Tired of the same old leftover fried chicken routine? Let's elevate those crispy delights into something truly special! This recipe takes your leftover fried chicken and transforms it into a flavour-packed, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend brunch. It's an easy recipe, even for beginner cooks, and showcases how simple it is to create delicious dishes from what you already have. This is homemade cooking at its finest, utilizing those precious leftover treasures.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover fried chicken, shredded or chopped (bone-in or boneless works great)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
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Prep the Chicken: If you have bone-in chicken, remove the meat from the bones and shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. If it's already boneless, simply chop as needed.
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Sauté the Veggies: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. This adds a nice depth of flavor to the dish and makes it feel less like just leftover chicken.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
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Simmer & Thicken: Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together. This step is crucial for a truly delicious and satisfying meal.
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Garnish & Serve: Stir in the fresh parsley. If using, sprinkle with cheddar cheese during the last minute of simmering, allowing it to melt slightly. Serve hot, alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad. This is a healthy meal option, perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying brunch.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Leftover Fried Chicken Magic:
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: If you have a large amount of leftover chicken, you might need to cook it in batches to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a richer flavor. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the dish to your liking.
- Creamy Variations: Experiment with different cream soups! Cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a blend of different soups can create unique flavor profiles.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 350-400 (depending on chicken quantity and added cheese)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate (mostly from the fried chicken)
This recipe offers a fantastic way to use leftover fried chicken and create a delicious and easy meal. It's a great example of quick dinner ideas using minimal effort and transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. It's a best recipe for those busy weeknights when you need a tasty and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This is truly homemade cooking made simple!