10 Make Ahead Soups That Freeze Well

Can You Freeze Cooked Chicken?

Can you freeze cooked chicken? This is a question that many people ask themselves when they have leftover chicken from a meal. The good news is that yes, you can freeze cooked chicken! Freezing cooked chicken is a great way to preserve it for later use. Whether you want to freeze cooked chicken for convenience or to prevent food waste, it’s a simple process that can extend the shelf life of this delicious protein source.

### Ingredients:

• Cooked chicken
• Airtight container or freezer bag

Instructions:

1. Cook the chicken until it reaches the desired doneness.
2. Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely before freezing.
3. Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag.
4. Label the container or bag with the date of freezing.
5. Place the container or bag in the freezer.

Freezing cooked chicken is a safe process as long as it is done properly. It is important to use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality of the chicken. When you’re ready to use the frozen cooked chicken, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and use it within 2-3 days. You can use thawed cooked chicken in a variety of dishes including salads, stir-fries, soups, and sandwiches.

Chicken Recipes that Freeze Beautifully

If you’re someone who likes to meal prep or make ahead dishes, then having chicken recipes that freeze beautifully is a game-changer. Not only does it save you time in the kitchen, but it also ensures that you always have a delicious and convenient meal option available. Here are a few chicken recipes that freeze beautifully:

### Classic Chicken Parmesan w/Penne Pasta

Delicious Baked Chicken Parmesan w/Penne Pasta is a perfect freezable dish. It combines tender chicken breasts coated in crispy breadcrumbs with flavorful marinara sauce and melted cheese. This hearty and comforting dish can be made in advance and frozen for later. Simply prepare the dish as instructed, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake it in the oven until heated through.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the beaten egg, then coat it evenly with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
6. Remove the chicken from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each breast.
7. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let the chicken cool completely before freezing.
10. Store the cooled chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag.

When you’re ready to enjoy the chicken parmesan, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven until heated through. Serve it with penne pasta tossed in marinara sauce for a complete and satisfying meal.

Lemon Pesto Chicken Freezer Meal Recipe

Lemon Pesto Chicken Freezer Meal Recipe is another delicious option for those looking to freeze chicken. This flavorful dish combines juicy chicken breasts with tangy lemon and fragrant pesto sauce. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed on its own, served over pasta, or used in sandwiches and wraps. Here’s how to make it:

### Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup pesto sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, pesto sauce, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a freezer bag or airtight container.
3. Pour the lemon pesto mixture over the chicken, ensuring that it is evenly coated.
4. Seal the bag or container tightly and label it with the date of freezing.
5. Place the chicken in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy the lemon pesto chicken, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. You can grill, bake, or pan-fry the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Serve it with your choice of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, rice, or salad. The tangy and herby flavors of the lemon pesto chicken will surely impress your taste buds.

Delmonico Potatoes - The Most AMAZING Potatoes EVER!!!

Delmonico Potatoes are a potato lover’s dream. These potatoes are creamy, cheesy, and incredibly delicious. Here’s how to make them:

### Ingredients:

• 6 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
3. Layer the sliced potatoes in the baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
5. Pour the butter mixture over the potatoes, ensuring that they are evenly coated.
6. Cover the baking dish with foil.
7. Bake for 60 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
9. Let the Delmonico Potatoes cool completely.
10. Divide the cooled potatoes into individual portions if desired.
11. Place each portion in an airtight container or freezer bag.

When you’re ready to enjoy the Delmonico Potatoes, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them in the oven until heated through. These creamy and cheesy potatoes are perfect as a side dish for any meal or as a comfort food option. You can also customize the recipe by adding bacon, green onions, or your favorite seasonings.

Make-Ahead and Freeze Gravy

Gravy is a versatile sauce that adds flavor and moisture to many dishes. Making gravy from scratch can be time-consuming, but you can make it ahead and freeze it to save time and effort. Here’s an easy recipe for make-ahead and freeze gravy:

### Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken or turkey broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until the mixture turns golden brown.
3. Gradually whisk in the chicken or turkey broth, ensuring that there are no lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes or until the gravy thickens.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Let the gravy cool completely.
7. Divide the cooled gravy into individual portions if desired.
8. Place each portion in an airtight container or freezer bag.

When you’re ready to use the make-ahead and freeze gravy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. You can reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This homemade gravy is perfect for mashed potatoes, roasted chicken or turkey, biscuits, and more. It has a rich and savory flavor that will enhance any meal.

Conclusion

Freezing cooked chicken is a convenient and efficient way to preserve this versatile protein source. By following the simple instructions provided, you can safely freeze cooked chicken and enjoy it later in a variety of delicious recipes. Whether you’re making chicken parmesan, lemon pesto chicken, Delmonico potatoes, or preparing make-ahead gravy, freezing these dishes can save you time and effort in the kitchen. So next time you have leftover cooked chicken, don’t hesitate to freeze it and create flavorful meals whenever you desire!