Description

Turn yesterday’s leftovers into a quick dinner that feels completely new and exciting. This Leftover Chicken Dinner is the perfect easy recipe for busy weeknights, packed with tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and comforting grains all brought together in one satisfying plate. It’s a balanced, family-friendly meal that works beautifully for dinner ideas, meal prep, or even healthy lunch options. With simple ingredients and bold flavor, this dish transforms leftover chicken into a colorful, hearty meal that fits perfectly into your collection of easy dinner and food ideas.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked shredded chicken

1 tablespoon olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, diced

1 cup bell peppers, sliced

1 cup mushrooms, sliced

2 cups cooked rice or pasta

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup shredded or crumbled cheese

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Shred or chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and prepare all vegetables before starting.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add bell peppers and mushrooms. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.

5. Add shredded chicken to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika or Italian seasoning.

6. Pour in chicken broth and stir well. Simmer gently for 5–8 minutes until the chicken is heated through.

7. Fold in cooked rice or pasta and mix thoroughly so it absorbs the flavors. Cook for another 3–5 minutes.

8. Stir in cherry tomatoes and sprinkle cheese over the top. Cover for 2–3 minutes until cheese melts.

9. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

Do not overcook the chicken since it is already cooked; gentle reheating keeps it tender.

Add a small splash of broth when reheating leftovers to maintain moisture.

For extra freshness, finish with a squeeze of lemon juice or additional chopped herbs before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: quick dinner, easy dinner, leftover chicken recipe, family dinner ideas, meal prep, healthy dinner