Canned chicken is a reliable pantry staple for whipping up quick meals on the fly. Its affordability, flavor, and versatility make it an excellent choice for a variety of recipes. Plus, its long shelf life ensures that you can rely on it even when time is scarce.
While canned chicken may have a mixed reputation in some circles, I firmly believe that good food and fast meals aren’t just about using premium ingredients. It’s about knowing how to make the most of what you have on hand.
With this mindset, let’s dive into thirty-one mouthwatering ways to repurpose canned chicken as a pantry staple for creating effortless, delicious meals.
Is Canned Chicken Healthy?
When it comes to convenient and healthy meal options for picky eaters, canned chicken is often a great choice. However, its nutritional value depends on several factors, including the ingredients used in the canning process. For instance, when mixed with mayonnaise or olive oil, canned chicken tends to be higher in fat. On the other hand, options like spring water or brine-based canned chicken are generally lower in fat and a better choice for those looking for a healthier option. Ultimately, the suitability of canned chicken as an easy dinner solution will depend on individual needs and preferences.
What is Canned Chicken Good In?
Canned chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be elevated by pairing it with bold sauces. In dishes like pasta recipes, the sauce can breathe new life into the chicken, restoring its natural flavor and moisture. This versatility makes canned chicken an excellent addition to a variety of meals, such as casseroles, wraps, pasta dishes, soups, or stews, where it can absorb excess moisture and flavor from the surrounding ingredients. With these recipes, you’ll be able to quickly and easily create delicious meals that are perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or anytime you need a quick and satisfying meal.
Easy Canned Chicken Recipes
Buffalo Chicken Tortilla Wraps
When it comes to elevating the humble chicken, buffalo sauce is an unbeatable champion. Its bold flavor and vibrant hue make even the most mundane dishes feel like a celebration. That’s precisely why I’m obsessed with buffalo chicken flour tortillas – they’re the perfect combination of convenience and excitement.
These wraps are a game-changer for busy families, offering a quick and easy solution for lunches on-the-go that will satisfy both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re packing them in lunchboxes or grabbing one on your way out the door, these simple yet satisfying tortillas will keep everyone fueled and focused all day long.
Angel Hair Pasta with Chicken
Take just 15 minutes of your evening chaos to craft a mouthwatering angel hair pasta dish. This wholesome meal cleverly balances fresh ingredients with canned chicken, creating a nutritious and satisfying experience on the dinner table. While the angel hair pasta cooks for a mere five minutes, you’ll have ample time to chop your vegetables, making this recipe an ideal solution for tackling that pesky vegetable drawer at week’s end.
Summer Rotini Pasta Salad
When the sun beats down during the peak of summer, there’s no better way to spend quality time with loved ones than gathered around a sizzling barbecue. Amidst the savory aromas and warm camaraderie, one dish reigns supreme: a refreshing pasta salad. Specifically, this straightforward rotini version is an excellent choice. With its ease of preparation and quick cooking time – just 15 minutes – you can create it using ingredients likely already stocked in your pantry. For optimal flavor, I suggest preparing the salad at least a day in advance, allowing the various components to meld together harmoniously.
Chicken Salad with Grapes
When it comes to innovative pairings, few combinations are as surprisingly delightful as chicken salad and grapes. The sweetness of the grapes provides a refreshing contrast to the rich creaminess of the chicken mixture. This unexpected union yields a flavor profile that’s both familiar and excitingly new. To take this recipe to the next level, sandwich the chicken salad between two soft buns, and you’ll be rewarded with an irresistible, lunchbox-perfect sandwich that’s impossible to put down. What’s more, this recipe is impressively budget-friendly and can be prepared in just ten minutes flat – a true testament to its status as one of the most reliable and satisfying healthy pantry recipes around.
Keto Noodles
Forget about sacrificing noodles just because you’re following a keto diet – there’s a way to enjoy them without compromising on your dietary goals. And that solution starts with canned chicken. This versatile ingredient is a staple in many noodle dishes, and it can be easily adapted to fit into a keto lifestyle. Simply combine the chicken with some simple ingredients to create your own delicious low-carb noodles.
Cheesy Chicken Macaroni Casserole
Comfort food at its finest – macaroni and cheese – can be easily customized to become a signature dish. Simply combine a can of your go-to chicken with some quick kitchen time, and you’ll have a mouthwatering creation that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. This classic combination is not only lightning-fast to prepare but also satisfies your cravings like no other. It’s the ultimate comfort food solution for a family dinner with zero complaints.
Chicken Calzones
I’ve always had a soft spot for calzones – essentially, they’re pizza sandwiches with a twist. One of the best things about them is just how quick and easy they are to prepare. In fact, my chicken calzone recipe requires only 30 minutes of your time, making it an ideal solution for a busy Monday evening or a rushed after-school snack for the kids.
What’s more, all the ingredients needed can be prepped in advance, which means these tasty treats come together in no time. And the best part? They’re so simple to make that even your little ones could give it a go – and I’m not just saying that because they’ll love being involved in the kitchen!
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Soup
The Instant Pot has become a staple for many home cooks, allowing them to effortlessly infuse their dishes with rich flavors. This recipe takes full advantage of its capabilities, resulting in an incredibly satisfying and comforting soup. The classic combination of chicken and rice takes on a new dimension when transformed into a warm, nourishing bowl of goodness.
Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats
Transform your traditional game day snack into a healthier, yet equally flavorful, option with buffalo chicken zucchini boats. The marriage of zucchini and cream cheese ensures that leftover chicken remains juicy and tender while roasting, elevating its overall taste experience. Meanwhile, the bold fusion of buffalo sauce and cheddar cheese injects an explosion of flavor into every morsel of canned chicken. By the time you take your first bite, the fact that this dish originated from a can will be all but forgotten.
Chicken Empanadas
One of the best things about these empanadas is how versatile they are – and I’m not just talking about the fillings. You can easily spice up your mid-week meal by adjusting the level of heat from the hot sauce you add. Whether you like it mellow or scorching, this recipe is a great way to customize your flavor. And don’t worry if you’re looking for leftovers – these empanadas hold up beautifully when reheated in the microwave the next day. In fact, they’re so good cold that you won’t even need one! If microwaving isn’t an option for you, though, you can still enjoy them at room temperature or even straight from the fridge.
Chicken Salad Appetizer
What’s surprising about this canned chicken recipe is its potential to elevate the dish to appetizer-worthy heights. The secret lies in the addition of delicate butter lettuce wedges, which not only add a touch of elegance but also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken. These individual salad cups are an excellent way to stimulate your guests’ appetite, and their affordability, flavor, and presentation make them impressive enough to be served at a fine dining establishment.
Pesto Chicken Pasta
What I’ve always said about powerful sauces is that they’re the secret ingredient that elevates your chicken game to new heights. This five-ingredient pesto chicken pasta recipe is the perfect example of that. In just twenty minutes, you can whip up an incredible meal that will leave you wanting more. The vibrant green pesto adds a burst of fresh flavor and a pop of color to take this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Elevate your game-day gatherings with this mouthwatering Instant Pot buffalo chicken dip recipe. A fusion of pantry staples, including spicy buffalo sauce and melted cheese, comes together to create a flavor profile that’s sure to please. Serve it alongside an abundance of crispy tortilla chips, and get ready for the crowd to devour it in no time. The best part? This addictive dip is surprisingly easy to whip up again.
BBQ Chicken Crust Pizza
Ditch the takeout menu and put down your phone – there’s no need to wait for a delicious meal when you can whip up an incredible pizza recipe in the same time it takes to get delivery. Perfect for a quiet night in with your significant other, this protein-packed, carb-free pizza is designed for two people, offering a unique flavor combination that will impress even the most discerning palates.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of this game-changing one-pot wonder: chicken pot pie soup. Imagine the classic flavors of a chicken pot pie transformed into a rich, creamy soup that’s perfect for cozying up on even the chilliest winter nights. This ultimate comfort meal is designed to bring solace and satisfaction to you and your loved ones. Plus, it’s an easy and stress-free dinner option ideal for busy back-to-school nights when you need something that’s quick, delicious, and sure to please.
Chicken Salad with Grapes and Tarragon
When it comes to creating a harmonious culinary experience, unexpected partnerships can yield astonishing results. The sweet and succulent nature of grapes beautifully complements the savory flavors of chicken and tarragon, resulting in a delightfully balanced dish that effortlessly satisfies both sweet and savory cravings. This scrumptious recipe is perfect for potlucks, parties, or picnics, as it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Transform your chicken salad sandwiches into a flavorful masterpiece with this quick and easy recipe. What’s the secret to its irresistible taste? Pre-made buffalo sauce, which streamlines the preparation process to just ten minutes. The result is an incredibly satisfying filling that will have you reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds). To give it an added nutritional boost, try incorporating extra veggies into the mix. This chicken salad makes a fantastic sandwich idea for lunch – or anytime, really!
Low Carb Keto Chicken Crust Pizza
Rather than sticking to the traditional BBQ pizza, why not try something new and exciting? The white chicken crust pizza is a game-changer, especially when you combine it with creamy alfredo sauce and an abundance of melted mozzarella cheese. This delectable combination makes for a perfect night in, no matter what day of the week it may be.
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its incredible taste but also in the quality time you can spend preparing it with your loved one. Turn cooking into a fun and intimate experience by making it a date-night activity! Not only will you bond over the process, but you’ll both get to enjoy the fruits of your labor – a mouthwatering pizza that’s sure to satisfy any craving.
Salsa Ranch Chicken Wraps
Looking to simplify your dinner routine without sacrificing flavor? These salsa ranch chicken wraps are the perfect solution. Not only do they require minimal time and effort, but they’re also bursting with nutrients, protein, and a delicious blend of flavors that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. Plus, their crowd-pleasing appeal makes them an excellent choice for family gatherings or packed lunches for work or school. The best part? They retain their flavor and freshness just as well the next day, making them a convenient and satisfying meal option.
Buffalo Chicken Chaffle
A chaffle is a delectable twist on the classic grilled sandwich, with Australian roots as a ‘jaffle’ refers to the act of grilling. In essence, this is a mouth-watering buffalo chicken tender that packs a punch of flavor and protein. As an ideal snack for those embracing the keto lifestyle, a single serving boasts only 1g of carbohydrates, offset by an abundance of protein. This nutrient-dense treat will sustain you throughout your day, providing a satisfying energy boost.
Canned Chicken Salad
In just ten minutes, you can create a scrumptious chicken salad that’s not only delicious but also nutritious and easy on the palate. The perfect accompaniment to a wholewheat chicken sandwich, this recipe is a game-changer. What sets it apart is the clever substitution of Greek yogurt for most of the mayonnaise, making it an incredibly healthy alternative. To get the best results, be sure to use a non-flavored variety of Greek yogurt.
Chicken Pasta Salad
Get ready to impress your guests at your next potluck or barbecue with this scrumptious and budget-friendly chicken pasta salad. Designed to feed a crowd without breaking the bank, this recipe is perfect for those on a tight budget. To make it even more convenient, prepare it the night before to allow the flavors to meld together seamlessly. This summer-ready salad recipe is ideal for BBQs and gatherings alike.
Crescent Chicken Roll Ups
Transforming weeknight dinners into stress-free experiences is effortless when armed with Crescent chicken roll-ups. This humble ingredient is a parent’s best friend, simplifying home cooking even on the most chaotic days.
The real magic happens when you fill these flaky rolls with rich and creamy chicken. Not only do they provide a boost of protein for your little ones, but they also make mealtime a delight.
To elevate this weeknight staple, serve the roll-ups alongside brown rice and an assortment of colorful vegetables. In no time at all, you’ll have a well-rounded dinner that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Chicken Pot Pie
When it comes to utilizing canned chicken, chicken pot pie stands out as a culinary masterpiece. As the chicken cooks within its own steam and juices, it becomes infused with a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. The outcome is a heavenly pie boasting a succulent filling and a satisfyingly crunchy crust. While this dish is already a crowd-pleaser, what would truly elevate it is if it could be prepared in under an hour – but, as luck would have it, that’s exactly possible!
Chicken Noodle Casserole
Transform humble pantry staples into a mouthwatering masterpiece with this easy-to-make recipe. By combining affordable ingredients, you’ll create a versatile and nutritious casserole that generously accommodates an array of vegetables, allowing for effortless customization to cater to your family’s unique tastes.
Cheesy Chicken Pasta
In addition to its ease of preparation, one of the greatest advantages of making cheesy chicken pasta in a single skillet is the streamlined clean-up process it affords. With no multiple pots and pans to worry about, you’ll be done with dishes in no time. And let’s not forget the star of the show: the rich, indulgent sauce that’s just begging to be drizzled liberally over the top. This crowd-pleasing recipe is a quick 30-minute affair, making it an ideal solution for satisfying even the most discerning palates.
Chicken Patties
While beef patties may be a classic choice, their chicken counterparts offer a compelling alternative. Crisp on the outside and juicy within, these poultry-based patties are an excellent option for burger enthusiasts. One of the key advantages of chicken patties is their relative affordability compared to beef. Moreover, they provide a healthier option, contributing to lower cholesterol levels and reduced sodium intake in one’s diet.
Chicken Spaghetti
Forget the notion that cooking comfort food requires hours of kitchen time. This straightforward chicken spaghetti recipe is designed for busy weeknights when efficiency matters most. In just a few easy steps, you’ll create an irresistibly creamy pasta dish that your family will devour in no time. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to seamlessly incorporate vegetables and meet those daily nutritional needs without any fuss or complaints from the little ones.
Avocado Chicken Salad
Canned chicken takes center stage in this refreshing salad recipe, which is perfect for a light and satisfying brunch or lunch with friends. The combination of Caesar-inspired ingredients creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and excitingly new. For an added touch of fun, serve the salad family-style or set up a make-your-own bar where everyone can customize their own creation to their liking – all without breaking the bank! This healthy summer recipe is sure to be a hit on even the hottest of days.
Chicken Fried Rice
Transforming leftover rice into a scrumptious fried rice dish is an art that requires a combination of ingredients and timing. This recipe is specifically designed to revitalize stale rice, breathing new life into it by incorporating chicken, vegetables, and a can of goodness. With minimal supplies required, this dish is perfect for those moments when the fridge seems bare, typically at the end of the week. The key to achieving the ideal fried rice lies in using leftover rice as opposed to newly cooked rice, which tends to become mushy. By combining these simple ingredients, you’ll be able to whip up a mouthwatering fried rice that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ranch Canned Chicken Cheese Dip
As a grand finale, we have a scrumptious appetizer that will leave your party guests craving for more. This indulgent dip is infused with the rich flavors of ranch and cheese, making it an unforgettable treat. With its creamy texture and delightful taste, this recipe is sure to be a hit at any gathering.With our 31 creative ways to use canned chicken, we’ve given this humble ingredient the recognition it deserves. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal solution or seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, these recipes are sure to satisfy. Take your pick from our list and get ready to impress your friends with your culinary skills.Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below! If you’re looking for more budget-friendly meal ideas, be sure to check out my other Recipe Roundups for a wealth of inspiration.