Rotisserie chicken is delicious, but what about the scraps you’re left with? Instead of throwing them away, you can turn those scraps into tasty meals and snacks. Using the leftover pieces helps you save money, reduce food waste, and create new dishes. It’s like giving your chicken a second life!
Table of Contents
Delicious Ideas for Using Rotisserie Chicken Scraps
Make Tasty Chicken Broth
One of the easiest and best ways to use rotisserie chicken scraps is by making chicken broth. It’s simple, healthy, and can be used in many recipes. Here’s how you can do it:
- Gather the leftover bones and bits of meat from your rotisserie chicken.
- Place them in a large pot with water.
- Add chopped carrots, celery, onion, and a pinch of salt.
- Let it simmer for about 2-3 hours on low heat.
- Strain the broth into a container and discard the solids.
Homemade chicken broth is perfect for soups, stews, or even cooking rice. It’s full of flavor and much healthier than store-bought broth.
Create Chicken Soup
Once you have your chicken broth, why not make a cozy bowl of soup? Toss in some of the leftover chicken scraps along with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and peas. Add pasta or rice to make it more filling.
This soup is perfect for cold days, when someone in your family isn’t feeling well, or simply when you want something warm and comforting.
Add Flavor to Rice or Pasta
Chicken scraps can turn plain rice or pasta into something special. Here’s a quick idea:
- Shred the leftover chicken pieces and mix them into cooked rice or pasta.
- Add a little butter, garlic, and your favorite spices.
- Sprinkle with cheese or fresh herbs like parsley for extra flavor.
This is an easy way to make a fast and delicious meal using what you already have at home.
Make Chicken Salad
Chicken scraps are perfect for a light and tasty chicken salad. Just shred the meat and mix it with a little mayonnaise or yogurt. Add chopped celery, apples, grapes, or nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
Chicken salad is great for sandwiches, wraps, or as a topping for crackers. It’s a quick, no-cook meal idea everyone will love.
Using Scraps for Snacks and Appetizers
Chicken Tacos or Quesadillas
Leftover chicken scraps are perfect for making quick and tasty tacos or quesadillas. Here’s how you can do it:
- Shred the chicken scraps and heat them in a pan with a little oil and taco seasoning.
- Warm up some tortillas in another pan.
- Add the chicken, cheese, and your favorite toppings like lettuce, salsa, or sour cream to the tortillas.
For quesadillas, layer the chicken and cheese between two tortillas, cook on both sides until crispy, and cut into slices. These make a fun family dinner or snack.
Add to Omelets or Scrambled Eggs
Turn breakfast into something special by adding chicken scraps to your eggs. Simply:
- Beat a few eggs in a bowl and pour them into a hot, greased pan.
- Add shredded chicken scraps, along with vegetables like peppers, onions, or spinach.
- Sprinkle with cheese and fold the omelet.
For scrambled eggs, mix the chicken right into the eggs while cooking. This protein-packed meal is easy to make and keeps you full all morning.
Turn Scraps into Sandwich Fillings
Chicken scraps make excellent sandwich fillings. Here’s a simple recipe:
- Shred the chicken and mix it with mayonnaise or mustard.
- Add some seasonings like black pepper or a splash of lemon juice.
- Spread the mixture onto slices of bread, and layer with lettuce, tomato, or pickles.
You can also make a grilled chicken sandwich by adding cheese and toasting it in a pan until golden and melty. It’s a perfect lunch option!
Creative Ways to Use Chicken Scraps
Make Chicken-Stuffed Veggies
Rotisserie chicken scraps can be used to stuff vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms. It’s a fun and healthy way to use leftovers. Here’s how:
- Hollow out your chosen vegetables (like cutting off the tops of bell peppers).
- Mix shredded chicken scraps with cooked rice, tomato sauce, and seasonings.
- Stuff the mixture into the vegetables and top with cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-30 minutes until the veggies are tender.
These stuffed veggies make a delicious dinner or side dish.
Add to Stir-Fry
Chicken scraps can add flavor and protein to a quick stir-fry. Try this simple idea:
- Heat oil in a pan and toss in your favorite chopped vegetables (like broccoli, carrots, and snap peas).
- Add the chicken scraps and stir everything together.
- Season with soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of ginger or honey.
Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a fast, healthy meal.
Homemade Chicken Pizza Topping
If you love pizza, why not use chicken scraps as a topping? Here’s how:
- Spread pizza sauce over a store-bought or homemade pizza crust.
- Add shredded chicken scraps on top.
- Sprinkle with cheese, and add other toppings like onions, peppers, or mushrooms.
- Bake according to the crust’s instructions.
The chicken adds a savory, smoky flavor to your pizza that everyone will enjoy.
Reduce Waste with Chicken Bones
How to Use Bones for Nutrient-Rich Stock
Chicken bones are a treasure for making flavorful and healthy stock. Here’s a simple method to make the most of them:
- Gather the leftover bones from your rotisserie chicken.
- Place them in a large pot or slow cooker.
- Add water, chopped vegetables (like carrots, celery, and onion), and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and bay leaves.
- Let it simmer for 6-8 hours (or longer for a richer stock).
- Strain the liquid into a container and discard the bones and vegetable scraps.
This homemade stock can be used as a base for soups, sauces, and gravies. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients like collagen, which is great for your skin and joints.
Composting Chicken Bones Responsibly
If you can’t use the bones for stock, don’t just throw them away. Composting is a smart way to reduce waste. However, since chicken bones can attract pests, you’ll need to handle them carefully.
Here’s how:
- Use a composting system that is designed for food scraps, such as a Bokashi bin or a hot compost bin.
- Break the bones into smaller pieces to speed up decomposition.
- Add them to your compost pile along with plant-based scraps and yard waste.
Over time, the bones will break down and enrich your compost, which you can use for gardening.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken: Recipes and Ideas
Leftover rotisserie chicken is one of the most versatile ingredients you can have in your kitchen. Not only can it be turned into comforting soups or tasty tacos, but it’s also perfect for making a Southwest Chicken Salad bursting with flavor. This salad combines shredded rotisserie chicken with fresh greens, corn, black beans, and a zesty dressing that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Looking for even more ideas? Check out our full guide on leftover rotisserie chicken recipes to create everything from creamy casseroles to hearty sandwiches. These recipes will help you use every last bit of your chicken in the most delicious ways possible!
FAQs
What can I do with chicken scraps besides broth?
Chicken scraps are super versatile! Besides making broth, you can use them in soups, salads, tacos, stir-fries, omelets, or even as a pizza topping. They add flavor and protein to almost any dish.
Can I freeze rotisserie chicken scraps?
Yes, you can freeze them! Place the scraps (meat and bones) in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, thaw in the refrigerator or add directly to soups or broths.
How long do chicken scraps stay fresh?
If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, chicken scraps typically stay fresh for 3-4 days. Make sure to keep them in the coldest part of your fridge and reheat them thoroughly before eating.
Are chicken scraps safe to eat after cooking?
Yes, as long as they’ve been stored properly and are used within a few days. Avoid scraps that smell bad, look slimy, or have been left at room temperature for more than two hours.
What seasonings go best with chicken scraps?
Chicken scraps pair well with many seasonings. Popular choices include garlic, onion powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, thyme, and black pepper. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro for extra flavor.
Can I use chicken scraps in desserts?
Chicken scraps aren’t typically used in desserts, but creative chefs sometimes use chicken fat (schmaltz) to make savory pastries or pie crusts. However, sweet desserts generally don’t include chicken.
Conclusion
Using Rotisserie Chicken Scraps is a simple way to save money, reduce waste, and create delicious meals. From making hearty broths and soups to whipping up snacks like tacos or omelets, there are so many creative options to try. Plus, reusing scraps isn’t just smart—it’s also fun!
By repurposing every part of the chicken, including the bones, you can make nutrient-rich stocks or even enrich your garden through composting. With these tips, your leftovers will never go to waste again.
So, the next time you have rotisserie chicken scraps, don’t throw them out. Instead, turn them into something amazing. Your taste buds—and your wallet—will thank you!