Looking for creative ways to use up that leftover rotisserie chicken? You’re in the right place! We’re serving up a variety of leftover rotisserie chicken recipes that will elevate your meals and save you from food waste guilt. Whether you’ve got shreds, chunks, or a whole bird hanging around, we’ve got you covered with easy, delicious ideas to make the most out of your poultry leftovers. Say goodbye to boring reheats and hello to exciting new dishes!
Why You’ll Love These Ideas For Rotisserie Chicken
- Convenience: Rotisserie chicken is already cooked, saving time and effort in meal preparation, making it ideal for quick and easy meals.
- Cost-Effective: Rotisserie chicken is often reasonably priced, providing a cost-effective protein option for budget-conscious individuals or families.
- Meal Prep: It’s perfect for meal prep, as cooked rotisserie chicken can be shredded or chopped ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for use in future meals.
I cannot be the only person that is constantly sucked into the Costco $5 rotisserie chicken every time I walk in to the store… It’s such a cost effective way to serve a meal on busy weeknights that I know my whole family will love. However, there was a time when I would purchase the whole chicken and let it sit in the fridge too long and it would go to waste.
No more! This list of things to make with rotisserie chicken is ready to inspire and keep that leftover chicken from being tossed into the trash! I’ve got so many different ways to spruce up this staple that you’ll be coming back to this resource over and over!
What Is A Rotisserie Chicken
A rotisserie chicken is a whole chicken that has been cooked using a rotisserie oven, like at Costco, or rotisserie attachment on a grill. It’s typically seasoned with herbs and spices and then slowly rotated on a spit, allowing it to cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior while remaining moist and tender on the inside. They can be enjoyed on their own or used as an ingredient in various recipes making it an easy dinner option. You can find them for relatively inexpensive at your grocery store.
Helpful Rotisserie Chicken Tips and FAQs
Before we dive in to the list of easy meals with rotisserie chicken I want to break down some helpful tips to set you up for success!
FAQs
The shelf life of a rotisserie chicken depends on how it is stored and handled. Generally, if kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, a rotisserie chicken can stay good for up to 3 to 4 days. It’s important to refrigerate the chicken promptly after purchase or after it has cooled down if you’ve cooked it yourself.Â
Yes, you can freeze a rotisserie chicken to extend its shelf life. To freeze a rotisserie chicken, first, allow it to cool completely if it’s freshly cooked. Then, remove any packaging and place the chicken in an airtight freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Alternatively, you can portion the chicken into smaller pieces before freezing to make it easier to thaw and use later. Make sure to label the container with the date of freezing to keep track of its freshness. Frozen rotisserie chicken can typically be stored in the freezer for 2 to 6 months, depending on the freezer temperature and packaging. When you’re ready to use the frozen chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating or incorporating it into recipes.
Yes, you can absolutely use the bones from a rotisserie chicken to make broth. In fact, using the bones to make broth is a great way to extract all the delicious flavors and nutrients from the chicken. Try this recipe.Â
To determine if a rotisserie chicken has gone bad, use your senses: if it smells sour or rancid, displays mold, unusual colors, or a slimy texture, it’s likely spoiled and should be discarded. Fresh chicken should feel firm, not mushy or slimy, and any off flavors indicate spoilage. Check the expiration date, and if in doubt, it’s safer to discard the chicken to prevent the risk of foodborne illness.
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​What Is The Best WAy To Store Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
The best way to store leftover rotisserie chicken is to refrigerate it promptly after you’re finished with your meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to storing leftover rotisserie chicken properly:
- Cool Down: Allow the rotisserie chicken to cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent moisture buildup and bacterial growth.
- Wrap or Seal: Once cooled, wrap the leftover rotisserie chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the chicken moist and prevents it from drying out in the refrigerator.
- Label and Date: To help you keep track of its freshness, label the wrapped or sealed container with the date it was cooked or purchased.
- Refrigerate: Place the wrapped or sealed container of leftover rotisserie chicken in the refrigerator as soon as possible. Store it in the coldest part of the fridge, typically the back or bottom shelf, to ensure it stays at a safe temperature (below 40°F or 4°C).
- Use Within a Few Days: Leftover rotisserie chicken can typically be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. It’s best to consume it within this timeframe to ensure optimal quality and safety.
By following these steps, you can properly store leftover rotisserie chicken to enjoy in salads, sandwiches, soups, and other dishes throughout the week. Just be sure to check for any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or slimy texture, before consuming. If you’re unable to consume the leftover chicken within a few days, consider freezing it for longer-term storage.
Rotisserie Chicken Dinner Ideas
We’ve got you covered with 25 recipes that’ll make your taste buds sing, starring the MVP of convenience: rotisserie chicken! Whether it’s tacos, pasta, or stir-fry, think of your rotisserie bird as the culinary chameleon, seamlessly swapping into any dish with ease. Let’s elevate your cooking game and banish mealtime boredom one delicious recipe at a time!
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