However, not all leftovers are created equal. You have to find the right balance of flavors that soak in and foods that will hold up throughout the cooling down and reheating process.
If you're in the market for something you can heat up later that tastes twice as good as the first go-around, follow these recipes that are a match made in leftover heaven.
Chicken Stir Fry
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This protein-packed yummy concoction is perfect for heating up in the microwave in a pinch. Throw in some fresh rice and you've got yourself a meal that keeps getting better.
Ingredients:
3/4 lbs. chicken, cut into small cubes
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 cup broccoli
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, cubed
1 zucchini, quartered
1/2 cup chicken broth
6 green onions, chopped
Directions:
Mix together chicken, soy sauce and cornstarch. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet and sauté broccoli, pepper, zucchini and garlic for a few minutes. Place veggie mixture, sauce and chicken to the side. Heat the rest of the vegetable oil and cook chicken through. Stir in veggies and cook for about two more minutes. Sprinkle with green onions.
Easy-Peasy Meatloaf
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Meatloaf is perfect for leftovers because the flavor soaks in even more over time.
Ingredients:
1-1/2 lbs. ground beef
1 egg
1 onion, chopped
1 cup milk
1 cup dried breadcrumbs Salt and pepper
2 tbsp brown sugar
2 tbsp mustard
1/3 cup ketchup
Directions:
Combine beef, egg, onion, milk and breadcrumbs in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper before placing in a greased loaf pan. Combine mixture of brown sugar, mustard and ketchup and pour on top of loaf. Bake at 350 degrees for one hour.
Pizza Quiche (No Crust)
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We love a good quiche because it's so versatile and really holds its flavor. This one gets bonus points since it includes pizza.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup pepperoni, diced
5 eggs, beaten
3/4 cup milk
1/8 tsp dried oregano
1/8 tsp dried basil
8 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
Place the pepperoni in a pie plate. Whisk together eggs, milk and seasoning and pour over pepperoni in the pie plate. Top with cheese. Baked at 400 degrees for about 25 minutes until heated through.
Hearty Chicken & Rice Soup
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Whether your little one is sick or you're just in the mood for a warm soup on a cold day, this is a perfect combination of protein and carbs to fill your tummy.
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, chopped
2 celery slices, chopped
4 thyme sprigs
1 bay leaf
2 quarts chicken broth
1 cup water
1 cup long grain white rice
2 cups shredded, cooked chicken
Salt and pepper
Directions:
Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, thyme and the bay leaf. Cook for six minutes until veggies are soft. Add chicken broth and water; bring to a boil. Add rice and chicken; season with salt and pepper. Cook on medium-low for about 30 minutes.
Egg Drop Soup
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This Asian favorite is amazing with a few wontons and some fried rice. It also keeps well and tastes even better after reheating.
Ingredients:
6 cups chicken broth
chopped green onions
1/4 tsp sugar
2 tbsp soy sauce
3 tbsp cornstarch
1/3 cup cold water
3 eggs
2 tbsp cold water
Directions:
Heat chicken broth and green onions in a large pot over medium heat. In a separate bowl, mix sugar, soy sauce, cornstarch and 1/3 cup cold water. Reduce heat and stir mixture into broth. Boil soup for one minute on high, and then reduce heat again to medium-low. Beat eggs with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir egg mixture into the soup and cook until eggs are opaque (for about two minutes).
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