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying.
Let's explore some easy and creative ideas that will make dinner a breeze.
1) Chicken Alfredo Bake
This Chicken Alfredo Bake is one of my go-to dinners when I need something quick and delicious. I love how it combines tender rotisserie chicken with a luscious, creamy Alfredo sauce.
To start, I melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Then, I add minced garlic and cook for just a minute until it's fragrant.
Next, I whisk in some flour and cook for another minute to create a smooth roux. Gradually, I pour in milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
As the sauce thickens, I stir in grated Parmesan cheese, along with salt and black pepper. The cheese melts into the sauce, making it irresistibly creamy.
While the sauce simmers, I shred the rotisserie chicken and cook some pasta. Mixing the chicken and pasta with the Alfredo sauce in a baking dish, I add a bit of mozzarella on top.
Finally, I bake it in a preheated oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This dish is always a hit with family and friends and makes a perfect comforting meal.
2) BBQ Chicken Pizza
BBQ Chicken Pizza has become one of my favorite ways to use rotisserie chicken. The combination of smoky barbecue sauce and tender chicken is irresistible.
I start by preheating my oven to 450°F and prepping a pizza pan with a light layer of olive oil. Next, I roll out my pizza dough onto a surface sprinkled with cornmeal.
Once the dough is ready, I spread a layer of barbecue sauce, leaving a small border around the edge. I then toss shredded rotisserie chicken in a bowl with a bit more barbecue sauce.
I evenly distribute the saucy chicken on the pizza dough, followed by a generous sprinkling of mozzarella cheese. Red onion slices add a slight crunch and a burst of flavor when cooked.
If you love a bit of extra indulgence, crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of garlic salt work wonders. The pizza bakes for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden.
Once out of the oven, fresh cilantro can be added for a pop of color and freshness. This delicious meal is perfect for a quick and easy dinner!
3) Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps
I love making Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps for a quick and delicious dinner. Start by slicing your rotisserie chicken into thin strips. Season with a little Cajun spice for an extra kick.
In a large bowl, toss the chicken with chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing. Mix everything well until evenly coated.
Warm flour tortillas in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds to make them more pliable. Place the Caesar salad mixture in the center of each tortilla, leaving a small border.
Fold the sides of the tortilla inwards, then roll it up tightly like a burrito. If needed, secure with toothpicks to keep everything in place.
These wraps are not only tasty but also incredibly easy to assemble and customize. Feel free to add avocado or bacon for extra flavor and texture.
Serve immediately for the best experience. These wraps make for a perfect dinner that's both satisfying and simple to prepare.
4) Chicken Tacos
Chicken tacos are one of my favorite ways to use rotisserie chicken. They’re quick, customizable, and so delicious.
I usually start by shredding the chicken and mixing it with salsa, spices like chili powder, cumin, and coriander. You can adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Then, I warm the chicken in a skillet with taco sauce (and maybe a squeeze of lime). This makes it flavorful and juicy. If you like things a bit spicier, add some hot sauce or chopped jalapeños!
Next, I love filling taco shells with the seasoned chicken, then adding toppings like shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or guacamole.
To make things even easier, you can keep taco shells ready to go in the oven while you prep the filling. This makes the shells nice and crispy.
Using rotisserie chicken for tacos not only saves time but also makes sure the tacos are tender and tasty. I always keep a rotisserie chicken on hand for this very reason!
5) Buffalo Chicken Tacos
I love making Buffalo Chicken Tacos for an easy and delicious dinner. They only take a few minutes to prepare and have just the right amount of spice.
To start, melt butter and mix it with hot sauce and garlic powder. Then, toss in shredded rotisserie chicken, making sure every piece is well-coated.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add some butter, and cook the chicken mixture for 3-5 minutes until heated through.
If you like your tacos a bit crispy, you can cook the tortillas in the skillet with a dash of oil until they're golden brown.
For some extra heat, I sometimes add a few dashes of hot sauce right before serving.
I usually serve these tacos with a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing, which perfectly balances the spiciness of the chicken.
Buffalo Chicken Tacos are a hit in my house, and I bet they will be in yours too!
6) Chicken and Veggie Stir-Fry
One of my go-to quick dinners is chicken and veggie stir-fry. Using rotisserie chicken makes it even faster and easier to get on the table.
I start by cutting up some rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces. Then, I chop up my favorite veggies—usually bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas.
Next, I heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the veggies and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.
Then, I add the rotisserie chicken to the skillet and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes. The chicken just needs to warm up as it's already cooked.
For the sauce, I whisk together some soy sauce, cornstarch, chicken stock, and a bit of sesame oil in a small bowl. Pour this sauce over the chicken and veggies.
Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens and coats everything nicely. This usually takes just a few minutes.
I love serving my chicken and veggie stir-fry over steamed rice or noodles. It’s a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner option.
7) Chicken Quesadillas
Chicken quesadillas are a fantastic way to use rotisserie chicken for a quick and delicious meal. I start by shredding the chicken and preparing some veggies.
I like to sauté onions and bell peppers until they're softened. Then, I mix in the chicken along with some chili powder, cumin, and a bit of garlic.
The next step is to lay out tortillas on a clean surface and sprinkle some shredded cheese on half of each one.
I spoon the chicken mixture on top of the cheese, then fold the tortilla over.
Cooking the quesadillas is simple; I heat a pan over medium heat and cook each side for a few minutes until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
It's a wonderful dinner that's quick to make and packed with flavor.
8) Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken Pot Pie is one of my favorite comfort foods, and using rotisserie chicken makes it super easy. I start by sautéing onions in butter until they’re tender.
Next, I add flour to make a roux, then stir in some broth and milk. This creates a delicious, creamy base for the pie filling.
The rotisserie chicken, shredded into bite-sized pieces, gets combined with peas, carrots, and any other veggies I have on hand.
I pour this mix into a pie crust, then cover it with another crust on top. A quick brush with an egg wash helps it achieve a beautiful golden color.
I bake it at 400°F until the crust is crispy and the filling is bubbly—about 30-40 minutes. The result is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
9) Chicken Tortilla Soup
Chicken Tortilla Soup is one of my go-to's for a quick and delicious dinner. Using rotisserie chicken saves so much time.
First, I sauté onion and garlic in a pot until tender. Then I add chicken broth, corn, black beans, and tomatoes.
I season with chili powder, cumin, and a touch of paprika.
Once it’s all simmered for about 10-15 minutes, I add shredded rotisserie chicken.
The final touch is homemade tortilla strips. I slice tortillas, bake them until crispy, and use them to top the soup.
A squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro finishes it off perfectly. Serve it hot and enjoy!
10) Chicken Fried Rice
Chicken Fried Rice is a go-to dinner that’s both delicious and quick. Using rotisserie chicken adds an extra layer of flavor and saves time on prep.
I start by heating a large skillet or wok over high heat. A bit of sesame oil gives it that authentic taste.
Then I add chopped onions, carrots, and bell peppers, cooking until they start to soften.
Next, I push the veggies to one side and add beaten eggs. Scrambling them until they're fully cooked, I combine them with the veggies.
Afterward, I toss in the shredded rotisserie chicken and cooked rice.
To finish off, I add a splash of soy sauce and some garlic powder.
Stirring everything together, I let it cook until some of the rice starts to brown. Adding frozen peas in the last few minutes adds a pop of color and sweetness.
This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight and can be adjusted with any veggies you have on hand. The whole family will love it, and it’s a great way to use up leftover rice and chicken.
11) Chicken Enchiladas
My go-to for an easy, tasty dinner using rotisserie chicken is chicken enchiladas. I start by preheating the oven to 400°F and greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Next, I shred the rotisserie chicken and mix it with cheese. I fill each tortilla with this mixture and roll them up before placing them seam-side down in the dish.
For the sauce, I melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in flour until it’s golden.
Adding spices and tomato sauce, I whisk in some stock to make a smooth, thick sauce.
I then pour this sauce over the enchiladas, ensuring they’re evenly covered.
Finally, I sprinkle more cheese on top and bake them for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12) Chicken Nachos
Chicken nachos are a breeze with rotisserie chicken. I start by preheating the oven to a high broil.
Then I spread a layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet and top it with shredded chicken, cheese, and a few black beans.
I add another layer of chips and repeat with chicken and cheese.
Into the oven it goes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, just a few minutes.
For an extra kick, I mix in some salsa and corn before baking.
Once done, I love to garnish with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream. These nachos are always a hit and make for a perfect quick dinner.
13) Chicken Club Sandwiches
When I think about easy dinners, Chicken Club Sandwiches always come to mind. Rotisserie chicken makes this meal quick and tasty without much effort.
I start by slicing some French bread horizontally, giving me two halves to work with. This bread is perfect for holding all those delicious layers together.
A quick toast in the oven or on a skillet adds a delightful crunch.
Next, I layer on some crisp Romaine lettuce leaves, followed by slices of juicy rotisserie chicken.
The flavors really pop when I add crispy bacon and fresh tomato slices.
For cheese, Muenster and cheddar are my favorites. They melt wonderfully and add creaminess to each bite.
A dollop of mayo spread across the top slice of bread ties all the flavors together.
I love how customizable Chicken Club Sandwiches are. I can add or subtract ingredients based on what I have on hand.
Sometimes, I even toss in avocado for an extra creamy texture.
Serve these sandwiches with a side of chips or a light salad, and dinner is ready. They are perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual weekend lunch.
14) Chicken Pesto Pasta
Chicken Pesto Pasta is one of my favorite quick and easy dinners using rotisserie chicken. This dish combines tender pasta, juicy rotisserie chicken, and rich pesto sauce for a flavorful meal.
First, I cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling water until it's al dente. I always reserve a cup of the cooking water before draining the pasta.
Next, I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Then I add the shredded rotisserie chicken and cook it until it’s heated through and slightly golden.
I then mix in the pesto sauce and a splash of the reserved pasta water.
This creates a creamy texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
Finally, I toss the cooked pasta in the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Sometimes I add some grated cheese on top for extra richness.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because it comes together quickly. The pesto adds a bright, fresh flavor that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.
15) Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
This Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is one of my go-to recipes for a comforting, no-fuss dinner.
To start, I preheat my oven to 350°F and butter a 13-by-9-inch baking dish.
Then, I bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the broccoli until it's crisp-tender, which takes about 2 minutes.
Next, I drain the broccoli and rinse it with cold water, which helps it maintain that lovely green color.
In a large mixing bowl, I combine shredded rotisserie chicken, the cooked broccoli, a can of condensed soup, and some sour cream.
I mix these ingredients well, then pour the mixture into the buttered baking dish.
I top it with shredded cheddar cheese, which adds a nice melty texture.
For a crunchy topping, I combine bread crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle it over the casserole.
Finally, I bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes until it's bubbly and the cheese has melted perfectly.
16) Chicken Curry
Chicken curry is one of my favorite dinners to make using rotisserie chicken. The blend of spices and creamy sauce is just irresistible.
I start by heating up some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Then I add diced onions and garlic, and I sauté them until they're soft and fragrant.
Curry powder is the star of the show. I add it to the skillet and let it cook for a few minutes to release all its flavors.
Next, I add diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the skillet.
I like to let this mixture simmer for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
The rotisserie chicken gets shredded and added to the pot. It soaks up all the delicious curry flavors perfectly.
For a creamy twist, sometimes I stir in coconut milk or a bit of cream. It adds a rich, indulgent texture to the dish.
Finally, I season the curry with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
Served over rice, it’s a quick, delightful dinner that everyone enjoys.
17) Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
One of my go-to easy dinners with rotisserie chicken is Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells. It's a comforting and delicious meal that everyone loves.
First, I cook jumbo pasta shells until al dente, then drain and let them cool.
Meanwhile, I shred the rotisserie chicken and mix it with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Adding an egg helps bind everything together.
I stuff each shell with the cheesy chicken mixture and place them in a baking dish.
The Alfredo sauce is poured over the top, covering each shell completely.
Bake the dish at 350 degrees F for about 25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Sometimes, I like to sprinkle extra mozzarella and Parmesan on top before baking for an extra cheesy finish. The combination of tender pasta, creamy cheese, and flavorful chicken makes this recipe a winner every time.
18) Chicken and Rice Casserole
I love making Chicken and Rice Casserole on busy weeknights. This dish is a comforting blend of rotisserie chicken, rice, and creamy sauce, making it a family favorite.
First, I preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Then, I mix diced rotisserie chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, and a bit of mayonnaise in a bowl.
Sometimes, I like to add diced onions and celery for extra crunch.
I spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish. For a bit of texture, I sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter over the top.
After that, I cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it for about 30 minutes. In the final 10 minutes, I remove the foil to let the top get golden and crispy.
The result is a warm, creamy casserole that's perfect for any weeknight meal.
19) BBQ Chicken Sliders
I love making BBQ Chicken Sliders for an easy and fun dinner. They are perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken.
First, I preheat my oven to 350°F and prepare a baking dish. I place the bottom halves of slider buns in the dish.
Next, I combine shredded rotisserie chicken with my favorite BBQ sauce in a bowl. I make sure the chicken is well-coated.
I spoon the BBQ chicken mixture onto the bottom buns, spreading it evenly. Then, I place the top buns over the chicken.
To add extra flavor, I melt some butter and brush it on the top buns. Sometimes, I mix in garlic powder or brown sugar with the butter.
I bake the sliders in the oven for about 10-15 minutes. I wait until the tops are golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Finally, I let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These sliders are always a hit with my family and friends!
20) Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan is one of my favorite go-to meals when I'm short on time but still want something delicious. It's comforting and hearty, which makes it perfect for any weeknight dinner.
First, I preheat the oven to 375°F. Using a rotisserie chicken saves a ton of time. I simply shred the chicken and mix it with marinara sauce and cooked pasta.
Next, I add some Italian seasoning and mix in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. After that, I transfer everything to a greased baking dish.
I top the casserole with extra cheese for that gooey, melty finish we all love. Then, I bake it uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown.
Health Benefits of Rotisserie Chicken
Rotisserie chicken offers nutritional and protein benefits that can contribute to a balanced diet. It's a versatile option that can easily be included in various meals.
Nutritional Value
Rotisserie chicken is packed with essential nutrients. It's a good source of vitamins like B6 and B12, which help with energy metabolism.
It also contains zinc, crucial for immune function, and selenium, an antioxidant.
Additionally, rotisserie chicken is low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets.
The skinless meat is relatively low in fat, though the skin does add some fat. Whether you remove the skin or not, it's an excellent lean protein source.
Protein Content
One of the standout features of rotisserie chicken is its high protein content.
Protein is essential for muscle repair and overall body function. A single serving of rotisserie chicken can provide up to 30 grams of protein, meeting a significant portion of daily protein needs.
This high protein content makes rotisserie chicken particularly valuable for those looking to maintain or build muscle.
It can help keep you full longer, aiding in weight management.
Whether in salads, soups, or as the main dish, there's ample opportunity to get your protein fix with rotisserie chicken.
Quick Meal Prep Tips
When using rotisserie chicken for quick dinners, proper storage and efficient cutting can drastically cut down on prep time and wastage.
Storage and Shelf Life
I always keep an eye on the storage and shelf life of rotisserie chicken to make the most out of it.
Rotisserie chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge within two hours of buying or cooking. It remains fresh for up to four days.
For longer storage, I often freeze shredded or sliced chicken in portion-sized bags. It keeps well for up to three months.
Before freezing, ensure the chicken has cooled down to avoid ice crystals forming.
Label the bags with dates to track how long they've been stored. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps your meals tasty and safe.
Efficient Cutting Techniques
Efficient cutting techniques are key to speeding up meal prep with rotisserie chicken.
First, I remove the legs and wings by pulling them apart from the body and cutting through the joints.
Next, I cut along the breastbone and remove the breasts.
For shredding, using your hands is the fastest method. Pull the meat along the grain for tender pieces.
If you prefer diced chicken, a chef's knife works best. Cut the breasts into thin slices, then into cubes.
Sturdy kitchen shears can also help speed things up, especially for smaller pieces. This saves so much time for quick dinner prep.
Creative Using Leftovers
Leftover rotisserie chicken offers endless possibilities, from refreshing salads to hearty soups. It saves time and adds delicious flavors.
Salads and Wraps
Turning leftover rotisserie chicken into salads is a quick and healthy option.
I love mixing shredded chicken with greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
Adding fruits like apples or grapes can elevate the flavors. For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some nuts or seeds on top.
Wraps are another fantastic idea.
Warm tortilla wraps stuffed with chicken, lettuce, and some creamy avocado make for a delightful lunch.
Try including some hummus or tzatziki for an extra layer of taste. These easy, nutritious meals are perfect for busy days.
Soups and Stews
Soups and stews are comforting choices for using leftover chicken.
I enjoy making a classic chicken noodle soup with a rich broth, noodles, and veggies.
For added heartiness, consider a chicken and wild rice soup with carrots and celery.
Stews offer even more robust flavors.
A spicy chicken and black bean stew with tomatoes and corn is a crowd-pleaser.
Also, blending in seasonal vegetables like squash or sweet potatoes provides a comforting warmth.
These dishes are great for meal prep.
They can be easily reheated for quick dinners throughout the week.