Let’s be honest, a few cans of chicken in the cupboard have saved us more weeknights than we’d like to admit! With almost no chopping, these 22 recipes will turn that humble little can into an actual dinner you’ll crave. Pour yourself a drink, grab a can opener, and let’s do some easy magic!
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1) Buffalo Chicken Dip
This dip does not last long. If you don't want an empty bowl then double the batch.
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Buffalo Chicken Dip
The dip is cheesy, creamy, and has a little kick to it from the buffalo chicken. It bubbles up and gets golden brown and is perfect for scooping up with tortilla chips or celery.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and lightly grease a small baking dish.
- In a bowl, stir together the drained chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch until well combined.
- Fold in half of the cheddar, then spread the mixture into the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar over the top.
- Bake for 20 minutes until hot and bubbly around the edges.
- Serve warm with celery sticks and tortilla chips.
Notes
Add a splash more hot sauce if your crowd likes it fiery.
2) Chicken Caesar Wraps
All of the crunch and tang of a Caesar salad, wrapped up so you can enjoy it on the go. We have your lunch problems solved.
Chicken Caesar Wraps
Crunchy romaine, combined with canned chicken, Caesar dressing, parmesan, and then all wrapped up in a soft flour tortilla.
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the drained chicken, romaine, Caesar dressing, and parmesan.
- Toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Lay each tortilla flat and spoon the filling down the center.
- Sprinkle crushed croutons over the filling for extra crunch.
- Fold in the sides and roll up tightly into a wrap.
- Slice in half on the diagonal and serve.
Notes
Wrap in foil for a grab-and-go lunch that holds together.
3) Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocados
This is your go to when you want something that feels fancy but took about five minutes to make. No bread needed!
Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocados
Ripe avocados that have been halved are stacked high and filled with creamy chicken salad with celery along with a spritz of fresh lemon and chicken.
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, mix the drained chicken, mayonnaise, celery, and lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Halve the avocados and remove the pits, scooping out a little flesh to make room.
- Spoon the chicken salad generously into each avocado half.
- Finish with a crack of black pepper and serve right away.
Notes
A few dashes of hot sauce in the salad is never a bad idea.
4) Barbecue Chicken Pizza
You can skip the wait and cost of delivery by making your own Friday night pizza! Your kids will think you ordered takeout!
Barbecue Chicken Pizza
A crunchy crust coated with barbecue sauce, canned chicken, red onions, and melted mozzarella.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.
- Spread most of the barbecue sauce over the pizza crust, leaving a border.
- Toss the drained chicken with the remaining sauce and scatter over the crust.
- Top with mozzarella and thinly sliced red onion.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Sprinkle with fresh cilantro, slice, and serve.
Notes
A drizzle of extra barbecue sauce after baking adds a sweet finish.
5) Chicken Alfredo Pasta
This recipe is a keeper! It`s creamy, and so comforting. Plus, it`s ready in a flash!
Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Fettuccine has been tossed with a parmesan Alfredo sauce and has been combined with shredded canned chicken.
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the fettuccine in salted water according to package directions, then drain.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter and saute the garlic until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the parmesan until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Fold in the drained chicken and warm through.
- Toss the pasta in the sauce and serve hot with extra parmesan.
Notes
Reserve a little pasta water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
6) Chicken and Rice Casserole
Enjoy peace of mind on your busy nights! It bakes while you tackle homework fights or get the kids in the bath.
Chicken and Rice Casserole
A warm casserole dish of soft rice, canned chicken, and vegetables, all smothered in a cream sauce and finished off with melted cheese.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and grease a 9x13 baking dish.
- In a bowl, stir together the rice, chicken, soup, broth, and vegetables.
- Pour the mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover, top with cheddar, and bake 10 more minutes until the rice is tender.
- Let rest a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Check the rice at the end; add a splash of broth if it needs more time.
7) Buffalo Chicken Tacos
Taco night and buffalo wing night are colliding, and honestly they should do that more often. Cool ranch keeps the heat friendly.
Buffalo Chicken Tacos
Buffalo chicken, crunchy slaw, and ranch sauce are all wrapped in warm tortillas.
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, warm the drained chicken with the buffalo sauce until coated and heated through.
- Warm the corn tortillas in a dry pan or microwave.
- Divide the buffalo chicken among the tortillas.
- Top each with shredded cabbage for crunch.
- Drizzle with ranch dressing and sprinkle with green onion.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
Double up the tortillas so they hold the saucy filling.
8) Chicken Pot Pie
This is a warm hug kind of comfort food. This shortcut version keeps all the coziness without the fuss.
Chicken Pot Pie
A flaky pastry crust and a creamy filling with canned chicken and soft vegetables in a rich gravy.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- In a bowl, combine the chicken, soup, vegetables, and milk.
- Pour the filling into a deep pie dish or baking dish.
- Lay the pie crust over the top and crimp the edges, cutting a few vents.
- Brush the crust with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the crust is deep golden and the filling bubbles.
Notes
Let it sit 10 minutes before serving so the filling sets.
9) Chicken Enchilada Soup
A big cozy bowl full of deliciousness and all the flavors of enchiladas without the rolling and messy cleanup.
Chicken Enchilada Soup
A warm soup that is a little spicy and has ingredients like canned chicken, beans, enchilada sauce, cheese and finished off with crunchy tortilla strips.
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, combine the chicken, enchilada sauce, black beans, broth, and tomatoes.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Stir in half of the cheese until melted.
- Ladle into bowls and top with remaining cheese and tortilla strips.
- Serve hot with a squeeze of lime.
Notes
A dollop of sour cream tames the heat for little ones.
10) Chicken Ranch Wraps
Quick to make and super creamy and crunchy. Great for lunch on busy days.
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Chicken Ranch Wraps
Tortillas which are soft with canned chicken inside, lettuce, tomato, and shredded cheese all together with cool ranch.
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, stir together the drained chicken and ranch dressing.
- Lay the tortillas flat on a clean surface.
- Layer each with shredded lettuce, diced tomato, and cheddar.
- Spoon the ranch chicken down the center.
- Fold in the sides and roll up tightly.
- Cut in half and serve.
Notes
Crisp bacon bits make a delicious add-in.
11) Chicken and Black Bean Chili
A more laid-back take on chili night that will definitely fill you up. It may even be better the second day, if there still is any!
Chicken and Black Bean Chili
Chili made with canned chicken, black beans, and tomatoes, and simmered with smoky spices for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, combine the chicken, black beans, tomatoes, and broth.
- Stir in the chili powder and cumin.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt.
- Serve hot, topped with cheese, sour cream, or avocado.
Notes
Mash a few beans against the pot to thicken the chili naturally.
12) Chicken Fajita Quesadillas
To satisfy your Tex-Mex cravings, make these cheesy fajita quesadillas. Simply sizzle, fold, and flip. Enjoy!
Chicken Fajita Quesadillas
Tortillas that are crispy and golden and filled with canned chicken as well as sautéed onions and peppers, and a ton of melted cheese.
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet, saute the bell pepper and onion until softened.
- Add the drained chicken and fajita seasoning, stirring to coat and warm through.
- Lay a tortilla in a clean skillet and sprinkle with cheese.
- Add the chicken-veggie mixture and more cheese, then top with a second tortilla.
- Cook until golden, then flip and cook the other side until crispy.
- Slice into wedges and serve with salsa.
Notes
Press down gently with a spatula so the cheese glues everything together.
13) Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Little sandwiches packed with a big flavor. Be sure to save a couple for yourself because they seem to disappear at parties!
Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Soft slider buns are layered with savory canned chicken, marinara, and melted mozzarella, then baked until buttery and golden.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Warm the drained chicken with the marinara sauce in a skillet.
- Slice the connected buns in half horizontally and place the bottom in a baking dish.
- Spoon the saucy chicken over the buns and top with mozzarella.
- Add the top buns, brush with melted butter, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese melts and the tops are golden.
Notes
Cover with foil for the first 10 minutes so the tops don't over-brown.
14) Chicken Burrito Bowls
With build your own bowls everyone gets to make their own and you skip the dinner time negotiations.
Chicken Burrito Bowls
A simple customizable dinner consists of a seasoned rice bowl with toppings of canned chicken, black beans, corn, and more.
Ingredients
Method
- Warm the drained chicken in a skillet with the taco seasoning.
- Heat the black beans and corn together in a small pot.
- Divide the cooked rice among four bowls.
- Top each bowl with seasoned chicken, beans, and corn.
- Spoon salsa over the top.
- Finish with cheese, avocado, or sour cream as desired.
Notes
A squeeze of lime over the top brightens the whole bowl.
15) Chicken Stir Fry
Sad fridge? Stir fry is the answer! With canned chicken it can be ready in no time!
Chicken Stir Fry
Fluffy rice accompaniment and coated with shimmering soy-ginger sauce, is the crisp-tender vegetables and canned chicken mixture.
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
- Add the garlic and ginger and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the frozen vegetables and stir fry until crisp-tender.
- Stir in the drained chicken to warm through.
- Pour in the soy sauce and toss everything to coat.
- Serve hot over rice.
Notes
A drizzle of sesame oil at the end adds great nutty flavor.
16) Chicken Tortilla Casserole
This is great for when you feel like doing absolutely nothing, and still want to eat something delicious. It's fully cheesy and goopy. Think of it like if enchiladas just decided to stop rolling.
Chicken Tortilla Casserole
Tex Mex casseroles are super easy and simple! Enjoy layers of tortillas, canned chicken, savory enchilada sauce, and lots of gooey cheese that bubbles and bakes into a golden brown delight.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and grease a 9x13 baking dish.
- Stir the chicken, beans, and corn together with half of the enchilada sauce.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce in the dish, then add a layer of tortillas.
- Spoon over some chicken mixture and sprinkle with cheese, then repeat the layers.
- Top with the remaining sauce and cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden, then let rest before serving.
Notes
Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream.
17) Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
Hiding vegetables in creamy pasta sauce is such a smart parenting hack! The broccoli gets camouflaged in all that delicious sauce!
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
Alfredo pasta gives you a creamy cheese sauce, and it also has soft broccoli and chicken. This is a nice and easy dinner that can be made in one pan!
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the penne in salted water, adding the broccoli for the last 3 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and broccoli together.
- Return them to the pot and pour in the Alfredo sauce.
- Fold in the drained chicken and warm over low heat.
- Stir in the parmesan until creamy.
- Season with black pepper and serve hot.
Notes
Frozen broccoli works great here and saves a step.
18) Pesto Chicken Pasta
Ready before the water stops steaming and packed with flavor, making it seem like you put in extra effort, pesto is always a winner!
Pesto Chicken Pasta
Cooking pasta and canned chicken with basil pesto and juicy cherry tomatoes offers a fresh and quick meal with a basil pesto.
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the rotini in salted water until al dente, then drain, reserving a splash of pasta water.
- Return the pasta to the pot and drizzle with olive oil.
- Stir in the pesto and a little pasta water to coat evenly.
- Fold in the drained chicken and cherry tomatoes.
- Warm gently over low heat for a couple of minutes.
- Top with parmesan and serve.
Notes
Stir in a handful of fresh spinach for extra color and greens.
19) Chicken Caesar Salad
When a big crunchy filling salad is all you can think of, the salad can be easily executed with the use of canned chicken.
Chicken Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine mixed with canned chicken, parmesan cheese, crunchy croutons, and classic creamy Caesar dressing.
Ingredients
Method
- Place the chopped romaine in a large salad bowl.
- Add the drained chicken on top.
- Drizzle with the Caesar dressing.
- Toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Add the parmesan and croutons and toss lightly.
- Finish with black pepper and serve right away.
Notes
Add the croutons just before serving so they stay crunchy.
20) Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza
Three of America’s favorite toppings on one crust. The ultimate answer for the what's for dinner debate.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza
Crispy crust topped with creamy ranch, canned chicken, crispy bacon, and melted mozzarella.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.
- Spread the ranch dressing over the pizza crust as the base.
- Scatter the drained chicken and crumbled bacon over the top.
- Cover with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Sprinkle with green onion, slice, and serve.
Notes
A light drizzle of ranch after baking makes it extra indulgent.
21) Chicken Tikka Masala
Your kitchen is going to smell amazing and you will save a ton of effort compared to restaurant style cooking.
Chicken Tikka Masala
Canned chicken cooked in a delicious and creamy tomato curry sauce with rice.
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet, saute the garlic and ginger in a little oil until fragrant.
- Stir in the garam masala and cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream until the sauce turns smooth and orange.
- Fold in the drained chicken and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Serve over rice with naan and a sprinkle of cilantro.
Notes
A pinch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
22) Chicken Fried Rice
It's the perfect excuse to use up yesterday's rice, and the great way to use up the random vegetables. Takeout who?
Chicken Fried Rice
Fried rice with canned chicken and scrambled eggs and veggies in a fast soy and sesame sauce.
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
- Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble, then push to one side.
- Add the peas and carrots and cook until heated through.
- Add the cold rice and chicken, breaking up any clumps.
- Pour in the soy sauce and toss everything until evenly coated and hot.
- Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil and serve.
Notes
Cold day-old rice fries up best and won't turn mushy.