Are you tired of eating leftover fried chicken for days on end? We don’t blame you – it’s delicious and all, but let’s be real, even the most passionate fried chicken fans can get a little burnt out (pun intended). That’s why we’re excited to share our favorite 18 recipes that breathe new life into leftover fried chicken. From tacos to salads, sandwiches to casseroles, these creative ideas will transform your meal from bland to grand. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a quick and easy meal solution, these recipes are sure to become your new go-to’s.
Stay tuned for the full list of delicious leftover fried chicken recipes that will take your meals from ordinary to extraordinary!
Leftover Fried Chicken Tacos with Avocado Crema
Transform yesterday’s fried chicken into a delicious taco fiesta! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover fried chicken and making it even more flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover fried chicken, shredded
– 1/2 cup avocado crema (see below)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream for topping (optional)
Avocado Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble tacos by placing shredded fried chicken onto a warmed tortilla, followed by a dollop of avocado crema.
4. Top with radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Crispy Fried Chicken Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this crave-worthy combination of crispy fried chicken, fresh greens, and tangy honey mustard dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Honey mustard dressing (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate dish.
3. Dip chicken pieces in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry chicken in hot oil until golden brown and crispy (about 5-7 minutes).
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using).
6. Drizzle with honey mustard dressing and top with fried chicken.
Honey Mustard Dressing:
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Combine all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (including frying time)
Fried Chicken and Waffle Sliders with Maple Syrup
Fried Chicken and Waffle Sliders with Maple Syrup Recipe: A sweet and savory twist on the classic comfort food combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 6 waffles (homemade or store-bought)
– Maple syrup, warmed
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip chicken pieces into buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm waffles according to package instructions.
6. Assemble sliders by placing fried chicken on top of a waffle and drizzling with warmed maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Note: For crispy waffles, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes after warming.
Spicy Fried Chicken Quesadillas with Cheese
Elevate your quesadilla game with this spicy twist featuring crispy fried chicken, melted cheese, and a hint of heat. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional: sliced jalapeños, sour cream, and salsa
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip chicken pieces in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture. Fry in hot oil until golden brown (about 5-6 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
4. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
5. Add fried chicken pieces on half of the tortilla, then fold the other half to enclose.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and tortilla is crispy. Flip and cook an additional minute.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fried Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
Savor the comfort of a classic chicken pot pie, elevated by crispy fried chicken and a buttery, flaky crust. This recipe combines the best of both worlds in a single, satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups vegetable oil for frying
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge chicken pieces in the spice mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown; drain on paper towels.
5. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate or casserole dish.
6. Fill the crust with fried chicken, mixed vegetables, and chicken broth.
7. Dot top with butter.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leftover Fried Chicken Fried Rice with Vegetables
Transform leftover fried chicken into a delicious and satisfying meal by combining it with vegetables and aromatic spices. This recipe is perfect for using up leftovers and creating a tasty and filling dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced leftover fried chicken
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 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 garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Add the diced fried chicken, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the rice mixture. Stir-fry everything together until well combined.
7. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Fried Chicken and Biscuit Breakfast Sandwiches
Start your day with a Southern twist on the classic breakfast sandwich. Crunchy fried chicken, flaky biscuits, and creamy cheese come together for a satisfying morning treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 slices of American cheese
– Lettuce and tomato (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip chicken breasts in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture.
4. Fry chicken in hot oil until golden brown (about 5-6 minutes).
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing fried chicken on biscuits, topping with cheese, and adding lettuce and tomato if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Creamy Fried Chicken Pasta Alfredo
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying dish that combines crispy fried chicken, creamy alfredo sauce, and tender pasta. This recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Dredge chicken pieces in the mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry chicken in butter until golden brown and cooked through.
4. In a large skillet, combine garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add cooked pasta and fried chicken to the sauce. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fried Chicken Nachos with Jalapeños and Cheese
Elevate your snack game with this addictive combination of crispy fried chicken, spicy jalapeños, and melted cheese on top of crunchy tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fried chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup tortilla chips
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced jalapeños
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet.
3. Cut fried chicken into bite-sized pieces and place on top of the chips.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, and chopped cilantro over the chicken.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fried Chicken Caesar Wrap with Romaine Lettuce
Satisfy your cravings with this crispy and savory Fried Chicken Caesar Wrap, packed with fresh Romaine lettuce and tangy Caesar dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Romaine lettuce leaves
– Caesar dressing
– Tortilla wraps (whole wheat or flour)
– Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip chicken in buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture.
3. Fry chicken in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Warm tortilla wraps according to package instructions.
5. Assemble wrap by placing fried chicken, Romaine lettuce leaves, and Caesar dressing on a tortilla.
6. Add shredded mozzarella cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fried Chicken and Cornbread Casserole
A comforting casserole that combines crispy fried chicken with creamy cornbread and a hint of spices, perfect for a warm and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry chicken in hot oil until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cornbread mix, heavy cream, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange fried chicken pieces. Top with cornbread mixture and frozen corn kernels.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leftover Fried Chicken Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs
Transform yesterday’s fried chicken into a satisfying and comforting ramen bowl with the added richness of soft-boiled eggs. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover fried chicken and creating a delicious, one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover fried chicken, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 soft-boiled eggs, sliced
– Green onions and bean sprouts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the diced fried chicken and cook for 5 minutes or until heated through.
3. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Add cooked noodles to the pot with the chicken mixture. Stir well to combine.
5. Divide the ramen into bowls and top each bowl with sliced soft-boiled eggs.
6. Garnish with green onions and bean sprouts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
A twist on classic stuffed bell peppers, this recipe combines the flavors of crispy fried chicken with sweet and savory bell peppers. The result is a unique and delicious main dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, and garlic powder. Dip chicken pieces in the mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
4. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
5. Stuff each pepper with fried chicken, placing it inside the pepper cavity.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fried Chicken and Macaroni Cheese Bake
A satisfying twist on classic comfort food, this recipe combines crispy fried chicken with creamy macaroni and cheese for a mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the fried chicken by dredging in flour mixture, then dipping in milk and finally coating with breadcrumbs.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
5. In a separate pot, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Gradually add milk and stir until thickened.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, cheese, and sauce.
7. Place fried chicken on top of macaroni mixture and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Fried Chicken Cobb Salad with Bacon and Eggs
A Southern twist on a classic cobb salad, this recipe combines crispy fried chicken, smoky bacon, and a runny egg for a satisfying and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of bacon
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip chicken breasts in the buttermilk mixture, then coat with flour and shake off excess.
3. Fry chicken in hot oil until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
4. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy (about 5-6 minutes).
5. In a separate skillet, fry the egg until cooked to desired doneness.
6. Assemble the salad by placing mixed greens on a plate, followed by fried chicken, cherry tomatoes, crumbled blue cheese (if using), and top with crispy bacon and runny egg.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fried Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash
A Southern classic gets a modern twist with this crispy fried chicken paired with a sweet and savory sweet potato hash. A perfect combination for any meal or gathering!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip chicken breasts in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture. Fry in hot oil until crispy and golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, toss sweet potatoes with onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Serve fried chicken atop the sweet potato hash and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Fried Chicken Banh Mi Sandwich with Pickled Veggies
A fusion of flavors, this sandwich combines crispy fried chicken, tangy pickled veggies, and creamy mayo on a crusty baguette. It’s the perfect twist on traditional banh mi.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 baguette slices
– Pickled veggies (see below)
– Mayonnaise
– Cilantro leaves
Pickled Veggies:
– 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
– 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate dish.
3. Dip chicken pieces in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture. Fry in hot oil until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Assemble sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise on baguette slices, topping with fried chicken, pickled veggies, and cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (including frying time)
Fried Chicken Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potatoes
This comfort food mashup combines the crispy goodness of fried chicken with the hearty warmth of a classic shepherd’s pie, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups mashed potatoes (see below)
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Season chicken with flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge chicken in buttermilk, then fry until golden brown.
4. In a separate pot, boil potatoes until tender, then mash with butter and salt.
5. Assemble the shepherd’s pie by layering fried chicken, peas and carrots, and mashed potatoes in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Turn leftover fried chicken into a culinary masterpiece! With these 18 delicious recipes, you can transform yesterday’s dinner into a tasty new meal. From tacos and quesadillas to pasta and casserole, there’s something for everyone. Get creative with leftover fried chicken and try out recipes like Leftover Fried Chicken Tacos with Avocado Crema, Crispy Fried Chicken Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing, or Fried Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust.
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