Cooking dinner every night can be a real drag. My friend Katie was at her wit’s end trying to come up with new ideas to feed her family. She’d stare into her fridge, hoping for inspiration to strike.
Sound familiar? Don’t worry! I’ve got you covered with these super simple dinner ideas that’ll have you feeling like royalty in the kitchen. Get ready to whip up some delicious meals without breaking a sweat!
1. One-Pan Wonder: Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Bake
This crowd-pleaser is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Toss chicken breasts, broccoli florets, and your favorite cheese into a baking dish. Add some seasonings, pop it in the oven, and voila!
A complete meal with minimal cleanup. Your family will think you spent hours in the kitchen, but it’ll be our little secret.
Cheesy Chicken & Rice with Frozen Broccoli (one pan!) from The Natural Nurturer.
Cooking Time: 38 min.
Rating: 4.8.
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Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole from Allrecipes.
Cooking Time: 45 min.
Rating: 4.3.
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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta from Jo Cooks.
Cooking Time: 30 min.
Rating: 4.5.
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2. Breakfast for Dinner: Fluffy Pancake Extravaganza
Who says pancakes are just for mornings? Flip the script and serve up a stack of these fluffy delights for dinner. Set out an array of toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream, and maple syrup.
Let everyone customize their plate for a fun and interactive meal that’ll have the whole family smiling.
Fluffy pancake from Ricette GialloZafferano.
Cooking Time: 35 min.
Rating: 4.
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Best Fluffy Pancakes from Cafe Delites.
Cooking Time: 25 min.
Rating: 5.
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Fluffy Pancakes from Allrecipes.
Cooking Time: 25 min.
Rating: 4.8.
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3. Taco Tuesday Made Easy: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
Put your slow cooker to work and come home to the mouthwatering aroma of tender chicken tacos.
Shred the meat, warm up some tortillas, and set out bowls of toppings. It’s a hands-off approach that’ll make you look like a culinary genius. Taco ’bout a simple dinner solution!
Crockpot Chicken Tacos from Spend With Pennies.
Cooking Time: 4 hr 5 min.
Rating: 5.
Ingredients: Taco seasoning, skinless chicken breasts, salsa, diced tomatoes.
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Crockpot Chicken Tacos from The Real Food Dietitians.
Cooking Time: 4 hr 10 min.
Rating: 5.
Ingredients: Lettuce wraps, chicken breast, sour cream, salsa, chili powder.
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Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos Recipe from Skinnytaste.
Cooking Time: 4 hr 2 min.
Rating: 5.
Ingredients: Red cabbage, skinless chicken breast, corn tortillas, lime, adobo seasoning.
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4. Veggie Delight: Colorful Buddha Bowl Bonanza
Create a feast for the eyes and the taste buds with vibrant Buddha bowls.
Start with a base of quinoa or rice, then pile on roasted veggies, chickpeas, and a drizzle of tahini dressing. It’s a nutrient-packed meal that’s as pretty as it is delicious. Your Instagram followers will be green with envy!
Best Buddha Bowl from Love and Lemons.
Cooking Time: 35 min.
Rating: 5.
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Sweet Potato Chickpea Buddha Bowl from Minimalist Baker.
Cooking Time: 30 min.
Rating: 4.9.
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Build-Your-Own Buddha Bowl from Cookie and Kate.
Rating: 5.
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5. Pasta Perfection: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Linguine
Whip up a restaurant-quality pasta dish in no time.
Toss linguine with a velvety garlic Parmesan sauce, add some sautéed spinach, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes. It’s simple, sophisticated, and oh-so-satisfying. You’ll feel like a true Italian chef without breaking a sweat.
Parmesan Garlic Linguine Pasta Recipe from Savory Experiments.
Cooking Time: 25 min.
Rating: 4.8.
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Parmesan & Garlic Linguine Pasta from Lauren’s Latest.
Cooking Time: 15 min.
Rating: 4.6.
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One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe by Tasty from Tasty.
Cooking Time: 32 min.
Rating: 4.8.
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6. Soup’s On: 15-Minute Tomato Basil Bliss
When time is of the essence, this quick and cozy soup comes to the rescue. Blend canned tomatoes with fresh basil, a splash of cream, and a few simple seasonings.
Serve with grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal that’ll warm you from the inside out. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
Creamy Tomato Basil Bliss from DishGen. |
Velvety Tomato Basil Bliss from Cooklist.
Cooking Time: 40 min.
Rating: 5.
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Tomato-Basil Salad from Allrecipes.
Cooking Time: 10 min.
Rating: 4.9.
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7. Stir-Fry Sensation: Rainbow Veggie and Tofu Toss
Channel your inner wok star with this colorful stir-fry.
Sauté a medley of veggies and cubed tofu in a tangy sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor and nutrients. It’s faster (and healthier) than takeout!
Tangy Tofu + Rainbow Veggie Salad from Hungryroot.
Cooking Time: 4 min.
Rating: 4.1.
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Rainbow Tofu Bowl from A Li’l Bit of Spice.
Cooking Time: 45 min.
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Tofu Stir Fry from Rainbow Plant Life.
Cooking Time: 40 min.
Rating: 5.
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8. Pizza Party: Personal Pita Pizzas
Turn dinner into a fun family activity with DIY pita pizzas. Set out an array of toppings and let everyone create their own masterpiece.
Pop them in the oven for a few minutes, and dinner is served! It’s a surefire way to please even the pickiest eaters in your household.
Easy Pita Bread Pizza from Food.com.
Cooking Time: 10 min.
Rating: 5.
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Grilled Personal Pita Pizzas from Food Network.
Cooking Time: 20 min.
Rating: 4.2.
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Pita Pizza from Allrecipes.
Cooking Time: 15 min.
Rating: 4.5.
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9. Salad Sensation: Grilled Chicken Cobb Extravaganza
Elevate your salad game with this hearty Cobb-inspired creation. Arrange rows of grilled chicken, hard-boiled eggs, crispy bacon, avocado, and cherry tomatoes over a bed of mixed greens.
Drizzle with your favorite dressing for a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Garlic Chicken Cobb Salad from Baking Mischief.
Rating: 5.
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Shrimp Cobb Salad from Heartland Cooking.
Rating: 5.
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Harvest Cobb Salad with Goat Cheese Vinaigrette from Salt Sugar Spice. |
10. Wrap It Up: BBQ Chicken and Apple Quesadillas
Give quesadillas a sweet and savory twist with this unique combination. Fill tortillas with shredded BBQ chicken, thinly sliced apples, and melty cheese.
A quick turn on the griddle, and you’ve got a crispy, gooey dinner that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
BBQ Chicken, Apple, Bacon and Cheddar Quesadillas from Closet Cooking. |
Easy BBQ Chicken Quesadillas from Kalefornia Kravings. |
Apple Chicken Quesadillas from Punchfork.
Rating: 4.7.
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11. Seafood Simplicity: Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi
Impress your family with this restaurant-worthy dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. Sauté shrimp in a buttery garlic sauce, toss with pasta, and finish with a squeeze of lemon. It’s a light yet satisfying meal that comes together in minutes. You’ll feel like a culinary pro!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi from Cafe Delites.
Rating: 5.
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Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi Recipe from Eating on a Dime.
Rating: 5.
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Garlic Shrimp Scampi Recipe by Tasty from Tasty.
Rating: 4.8.
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12. Meatless Monday Magic: Stuffed Bell Pepper Fiesta
Give your oven a workout with these colorful stuffed peppers. Fill bell peppers with a mixture of rice, beans, corn, and cheese. Bake until tender and bubbly for a vegetarian meal that’s both hearty and healthy. It’s a great way to sneak more veggies into your diet!
Fiesta Stuffed Peppers from Sobeys Inc..
Cooking Time: 45 min.
Rating: 5.
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Fiesta Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe from Just Organics.
Cooking Time: 30 min.
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Fiesta Vegetable Stuffed Bell Peppers from Food.com.
Cooking Time: 25 min.
Rating: 4.5.
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13. Sandwich Upgrade: Gourmet Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Duo
Take the classic combo to new heights with this grown-up version. Use artisanal bread and a blend of cheeses for your sandwiches, then pair with a creamy homemade tomato soup. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for those nights when you need a little extra TLC.
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Recipe from Chef Billy Parisi.
Rating: 5.
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Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Soldiers from Brooklyn Supper. |
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup from – Grilled Cheese Social.
Rating: 5.
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14. Asian-Inspired Delight: Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls
Bring the flavors of your favorite takeout spot home with these easy rice bowls. Simmer chicken in a store-bought teriyaki sauce, serve over rice, and add steamed broccoli for a pop of color. It’s a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl from Modern Meal Makeover.
Cooking Time: 25 min.
Rating: 4.7.
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Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl from EatingWell.
Cooking Time: 30 min.
Rating: 4.9.
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Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Bowls from Recipe Runner.
Cooking Time: 45 min.
Rating: 4.6.
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15. Breakfast-Inspired Dinner: Veggie-Packed Frittata
Put those eggs to work in this versatile frittata. Whisk eggs with milk, pour over sautéed veggies and cheese, then finish in the oven. It’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables and makes for excellent leftovers. Breakfast for dinner never looked so good!
Whole30 Veggie-Packed Breakfast Frittata from Food Network.
Cooking Time: 35 min.
Rating: 4.5.
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Loaded Veggie Frittata from Aberdeen’s Kitchen.
Cooking Time: 30 min.
Rating: 5.
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Mediterranean Vegetable Frittata Recipe from The Mediterranean Dish.
Cooking Time: 45 min.
Rating: 4.9.
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16. Mediterranean Medley: Greek Chicken Pita Pockets
Transport your taste buds to the sunny Mediterranean with these flavorful pita pockets. Stuff warm pitas with grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce. It’s a handheld meal that’s perfect for busy nights or outdoor dining.
Easy Greek Chicken Pitas from Daddio’s Kitchen.
Rating: 5.
Ingredients: 5, 0(1).
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Chicken Pitas from Taste of Home.
Rating: 4.8.
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Easy Greek Rotisserie Chicken Pitas from The Savvy Spoon. |
17. Comforting Classic: Creamy Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
Enjoy all the flavors of chicken and dumplings without the fuss. Layer shredded chicken and veggies in a baking dish, top with easy drop biscuits, and bake until golden. It’s like a warm hug from grandma, but with half the effort.
Chicken And Dumpling Casserole from Gonna Want Seconds.
Rating: 5.
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Chicken & Dumpling Casserole from Taste of Home.
Rating: 4.5.
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Creamy chicken dumplings recipe from Taste.
Rating: 4.3.
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18. Tex-Mex Temptation: Sheet Pan Nachos Supreme
Turn nacho night into a complete meal with this crowd-pleasing dish. Layer tortilla chips with seasoned ground beef, beans, and cheese on a sheet pan. Bake until crispy, then top with fresh veggies and a dollop of sour cream. It’s a fun, interactive dinner that’ll have everyone reaching for more.
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Chicken And Dumpling Casserole from Gonna Want Seconds.
Rating: 5.
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Chicken & Dumpling Casserole from Taste of Home.
Rating: 4.5.
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Creamy chicken dumplings recipe from Taste.
Rating: 4.3.
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19. Italian Night In: Skillet Chicken Parmesan
Skip the restaurant and create this Italian classic at home. Pan-fry breaded chicken breasts, top with marinara and mozzarella, then finish in the oven. Serve over spaghetti for a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Skillet Parmesan Chicken from Food.com.
Cooking Time: 35 min.
Rating: 5.
Ingredients: Skinless chicken breast, spaghetti sauce, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, butter.
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One-Skillet Chicken Parmesan Recipe from Kitchen Swagger.
Cooking Time: 55 min.
Rating: 4.9.
Ingredients: Chicken breasts, fresh mozzarella, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese.
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Skillet Chicken Parmesan from Simply Recipes.
Cooking Time: 40 min.
Rating: 5.
Ingredients: Chicken cutlets, tomato sauce, red pepper flakes, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese.
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20. Veggie Noodle Nirvana: Zucchini Noodle Alfredo
Lighten up your pasta night with this veggie-packed alternative. Spiralize zucchini into noodles, then toss with a creamy Alfredo sauce and grilled chicken. It’s a low-carb option that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction.
Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo Recipe by Tasty from Tasty.
Cooking Time: 35 min.
Rating: 4.8.
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Zucchini Alfredo (Healthy 25-Min Dinner) from Wholesome Yum.
Cooking Time: 25 min.
Rating: 4.9.
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Easy Zucchini Noodle Alfredo from The Dinner-Mom.
Cooking Time: 22 min.
Rating: 4.8.
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There you have it easy dinner ideas that’ll make you feel like a culinary queen! With these simple yet delicious recipes in your arsenal, you’ll never be stuck in a dinner rut again.
So put on that apron, channel your inner chef, and get ready to wow your family with these effortless meals. Happy cooking!
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