As a food expert, I know the struggle of figuring out what to do with leftovers. That’s where my Crock Pot Leftover Chicken Recipe comes in.
It’s a game-changer for busy days when you want something easy and flavorful. This recipe transforms leftover chicken into a hearty, satisfying meal.
I love how the Crock Pot does all the work, filling the kitchen with comforting aromas. It’s a simple way to save time and reduce waste while still enjoying something delicious.
With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that feels fresh and exciting. Let’s turn those leftovers into something you’ll crave again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
You’ll love this Crock Pot Leftover Chicken Recipe because it’s simple, comforting, and packed with flavor. It transforms leftover chicken into a warm, hearty meal with minimal effort.
The slow cooker does all the work, making it perfect for busy days. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
Plus, it’s a great way to save time, reduce waste, and create something delicious from what you already have in your kitchen.
Quick Details
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (low), or 2-3 hours (high)
Total Time: Up to 6 hours
Course: Main Course
Calories: 230
Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Yield: Serves 4
Equipment Needed
- Crock Pot (slow cooker)
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded leftover chicken (rotisserie or baked chicken works best)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup cooked rice or pasta (optional, for serving)
Instructions
1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by shredding the leftover chicken into bite-sized pieces if it isn’t already. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the carrots and celery.
2: Layer the Ingredients
In the Crock Pot, drizzle olive oil at the bottom to prevent sticking. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery first. Then layer the shredded chicken on top.
3: Add the Liquid and Seasonings
Pour the chicken broth and diced tomatoes over the chicken and vegetables. Add thyme, paprika, black pepper, salt, and the bay leaf. Gently stir to combine.
4: Cook in the Crock Pot
Set your Crock Pot to low and let the mixture cook for 4-6 hours. If you’re in a hurry, set it to high for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5: Add Peas (Optional)
About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, stir in the frozen peas if you’re using them. They’ll add a pop of color and freshness.
6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cooking time is up, remove the bay leaf and give everything a final stir. Serve over cooked rice or pasta, or enjoy it as a hearty stew with a slice of crusty bread.
Special Notes
If you prefer a creamy version, add ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk in the last hour of cooking.This recipe is highly versatile.
Swap out the vegetables for whatever you have on hand, like zucchini or bell peppers.Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Essential Health Benefits
The Crock Pot Leftover Chicken Recipe offers several health benefits, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build and repair muscle tissue, supports immune function, and keeps you feeling full.
The addition of vegetables like carrots and celery provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, promoting digestive health and supporting overall well-being.
Slow cooking helps retain nutrients, ensuring you get the most out of your ingredients. This recipe is low in calories and can be made heart-healthy by controlling the amount of added fat and sodium, making it a great option for a balanced, satisfying meal.
Best Variations For Crock Pot Leftover Chicken Recipe
1. Creamy Chicken Stew
Add ½ cup of heavy cream or cream cheese in the last hour of cooking for a rich, creamy texture. Stir in fresh spinach or kale for extra nutrients and flavor.
2. Mexican-Inspired Chicken
Mix in a can of black beans, corn, and a jar of salsa instead of diced tomatoes. Add cumin and chili powder for bold flavors. Serve with tortilla chips or over rice.
3. Chicken and Dumplings
Top the dish with canned biscuit dough or homemade dumplings during the last 30 minutes of cooking. It creates a cozy, satisfying meal.
4. Italian Chicken Casserole
Swap the broth for marinara sauce, and add zucchini, mushrooms, and Italian seasoning. Serve over cooked pasta or polenta for an Italian twist.
5. Chicken Curry
Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of curry powder, a can of coconut milk, and diced sweet potatoes. Add fresh cilantro on top before serving for a flavorful curry-style dish.
Have Any Side Effects To Eat Crock Pot Leftover Chicken Recipe?
Eating the Crock Pot Leftover Chicken Recipe is generally safe when proper food handling practices are followed.
Leftover chicken must be stored in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking and reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to avoid the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Using high-sodium ingredients, like canned broths or processed seasonings, can contribute to increased sodium intake, which may be a concern for individuals with hypertension or sodium sensitivities.
Additionally, some ingredients, such as dairy, tomatoes, or specific spices, could trigger allergies or sensitivities in certain individuals.
To enjoy this dish safely, always use fresh, quality ingredients and adjust the recipe to meet dietary preferences or restrictions.
Storage Tips Crock Pot Leftover Chicken Recipe?
Proper storage is key to keeping the Crock Pot Leftover Chicken Recipe fresh and safe to eat. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Refrigerate it within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth. Stored in the fridge, it will remain fresh for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for up to 3 months. Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
When reheating, make sure the dish reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety and optimal taste. Proper storage preserves the flavors and makes it easy to enjoy later.
Conclusion
The Crock Pot Leftover Chicken Recipe is the perfect way to reinvent your leftovers into a comforting, flavorful meal. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and saves time without compromising on taste.
I love how the slow cooker brings out the best in simple ingredients, creating a dish that feels both homemade and special.
Whether you serve it with rice, pasta, or as a hearty stew, this recipe makes the most of what you already have. Next time you have leftover chicken, don’t let it go to waste.
Try this Crock Pot Leftover Chicken Recipe, and I’m sure it will become one of your favorite go-to meals. Cooking smarter can be just as delicious!
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Crock Pot Leftover Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Crock Pot (slow cooker)
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded leftover chicken rotisserie or baked chicken works best
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup carrots sliced
- 1 cup celery chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup frozen peas optional
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup cooked rice or pasta optional, for serving
Instructions
1: Prep the Ingredients
- Start by shredding the leftover chicken into bite-sized pieces if it isn’t already. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the carrots and celery.
2: Layer the Ingredients
- In the Crock Pot, drizzle olive oil at the bottom to prevent sticking. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery first. Then layer the shredded chicken on top.
3: Add the Liquid and Seasonings
- Pour the chicken broth and diced tomatoes over the chicken and vegetables. Add thyme, paprika, black pepper, salt, and the bay leaf. Gently stir to combine.
4: Cook in the Crock Pot
- Set your Crock Pot to low and let the mixture cook for 4-6 hours. If you’re in a hurry, set it to high for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5: Add Peas (Optional)
- About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, stir in the frozen peas if you’re using them. They’ll add a pop of color and freshness.
6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the cooking time is up, remove the bay leaf and give everything a final stir. Serve over cooked rice or pasta, or enjoy it as a hearty stew with a slice of crusty bread.
Notes
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