Are you tired of the same old boring meals after a big family gathering or holiday feast? Look no further! We’ve got 18 mouth-watering and easy-to-make recipe ideas that will transform your leftover smoked chicken into a whole new culinary experience. From spicy tacos to creamy pasta dishes, we’re showing you how to take the humble leftovers of smoked chicken and turn them into a flavorful feast.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our favorite recipes for using up leftover smoked chicken. Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy or a more elaborate dish, we’ve got you covered with ideas like Smoked Chicken Quesadillas with Pepper Jack Cheese, Leftover Smoked Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, and many more.
Smoked Chicken Quesadillas with Pepper Jack Cheese
Transform your love of quesadillas and smoked chicken into one mouthwatering dish. This recipe combines tender, smoky chicken with melted pepper jack cheese and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked chicken breast, shredded
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the cheese and half of the chicken.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Leftover Smoked Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Transforming leftover smoked chicken into a delicious and comforting soup is easier than you think. This recipe combines the smoky flavors with nutty wild rice, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover smoked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon 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 shredded smoked chicken, cooked wild rice, chicken broth, and thyme.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Chicken Cobb Salad with Avocado Dressing
This hearty salad combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken with the creaminess of avocado dressing, all on a bed of crisp greens. A perfect blend of textures and tastes, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup Smoked Paprika
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 ripe avocados
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F. Smoke chicken for 2-3 hours or until tender.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, and walnuts.
3. Slice smoked chicken into strips and add to the salad.
4. In a blender, combine avocado, garlic, Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (smoking time) + 10 minutes (assembly)
BBQ Smoked Chicken Pizza with Red Onions and Cilantro
This recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and fresh cilantro to create a unique pizza experience. Perfect for a casual dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ rub
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups pizza dough
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Smoke the chicken using your preferred method until tender. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. Roll out the pizza dough, spread tomato sauce, and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
4. Add smoked chicken, red onions, and cilantro on top.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Chicken Tacos with Mango Salsa
Smoked Chicken Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe
Get ready to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with this mouthwatering combination of smoky chicken, crunchy tacos, and sweet mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango salsa (see below for recipe)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts.
4. Smoke or grill the chicken for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Shred the chicken with two forks.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded chicken onto tortillas and topping with mango salsa.
Mango Salsa Recipe:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours for smoked chicken, plus an additional 20-30 seconds per tortilla for warming.
Creamy Smoked Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
A rich and savory pasta dish that combines the deep flavors of smoked chicken with sautéed mushrooms and a creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a comforting serving of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. fettuccine pasta
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, smoked (such as applewood-smoked or mesquite-smoked)
– 8 oz. mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until heated through.
3. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Stir in smoked paprika and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and mushroom mixture. Toss with the creamy sauce until well coated.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Chicken and Corn Chowder
This creamy and smoky soup is a perfect blend of flavors, featuring tender smoked chicken, sweet corn, and aromatic spices. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious chowder in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, potatoes)
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Add the smoked chicken, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leftover Smoked Chicken Enchiladas Verde
Transform leftover smoked chicken into a flavorful and spicy dish with this simple recipe. Perfect for using up extra smoked chicken, these enchiladas are filled with tender meat, creamy sauce, and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover smoked chicken, shredded
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add shredded smoked chicken to the sauce and stir until coated.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble enchiladas by spooning chicken mixture onto tortillas, rolling, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this unique twist on classic stuffed shells. Smoked chicken and wilted spinach add depth and richness to this creamy, cheesy dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup cooked smoked chicken, diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine smoked chicken, spinach, onion, garlic, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, then top with additional mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Chicken Caesar Wrap with Parmesan Crisps
Elevate your lunch game with this mouthwatering wrap, packed with tender smoked chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy Caesar dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 4 large tortillas
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. Season the chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Smoke the chicken for 2-3 hours, or until tender and juicy.
4. Slice the chicken into thin strips.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble the wraps by spreading Caesar dressing on each tortilla, followed by chicken, bacon, lettuce, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (including smoking time)
Smoked Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash
Smoked Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash: A hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch dish that combines tender smoked chicken with crispy sweet potatoes and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless smoked chicken breast, diced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, cook diced onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
5. Add smoked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Add roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with chicken and onion mixture.
7. If desired, crack in eggs and scramble them into the hash.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Leftover Smoked Chicken Fried Rice
Transform last night’s smoked chicken dinner into a tasty and satisfying fried rice dish. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover cooked rice, smoked chicken, and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked rice
– 1 cup diced leftover smoked chicken
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots)
– 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.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the mixed frozen vegetables and cook until thawed.
5. Add the cooked rice, smoked chicken, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Chicken and Black Bean Burrito Bowls
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this hearty and delicious recipe that combines tender smoked chicken, creamy black beans, and crunchy veggies. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wood chips (apple or cherry)
– 2 cups cooked black beans
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 tortillas (corn or flour)
– Shredded cheese, cilantro, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F. Season chicken with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
2. Smoke chicken for 4 hours or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic over medium-high heat until softened.
4. Add black beans, red bell pepper, and smoked chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
6. Assemble burrito bowls by spooning the chicken and bean mixture onto each tortilla. Top with shredded cheese, cilantro, and sour cream (if using).
Cooking Time: 4 hours (smoking) + 10-15 minutes (prep)
Smoked Chicken Panini with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your panini game with this sweet and savory combination of smoked chicken, caramelized onions, and melted mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 8 slices mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Assemble the paninis by spreading a layer of caramelized onions on each roll, followed by a few slices of smoked chicken and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
5. Place the paninis in the press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this creamy, smoky, and satisfying recipe that combines the flavors of smoked chicken, tender broccoli, and rich Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 bunch broccoli, cut into florets
– 1 cup cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken breasts over medium-high heat until browned on both sides and cooked through.
4. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until tender.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine cream, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli in a baking dish. Pour the Alfredo sauce over the top and mix well to coat.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Leftover Smoked Chicken Nachos with Jalapeños
A creative way to repurpose leftover smoked chicken, these nachos are a spicy and satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover smoked chicken, shredded
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the tortilla chips, black beans, and shredded cheese.
3. Add the chopped cilantro and jalapeño slices on top.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the nachos and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the nacho mixture in an oven-safe dish and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and stir in the leftover smoked chicken.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Leftover Smoked Chicken Nachos with Jalapeños!
Smoked Chicken and Avocado Spring Rolls
Elevate your appetizer game with these flavorful spring rolls that combine the richness of smoked chicken, creamy avocado, and crunchy vegetables. Perfect for a quick snack or as part of a larger spread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked smoked chicken breast
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spring roll wrappers (usually found in the produce section)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine smoked chicken, avocado, carrots, cabbage, and scallions.
2. Add soy sauce and sesame oil; mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper flat on a surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the chicken-avocado mixture in the center.
4. Fold the bottom half up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just assemble and serve.
Smoked Chicken Shepherd’s Pie with Cheddar Crust
Elevate your comfort food game with this hearty recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken, tender vegetables, and a crispy cheddar crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, smoked to perfection
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine smoked chicken, mixed vegetables, onion, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Top with mashed potatoes and sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese.
5. Dot the top with butter and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Transform leftover smoked chicken into 18 delicious and easy recipes. From savory soups to cheesy quesadillas, these ideas will breathe new life into your meal planning. Try Smoked Chicken Quesadillas with Pepper Jack Cheese, Leftover Smoked Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, or BBQ Smoked Chicken Pizza with Red Onions and Cilantro. With a range of international flavors and comforting classics, there’s something for everyone in this collection of tasty and easy recipes.