Rotisserie chicken is a culinary gem that saves the day on busy evenings or when you need a quick, flavorful meal. When you end up with too much, they can be forgotten in the fridge, eventually meeting their demise by being tossed in the trash. You can give these leftovers a reinvention by getting a little creative in the kitchen. Here are five things you can do with leftover rotisserie chicken.

1. Refreshing Chicken Salad

Start with a classic that’s easy and tasty: chicken salad. Begin by shredding or chopping your leftover rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mix it with a medley of fresh vegetables like crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers. For an extra flavor boost, add in some sliced almonds, diced apples, or dried cranberries. Then, toss everything together with a creamy dressing of your choice—whether it’s tangy ranch, zesty Caesar, or classic mayo. Serve your chicken salad on a bed of greens, stuffed into a sandwich, or wrapped in a tortilla for a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

2. Flavor-Packed Chicken Tacos

Take your taco game to the next level with some chicken tacos made from leftover rotisserie chicken. Start by shredding the chicken and tossing it with your favorite taco seasoning—whether it’s a store-bought blend or a homemade mix of spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. Heat up some tortillas until they’re warm and pliable, then pile on the seasoned chicken along with an array of vibrant toppings. Think diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, crumbled cotija cheese, and a dollop of tangy salsa or creamy guacamole.

3. Heavenly Chicken and Rice Casserole

When you’re craving a comforting meal that’s equal parts hearty and wholesome, look no further than a chicken and rice casserole. Begin by mixing together cooked rice, creamy sauce (such as a béchamel or a cheese sauce), and your choice of vegetables—like classic peas and carrots, sautéed mushrooms and onions, or colorful bell peppers and broccoli. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken, ensuring that every spoonful is packed with savory goodness. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top it with a generous layer of shredded cheese and breadcrumbs for a golden, crispy finish. Pop it in the oven preheated at 375 for about 25 minutes or until it’s bubbling and browned to perfection, then serve it up with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad for a meal that’s as comforting as it is satisfying.

4. Cozy Chicken Noodle Soup

You don’t ever need an excuse to enjoy a warm helping of chicken noodle soup, but when the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming, comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup. Use your leftover rotisserie chicken to elevate this beloved dish to new heights of flavor. Start by simmering the chicken bones in a pot of water with aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, along with a bouquet of fresh herbs like rosemary, parsley, garlic and onion powder.

Once you’ve infused the broth with rich, savory flavors, strain out the solids and return the liquid to the pot. Add in your favorite noodles—whether it’s classic egg noodles, hearty whole wheat pasta, or comforting rice noodles—along with plenty of shredded chicken and an assortment of colorful vegetables. Let it all simmer together until the flavors meld into a harmonious symphony of taste and texture. Garnish your soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for a bright, refreshing finish.

5. Zesty Chicken Stir-Fry

Stir-fries are a quick and easy way to turn leftover rotisserie chicken into a flavorful feast that’s bursting with bold exotic flavors. Begin by slicing your vegetables into uniform pieces—think bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, and broccoli florets. Heat up a wok or skillet until it’s smoking hot, then add in a splash of oil and toss in your veggies, stirring constantly until they’re crisp-tender. Next, add in your shredded chicken along with a drizzle of soy sauce, a sprinkle of minced garlic, and a dash of ginger for an extra kick of flavor. Continue stir-frying until everything is heated through and coated in a glossy sauce. Serve your zesty chicken stir-fry over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles, garnished with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a finishing touch of freshness and crunch.