Creative Leftover Chicken Asian Recipes To Spice Up Your Lunch
Are you tired of the same old lunch routine? Do you have leftover chicken sitting in your fridge from last night’s dinner? This article will introduce you to some creative leftover chicken Asian recipes that will not only elevate your lunch game but also make use of that chicken in delicious and exciting ways. From spicy stir-fries to flavorful wraps, these recipes are sure to please your palate and keep your lunches interesting.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 cup snap peas
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional for heat)
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
- In a large pan or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas. Cook for 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add the shredded chicken to the pan, stirring to combine with the vegetables.
- In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, rice vinegar, chicken broth, cornstarch, and sriracha (if using).
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring constantly to coat everything evenly.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and heat through.
- Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
More Creative Leftover Chicken Asian Recipes
Now that you have your first recipe, let’s explore more ideas to transform your leftover chicken into delightful Asian-inspired dishes.
1. Chicken Fried Rice
Fried rice is a classic and versatile dish that’s perfect for using up leftover chicken. It’s quick to prepare and can be customized with whatever vegetables you have on hand.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the beaten eggs, scrambling them until fully cooked, then remove and set aside.
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps.
- Stir in the diced chicken and mixed vegetables, cooking for about 5 minutes until heated through.
- Add the soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring to combine.
- Fold in the scrambled eggs and green onions just before serving.
2. Spicy Chicken Lettuce Wraps
These lettuce wraps are a fun and healthy way to enjoy your leftover chicken. They are light, refreshing, and packed with flavor.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup water chestnuts, diced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 head of iceberg or butter lettuce, leaves separated
- Chopped cilantro and green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped chicken and water chestnuts, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
- To serve, spoon the chicken mixture into the lettuce leaves and garnish with cilantro and green onions.
3. Asian Chicken Noodle Soup
This comforting soup is perfect for a quick lunch. It’s hearty, flavorful, and very satisfying.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup noodles (rice noodles or egg noodles)
- 1 cup bok choy, chopped
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Green onions and cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
- Add the noodles, bok choy, carrot, garlic, and ginger. Cook according to noodle package instructions.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions and cilantro.
4. Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
Teriyaki bowls are a delicious way to enjoy your chicken with a mix of rice and vegetables. They are customizable and perfect for meal prepping.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a skillet, heat the teriyaki sauce over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken, broccoli, and bell peppers, cooking until heated through.
- Serve the chicken and vegetables over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use any type of leftover chicken for these recipes?
Yes, any leftover chicken works well for these recipes, whether it’s roasted, grilled, or poached.
2. How do I store leftover chicken dishes?
Store leftover dishes in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
3. Can I freeze these recipes?
Most of these recipes can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze them before adding any fresh ingredients like herbs or lettuce.
4. What can I serve with these dishes?
These dishes pair well with steamed rice, noodles, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Now that you have a variety of creative leftover chicken Asian recipes, it’s time to spice up your lunch! Enjoy experimenting with these dishes, and don’t hesitate to share your own variations or tips. Happy cooking!
