Are you tired of the same old meals and looking for a convenient and delicious solution? Look no further than rotisserie chicken – it is a quick and flavorful option that can be easily picked up at your local grocery store. But what if you buy too much and can’t finish it all in one sitting? Can you freeze rotisserie chicken? This is a common question that many people have, and today we are here to answer it for you. In this blog post, we will dive deep into the topic, exploring the benefits and potential drawbacks of freezing rotisserie chicken. So if you’re interested in learning how to make the most of your leftover rotisserie chicken, keep reading.
What Is Rotisserie Chicken?
Before we get into the details of freezing rotisserie chicken, let’s first understand what it is. Rotisserie chicken is a type of cooked chicken that has been slowly roasted on a rotating spit, giving it a crispy and flavorful exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender inside. It is typically sold at grocery stores or delis as a convenient and ready-to-eat meal option. You can also find whole rotisserie chickens at some restaurants, where they are often served with side dishes like roasted potatoes or vegetables.
Can You Freeze Rotisserie Chicken?
Yup, you can totally freeze rotisserie chicken. It’s a great option for keeping it fresh and ready to go for future sandwiches, soups, wraps, salads, or just eating it as is. Freeze the whole chicken or chop it up into smaller portions – bone-in or boneless, it’s up to you.
Freezing A Whole Rotisserie Chicken
Pack that bird in a freezer-safe container or bag, and squish out all the air. Don’t forget to label it with the date and what’s inside, so you don’t have any freezer surprises. Pop that bad boy in the freezer, and voila. You’ve got some tasty cooked chicken ready for your next meal.
Freezing Rotisserie Chicken Off The Bone
Get the most out of your rotisserie chicken by freezing it for later. Once it’s cooled down, take the meat off the bone and decide if you want to shred it or keep it in bigger chunks. To prevent any spoilage, make sure to only freeze the amount of chicken you’ll actually eat within a few days of defrosting. Store your portioned chicken in freezer bags or airtight containers and you’re good to go.
Freezing Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
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If you have some leftover rotisserie chicken that has already been reheated or kept at room temperature for more than 2 hours, it’s best to toss it out instead of freezing it. It’s important to handle and store cooked chicken properly to avoid foodborne illnesses.
How Long Can A Rotisserie Chicken Be Frozen?
Well, according to the USDA, if you store it in an airtight container or Zip-loc bag, it can last for up to four months in the freezer. Just make sure not to leave any leftover chicken at room temperature for too long. Stay safe and enjoy your frozen feasts.
The Best Way To Freeze Rotisserie Chicken
- Get your rotisserie chicken ready for the freezer by portioning it out.
- Choose between freezer bags or airtight containers.
- For bags, squeeze out all the air and seal tightly.
- For containers, protect the chicken with plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn.
- Don’t forget to label your bags or containers with the date and what’s inside.
Freezing rotisserie chicken has never been easier.
How To Properly Thaw A Rotisserie Chicken?
It’s a piece of cake. Just pop the chicken, packaging and all, onto a plate or shallow dish to catch any drips. Stick it in the fridge and let it work its magic for about 24 hours (or longer if it’s a bigger bird). Easy peasy and oh-so-tasty.
How To Reheat Rotisserie Chicken?
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There are a few ways to reheat your frozen rotisserie chicken, depending on personal preference and the amount of time you have. Here are some options:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for about 3-4 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat up some broth or water in a pot, add your frozen chicken (shredded or chopped), and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
What To Serve With Leftover Chicken?
There are endless possibilities for what you can serve with leftover rotisserie chicken. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Sandwiches or wraps: Use the chicken as a filling for sandwiches or wraps, along with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, avocado, and cheese.
- Salads: Add some protein to your salads by topping them with sliced or shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Soups: Make a hearty and flavorful soup by adding chunks of frozen rotisserie chicken to your favorite broth and veggies.
- Pastas: Incorporate the chicken into your pasta dishes for added protein and flavor.
Other Ways To Use Thawed Rotisserie Chicken
Aside from reheating and serving thawed rotisserie chicken in its traditional form, there are many other creative ways to use it. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Chicken pot pie: Use the thawed chicken as the main protein in your favorite pot pie recipe.
- Tacos or quesadillas: Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for tacos or quesadillas, along with your favorite toppings.
- Chicken salad: Mix the chicken with some mayo, diced celery and onion, and any other desired ingredients to make a tasty chicken salad.
- Stir-fry: Add thawed rotisserie chicken to your stir-fry for a quick and easy dinner option.
FAQ: Rotisserie Chicken
Can you freeze already cooked rotisserie chicken?
It’s a great way to keep it fresh for future snacking. You can freeze the whole chicken or cut it into convenient portions for different meals. Whether you’re making sandwiches, soups, wraps, or even just reheating and chowing down, frozen rotisserie chicken has got you covered.
How good is rotisserie chicken in the freezer?
You can store it in the freezer for up to 4 months without compromising its deliciousness. Just make sure to keep it at or below 0°F for the best results.
Can I freeze a whole Costco rotisserie chicken?
Just wrap it up tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil and pop it in a zip-top bag or wrap it in plastic wrap.
Ronald B Gamrot is the owner of Silverking Brewery, one of the most successful craft breweries in North America. He started the business from scratch in his garage, and it has since grown into a multimillion-dollar operation. Ronald is passionate about brewing delicious beer and providing top-notch customer service. He is a respected member of the brewing community and often speaks at industry events.
