Name: Leftover Chicken Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded; 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 sleeve butter crackers, crushed; 4 tablespoons melted butter

Turning last night’s chicken into tonight’s warm and cozy meal is a simple kind of magic. This Leftover Chicken Dinner is one of those comforting recipes that makes you feel like you won dinner without trying too hard. It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and built to give yesterday’s bird a brand-new spotlight.

Whether you’re working with baked, grilled, or rotisserie chicken, this dish pulls everything together in one pan. It comes out bubbling and golden, with tender bites of chicken tucked into a creamy, cheesy, and savory base. Perfect for a weeknight or when you’re trying to clear out the fridge.

Why You’ll Love This Leftover Chicken Dinner

You’ll love how adaptable and low-effort this dish is. It turns humble leftovers into a satisfying meal that feels new and delicious again. The rich sauce brings moisture back to the chicken, while the cheese and herbs create that comforting oven-baked finish we all crave. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead option that reheats beautifully.

What Kind of Chicken Works Best?

You can use virtually any cooked chicken here. Roasted chicken adds a depth of flavor, while grilled chicken brings a slight smoky edge. If your leftovers are from a rotisserie chicken, all the better—those seasoned pieces add an extra layer of flavor. Just make sure it’s shredded or chopped and free of bones or skin.

Ingredients for the Leftover Chicken Dinner

This recipe is all about taking simple pantry and fridge staples and turning them into something warm and irresistible. Here’s what you’ll need:

Leftover chicken: The star of the dish, chopped or shredded to soak up all that creamy goodness.
Cream of chicken soup: Adds body and creaminess to the base.
Sour cream: Gives a tangy richness that balances the flavors.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, golden perfection.
Frozen mixed vegetables: A convenient way to add color and nutrition.
Onion powder: Enhances the savory depth without overpowering.
Garlic powder: Adds aromatic flavor to the sauce.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to tie everything together.
Butter crackers: Crushed and layered on top for a golden, buttery crunch.
Melted butter: Mixed with crackers to help them brown and crisp up in the oven.

How To Make the Leftover Chicken Dinner

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, frozen vegetables, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top.

Step 4: Add the Cracker Topping

In a separate bowl, mix the crushed butter crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle the buttery crumbs evenly over the top of the chicken mixture.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until hot and bubbling with a crisp golden topping.

How to Serve and Store This Leftover Chicken Dinner

This comforting dinner serves 6 to 8 people, making it great for families or leftovers for lunch the next day. Serve it hot, straight from the oven with a side salad or fresh bread. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well, just let it cool completely before wrapping tightly.

To reheat, microwave individual portions or bake the full dish at 325°F until warmed through.

What to Serve With Leftover Chicken Dinner?

Fresh Green Salad

A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette brings a fresh, zesty contrast.

Garlic Bread

To soak up every bit of the creamy filling, nothing beats warm slices of garlic bread.

Roasted Broccoli

The slightly charred edges and earthy flavor of roasted broccoli make a great partner.

Mashed Potatoes

For the ultimate comfort meal, serve this over a pile of creamy mashed potatoes.

Buttery Corn on the Cob

Simple and sweet, corn balances out the savory notes of the dish.

Steamed Asparagus

Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and crunch.

Classic Caprese Salad

Add some Italian flair with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes【5†source】.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this Leftover Chicken Dinner has you hooked on easy, comforting meals, check out these reader-loved recipes too:

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for a lighter, protein-packed dinner.
Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes and Mushrooms for a full one-pan experience.
White Chicken Enchilada Casserole if you’re craving Tex-Mex comfort.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken with crispy edges and tender middle.
Chicken Biscuit Casserole for a fluffy, biscuit-topped favorite.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s always within reach when you have leftover chicken to use up.

Let me know if you tried a different veggie mix or cheese combo. Did you swap sour cream for Greek yogurt? Share your twist!

Explore beautifully curated comfort meals and weeknight favorites on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and get inspired for what to make next.

Conclusion

Making use of leftover chicken doesn’t have to feel like a chore. With the right mix of creamy textures, savory spices, and a crispy topping, this Leftover Chicken Dinner transforms the ordinary into something craveable. It’s quick, family-friendly, and endlessly customizable.