20 Canned Chicken Recipes That Will Blow Your Mind and Save Your Dinner

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I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.

Canned Chicken Recipes

Canned chicken is a kitchen hero for quick and easy meals. It’s ready to use, budget-friendly, and can be transformed into tasty dishes in minutes. You can make everything from comforting soups to zesty tacos using canned chicken as your main ingredient.

With canned chicken in your pantry, you’re always prepared for a fast dinner. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have time to cook chicken from scratch. You can whip up cheesy pasta skillets, creamy pot pies, or even crunchy chicken patties. These recipes are simple enough for beginners and tasty enough to please picky eaters.

Chicken Salad Sandwiches

You’ll love this easy chicken salad recipe using canned chicken! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 can (12.5 oz) chicken, drained
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup pickle relish
  • 1/4 cup chopped celery
  • 2 tablespoons finely diced onion
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Bread or rolls for serving

Directions:

  1. Open the can of chicken and drain well. Place in a medium bowl.

  2. Use a fork to break up the chicken into smaller pieces.

  3. Add mayo, relish, celery, and onion. Mix gently until combined.

  4. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Taste and adjust if needed.

  5. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.

  6. Serve on your favorite bread or rolls. Add lettuce and tomato if you’d like!

This recipe is super flexible. Feel free to add extras like chopped nuts, grapes, or herbs. You can also swap the mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

You’ll love this easy Buffalo Chicken Dip! It’s perfect for game day or any party. Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of chicken, drained
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Optional: green onions for garnish

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Mix the cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing in a bowl until smooth.

  3. Add the drained canned chicken and 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese. Stir well.

  4. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.

  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly.

  6. Garnish with green onions if you like.

Serve your dip warm with chips, crackers, or veggie sticks. Enjoy!

Chicken Noodle Soup

You’ll need:

  • 1 can chicken noodle soup
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup cooked chicken, diced
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup carrots, chopped
  • 1/4 cup celery, chopped
  • 1/4 cup onion, diced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Pour the canned soup into a pot. Add water and extra chicken. Heat over medium.

  2. In a separate pan, melt butter. Add carrots, celery, and onion. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes.

  3. Add garlic and thyme to the veggies. Cook for 1 more minute.

  4. Mix the veggie mixture into your soup. Stir well.

  5. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to blend flavors.

  6. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.

  7. Serve hot and enjoy your upgraded canned chicken noodle soup!

This easy recipe takes your basic canned soup to the next level. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Chicken Quesadillas

You’ll love these quick and tasty chicken quesadillas! Here’s what you need:

  • 1 can chicken, drained
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • 1/4 cup salsa
  • 4 tortillas
  • 1 tablespoon oil

Now let’s make them:

  1. Mix the chicken, cheese, and salsa in a bowl.

  2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.

  3. Place a tortilla in the pan. Spread half the chicken mix on one side.

  4. Fold the empty half over the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes.

  5. Flip and cook the other side until golden brown.

  6. Repeat with the second tortilla and remaining filling.

That’s it! Cut your quesadillas into wedges and enjoy. They’re perfect for a fast lunch or dinner.

See also  20 Mediterranean Diet Recipes That Will Transport Your Taste Buds to Paradise

Try adding some extras like bell peppers or onions for more flavor. You can also use different cheeses to change things up.

Chicken Pot Pie

You’ll love this easy chicken pot pie using canned chicken! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans chunk chicken, drained
  • 1 can mixed vegetables
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 refrigerated pie crusts

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Mix the chicken, vegetables, soup, milk, and seasonings in a bowl.

  3. Line a pie dish with one crust. Pour in the chicken mixture.

  4. Cover with the second crust. Crimp the edges and cut slits on top.

  5. Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown.

  6. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.

This comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll have a hot, homemade dinner on the table in no time!

Chicken Enchiladas

You’ll love this easy chicken enchilada recipe using canned chicken! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:
• 2 cans of chicken breast, drained
• 1 can enchilada sauce
• 8 tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheese
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Mix the canned chicken with 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce in a bowl.

  3. Spoon the chicken mixture onto each tortilla and roll them up.

  4. Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish.

  5. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top.

  6. Sprinkle cheese, onions, and cilantro over the enchiladas.

  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

Your enchiladas are ready! Serve them hot and enjoy your quick and tasty meal. This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need a fast dinner option.

Chicken Fried Rice

You’ll need these ingredients:

  • 1 can of chicken breast, drained
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste

Here’s how to make it:

  1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.

  2. Add the canned chicken and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.

  3. Push the chicken to one side and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble until set.

  4. Mix the eggs and chicken together.

  5. Add the rice and frozen vegetables. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.

  6. Pour in the soy sauce and sprinkle garlic powder. Mix well.

  7. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring often.

  8. Taste and add salt if needed.

Your chicken fried rice is ready! Serve it hot and enjoy your quick, tasty meal.

Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 jar Alfredo sauce
  • 1 can chicken, drained
  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now let’s make this yummy dish!

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Add the peas in the last minute of cooking. Drain when done.

  3. In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, peas, Alfredo sauce, canned chicken, milk, and half the mozzarella cheese.

  4. Pour this mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Chicken Alfredo Pasta! It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a quick family dinner.

BBQ Chicken Sliders

You’ll need these ingredients:

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 12 slider buns
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Here’s how to make them:

  1. Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Mix the chicken and BBQ sauce in a bowl.

  3. Place the bottom halves of the buns in a baking dish.

  4. Spoon the chicken mixture onto the buns.

  5. Sprinkle cheese over the chicken.

  6. Put the top buns on.

  7. Mix the melted butter and Italian seasoning.

  8. Brush this mixture over the buns.

  9. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the tops are golden brown.

Your BBQ chicken sliders are ready! They’re perfect for a quick meal or party snack. You can add some coleslaw or pickles if you like. Enjoy your tasty sliders!

Chicken And Dumplings

You’ll love this easy chicken and dumplings recipe! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 can of cooked chicken, drained
  • 1 can of cream of chicken soup
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can of refrigerated biscuits
  • Salt and pepper to taste
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Directions:

  1. Pour the broth into a large pot and bring it to a boil.

  2. Add the canned chicken and cream of chicken soup. Stir well.

  3. Cut each biscuit into 4 pieces. Drop them into the pot.

  4. Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.

  5. Gently stir the soup to make sure dumplings are covered.

  6. Cook for 5 more minutes or until dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

  7. Season with salt and pepper as you like.

Your chicken and dumplings are ready! Serve hot and enjoy this comforting meal.

Chicken Tacos

Here’s a quick and tasty recipe for chicken tacos using canned chicken:

Ingredients:

  • 1 can (12.5 oz) chicken, drained
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1 tsp taco seasoning
  • 4 taco shells
  • Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream

Directions:

  1. Pour the drained chicken into a skillet over medium heat.

  2. Add salsa and taco seasoning. Stir to combine.

  3. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

  4. Warm your taco shells according to package instructions.

  5. Spoon the chicken mixture into the shells.

  6. Top with your favorite taco fixings.

That’s it! You’ve got a super simple meal ready in minutes. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Enjoy your quick and delicious chicken tacos!

Creamy Chicken Casserole

You’ll need:

  • 2 cans of chicken, drained
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Mix the canned chicken, soup, sour cream, and half the cheese in a bowl.

  3. Spread the mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.

  4. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

  5. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter.

  6. Spread the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole.

  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

  8. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

This creamy chicken casserole is super easy to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a tasty, filling meal without much fuss. The crunchy Ritz topping adds a nice contrast to the creamy chicken mixture. Enjoy!

Chicken Chili

Here’s a tasty chicken chili recipe using canned ingredients. It’s quick and easy to make!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans chicken breast, drained
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 can chicken broth
  • 1 can green chilies
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft.

  2. Add all the canned ingredients to the pot. Don’t drain the tomatoes.

  3. Stir in the spices and bring the mixture to a boil.

  4. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  5. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Your chili is ready to serve! You can top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado if you like.

Chicken Nachos

Ingredients:

  • 1 can (12.5 oz) chicken, drained
  • 1 bag tortilla chips
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Mix the canned chicken with taco seasoning in a bowl.

  3. Spread tortilla chips on a large baking sheet.

  4. Sprinkle half the cheese over the chips.

  5. Add the seasoned chicken on top of the cheese.

  6. Pour salsa over the chicken.

  7. Add jalapeños if you like it spicy.

  8. Top with the remaining cheese.

  9. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts.

  10. Sprinkle green onions on top.

You can dig in right away! These nachos are perfect for a quick snack or casual get-together. Feel free to add other toppings you enjoy, like sour cream or guacamole.

Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers

Get ready to make a tasty meal with these simple ingredients:

  • 4 bell peppers
  • 2 cans of chicken, drained
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now, let’s cook! Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds.

  3. Mix the canned chicken, rice, salsa, half the cheese, and taco seasoning in a bowl.

  4. Stuff the peppers with this mixture.

  5. Place the peppers in a baking dish and sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top.

  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.

See also  Easy Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Your stuffed peppers are ready! They’re perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. You can add extra toppings like sour cream or chopped cilantro if you like. Enjoy your meal!

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Want a quick and tasty meal? Try this easy chicken tortilla soup! It’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 can chicken broth
  • 1 can corn
  • 1 can black beans
  • 1 can chunk chicken
  • 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Tortilla chips and shredded cheese for topping

Now, let’s make the soup:

  1. Pour all canned ingredients into a large pot.

  2. Add the taco seasoning and spices. Stir well.

  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.

  4. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring now and then.

  5. Ladle the hot soup into bowls.

  6. Top with crunchy tortilla chips and a sprinkle of cheese.

That’s it! Your delicious chicken tortilla soup is ready to enjoy. It’s a warm, comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Chicken Pasta Salad

You’ll need:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 lemon (zest and juice)
  • 1/2 cup celery, chopped
  • 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Here’s how to make it:

  1. Cook the macaroni in salted water until it’s tender. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down.

  2. Mix the mayo, yogurt, mustard, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a big bowl.

  3. Add the cooled pasta, chicken, celery, and green onions to the bowl. Stir everything together well.

  4. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

  5. Pop it in the fridge for a few hours to chill. This lets all the flavors blend together nicely.

  6. Give it a quick stir before you serve it. Enjoy your yummy chicken pasta salad!

Chicken And Broccoli Bake

You’ll love this easy chicken and broccoli bake! Here’s what you need:

  • 3 cups cooked chicken, diced
  • 12 oz frozen broccoli florets
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 can cheddar cheese soup
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

To make this yummy casserole:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

  2. Mix the chicken, broccoli, soups, mayo, milk, and half the cheese in a large bowl.

  3. Pour the mixture into your baking dish and top with the rest of the cheese.

  4. Bake for 25-30 minutes until hot and bubbly.

  5. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

This comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights. You can even prep it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Enjoy!

Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 can of chicken, drained
  • 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped water chestnuts
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 head of lettuce (iceberg or butter lettuce)

Now, let’s make these tasty wraps!

  1. Mix the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small bowl.

  2. Heat a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

  3. Add the canned chicken to the pan. Break it up with a spatula as it heats.

  4. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken. Stir to coat evenly.

  5. Add water chestnuts and green onions. Cook for 2-3 minutes until everything is hot.

  6. Wash and separate the lettuce leaves.

  7. Spoon the chicken mixture into lettuce leaves.

Your chicken lettuce wraps are ready! Enjoy this quick and yummy meal.

Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole

You’ll need these ingredients:

  • 2 cans of chicken, drained
  • 2 cups instant rice
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Mix the rice, soup, milk, and broth in a bowl.

  3. Add the drained chicken, 1 cup of cheese, and seasonings. Stir well.

  4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

  5. Top with the remaining cheese.

  6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

  7. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You’ll love how quick and easy this cheesy chicken and rice casserole is to make!