Delicious Leftover BBQ Chicken Recipes
I always find myself staring at the fridge the day after a barbecue, wondering what to do with leftover BBQ chicken, and tadah! This list was basically born out of that exact moment.
It feels like such a waste to let it sit there, especially when it still tastes amazing and has so much flavor. So I started compiling ideas and playing around with ways to turn those smoky and saucy pieces into brand-new meals. Whether it’s tossed into a salad, baked into something, or used as a quick sandwich filling, there’s honestly so much you can do!
This list is all about making the most out of what you already have, without sacrificing taste or effort.
Leftover BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
I always turn to quesadillas when I’ve got leftover BBQ chicken on hand—it’s just too easy not to. Toss in some cheese, a few peppers or onions, and boom: dinner in minutes. The smoky chicken flavor really shines when it’s all melty and crispy.
Leftover BBQ Chicken Sandwich
When I’m short on time and staring at leftover BBQ chicken in the fridge, a sandwich always saves the day. I pile it high on a soft bun (and you can even pair it with lettuce and maybe some coleslaw for crunch!). Sometimes I add a pickle for that tangy bite I love.
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
I’m obsessed with mixing leftover BBQ chicken into mac and cheese—it’s creamy, cheesy, and smoky all at once. I like using sharp cheddar and adding a little smoked paprika to tie it all together. It’s pure comfort in a bowl.
BBQ Chicken Pasta
This is one of those recipes that makes leftover BBQ chicken feel fancy. I toss it into a creamy pasta sauce with a handful of cherry tomatoes for freshness! It’s super satisfying and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Leftover BBQ Chicken Casserole
This casserole is one of my favorite ways to stretch leftover BBQ chicken into a full meal. It’s layered with cheese, corn, diced tomatoes, and whatever veggies I’ve got lying around. Once it’s baked until golden, it’s hearty, cozy, and completely stress-free.
BBQ Chicken Pasta Bake
Leftover BBQ chicken and pasta are already a good combo, but baking them together with cheese takes things to another level. I usually add a bit of mozzarella and some red onion slices for extra flavor. The crispy edges are my favorite part.
BBQ Chicken Enchiladas
Enchiladas with leftover BBQ chicken are a little bit unexpected—and totally delicious. I pair the chicken with tortillas, cover everything with sauce and cheese, and bake until bubbly. The smoky and saucy flavor is always a hit!
Leftover BBQ Chicken Bowl
I love throwing together bowls when I’ve got leftover BBQ chicken and no plan. I layer it over sweet potatoes, little bit of brown rice, purple cabbage (for the crunch!), then drizzle some ranch dressing on top. It’s colorful, filling, and full of flavor.
Leftover BBQ chicken curry
It might sound strange, but leftover BBQ chicken works surprisingly well in a curry. The smokiness adds a twist to the usual creamy, spiced sauce. I serve it over rice! You can also add lots of fresh cilantro.
Leftover BBQ Chicken Nachos
These nachos are a party snack I secretly make just for myself. I scatter leftover BBQ chicken over tortilla chips with shredded cheese and jalapeños, then bake until melty. A little sour cream and green onion on top, and I’m in heaven.
Leftover Chicken Croquettes
I mix leftover BBQ chicken with mashed potatoes and seasonings to make these crispy little croquettes. They’re crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect with a dipping sauce. Honestly, I could eat a whole batch in one sitting.
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Creamy Chicken and Spinach Potato Bake
This creamy bake is a great way to stretch leftover BBQ chicken into something totally new. I add it to layers of potatoes and spinach with a garlicky cream sauce. It’s cozy, cheesy, and great for sharing.
BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza
Flatbread pizza is my lazy-night hero, especially with leftover BBQ chicken ready to go. I add red onions, cheese, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce for good measure. A quick bake and it’s crispy, smoky perfection.
BBQ Chicken Fried Rice
When I’ve got leftover rice and leftover BBQ chicken, fried rice is my go-to solution. I add eggs, veggies, and a splash of sauce for that takeout vibe. The BBQ flavor adds a smoky twist I didn’t know I needed.
Spicy BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich With Creamy Ranch Slaw
This sandwich takes leftover BBQ chicken and kicks it up with a little heat and a creamy, cooling slaw. I love the combo of spicy and tangy—it’s so satisfying. Plus, it feels like something from a fancy sandwich shop.
Leftover Chicken Salad with Quick Pickle
I chop up leftover BBQ chicken for this easy salad and add quick pickled veggies for a bright, tangy crunch. It’s great for lunch or a light dinner, especially on a warm day. A little dill or mustard in the dressing really brings it to life.
BBQ Pulled Chicken
Even if the leftover BBQ chicken is already cooked, I like to reheat and shred it with a little more sauce. It’s great on buns, tacos, or tossed into a wrap. I always make extra because it disappears fast.
Shredded BBQ Chicken Baked Potatoes
This is such a hearty and simple meal: a warm baked potato loaded with leftover BBQ chicken and cheese. I like to finish it with sour cream and green onions for a loaded-style vibe. It’s cozy, easy, and super filling.
Pumpkin, Chicken and Feta Quesadillas
It sounds unusual, but leftover BBQ chicken works so well with the sweetness of pumpkin and the saltiness of feta. I spread it all in a tortilla and toast it until golden. The flavor combo is surprisingly addictive.
Healthy Chicken Salad
I make this salad when I want something light but still packed with flavor. Leftover BBQ chicken adds a smoky kick that plays well with crisp veggies and a light vinaigrette. It’s my way of eating “clean” without being boring.
Bang Bang Chicken
This version of bang bang chicken gets a smoky upgrade thanks to leftover BBQ chicken. I toss it in a creamy sauce that’s both sweet and just a little fiery—totally addictive. I usually serve it over rice or lettuce for a quick lunch.
BBQ Ranch Chicken Quinoa Bowls
These quinoa bowls are my feel-good, meal-prep lifesaver. I use leftover BBQ chicken as the protein base, then build it up with fresh veggies, black beans, quinoa, and a drizzle of ranch. It’s colorful, filling, and actually makes me look forward to eating healthy.
Chicken and Vegetable Pie
There’s something super comforting about a golden, flaky pie—and leftover BBQ chicken makes this one extra flavorful. I mix it with chopped vegetables and a creamy sauce before tucking it into a pastry. It tastes like something you’d spend hours making, but nope—it’s mostly leftovers!
BBQ Chicken Pineapple Skewers
These BBQ Chicken Pineapple Skewers are one of my go-tos for summer grilling—especially when I’ve got leftover BBQ chicken waiting in the fridge. The smoky chicken paired with sweet, juicy pineapple chunks is just unbeatable, and it comes together so easily!
BBQ Chicken Flautas
Flautas are my go-to when I want something crispy and satisfying without too much work. I roll leftover BBQ chicken in tortillas, bake them until golden, and dunk them in salsa or sour cream. They always disappear fast—especially if I’m not the only one home.
A lot of thanks and appreciation to the people who made these leftover BBQ chicken recipes! So much good stuff!
