Got a container of shredded chicken in your fridge and no idea what to do with it? You’re in the right place. These recipes for shredded chicken are quick, tasty, and family-approved. Whether from a whole bird you pulled apart yourself or some shredded rotisserie chicken from the store, there’s a way to turn it into something satisfying.
This list includes cozy dinners, speedy lunches, and clever twists you probably haven’t tried yet. If you’re looking for go-to pulled chicken ideas or want simple recipes using shredded chicken, start scrolling—these meals are perfect for leftovers or weekly meal prep.
1. Shredded Chicken Tacos
Shredded chicken tacos are one of the fastest weeknight meals ever. Warm your chicken with taco seasoning and a splash of broth. Stuff it into tortillas with shredded lettuce, salsa, and cheese.
Tip:
For a spicy kick, add pickled jalapeños or chipotle crema.
2. Chicken and Rice Soup
This warm, comforting classic comes together fast with shredded rotisserie chicken. Sauté carrots, celery, and onion. Add broth, cooked rice, and chicken. Simmer until the veggies are soft.
Flavor boost:
Squeeze in fresh lemon or stir in chopped parsley before serving.
3. BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Mix pulled chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce and heat until warm. Pile high on toasted buns with coleslaw for crunch.
Optional sides:
Potato wedges, sweet corn, or baked beans.
4. Chicken Enchiladas
Shredded chicken, cheese, and a little enchilada sauce are rolled in tortillas. Place them seam-side down in a baking dish, add more sauce and cheese, and bake until done.
Shortcut:
Use canned enchilada sauce and pre-shredded Mexican blend cheese.
5. Chicken Caesar Wraps
Toss chicken with Caesar dressing and chopped romaine. Wrap in a tortilla with shaved parmesan and black pepper.
Meal prep tip:
Wrap tightly in foil and store in the fridge for grab-and-go lunches.
6. Buffalo Chicken Dip
This dip blends shredded chicken with cream cheese, ranch, hot sauce, and cheddar. It’s great for parties or as a savory snack. Bake until hot and melty, then serve with chips or celery sticks.
Make it in a crockpot if you need to keep it warm.
7. Chicken Fried Rice
Use day-old rice for the best texture. Add the rice and chicken to Sauté garlic, onion, and mixed vegetables. Finish with soy sauce and scrambled eggs.
Bonus flavor:
Add a dash of sesame oil and sliced scallions on top.
8. Chicken Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Scoop out the inside of a baked potato and mash it with sour cream, butter, and cheddar cheese. Fold in the chicken and stuff it back into the skins. Bake until golden on top.
Optional:
Add bacon bits or chopped green onions.
9. Chicken Pasta Bake
Mix shredded chicken with cooked pasta, marinara or Alfredo sauce, and mozzarella. Bake until bubbly and golden.
Make it your own:
Add roasted veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for extra flavor.
10. Shredded Chicken Nachos
Spread chips on a sheet pan and top with chicken, black beans, cheese, and jalapeños. Bake at 400°F for 10 minutes. Finish with sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.
Try this:
Use sweet potato chips for a different flavor.
11. Chicken Salad Lettuce Cups
Mix shredded chicken with Greek yogurt or mayo, diced celery, mustard, and garlic powder. Spoon into butter lettuce leaves.
Low-carb option:
Serve with sliced cucumbers or bell pepper strips.
12. Chicken Quesadillas
Place chicken and cheese between two tortillas, then cook in a skillet until golden brown and crisp. Cut into four wedges and serve with sour cream or pico de gallo.
For extra flavor:
Add sautéed onions or roasted peppers inside.
Bonus Idea: Shredded Chicken Stuffed Shells
Cook jumbo pasta shells, then stuff them with a mix of chicken, ricotta, and Italian seasoning. Arrange in a baking dish with marinara sauce and mozzarella. Bake until the cheese melts and bubbles. This rich, crowd-pleasing dish uses leftover chicken in a way that never feels repetitive.
Make it lighter:
Use low-fat ricotta and add chopped spinach for an extra veggie boost.
Final Thoughts: Turn One Bird into Days of Meals
A bowl of cooked, shredded chicken in the fridge is like a cheat code for fast dinners. These easy leftover shredded chicken recipes are all about speed, flexibility, and bold flavor.
Whether it’s taco night, salad prep, or a comfort dish like soup, there’s always a way to work pulled chicken recipes into your week.
If you liked these ideas, check out our Leftover Chicken Recipes for more inspiration. For cozy family meals that go further, try our Mexican Chicken Casserole or Air-Fried Chicken Wings.
With the right recipes, shredded chicken becomes more than leftovers—it’s your weeknight hero.