27 Easy Rotisserie Chicken Recipes For Busy Nights

Q: How long will rotisserie chicken last in the fridge?

A whole rotisserie chicken or shredded meat from it will last for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Q: What do I serve with rotisserie chicken?

For a simple meal, serve rotisserie chicken with classic side dishes like roasted potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a garden salad. You can also shred the meat and use it as the main protein in dishes like casseroles, soups, and tacos.

Q: Can I freeze rotisserie chicken meat?

Yes, you can freeze rotisserie chicken meat. Remove the meat from the bones, place it in freezer-safe bags or airtight containers, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. This is a great meal prep strategy.

It’s 5 PM. The kids are hungry, you’re exhausted from a long day, and the age-old question echoes through your mind: “What’s for dinner?” The thought of chopping, searing, and simmering for the next hour feels completely overwhelming. You need something fast, something easy, but you’re tired of the same old boring meals.

This daily dinner dilemma is a universal struggle. It leads to decision fatigue, last-minute takeout orders that strain the budget, and the guilt of not providing a wholesome, home-cooked meal. You know there has to be a better way to navigate busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor or your sanity.

Here’s the secret weapon you’ve been looking for: the humble grocery store rotisserie chicken. This pre-cooked, golden-brown marvel is the ultimate shortcut to dozens of delicious, fast, and varied meals. It’s the key to unlocking stress-free dinners and reclaiming your evenings, turning that dreaded “what’s for dinner?” question into an exciting opportunity.

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How Can One Rotisserie Chicken Revolutionize Your Busy Weeknights?

A store-bought rotisserie chicken is an incredibly versatile ingredient for busy nights that can drastically cut down your meal prep time. You can shred it for quick tacos, toss it into soups and stews, build hearty casseroles, mix it into fresh salads, or use it as a protein-packed topping for pizzas and pastas, cutting dinner prep time significantly.

As a busy parent, the rotisserie chicken has saved our dinner plans more times than I can count. It’s the ultimate kitchen hack that feels like you’re cheating, but in the best way possible. This list, updated for this year, is a collection of our tried-and-true favorites that prove just how far one chicken can go. Forget spending an hour cooking; with these ideas, you can have a fantastic, family-approved meal on the table in 30 minutes or less.

Your Rotisserie Chicken Game Plan: Prep, Storage & Pro Tips

To get the most value from your rotisserie chicken, a little prep work right when you get home makes future meals even faster. The best way to prepare a rotisserie chicken for recipes is to shred the meat while it’s still warm, store it properly in the fridge or freezer, and save the carcass for a flavorful homemade broth.

Here’s my step-by-step game plan:

Prep Ahead: The easiest time to get the meat off the bone is when the chicken is still warm. Let it cool just enough so you can handle it, then use your hands or two forks to pull all the delicious meat off the carcass. I separate the white and dark meat into different piles, but you can mix it all together.
Store Smart: Place the shredded chicken in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and ready to use in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. This is perfect for planning a few meals throughout the week.
Freeze for Later: This is my favorite meal prep trick. Portion the shredded chicken into freezer-safe bags. I usually portion it in 2-cup increments, which is perfect for most recipes. Squeeze out all the air, label it with the date, and it will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Don’t Waste the Bones! That carcass is pure gold. Place it in a large pot or slow cooker, cover it with water, and add some vegetable scraps like onion peels, carrot ends, and celery tops. Simmer for a few hours, and you’ll have a rich, homemade chicken broth for a fraction of the cost of store-bought.

Key Takeaway: Investing 10 minutes to shred and store your chicken when you get home from the store will save you immense time and effort later in the week.

27 Easy Rotisserie Chicken Recipes for Any Craving

Ready to see just how versatile that one chicken can be? Here are 27 of our absolute favorite easy rotisserie chicken recipes, broken down by category so you can find exactly what you’re craving tonight. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting soup, a cheesy casserole, or a quick and fresh salad, there’s a delicious meal here waiting for you.

1. Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

You can make a classic, comforting chicken noodle soup in under 30 minutes by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, which eliminates the need to poach and shred chicken from scratch. Simply sauté your vegetables, add broth and noodles, and stir in the chicken at the end to heat through.

Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 onion (chopped), 2 carrots (chopped), 2 celery stalks (chopped), 8 cups chicken broth, 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1.5 cups egg noodles, fresh parsley.
Instructions:
1. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil in a large pot until softened.
2. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
3. Stir in egg noodles and cook according to package directions.
4. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken and heat through for 2 minutes.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro-Tip: For a richer flavor, use the homemade broth you made from the chicken carcass. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the whole pot.

Pin this comforting soup recipe for the next rainy day!

2. Creamy White Chicken Chili

This recipe creates a rich, flavorful, and creamy chili in a fraction of the time by using canned beans and pre-cooked chicken. The secret to the quick, creamy texture is stirring in cubed cream cheese at the end until it melts completely into the broth.

Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 onion (chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 4 oz can diced green chiles, 1 tsp cumin, 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (rinsed), 4 cups chicken broth, 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 4 oz cream cheese (cubed), toppings (cilantro, avocado, tortilla strips).
Instructions:
1. Sauté onion in oil until soft. Add garlic, green chiles, and cumin and cook for 1 minute.
2. Stir in beans and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add the shredded chicken and cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and integrated.
4. Simmer for 10 minutes. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Pro-Tip: For an even creamier texture without extra fat, take one cup of the chili (before adding chicken) and blend it, then stir it back into the pot.

Save this quick chili recipe for a satisfying weeknight meal!

3. Speedy Chicken Tortilla Soup

You can make a vibrant and flavorful tortilla soup in about 20 minutes using simple shortcuts. The key is using jarred salsa and canned beans to create a complex-tasting broth instantly, then simply stirring in the rotisserie chicken at the end.

Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) black beans (rinsed), 1 can (15 oz) corn (drained), 1 cup jarred salsa, 4 cups chicken broth, 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1 tsp chili powder, toppings (shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream, tortilla strips).
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine black beans, corn, salsa, chicken broth, and chili powder.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Stir in the shredded chicken and cook until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Ladle into bowls and let everyone add their favorite toppings.

Lesson Learned: Don’t simmer the chicken for the full 15 minutes or it can get tough. Add it at the very end just to heat it up.

Need a fast dinner? Pin this 20-minute soup idea!

4. Hearty Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

This recipe creates a comforting, restaurant-style soup that feels special but is incredibly simple to make at home. Using shelf-stable gnocchi and pre-cooked chicken means this creamy, satisfying soup comes together in one pot in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients: 1 tbsp butter, 1/2 onion (chopped), 2 carrots (shredded), 2 celery stalks (chopped), 4 cups chicken broth, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi, 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 2 cups fresh spinach.
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a pot and sauté onion, carrots, and celery until soft.
2. Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
3. Stir in the gnocchi and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they float.
4. Reduce heat, then stir in the heavy cream and shredded chicken.
5. Wilt in the fresh spinach, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

Pro-Tip: Using shredded carrots instead of diced helps them cook faster and meld into the creamy broth beautifully.

Craving comfort? Pin this easy gnocchi soup!

5. Protein-Packed Chicken Lentil Soup

You can make a nutritious and filling soup that is both budget-friendly and easy by combining dried lentils with rotisserie chicken. The lentils cook directly in the flavorful broth, and the pre-cooked chicken is stirred in at the end for a protein-packed, one-pot meal.

Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 onion (chopped), 2 carrots (chopped), 6 cups chicken broth, 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, 1 cup brown or green lentils (rinsed), 1 tsp dried thyme, 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken.
Instructions:
1. Sauté onion and carrots in oil until softened.
2. Add broth, diced tomatoes, lentils, and thyme.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the shredded chicken and heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pro-Tip: A splash of balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar at the end really wakes up the earthy flavor of the lentils.

Pin this healthy and hearty soup for a perfect lunch!

6. Chicken Pot Pie Bubble-Up Bake

This recipe delivers all the flavor of a classic chicken pot pie in an easy, no-fuss casserole format. The shortcut is using canned cream of chicken soup for the filling and topping it with quartered refrigerated biscuits that bake up golden and fluffy.

Ingredients: 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup, 1 cup milk, 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (thawed), 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuits.
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix chicken, soup, milk, and vegetables. Pour into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Cut each biscuit into quarters.
4. Scatter the biscuit pieces evenly over the chicken mixture.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the biscuits are golden brown.

Lesson Learned: Make sure your frozen veggies are thawed and patted dry, otherwise the filling can become watery.

Save this easy casserole for a guaranteed family favorite!

7. Layered Chicken Enchilada Bake

You can make delicious chicken enchiladas without the hassle of individually rolling each one by creating a layered casserole. Simply alternate layers of corn tortillas, shredded chicken, canned enchilada sauce, and cheese for a cheesy, flavorful bake that’s ready in 30 minutes.

Ingredients: 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1 can (19 oz) red enchilada sauce, 12 corn tortillas, 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend, optional toppings (sour cream, cilantro).
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
3. Arrange a single layer of 4 tortillas, tearing to fit.
4. Top with half the chicken, a third of the remaining sauce, and a third of the cheese.
5. Repeat with another layer of tortillas, the rest of the chicken, sauce, and cheese.
6. Top with the final layer of tortillas, sauce, and cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.

Pro-Tip: Briefly warm the corn tortillas in the microwave before layering to make them more pliable and prevent them from cracking.

Pin this cheesy enchilada bake for your next taco Tuesday!

8. Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole

This recipe creates a classic, comforting, and creamy pasta casserole that the whole family will love. Using rotisserie chicken, canned soup, and pre-cooked pasta streamlines the process, resulting in a rich and satisfying bake with a crispy breadcrumb topping.

Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti (cooked), 2 tbsp butter, 8 oz mushrooms (sliced), 1 can cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup milk, 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs.
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Melt butter in a skillet and sauté mushrooms until browned.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, sautéed mushrooms, soup, milk, chicken, and half the Parmesan cheese.
4. Pour into a greased baking dish.
5. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs and remaining Parmesan. Sprinkle over the casserole.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Lesson Learned: Don’t overcook the pasta initially, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Cook it just until al dente.

Save this ultimate comfort food casserole!

9. Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole

You can make a simple, all-in-one dinner with the classic flavor combination of broccoli and cheddar by mixing rotisserie chicken with cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce. It’s a one-dish wonder that bakes in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients: 3 cups cooked rice, 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed), 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken or cheddar soup, 1 cup milk, 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, salt and pepper.
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken, steamed broccoli, soup, milk, and 1 cup of the cheddar cheese. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
3. Pour into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until hot and bubbly.

Pro-Tip: For extra crunch, top the casserole with crushed crackers (like Ritz) or panko breadcrumbs tossed in melted butter before baking.

Pin this cheesy one-dish wonder for dinner tonight!

10. Chicken & Stuffing Casserole

This recipe creates a cozy, holiday-flavored meal any night of the week with minimal effort. A creamy chicken and vegetable layer is topped with a buttery, crisp stuffing mix, giving you all the comfort of Thanksgiving in a simple casserole.

Ingredients: 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1 can cream of chicken soup, 1 cup sour cream, 1 bag (12 oz) frozen mixed vegetables (thawed), 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 4 tbsp melted butter.
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken, soup, sour cream, and vegetables. Spread in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the dry stuffing mix, chicken broth, and melted butter.
4. Sprinkle the stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbly.

Lesson Learned: Don’t prepare the stuffing according to the box directions. Using the dry mix with butter and broth creates the perfect crispy topping.

Get that Thanksgiving feeling any night! Pin this recipe.

11. BBQ Chicken Casserole

You can make a fun, flavorful casserole with a sweet and savory BBQ twist by layering cooked rice, rotisserie chicken tossed in BBQ sauce, and cheese. Adding pineapple chunks and red onion provides a delicious contrast that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients: 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1 cup BBQ sauce, 3 cups cooked rice, 1 can (8 oz) pineapple chunks (drained), 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced), 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce.
3. Spread the cooked rice in the bottom of a greased baking dish.
4. Top the rice with the BBQ chicken mixture, pineapple chunks, and sliced red onion.
5. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top.
6. Bake for 20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Pro-Tip: For a little extra kick, mix a teaspoon of smoked paprika into the chicken and BBQ sauce mixture.

A fun twist on casserole night! Pin this BBQ bake.

12. 15-Minute Rotisserie Chicken Salad

You can make a quick, classic chicken salad in just 15 minutes, perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or serving with crackers. Simply combine shredded rotisserie chicken with mayonnaise, chopped celery, and red onion for an instant lunch or light dinner.

Ingredients: 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (mostly breast meat), 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 celery stalk (finely chopped), 1/4 red onion (finely chopped), 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients.
2. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve immediately on bread, in lettuce cups, or with crackers, or chill for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Pro-Tip: For the best texture, chop your chicken into small, uniform pieces rather than long shreds. Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a little extra tang.

The perfect quick lunch! Pin this classic chicken salad recipe.

13. Green Goddess Chicken Salad Sandwiches

This recipe creates a fresh, modern, and healthier twist on traditional chicken salad using a creamy, herb-packed dressing. Mashed avocado and Greek yogurt form the base, providing a vibrant green color and a tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with rotisserie chicken.

Ingredients: 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1/2 ripe avocado (mashed), 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives, 1 tbsp lemon juice, salt and pepper, bread or croissants for serving.
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the mashed avocado, Greek yogurt, parsley, chives, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
2. Gently fold in the shredded chicken until it’s well-coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve on your favorite bread, croissants, or in lettuce wraps.

Lesson Learned: Make this fresh and serve it the same day. The avocado can start to brown if it sits for too long, even with the lemon juice.

Upgrade your lunch! Pin this fresh Green Goddess recipe.

14. Southwest Shredded Chicken Salad

You can make a vibrant, flavorful chicken salad with a zesty, mayo-free dressing in minutes. Simply toss shredded rotisserie chicken with black beans, corn, and cilantro, then coat it all in a simple lime and cumin vinaigrette.

Ingredients: 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1 can (15 oz) black beans (rinsed), 1 cup corn (frozen, thawed), 1/2 red onion (diced), 1/2 cup chopped cilantro. For dressing: 1/4 cup olive oil, juice of 2 limes, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp chili powder.
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, black beans, corn, red onion, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, and chili powder.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to combine.
4. Serve over a bed of lettuce, in a wrap, or as a dip with tortilla chips.

Pro-Tip: Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the chicken and veggies to absorb the zesty dressing.

Add some zest to your meal prep! Pin this.

15. Quick Chicken Caesar Wraps

You can assemble a classic and satisfying lunch wrap in under 10 minutes. The shortcut is to toss pre-cooked rotisserie chicken with bottled Caesar dressing, then wrap it up with romaine lettuce and Parmesan cheese in a large flour tortilla.

Ingredients: 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1/2 cup Caesar dressing, 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce, 1/4 cup shaved or grated Parmesan cheese, 4 large flour tortillas.
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the Caesar dressing until coated.
2. Lay a tortilla flat. Layer with chopped romaine, the dressed chicken, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese down the center.
3. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then tightly roll it up.
4. Slice in half and serve immediately.

Pro-Tip: For extra crunch and flavor, add a handful of croutons into the wrap just before you roll it up.

Your new favorite 5-minute lunch! Pin it now.

16. Chinese Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing

This recipe creates a refreshing and crunchy salad with addictive Asian-inspired flavors using several smart shortcuts. Combine rotisserie chicken with bagged shredded cabbage, canned mandarin oranges, and a store-bought sesame dressing for a restaurant-quality salad in minutes.

Ingredients: 4 cups shredded napa cabbage, 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1 cup shredded carrots, 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges (drained), 1/2 cup sliced almonds, 1/2 cup crispy chow mein noodles, 1/2 cup sesame ginger dressing.
Instructions:
1. In a large salad bowl, combine the cabbage, chicken, carrots, and mandarin oranges.
2. Drizzle with sesame ginger dressing and toss to coat.
3. Just before serving, top with sliced almonds and crispy chow mein noodles to keep them crunchy.

Lesson Learned: Always add the crunchy toppings like almonds and noodles at the very last second. If you add them too early, they get soggy from the dressing.

A restaurant-worthy salad at home! Pin this recipe.

17. Chicken Philly Sandwiches

You can make a quick and satisfying hot sandwich that’s a lighter twist on the classic cheesesteak. Simply sauté peppers and onions, stir in the pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to heat through, top with provolone cheese, and pile it all into a toasted hoagie roll.

Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 green bell pepper (sliced), 1 onion (sliced), 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 4 slices provolone cheese, 4 hoagie rolls.
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add peppers and onions and cook until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and cook until heated through.
3. Divide the chicken and vegetable mixture into four portions in the skillet. Top each portion with a slice of provolone cheese and let it melt.
4. Slice hoagie rolls and toast them lightly. Spoon the cheesy chicken mixture into the rolls and serve hot.

Pro-Tip: Add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the chicken and veggie mixture in the skillet for a deeper, more savory flavor.

Pin this cheesy sandwich for a super fast dinner!

18. Speedy Chicken Alfredo

You can make a crowd-pleasing, creamy pasta dish in less than 20 minutes using just a few simple ingredients. The key is to combine rotisserie chicken with a jar of Alfredo sauce and cooked fettuccine for an incredibly fast and satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine pasta, 1 jar (15 oz) Alfredo sauce, 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1 cup frozen peas (optional), grated Parmesan cheese for serving.
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package directions.
2. While pasta is cooking, warm the Alfredo sauce in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
3. Stir in the shredded chicken and frozen peas (if using) and cook until everything is heated through.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
5. Serve immediately with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Pro-Tip: Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. If your sauce is too thick, stir in a little of the starchy water to thin it to the perfect consistency.

The easiest weeknight dinner ever! Pin this recipe.

19. Rotisserie Chicken Carbonara

You can make a simplified, yet impressive, version of classic carbonara by using pre-cooked chicken. The magic happens off the heat, when a mixture of eggs and Parmesan cheese is tossed with hot pasta to create a silky, creamy sauce without any cream.

Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti, 4 slices bacon (chopped), 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, black pepper.
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions.
2. While pasta cooks, fry bacon in a skillet until crisp. Remove bacon, leaving the grease. Add chicken to the skillet to warm through.
3. In a bowl, whisk eggs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Drain the hot pasta (reserving 1/2 cup pasta water) and immediately add it to the skillet with the chicken. Turn off the heat.
5. Pour the egg/cheese mixture over the hot pasta, tossing quickly to coat. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to create a creamy sauce.
6. Stir in the crispy bacon and lots of black pepper. Serve immediately.

Lesson Learned: The key is to work quickly and add the egg mixture OFF the heat. If the pan is too hot, you’ll get scrambled eggs instead of a creamy sauce.

An elegant dinner in 20 minutes? Pin it to believe it!

20. Chicken Peanut Noodles

You can whip up a flavorful and satisfying noodle dish with an addictive peanut sauce in the time it takes to boil pasta. Simply whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, and a few other pantry staples for the sauce, then toss with cooked noodles and rotisserie chicken.

Ingredients: 8 oz linguine or soba noodles, 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken. For sauce: 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/4 cup warm water, 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sesame oil. Toppings: shredded carrots, chopped peanuts, cilantro.
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package directions.
2. While noodles cook, whisk all sauce ingredients together in a bowl until smooth.
3. Drain the cooked noodles and rinse with cold water if serving cold.
4. In a large bowl, toss the noodles, shredded chicken, and peanut sauce together until everything is well-coated.
5. Serve topped with shredded carrots, chopped peanuts, and cilantro.

Pro-Tip: If your peanut sauce is too thick, add the warm water one tablespoon at a time until it reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.

Perfect for meal prep! Pin this peanut noodle recipe.

21. Mediterranean Chicken & Pasta Skillet

This recipe creates a fresh, light, and flavor-packed pasta dish in a single skillet for easy cleanup. Burst cherry tomatoes create a light sauce, which is then tossed with cooked pasta, rotisserie chicken, and finished with salty feta and briny olives.

Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil, 2 cloves garlic (sliced), 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/2 cup chicken broth, 8 oz penne pasta (cooked), 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup chopped kalamata olives, 1 tsp dried oregano.
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften and burst, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and oregano, scraping up any browned bits.
4. Stir in the cooked pasta and shredded chicken. Cook until heated through.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the feta cheese and kalamata olives. Serve immediately.

Lesson Learned: Don’t add the feta cheese while the skillet is on high heat, or it can melt away completely. Stir it in at the end for perfect crumbly bites.

A taste of the Mediterranean in minutes! Pin this skillet dinner.

22. Quick Chicken Fried Rice

You can make fast and delicious fried rice using leftover chicken and chilled, day-old rice. This “better than takeout” meal comes together in one skillet by quickly stir-frying veggies, rice, and chicken with soy sauce and scrambled eggs.

Ingredients: 2 tbsp vegetable oil, 2 eggs (lightly beaten), 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 3 cups cooked and chilled rice, 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil.
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok. Add eggs and scramble, then remove and set aside.
2. Add remaining 1 tbsp oil to the skillet. Add peas, carrots, and garlic and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
3. Add the chilled rice and chicken to the skillet, breaking up any clumps of rice. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
4. Pour soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice and stir to combine.
5. Fold in the scrambled eggs. Serve hot.

Pro-Tip: The secret to great fried rice is using cold, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will result in a mushy texture.

Skip the takeout! Pin this easy fried rice recipe.

23. BBQ Chicken Pizza

You can create a fun, flavorful, and semi-homemade pizza for a quick and easy dinner night. Using a pre-made pizza crust, bottled BBQ sauce, and rotisserie chicken means you can have a delicious pizza on the table faster than delivery.

Ingredients: 1 pre-made pizza crust or dough, 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced), 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, fresh cilantro for garnish (optional).
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven according to pizza crust directions.
2. Place pizza crust on a baking sheet. Spread BBQ sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border.
3. In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with a little extra BBQ sauce.
4. Distribute the chicken and sliced red onion over the sauce.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with cilantro before slicing.

Pro-Tip: For a more complex flavor, use a mix of mozzarella and smoked Gouda cheese.

Make it a pizza night! Pin this super easy recipe.

24. 10-Minute Chicken Tacos

You can get delicious tacos on the table in 10 minutes flat for a busy weeknight. The ultimate shortcut is to heat shredded rotisserie chicken with a packet of taco seasoning and a little water, then serve in shells with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients: 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1 packet taco seasoning, 2/3 cup water or chicken broth, 8-10 taco shells or tortillas, toppings of your choice.
Instructions:
1. In a skillet, combine the shredded chicken, taco seasoning, and water.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the liquid has mostly been absorbed and the chicken is hot and flavorful.
3. While the chicken heats, warm your tortillas and prepare your toppings.
4. Assemble tacos and serve immediately.

Lesson Learned: Using chicken broth instead of water adds a little extra flavor to the taco meat, but water works perfectly fine in a pinch.

Your fastest Taco Tuesday ever! Pin this now.

25. Chicken Parm Panini

This recipe creates a hot, gooey, and satisfying grilled sandwich with the flavors of chicken parmesan. Simply toss rotisserie chicken with jarred marinara sauce, layer it on sturdy bread with plenty of mozzarella, and grill until golden and melted.

Ingredients: 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 1/2 cup marinara sauce, 8 slices sturdy bread, 8 slices mozzarella cheese, butter for grilling.
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the marinara sauce.
2. To assemble one panini, lay out two slices of bread. Place two slices of mozzarella on one slice, top with a generous amount of the chicken mixture, then top with two more slices of mozzarella. Place the other slice of bread on top.
3. Butter the outside of the sandwich.
4. Grill in a panini press or on a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted.

Pro-Tip: Use a sturdy bread like ciabatta or thick-cut sourdough. Regular sandwich bread can get soggy from the marinara sauce.

The ultimate cheesy sandwich! Pin this panini idea.

26. Buffalo Chicken Dip

You can make a classic, crowd-pleasing hot dip for parties, game day, or a fun snack dinner using just five ingredients. Mix rotisserie chicken with cream cheese, hot sauce, ranch dressing, and cheddar, then bake until bubbly and delicious.

Ingredients: 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 8 oz cream cheese (softened), 1/2 cup hot sauce, 1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, hot sauce, and dressing until smooth.
3. Stir in the shredded chicken and 1/2 cup of the cheddar cheese.
4. Spread the mixture into a small baking dish and top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese.
5. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly. Serve with celery sticks, tortilla chips, or crackers.

Pro-Tip: You can assemble this dip ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. Just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

Be the star of the party! Pin this addictive dip.

27. Simple Chicken and Rice

This is the most basic, comforting, and easy way to serve rotisserie chicken for a simple meal. Cooking rice in chicken broth instead of water infuses it with flavor, then you simply stir in the shredded chicken to warm it through for a nourishing meal.

Ingredients: 1 cup white rice, 2 cups chicken broth, 1 tbsp butter, 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, salt and pepper.
Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth and butter to a boil.
2. Stir in the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed.
3. Fluff the rice with a fork.
4. Gently stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken to warm it through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately. Can be served with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans.

Lesson Learned: This is my go-to ‘I don’t feel like cooking’ meal. It’s nourishing, simple, and always a hit. Cooking the rice in broth instead of water makes all the difference.

The ultimate simple comfort meal. Save this idea!

Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to what to make with rotisserie chicken

Ultimate Time-Saver: Using pre-cooked chicken cuts down on prep and cooking time by at least 15-20 minutes per meal, making it a weeknight hero.
Incredible Versatility: One chicken can become the star of dozens of different meals, from comforting soups and cheesy casseroles to zesty tacos and fresh salads.
Prep for Success: Shred the chicken while it’s still warm and store it in the fridge or freezer for even faster meals throughout the week.
No-Waste Cooking: Don’t throw away the bones! Simmer them with vegetable scraps to create a rich, flavorful homemade chicken broth for free.
Top 3 Go-To Meals: When in doubt, a rotisserie chicken is perfect for quick Casseroles, comforting Soups, and fast Tacos.

Final Thoughts

That single, golden-brown rotisserie chicken from the grocery store is more than just one dinner—it’s the key to a week of stress-free, delicious meals. By embracing these easy recipes and prep tips, you can reclaim your weeknights and still put a fantastic meal on the table that your whole family will love.

What is your absolute favorite, can’t-live-without way to use a rotisserie chicken? Share your ideas in the comments below

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