Try these fifteen quick ideas for last-minute meals.
When it comes to creating mouth-watering dishes with minimal effort, few things are as versatile and convenient as a deli rotisserie chicken. This ready-to-eat delight is a time-saver for busy weeknights and a treasure trove of culinary possibilities.
This article explores fifteen delicious and ingenious ways to repurpose a deli rotisserie chicken. Each turns that deli staple into delectable meals that will tantalize your taste buds. Each recipe is also quick and easy. Most importantly, you use those handy pantry staples essential in every home cook’s kitchen along with the deli chicken. From comfort food classics to exotic flavors, these recipes can transform your ordinary rotisserie chicken into extraordinary meals.
So, let’s dive into the world of culinary creativity. It’s time to add a twist of simplicity to our daily dining experience.
1 – Transforming a Deli Rotisserie Chicken into a Classic Chicken Quesadilla
A quesadilla is the perfect quick-fix meal, combining the heartiness of chicken with the gooey goodness of melted cheese. This chicken quesadilla recipe is easy to make and a great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken, making it a win-win for flavor and convenience.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack works great)
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: jalapenos, sour cream, salsa, guacamole for serving
Instructions:
- Prep the Fillings: Mix the shredded chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. Set aside. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a skillet and sauté the onions and bell peppers until they are soft and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble the Quesadillas: Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface. Sprinkle cheese on half of each tortilla. Then, add a layer of the shredded chicken, and top with the sautéed onions and peppers. Fold the other half of the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape.
- Cook the Quesadillas: Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the quesadilla in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Serve and Enjoy: Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve hot with your choice of jalapenos, sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on the side.
This chicken quesadilla is not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that brings together the simplicity of pantry staples and the rich flavors of rotisserie chicken. A surefire way to please both the palate and the clock, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week.
2 – Comfort in a Bowl – Chicken and Rice
This chicken and rice recipe is the epitome of comfort food. It’s simple, satisfying, and uses basic pantry items. When paired with a deli rotisserie chicke, it’s an ideal choice for a hassle-free yet hearty meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 cup chopped carrots, celery – or any other veggies you want to use up
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
- Cook the Rice: Stir in the rice, coating it with the olive oil and onion mixture. Add the chicken broth, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
- Add the Chicken: Once the rice is cooked, stir in the shredded chicken, warming it through.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
This chicken and rice dish is comforting. Beside that, it’s a great way to utilize pantry staples like rice and dried herbs, transforming them into a flavorful and satisfying meal.
3 – Italian Night Favorite – Chicken Tetrazzini with a Deli Rotisserie Chicken
Chicken Tetrazzini is a classic Italian-American dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious. It’s a fantastic way to use rotisserie chicken, combined with the richness of pasta, cream, and cheese.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 8 oz spaghetti, broken into halves
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Bread crumbs and extra Parmesan for topping
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for a minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, cooking until the sauce thickens. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Add the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, mushrooms, and peas to the sauce. Stir until everything is well coated.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle with bread crumbs and extra Parmesan cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Chicken Tetrazzini is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for an Italian-themed dinner night, offering a delightful blend of creamy pasta and the savory goodness of rotisserie chicken.
4 – Refreshing and Light – Chicken Caesar Salad
A Caesar salad with rotisserie chicken is super quick to prepare. Plus, it is also a refreshing and light option for any mealtime.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded deli rotisserie chicken
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup croutons
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, shredded chicken, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the salad with lemon wedges on the side.
This Chicken Caesar Salad is the epitome of simplicity and taste. You use common salad ingredients and a simple dressing to create a dish that’s wholesome and flavorful.
5 – Asian Cuisine at Home – Chicken Fried Rice
Chicken Fried Rice is a staple in Asian cuisine and can be easily recreated at home using simple ingredients. This recipe is a fantastic way to turn leftover rice into a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked and chilled rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, sliced for garnish
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Cook the Eggs: Push the garlic to one side of the skillet, and pour the beaten eggs onto the other side. Scramble the eggs until just set, then mix with the garlic.
- Add Rice and Chicken: Add the chilled rice and shredded chicken to the skillet. Stir-fry, breaking up any clumps of rice.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Stir in the mixed vegetables, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Continue to stir-fry until everything is heated through and well combined.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Chicken Fried Rice is easy to make. It is also a perfect example of how everyday pantry items like rice, veggies, and soy sauce can be transformed into an exciting and delicious dish.
6 – Hearty and Satisfying – Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken Pot Pie is a classic comfort food that’s hearty, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. This recipe uses basic ingredients like frozen veggies, pie crust, and rotisserie chicken to create a warm and comforting dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 package (about 2 cups) frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll one pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Press firmly against the bottom and sides.
- Make the Filling: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth, and gradually add chicken broth and milk. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Add the chicken and thawed vegetables. Season with salt and pepper. Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
- Top and Bake: Cover with the second pie crust, seal the edges, and make slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Chicken Pot Pie is a delightful dish that brings together the simplicity of frozen veggies and pre-made pie crust with the rich flavors of rotisserie chicken. It will become a famorive meal that’s both satisfying and convenient.
7 – Quick and Easy – Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a creamy, luxurious dish that is surprisingly simple to make. Using pantry staples like pasta, cream, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is perfect for a quick yet elegant meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 8 oz fettuccine or your choice of pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a little pasta water, and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and add Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Using a deli rotisserie chicken is a perfect way to serve up hot comfort food in record time. Enjoy it with a light, crispy tossed salad.
8 – Chicken Tacos from a Deli Rotisserie Chicken
Chicken Tacos are a delightful fusion of flavors that can be easily assembled with everyday items like tortillas, cheese, and salsa. This recipe offers a quick and delicious way to enjoy a classic favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Lime wedges for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the shredded chicken with salt and pepper, and warm it up slightly in a pan or microwave.
- Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a dry pan or microwave. Place a portion of the chicken on each tortilla, followed by shredded lettuce, cheese, and diced tomatoes.
- Add Toppings: Top each taco with a spoonful of salsa and a dollop of sour cream. Add avocado slices and a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor.
- Serve: Serve the tacos immediately, accompanied by extra lime wedges and salsa on the side.
Chicken Tacos are a fantastic way to bring a fusion of flavors to your table, combining the simplicity of pantry staples into a dish that’s flavorful and fun.
9 – A Cozy Chicken Noodle Soup from a Deli Rotisserie Chicken
There’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup. This recipe is simple and nourishing. Even better, it uses basic ingredients like noodles, broth, and vegetables for a heartwarming meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the onions are translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the shredded chicken and dried thyme.
- Cook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook according to package instructions until they are tender.
- Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless classic that offers comfort in every spoonful, combining the nourishment of chicken, broth, and vegetables in a deliciously simple way.
10 – Mediterranean Delight – Chicken Gyros
Chicken Gyros are a Mediterranean delight, easy to assemble and bursting with flavor. This recipe utilizes pantry items like pita, yogurt, and cucumbers to create a quick and tasty meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 4 pita bread rounds
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Tzatziki sauce for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
- Assemble the Gyros: Warm the pita bread in a dry pan or microwave. Spread a layer of the yogurt sauce on each pita, then add the shredded chicken, cucumber, tomato, and onion slices.
- Serve: Fold the gyros and serve immediately, with additional tzatziki sauce if desired.
Chicken Gyros offer a refreshing taste of the Mediterranean, combining creamy yogurt, crisp vegetables, and savory chicken in a convenient and delicious package.
11 – Kid-Friendly Favorite – Chicken Mac and Cheese
Chicken Mac and Cheese is a kid-friendly favorite that adults will love too. It’s an easy recipe that combines the comfort of pasta, cheese, and milk with the added goodness of chicken.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 8 oz macaroni or your choice of pasta
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for a minute. Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until the sauce thickens. Add shredded cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
- Bake (Optional): For a baked version, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect blend of creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and flavorful chicken, making it a comforting and satisfying meal for all ages.
12 – A Twist on BBQ – Chicken Sliders
Chicken Sliders with a barbecue twist are a fun and simple way to enjoy a classic American flavor. This recipe uses everyday items like slider buns, barbecue sauce, and coleslaw to create a delightful mini sandwich.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup coleslaw
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
- Optional: Cheddar cheese slices
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce until well coated.
- Assemble the Sliders: Place a scoop of the barbecue chicken on the bottom half of each slider bun. If desired, add a slice of cheddar cheese.
- Add Coleslaw and Pickles: Top the chicken with a spoonful of coleslaw and a few pickle slices.
- Serve: Place the top half of the bun on each slider and serve immediately.
Chicken Sliders offer a delightful combination of sweet and tangy barbecue chicken with the crunchy freshness of coleslaw, all packed into a cute and convenient mini sandwich.
13 – Deli Rotisserie Chicken Curry
Chicken Curry is an exotic yet straightforward dish, full of savory flavors and spices. This recipe highlights the warm spices, coconut milk, and rice to create an easy, flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Cooked rice for serving
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Add Spices: Stir in curry powder, cumin, chili powder, and turmeric. Cook for about a minute until the spices are fragrant.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the spice mixture.
- Add Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Serve the chicken curry over cooked rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Chicken Curry is a wonderful way to explore exotic flavors, combining aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk to create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
14 – Classic Reinvented – Chicken Club Sandwich
A Chicken Club Sandwich is a classic reinvented with the addition of rotisserie chicken. This recipe emphasizes the use of bread, lettuce, tomato, and bacon for a satisfying and delicious sandwich.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 8 slices of bread, toasted
- 4 lettuce leaves
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy
- Mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Spread mayonnaise on one side of each toasted bread slice. Season the shredded chicken with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Sandwich: On four bread slices, layer lettuce, tomato slices, bacon, and shredded chicken. Top with the remaining bread slices, mayonnaise side down.
- Serve: Cut each sandwich in half and serve immediately.
The Chicken Club Sandwich is a delightful combination of crunchy bacon, fresh vegetables, and savory chicken, all stacked between slices of toasted bread for a truly classic experience.
15 – Quick and Flavorful – Chicken Pizza
Transform a store-bought pizza crust into a culinary delight with this quick and flavorful Chicken Pizza recipe. Topped with shredded cheese, jalapeno rings, and red onion, this pizza combines the convenience of pre-made ingredients with the zesty flavors of homemade toppings.
Ingredients:
- 1 store-bought pizza crust
- 1 small can pizza sauce (about 8 oz)
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar)
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup jalapeno rings
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, dried oregano, or fresh basil for extra flavor
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven according to the pizza crust package instructions, typically around 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Base: Place the pizza crust on a pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the sauce. Distribute the shredded rotisserie chicken evenly on top of the cheese. Add the sliced red onion and jalapeno rings. Finish by topping with the remaining cheese. For added flavor, sprinkle some red pepper flakes, dried oregano, or fresh basil over the top.
- Bake the Pizza: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
- Serve: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve.
This Chicken Pizza is a perfect combination of ease and flavor, making it an ideal choice for a quick dinner or a fun cooking activity with family. The blend of spicy jalapenos, sweet red onion, and savory chicken on a crispy crust creates a pizza experience that’s both satisfying and delightful.
The Takeaway: Deli Rotisserie Chicken Is a Great Meal Starter
In conclusion, a deli rotisserie chicken is not just a convenient meal option; it’s a versatile starting point for many delicious dishes. From comforting soups and hearty casseroles to exotic curries and classic sandwiches, the possibilities are endless. These recipes demonstrate how easily a rotisserie chicken can be transformed into something special, using simple pantry staples and a bit of creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, these recipes are designed to inspire and encourage experimentation in the kitchen. So, next time you pick up a rotisserie chicken, remember that it’s more than just a quick meal – it’s an opportunity to explore and enjoy the vast and delicious world of home cooking.
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She has a B.S.Ed. in Secondary Education/English and a Spanish Minor. In addition, she holds a Certificates in Natural Health and Herbology from accredited programs. She pursued these natural wellness certifications due to her love for herb gardening.
Despite freelancing to make a living, her love is "all things home."
Deborah grew up in a family that grew a large vegetable garden and a fruit orchard, helping her parents pull weeds and can home-grown foods as part of her childhood. In fact, she had no idea that she could purchase veggies and fruits in pre-packed steel cans until she went to college and made a food run.
Today, she lives in Bertie County, North Carolina, an agricultural rural area with more chickens than people. She lives with her husband and two rescue pets a sweet toy fox terrier and a cat who showed up one day and moved into the house. Together, they enjoy DIY projects, furniture refinishing, gardening, and canning.
