Aldi Pulled Chicken: Quick & Easy Dinner Recipes for Busy Weeknights
Are you searching for easy and delicious dinner solutions that don’t require hours in the kitchen? Look no further than Aldi’s pre-cooked pulled chicken! This versatile and affordable ingredient is a game-changer for busy weeknights, allowing you to create a variety of flavorful meals in minutes. This article will explore some fantastic Aldi pulled chicken recipes, complete with detailed instructions, helpful tips, and variations to suit your taste. Get ready to transform your dinner routine with these simple and satisfying dishes!
## Why Aldi Pulled Chicken is a Dinner Winner
Before diving into the recipes, let’s discuss why Aldi’s pulled chicken is a must-have in your refrigerator:
* **Convenience:** The chicken is already cooked and shredded, saving you valuable time and effort. Simply heat and use.
* **Affordability:** Aldi is known for its budget-friendly prices, making this a cost-effective option for family meals.
* **Versatility:** Pulled chicken can be incorporated into countless dishes, from tacos and sandwiches to salads and casseroles.
* **Flavor:** The chicken is often seasoned, providing a delicious base for your recipes. However, you can easily customize the flavor with your favorite sauces and spices.
* **Quality:** Aldi’s commitment to quality ensures you’re getting a delicious and safe product.
## Essential Tips for Working with Aldi Pulled Chicken
* **Heating:** The best way to heat Aldi pulled chicken is in a skillet over medium heat. Add a little broth or water to prevent drying. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overheat it, as it can become rubbery. Another method is to bake it in the oven, covered, at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
* **Seasoning:** While the chicken is pre-seasoned, don’t be afraid to add your own flavors. Consider using BBQ sauce, hot sauce, taco seasoning, or your favorite herbs and spices.
* **Storage:** Store leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
## Delicious Aldi Pulled Chicken Recipes
Here are some easy and delicious recipes using Aldi’s pulled chicken:
### 1. BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
This classic recipe is a crowd-pleaser and incredibly simple to make.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Aldi pulled chicken
* 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
* 6 hamburger buns
* Coleslaw (optional)
* Pickles (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Heat the chicken:** In a skillet over medium heat, combine the pulled chicken and BBQ sauce. Stir until the chicken is heated through and coated in sauce.
2. **Toast the buns:** Lightly toast the hamburger buns.
3. **Assemble the sandwiches:** Spoon the BBQ pulled chicken onto the toasted buns. Top with coleslaw and pickles, if desired.
4. **Serve immediately:** Enjoy your quick and delicious BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches!
**Variations:**
* **Spicy BBQ:** Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce for a kick.
* **Sweet and Tangy:** Use a BBQ sauce with a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
* **Toppings:** Experiment with different toppings, such as sliced onions, jalapenos, or shredded cheese.
### 2. Pulled Chicken Tacos
Tacos are always a hit, and Aldi pulled chicken makes them incredibly easy to prepare.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Aldi pulled chicken
* 1 packet taco seasoning
* 1/2 cup water
* Taco shells or tortillas
* Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, guacamole
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the chicken:** In a skillet over medium heat, combine the pulled chicken, taco seasoning, and water. Stir until the chicken is heated through and the seasoning is well combined.
2. **Warm the taco shells/tortillas:** Warm the taco shells or tortillas according to package instructions.
3. **Assemble the tacos:** Fill the taco shells or tortillas with the seasoned pulled chicken. Top with your favorite toppings.
4. **Serve immediately:** Enjoy your flavorful and customizable pulled chicken tacos!
**Variations:**
* **Spicy Tacos:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapenos to the chicken mixture.
* **Creamy Tacos:** Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole to each taco.
* **Black Bean and Corn Salsa:** Add a black bean and corn salsa for extra flavor and texture.
* **Hard or Soft Shells:** Use either hard or soft taco shells, depending on your preference.
### 3. Pulled Chicken Salad
This lighter option is perfect for lunch or a quick dinner on a warm day.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Aldi pulled chicken, cooled
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup chopped celery
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Lettuce or croissants for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine ingredients:** In a bowl, combine the cooled pulled chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, parsley, and lemon juice.
2. **Season:** Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until well combined.
3. **Chill:** Refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. **Serve:** Serve the chicken salad on lettuce leaves or in croissants.
**Variations:**
* **Greek Yogurt:** Substitute some of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
* **Grapes or Cranberries:** Add chopped grapes or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
* **Nuts:** Add chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
* **Spicy Mayo:** Add a squirt of sriracha to the mayonnaise for a spicy kick.
### 4. Pulled Chicken Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Aldi pulled chicken
* 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
* Tortillas
* Butter or oil for cooking
* Salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Assemble the quesadillas:** Sprinkle shredded cheese over one half of each tortilla. Top with pulled chicken, then fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling.
2. **Cook the quesadillas:** Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the skillet. Cook the quesadillas for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
3. **Serve:** Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
**Variations:**
* **Black Beans and Corn:** Add black beans and corn to the quesadilla filling.
* **Spicy Quesadillas:** Add jalapenos or a spicy cheese blend to the filling.
* **Veggie Quesadillas:** Add sautéed vegetables like onions, peppers, and mushrooms to the filling.
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or Oaxaca cheese.
### 5. Pulled Chicken Nachos
Nachos are a fun and customizable meal that’s perfect for sharing.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Aldi pulled chicken
* Tortilla chips
* Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
* Toppings: black beans, corn, jalapenos, diced tomatoes, sour cream, guacamole, salsa
**Instructions:**
1. **Layer the chips:** Spread a layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet.
2. **Add toppings:** Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chips, followed by the pulled chicken, black beans, corn, and jalapenos (if using).
3. **Bake:** Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. **Add additional toppings:** Remove from the oven and top with diced tomatoes, sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.
5. **Serve immediately:** Enjoy your loaded pulled chicken nachos!
**Variations:**
* **Spicy Nachos:** Use a spicy cheese blend and add more jalapenos.
* **BBQ Nachos:** Use BBQ sauce instead of salsa.
* **Pulled Pork Nachos:** Substitute pulled pork for the pulled chicken.
* **Sheet Pan Nachos:** Use a large sheet pan to make nachos for a crowd.
### 6. Pulled Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
This recipe combines the convenience of pulled chicken with the healthy goodness of sweet potatoes.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 sweet potatoes
* 1 package Aldi pulled chicken
* 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1/4 cup corn
* 1/4 cup salsa
* Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
* Chopped cilantro (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Bake sweet potatoes:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and pierce sweet potatoes with a fork. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until soft.
2. **Prepare the chicken:** While sweet potatoes are baking, heat the pulled chicken according to package directions.
3. **Assemble stuffed potatoes:** Slice sweet potatoes lengthwise. Fluff the inside with a fork. Top with pulled chicken, black beans, corn, and salsa.
4. **Garnish and serve:** Garnish with sour cream or Greek yogurt and chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately.
**Variations:**
* **Spicy Stuffed Potatoes:** Add a dollop of chipotle mayo or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
* **Cheesy Stuffed Potatoes:** Sprinkle shredded cheese over the filling before serving.
* **Broccoli Stuffed Potatoes:** Add steamed broccoli florets to the filling.
* **Chili Stuffed Potatoes:** Top with your favorite chili recipe instead of chicken, beans, and corn.
### 7. Pulled Chicken and Rice Bowls
These bowls are customizable, healthy, and incredibly easy to put together.
**Ingredients:**
* Cooked rice (brown or white)
* 1 package Aldi pulled chicken
* Assorted vegetables (steamed broccoli, roasted bell peppers, shredded carrots, etc.)
* Your favorite sauce (teriyaki, peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, etc.)
* Toppings: sesame seeds, green onions, sriracha
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the rice:** Cook rice according to package directions.
2. **Heat the chicken:** Heat the pulled chicken according to package directions.
3. **Assemble the bowls:** In a bowl, layer cooked rice, pulled chicken, and assorted vegetables.
4. **Add sauce and toppings:** Drizzle with your favorite sauce and top with sesame seeds, green onions, and sriracha.
5. **Serve immediately:** Enjoy your customizable and flavorful pulled chicken and rice bowls!
**Variations:**
* **Mediterranean Bowl:** Use quinoa instead of rice, and add cucumber, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese with a lemon-herb dressing.
* **Asian Bowl:** Use brown rice, steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, and a teriyaki or peanut sauce.
* **Mexican Bowl:** Use cilantro-lime rice, black beans, corn, salsa, and guacamole.
* **Spicy Bowl:** Use white rice, spicy vegetables, and a sriracha mayo.
### 8. Pulled Chicken Pasta Salad
This is a delicious and refreshing pasta salad perfect for potlucks or summer gatherings.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle)
* 1 package Aldi pulled chicken, cooled
* 1 cup mayonnaise
* 1/2 cup Italian dressing
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 1/2 cup chopped celery
* 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook pasta:** Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. **Combine ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooled pulled chicken, mayonnaise, Italian dressing, red onion, celery, bell pepper, and parsley.
3. **Season:** Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until well combined.
4. **Chill:** Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Serve:** Serve cold. This salad is best enjoyed within 2-3 days.
**Variations:**
* **Add Cheese:** Add cubed cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone cheese.
* **Add Olives:** Add sliced black or green olives.
* **Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:** Add oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped.
* **Use a Different Dressing:** Try a creamy ranch dressing or a vinaigrette.
### 9. Pulled Chicken Enchiladas
These enchiladas are a comforting and flavorful weeknight meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Aldi pulled chicken
* 1 can (10 ounces) enchilada sauce
* 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
* 8-10 flour tortillas
* Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, chopped green onions
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare chicken:** Heat the pulled chicken according to package directions. Mix half of the enchilada sauce into the chicken.
3. **Assemble enchiladas:** Spoon chicken mixture onto each tortilla. Roll up tightly and place seam-down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. **Top with sauce and cheese:** Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the enchiladas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. **Serve:** Top with sour cream, guacamole, and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve immediately.
**Variations:**
* **Add Black Beans and Corn:** Mix black beans and corn into the chicken filling.
* **Use Green Enchilada Sauce:** Substitute green enchilada sauce for red enchilada sauce.
* **Add a Layer of Rice:** Spread a layer of cooked rice in the bottom of the baking dish before adding the enchiladas.
* **Make it Spicy:** Add chopped jalapenos to the chicken filling or use a spicy enchilada sauce.
### 10. Pulled Chicken Pizza
A unique and delicious pizza topping option that’s quick and easy to prepare.
**Ingredients:**
* Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
* 1 package Aldi pulled chicken
* 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (or pizza sauce)
* 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
* Red onion, thinly sliced
* Cilantro, chopped (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat oven and prepare pizza dough:** Preheat oven to the temperature recommended on the pizza dough package. Stretch or roll out the pizza dough and place it on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
2. **Spread sauce:** Spread BBQ sauce (or pizza sauce) evenly over the pizza dough.
3. **Add toppings:** Sprinkle shredded cheese over the sauce, followed by the pulled chicken and sliced red onion.
4. **Bake:** Bake according to the pizza dough package instructions, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. **Garnish and serve:** Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
**Variations:**
* **Spicy Pizza:** Add jalapenos or red pepper flakes.
* **Hawaiian Pizza:** Add pineapple chunks.
* **Ranch Dressing Drizzle:** Drizzle ranch dressing over the pizza after baking.
* **Caramelized Onions:** Use caramelized onions for a sweeter flavor.
## Conclusion
Aldi’s pre-cooked pulled chicken is a fantastic ingredient for creating quick, easy, and delicious dinners on busy weeknights. With its versatility and affordability, you can whip up a variety of meals, from classic BBQ sandwiches and tacos to inventive pizza toppings and stuffed sweet potatoes. These recipes are just a starting point – feel free to experiment with different flavors, toppings, and variations to create your own signature Aldi pulled chicken dishes. So, the next time you’re looking for a simple and satisfying dinner solution, grab a package of Aldi’s pulled chicken and get cooking!