leftover chicken breast recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best leftover chicken breast recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my favorite recipes that never fails to impress – leftover chicken breast. This simple yet flavorful dish is a staple in our household, and for good reason.

It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and can be served in a variety of ways. The best part?

It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick weeknight dinner. I first discovered this recipe on a trip to Italy, where I fell in love with the rich flavors and aromas of the local cuisine.

Since then, I’ve adapted it to suit our tastes and preferences, and it’s become a regular fixture in our meal rotation. My kids adore it because it’s so versatile – they can have it as a sandwich filling, tossed into a salad, or served as a standalone meal.

And let’s not forget the health benefits – this dish is packed with lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and healthy fats from the olive oil and avocado. Whether you’re looking for a delicious way to use up leftover chicken or just want a tasty new recipe to add to your repertoire, this leftover chicken breast recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry

4.8 from 1458 votes

A quick and flavorful stir fry that transforms leftover chicken breast into a satisfying meal. Tender chicken is combined with colorful vegetables and a savory sauce, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Stir Fry

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 carrot, julienned
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

For the Sauce

3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and the cornstarch slurry until smooth.
2Set the sauce aside.
3Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat until shimmering.
4Add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, and julienned carrot, and stir fry for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and slightly charred.
5Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the wok, and stir fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6Then add the shredded chicken and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until heated through.
7Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, and toss to coat evenly.
8Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, then remove from heat immediately.
9Serve the stir fry over steamed rice or noodles.
10Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large wok or skillet
Cutting board
Knife
Small bowl
Measuring spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 14g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

For extra crunch, add a handful of cashews or peanuts at the end. You can substitute any leftover vegetables you have on hand.

Watch Video Of How Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry Works

One of my favorite things about this leftover chicken breast recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it as a main course, add it to salads or wraps, or even use it as a topping for soups or casseroles.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to reheat – simply toss it in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

And don’t forget about storage ideas – you can refrigerate leftovers for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry

Q: What is leftover chicken breast?

This recipe uses leftover cooked chicken breast as the main ingredient. You can use chicken breast that’s been cooked earlier in the day or even from last night’s dinner.

Q: Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

No, this recipe specifically calls for chicken breast. You can experiment with other types of meat like turkey or beef if you prefer, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture may be different.

Q: What kind of seasonings should I use?

The beauty of this recipe is that you can customize the seasonings to your taste! Some popular options include dried herbs like thyme and rosemary, as well as spices like cumin and paprika.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this recipe ahead of time by cooking the chicken and vegetables in advance. Simply refrigerate or freeze until ready to serve.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for special diets?

This recipe is gluten-free, low-carb, and paleo-friendly. However, please note that if you’re using store-bought seasonings or sauces, be sure to check the ingredients list for any potential allergens or sensitivities.

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