What to Make with Leftover Classic Chicken Salad

One thing you should know about me is that I love chicken salad.

I love how versatile it is and that there are endless possibilities when making it.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a classic chicken salad recipe in no time.

It’s perfect for both lunch and dinner and is quick and easy to make.

I often make a big batch to use over a few days and enjoy it in a few different ways. 

But I always have to be mindful to use it up within a few days so it doesn’t go bad.

Want some info on food safety when it comes to chicken salad? Check out my blog post on how long leftover chicken salad lasts here.

Leftover chicken salad can be used in so many ways. You can easily create new and exciting dishes with your favorite leftover chicken salad recipe.

Looking for some easy recipes using leftover chicken salad ideas? Let’s dig in!

Simple Salads

This time of year, when the weather warms up a bit, I’m always leaning towards simple salads for a light dinner. This is a perfect way to use leftover chicken salad for a healthy and quick lunch. In a large bowl, toss leftover chicken salad with your favorite salad greens, sliced sweet vidalia onion and fresh herbs for a pop of flavor, and drizzle of olive oil.

Cobb Salad with a Twist

Take your leftover chicken salad to the next level by incorporating it into a deconstructed cobb salad. Layer crumbled blue cheese, hard-boiled eggs, chopped avocado, diced tomatoes, and your leftover chicken salad on a bed of romaine lettuce. Drizzle with a creamy dressing and enjoy!

Main Courses

Turn leftover chicken salad into a main course salad by adding some heartier ingredients. Serve it on a bed of lettuce with chopped bell pepper, avocado slices , and crumbled feta cheese. Top it off with sun-dried tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean twist. 

Pita Pocket

For a fun, easy meal, fill a pita bread pocket with leftover chicken salad, lettuce, tomato slices, and a dollop of hummus for a satisfying and protein-packed lunch option. I love adding dill pickles for a nice crunch.

Lettuce Cups

Ditch the bread and go grain-free with healthy lettuce wraps or cups. I recommend using romaine lettuce leaves or butter lettuce leaves to scoop up your chicken salad and add your favorite crunchy vegetables. This makes for a delicious lunch on a busy day.

Avocado Chicken Salad

For a healthy and creamy chicken salad option, mash up half an avocado and combine it with your leftover chicken salad. Add a squeeze of lemon juice, chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro for a delicious and refreshing salad.

Stuffed Peppers

Looking for an easy weeknight dinner? Hollow out bell peppers or avocado halves and fill them with leftover chicken salad. Top with shredded cheese and bake in the oven for a warm and satisfying meal.

Savory Crepes

​Fill crepes with chicken salad for a delicious brunch option. Drizzle with a light hollandaise sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Potato Skins

​Load up potato skins with leftover chicken salad, cheese, and bake for a fun and flavorful appetizer. Sprinkle it with paprika or bacon bits for extra crunch.

Sandwiches

Make a sandwich with a croissant, bagel or roll.  A chicken salad sandwich always hits the spot.

Chicken Salad Quiche

This is a great way to use up a large quantity of leftover chicken salad. Prepare a simple pie crust or use a store-bought one. Spread a layer of leftover chicken salad in the bottom and top with shredded cheese and a beaten egg mixture. Bake until golden brown and bubbly. Planning an upcoming baby shower? This is a crowd pleaser!

Hot Chicken Salad

For a comforting twist, try making a hot chicken salad. Heat up leftover chicken salad in a pan over low heat with chicken broth and chopped celery. Season with black pepper and garlic powder, and serve over cooked rice or mashed potatoes.

Tips and Tricks:

• Storage is Key: Always store  chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-4 days.
• Flavor Boosters: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a dollop of Dijon mustard or a sprinkle of curry powder to your leftover chicken salad.
• Freshen it Up: If your chicken salad seems to be on the dry side after a day or two, try mixing in a bit of plain greek yogurt or sour cream to give it a new life.
• Use Different Proteins: Don’t limit yourself to leftover chicken! This concept works well with leftover turkey or even canned chicken.

So the next time you find yourself with leftover chicken salad, try one of these many options. In need of a basic chicken salad recipe? Don’t forget to try mine out here!