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Home » Recipe Collections

25 Easy Chicken Recipes That Make Great Leftovers

Published: Nov 7, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

These chicken recipes are easy to make and perfect for stretching into multiple meals. Each one is flavorful and holds up well in the fridge, so leftovers taste just as good the next day. Quick to reheat and enjoy, these dishes save time while keeping things delicious and refreshing.

Chicken Lo Mein. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Lemon Butter Chicken

Lemon Butter Chicken. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

This dish captures the tanginess of lemon balanced with rich butter, making for a mouth-watering chicken meal. The lemon butter sauce enhances the chicken's flavor, giving it a zesty touch. It's excellent for dinners, and any leftovers are perfect to pair with rice or vegetables the next day. Easy to prepare and even better as leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Chicken

Sheet Pan Chicken & Sweet Potatoes

Roasted chicken thighs with sweet potatoes and pecans.
Sheet Pan Chicken & Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A simple dish where chicken and sweet potatoes are cooked together on a single sheet pan. The sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that complements the chicken well. This makes clean-up super easy and the flavors meld together nicely. Perfect for meal prep and delicious as leftovers that can be reheated quickly.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken & Sweet Potatoes

Sheet Pan Chicken Caprese and Vegetables

Overhead image of sheet pan chicken caprese and vegetables.
Sheet Pan Chicken Caprese and Vegetables. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This dish brings the classic Caprese flavors to a hearty sheet pan meal with chicken and assorted vegetables. With juicy tomatoes and fresh basil, each bite is refreshing and fresh. A drizzle of balsamic glaze ties it all together seamlessly. It's an excellent choice for making a large batch to enjoy throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Caprese and Vegetables

Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Easy Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

A comforting and refreshing meal, chicken and dumplings offer a taste of home cooking. The tender dumplings soak up the flavorful broth, making them soft and delicious. This dish is hearty enough to stand as a meal on its own. Its ingredients make for fantastic leftovers that taste even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak

Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Enjoy the classic comfort of chicken fried steak with a modern air fryer twist. This dish is lighter than the traditional version but still offers that beloved crispy texture. It's a versatile meal that pairs well with various sides. Air frying makes for a simple clean-up and keeps the leftovers delicious and convenient.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak

Air Fryer Bruschetta Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Air Fryer Bruschetta Stuffed Chicken Breasts. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

A creative twist on traditional bruschetta, these chicken breasts are stuffed with tomatoes, basil, and cheese. The air fryer gives them a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside tender. These stuffed breasts bring a burst of Italian flavor to your plate. They store well, making them perfect for a quick reheat meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bruschetta Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Chicken Lo Mein

Chicken Lo Mein. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Bringing Chinese takeout to your kitchen, this chicken lo mein is full of noodles, vegetables, and savory chicken pieces. It's quick to prepare and easy to customize with whatever veggies you have on hand. This meal works great as leftovers, with flavors enhancing overnight. It’s perfect for packing in a quick work lunch.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lo Mein

Chicken Fajita Wrap

Chicken Fajita Wrap. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

A convenient take on classic fajitas, these wraps pack vibrant flavors into a ready-to-eat form. They are filled with seasoned chicken, peppers, and onions for a handheld meal. Easily wrapped and stored, they're excellent for enjoying later without losing that fresh fajita taste. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on the go.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fajita Wrap

Chicken Stew

Chicken Stew. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Rich and hearty, chicken stew offers comfort with its savory broth and tender vegetables. It's an ideal dish for colder months, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bowl. Simple to make in large quantities, this stew is a boon for leftovers, as its flavors deepen with time. Reheat and enjoy for multiple meals throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stew

Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Fried chicken in a basket lined with parchment paper.
Air Fryer Fried Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This air fryer version of fried chicken promises crispy skin and tender meat with less oil and cleanup. It's a healthier twist without sacrificing that classic taste everyone loves. Great for dinners and an easy option to save and reheat for future meals. Keeps the crunch even after being stored in the refrigerator.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Classic Kung Pao Chicken brings a spicy and savory punch to your table with tender chicken and crunchy peanuts. Filled with bold flavors, it’s refreshing and deeply delicious. Great for dinner and the perfect option for cooking once and enjoying multiple times. It reheats excellently, making each follow-up meal just as good as the first.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Keto Chicken Nuggets

Keto chicken nuggets on a plate with a cup of dipping sauce.
Keto Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These keto-friendly chicken nuggets offer a healthier take on a classic favorite. Made without traditional breading, they are flavorful and refreshing. Perfect for those following a keto diet, or anyone looking for a lower-carb meal option. They hold up well over a few days, making for an easy snack or meal.
Get the Recipe: Keto Chicken Nuggets

Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters

Air fryer chicken leg quarters on a plate with broccoli and purple sweet potato fries.
Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

With an air fryer, these chicken leg quarters come out juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. The simplicity of this cooking method means less time and less cleanup. Versatile and flavorful, they pair well with various sides. Excellent for preparing a one-time meal to reheat and enjoy later without losing texture.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters

Slow Cooker Chunky White Chicken Chili

Slow cooker chunky white chicken chili in a bowl.
Slow Cooker Chunky White Chicken Chili. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This slow cooker chili offers hearty texture and comforting flavors, featuring tender chunks of white chicken. Cooking it low and slow melds the flavors, making each spoonful refreshing. It's perfect for batch cooking, and leftovers taste superb and are easy to reheat. A great addition to your meal prep rotation.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chunky White Chicken Chili

Honey Mustard Chicken Drumsticks

A white baking dish with chicken drumsticks layered inside and honey mustard sauce on top.
Honey Mustard Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

Combining the sweetness of honey with the tang of mustard, these drumsticks are sure to please. The marinade gives them a glossy finish and locks in flavor. They're easy to prepare and equally easy to enjoy the next day. An excellent choice for an on-the-go snack or a quick dinner reheat.
Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken Drumsticks

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta

A plate of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

This dish combines tender chicken with a creamy, garlic-infused Parmesan sauce over pasta. It’s a comforting meal that's both refreshing and rich in flavor. Quick to prepare and perfect for reheating, making it ideal for leftover lovers. Simple yet delicious, easy to enjoy as an indulgent, repeatable meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta

Marry Me Chicken

A plate of marry me chicken over pasta.
Marry Me Chicken. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Named for its irresistible and memorable flavors, Marry Me Chicken features a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce that complements the chicken perfectly. It pairs well with pasta or rice, making it versatile. Suitable for reheating, retaining its rich flavors after storing. It's a meal you'll want to make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken

Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken thighs in tomato sauce on a large white plate.
Chicken Cacciatore. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

A traditional Italian favorite, chicken cacciatore features the vibrant flavors of tomatoes, peppers, and fragrant herbs. This dish is perfect for slow cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s ideal for large batches, as it holds its taste well as leftovers. Excellent for meal prep or family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore

Healthy Fried Chicken

Three pieces of Easy Oven Fried Chicken speckled with parsley.
Healthy Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Erren's Kitchen.

This healthier version of fried chicken uses less oil, making it a better choice without compromising flavor. It retains its crispiness and juicy interior, refreshing the fried chicken craving with less guilt. Easy to prepare and to save for another round. Perfect for a quick meal solution that truly hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Fried Chicken

Marinated Chicken Wings

Crispy oven baked marinated chicken wings on a plate.
Marinated Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These chicken wings are packed with flavor from a well-balanced marinade that seeps into the meat. Simple to customize with your preferred tastes, and perfect for any occasion. They are simple to make in bulk and reheat well for leftovers. Great for game nights or an easy family meal.
Get the Recipe: Marinated Chicken Wings

Stuffed Chicken Marsala

Stuffed chicken marsala in a cast iron skillet.
Stuffed Chicken Marsala. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

With rich flavors every bite of these stuffed chicken breasts combines the earthy taste of Marsala wine with mushrooms and herbs. They’re filled with cheese and spices, making for a delicious meal. Easy to store and even better when reheated as the flavors deepen with time. A refreshing dish for any wine lover.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Chicken Marsala

Thai Chicken Curry

Low angle shot of a blue and white striped bowl filled with Thai chicken curry.
Thai Chicken Curry. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Offering a rich blend of coconut milk, curry paste, and aromatic spices, this Thai Chicken Curry is both flavorful and fulfilling. It's versatile enough to pair with rice or noodles for an easy meal. It holds its flavors well, even as a leftover, making it perfect for batch cooking. Great for when you're craving something exotic.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Curry

The Best Fried Chicken Sandwich

Fried chicken sandwich with fries on a tray.
The Best Fried Chicken Sandwich. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This sandwich offers crispy fried chicken, savory toppings, and a refreshing bun all in one delicious package. It’s a classic fast-food favorite you can make at home with ease. Excellent for preparing in advance and ideal for quick lunches or weeknight dinners. Keeps its heartiness and taste when reheated.
Get the Recipe: The Best Fried Chicken Sandwich

Buffalo Chicken Cheese Steak

Overhead image of buffalo chicken cheese steak sanddwiches on plates.
Buffalo Chicken Cheese Steak. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Combining the heat of Buffalo chicken with the heartiness of a cheese steak, this dish brings exciting flavors you'll love. It's a sandwich that fills you up and satisfies that spicy craving. Easy to prepare and perfect for an energetic meal. Ideal for making ahead and saving for a quick and flavorful meal later.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Cheese Steak

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Overhead image of buffalo chicken meatballs in a bowl.
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These meatballs bring together the heat of Buffalo sauce with tender chicken bites. Perfect as a game-day snack or a fun weekday meal. Easy to batch cook and store, they maintain their flavor and heat on day two. Pair with dip for an extra element, elevating the classic meatball to new heights.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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