Are you tired of the same old boring lunch or dinner routine? Look no further! Precooked chicken is a game-changer, and we’re here to show you just how versatile it can be. With these 20 flavorful recipes, you’ll never have to settle for plain Jane again.
From comforting pasta dishes to spicy wraps and savory stir-fries, precooked chicken is the perfect base for any meal. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to use – simply thaw and cook according to package instructions, then get creative with your favorite flavors and ingredients. Whether you’re a busy professional or a busy parent on-the-go, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
In this article, we’ll dive into 20 delicious precooked chicken recipes that will take your meals from meh to magnificent. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone in this roundup. So go ahead, give one (or five) a try, and discover the power of precooked chicken!
Garlic Parmesan Precooked Chicken Pasta
Transform your leftover precooked chicken into a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish with the added zing of garlic and parmesan cheese. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup precooked chicken, diced
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add diced chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and well combined with chicken and garlic.
5. Toss cooked pasta with chicken mixture, season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Precooked Chicken Wraps
Elevate your lunch game with these flavorful wraps that combine spicy buffalo chicken with crisp lettuce and creamy ranch dressing. Perfect for a quick and easy meal on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb precooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 head of lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken and buffalo wing sauce. Mix well to coat.
2. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble the wraps by spooning the spicy chicken onto each tortilla, followed by chopped lettuce and shredded cheese (if using).
4. Drizzle with ranch dressing and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Creamy Precooked Chicken and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto recipe is a perfect way to elevate leftover chicken and mushrooms into a satisfying and comforting meal. With the convenience of precooked chicken, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add the warmed chicken broth, stirring constantly, and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; cover and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is creamy.
6. Stir in the cooked chicken, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Precooked Chicken Flatbread Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this simple recipe that combines the flavors of BBQ chicken and flatbread. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this pizza is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked flatbread crust
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked BBQ chicken (shredded)
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the flatbread crust on a floured surface.
3. Spread the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and cooked BBQ chicken.
5. Sprinkle chopped red onion and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Precooked Chicken Caesar Salad
This classic salad gets a quick and easy twist with the addition of precooked chicken, making it a perfect meal for a busy day. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and satisfying salad ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of romaine lettuce
– 1 cup precooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup croutons
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce and diced precooked chicken.
2. Sprinkle the croutons over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the salad, making sure everything is well coated.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cheesy Precooked Chicken Quesadillas
Get ready for a flavorful and satisfying snack or meal with these easy-to-make cheesy quesadillas, packed with precooked chicken and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup precooked shredded chicken (such as rotisserie chicken)
– 2 large tortillas
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, onion, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Add the chicken mixture on top of the cheese, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tortilla is lightly browned and cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Precooked Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This quick and easy recipe is a great way to use up leftover precooked chicken and broccoli, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. With minimal prep time and only 15 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious and healthy meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup precooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the broccoli and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crisp.
4. Add the precooked chicken and stir to combine with the broccoli.
5. Pour in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Teriyaki Precooked Chicken Rice Bowl
Transform leftover precooked chicken into a flavorful and satisfying meal with this simple recipe. Perfect for a busy day, this teriyaki-inspired dish is ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup precooked chicken breast or thighs
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup cooked Japanese-style rice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup diced green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Add the precooked chicken to the sauce mixture and toss until coated.
3. Divide cooked rice between bowls.
4. Top with the teriyaki chicken, then garnish with green onions.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Precooked Chicken Alfredo Bake
Transform leftover precooked chicken into a rich and satisfying casserole with this easy recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup precooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup cooked fettuccine noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, flour, and butter. Mix until smooth.
3. Add cooked fettuccine noodles and mix until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
6. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Precooked Chicken Couscous
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the convenience of precooked chicken with the warmth of couscous. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup precooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add couscous, cover, and turn off heat. Let sit for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add diced chicken and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Fluff couscous with a fork and stir in the chicken mixture.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Precooked Chicken Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Transform leftover precooked chicken into a flavorful taco filling, paired with a creamy avocado salsa. This recipe is perfect for a busy night when you need a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup precooked chicken, shredded
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Salsa (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken, red bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil. Mix well.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble tacos by spooning the chicken mixture onto a tortilla and topping with your favorite taco fixings.
Avocado Salsa:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Serve with tacos.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Precooked Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
This recipe combines the flavors of cooked chicken, spinach, and ricotta cheese with the convenience of pre-cooked chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup cooked chicken (pre-cooked or leftover)
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions.
3. In a medium bowl, combine cooked chicken, chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken mixture, placing them in a baking dish.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Peanut Precooked Chicken Noodles
Quick and delicious, this recipe combines the flavors of Thailand with the convenience of precooked chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup precooked chicken breast, diced
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 tbsp Thai peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 1/4 cup sliced scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tsp grated ginger for added depth
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced chicken, peanut sauce, and chopped peanuts. Toss until coated.
3. Add cooked noodles to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
4. Top with sliced scallions and season with salt, pepper, and grated ginger (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Precooked Chicken Enchilada Casserole
This recipe combines the convenience of precooked chicken with the flavors of a traditional enchilada casserole, perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup precooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1 can (10.5 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, enchilada sauce, rice, black beans, and shredded cheese. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and slightly golden brown on top.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Precooked Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and comforting side dish or breakfast option, this recipe combines the flavors of roasted sweet potatoes and cooked chicken with a crispy hash brown topping.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups precooked chicken (diced)
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a separate pan, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add cooked chicken and stir to combine.
5. Once sweet potatoes are done, top with the chicken mixture and crumbled cheese (if using).
6. Return to oven for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: approximately 30-35 minutes
Precooked Chicken Caprese Skewers
Looking for a flavorful and healthy appetizer or snack? These Precooked Chicken Caprese Skewers are the perfect solution. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and colorful dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup precooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler.
2. Thread chicken, tomato, and mozzarella onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place skewers on the preheated grill or under the broiler for 5-7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish with chopped basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Precooked Chicken and Black Bean Chili
This recipe is a perfect solution for a busy day when you need a comforting and flavorful meal in no time. By using precooked chicken, this chili can be ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup precooked chicken breast or thighs, shredded
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the chili powder and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add the precooked chicken, black beans, diced tomatoes, and corn kernels. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, scallions, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Precooked Chicken Waldorf Salad
This recipe combines the convenience of precooked chicken with the classic flavors of a Waldorf salad, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup precooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup diced apple (Granny Smith or other sweet variety)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced apple, and chopped walnuts.
2. Add precooked chicken breast and toss gently to combine.
3. If using blue cheese, crumble it over the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drizzle olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad, tossing to coat.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Precooked Chicken and Corn Chowder
This comforting soup is a perfect way to use up leftover cooked chicken and corn on the cob. With its creamy texture and flavorful broth, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup precooked chicken, diced
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the frozen corn kernels and cook until thawed.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to combine.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in the precooked chicken and heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Precooked Chicken Pesto Panini
Elevate your lunch game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the creaminess of pesto, the juiciness of chicken, and the crunch of a panini.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup precooked chicken breast, shredded
– 2 tbsp pesto sauce
– 2 slices of baguette or ciabatta bread
– 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup arugula leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the shredded chicken and pesto sauce until well combined.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the press or grill.
5. Spread the chicken-pesto mixture on top of the bread, followed by mozzarella cheese and arugula leaves.
6. Top with the second bread slice, butter-side up.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Summary
Discover the ease and versatility of precooked chicken with these 20 delicious recipes. From classic comfort foods to international twists, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Parmesan Precooked Chicken Pasta or Spicy Buffalo Precooked Chicken Wraps for a flavorful twist on familiar favorites. For something more adventurous, try Teriyaki Precooked Chicken Rice Bowl or Thai Peanut Precooked Chicken Noodles. With precooked chicken as the base, you can create a wide range of meals that are quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
