How to Can Rotisserie Chicken

Imagine the savory aroma of perfectly seasoned rotisserie chicken filling your kitchen as you twist open a jar to reveal tender, juicy meat ready to elevate any meal. Canning rotisserie chicken not only provides convenience but also preserves the flavors of this classic dish for months to come.

With a few simple steps and the right equipment, you can savor the taste of rotisserie chicken any time you please. So, if you're curious about how to elevate your pantry with this delectable treat, let's explore the process of canning rotisserie chicken together.

Selecting and Preparing the Chicken

When selecting a rotisserie chicken for canning, ensure that it's fresh and free from any signs of spoilage, such as an off odor or slimy texture. Once you have chosen a high-quality chicken, it's time to prepare it for the canning process. Start by seasoning the chicken with your favorite herbs and spices. This step allows the flavors to infuse the meat, creating a more delicious end product.

Consider brining the chicken before canning to enhance its juiciness and flavor. Brining involves soaking the chicken in a saltwater solution, which helps the meat retain moisture during the canning process.

If you prefer a more intense flavor profile, marinating the chicken is a fantastic option. You can use a variety of marinades, such as citrus-based or herb-infused, to add depth to the chicken's taste.

Canning Equipment and Safety Precautions

Now that you've prepared your flavorful rotisserie chicken, it's essential to ensure that you have the right canning equipment and follow safety precautions to preserve it properly. Canning safety and equipment selection are crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of your canned chicken.

Here are some important tips to consider:

1. Pressure Canner: Invest in a high-quality pressure canner for canning meats like rotisserie chicken. This ensures that the chicken is processed at the correct temperature and pressure to eliminate the risk of harmful bacteria.
2. Mason Jars: Use specifically designed canning jars, such as Mason jars, to store your canned chicken. These jars are made to withstand the high temperatures and pressure involved in the canning process.
3. Jar Lifter: A jar lifter is an essential tool for safely removing hot jars from the canner. This helps prevent burns and ensures that the sealing process isn't compromised.
4. Follow Guidelines: Always follow approved canning recipes and guidelines from reliable sources, such as the USDA. This is crucial for ensuring the safety and quality of your canned rotisserie chicken.

Preparing the Chicken for Canning

To prepare the chicken for canning, ensure that it's thoroughly cooked and seasoned to your liking before proceeding with the preservation process. If you're using a rotisserie chicken, it likely already has a delicious seasoning, but you can enhance it further with your favorite flavors. Consider using brining techniques to infuse the meat with moisture and flavor.

Brining involves soaking the chicken in a solution of salt, sugar, and spices, which not only adds flavor but also helps the meat retain moisture during the canning process.

When seasoning the chicken, you can use a rotisserie seasoning mix or create your own blend of herbs and spices. Make sure to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a smoky, spicy, or herbaceous flavor profile, the seasoning process allows you to customize the chicken to your liking.

Additionally, ensure that the chicken is fully cooked to the recommended internal temperature to guarantee its safety and quality during the canning process.

Processing and Sealing the Canned Chicken

After preparing the chicken and seasoning it to your liking, the next step is to process and seal the canned chicken for safe preservation.

Here's how to process and seal your canned chicken for long-term storage:

1. Pressure Canning: Utilize a pressure canner to ensure the canned chicken is properly sterilized and safe from harmful bacteria. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific pressure canner to achieve the right temperature and pressure for preserving chicken.
2. Sealing the Jars: Once the pressure canning process is complete, carefully remove the jars from the canner and place them on a towel to cool. As the jars cool, you'll hear a satisfying 'pop' sound as the lids seal. This indicates a successful seal, ensuring the chicken is airtight and protected from spoilage.
3. Shelf Life: Properly processed and sealed canned chicken can last for an extended period. Label the jars with the date of canning and store them in a cool, dark place. This will help you keep track of the shelf life, which can typically range from 12-24 months, depending on storage conditions.
4. Quality Check: Before storing the jars, ensure the lids are concave, indicating a proper seal. Any unsealed jars should be refrigerated and consumed promptly.

Storing and Using Canned Rotisserie Chicken

When storing and using canned rotisserie chicken, you'll find it to be a convenient and versatile ingredient for a variety of delicious recipes. If you have any leftovers after canning, it's important to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Once opened, transfer any unused portion to an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. Canned rotisserie chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Now, let's talk about using these delicious canned leftovers. You can use canned rotisserie chicken in a myriad of recipes. From classic chicken salad sandwiches to creamy chicken pasta dishes, the options are endless. Canned chicken also works well in casseroles, soups, and stews. It can be an excellent addition to your favorite stir-fry recipe or a tasty topping for a homemade pizza.

The convenience of having canned rotisserie chicken on hand opens up a world of quick and easy meal possibilities. Whether you're making a quick lunch or a hearty dinner, canned rotisserie chicken is a versatile ingredient that can save you time and effort in the kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken for Canning, or Does It Need to Be Freshly Cooked?

You can't safely can leftover rotisserie chicken. The canning process requires fresh meat to ensure safety and shelf life. Always use fresh, uncooked chicken when canning to prevent the risk of bacterial contamination.

Are There Any Special Considerations for Canning Rotisserie Chicken That Has Been Seasoned or Flavored?

When canning seasoned rotisserie chicken, ensure flavor preservation by using a mild seasoning. Proper storage involves using a pressure canner and following USDA guidelines to maintain safety. Don't forget to label and date your canned chicken for easy identification.

Can I Use Bone-In Rotisserie Chicken for Canning, or Is Boneless Better for the Process?

When canning rotisserie chicken, bone-in or boneless both work, but boneless is easier to handle. Consider flavor and seasoning, and add ingredients accordingly. Store properly for up to a year. Try different recipes for variety.

Is It Safe to Add Vegetables or Other Ingredients to the Canned Rotisserie Chicken Before Processing?

You can definitely add vegetables or other ingredients to the canned rotisserie chicken before processing. This allows you to create delicious flavor combinations and customize the dish to your liking. Just ensure proper canning techniques are followed.

How Long Can I Store Canned Rotisserie Chicken, and What Are the Best Ways to Use It in Recipes?

You can store canned rotisserie chicken for 1-2 years in a cool, dark place. Use it in casseroles, sandwiches, or soups for quick, flavorful meals. Get creative with chicken salad, tacos, or pasta dishes. Enjoy experimenting!