😍🍝10 Easy Dinner Recipes for Busy Weeknights 🍽️✨

Juggling a busy schedule while trying to put a delicious dinner on the table can feel like an Olympic sport for moms. That’s why we’ve put together a list of 10 easy dinner recipes that are quick to prepare, satisfying, and family-approved. These meals will help you skip the takeout and spend more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones.

Sheet Pan Baked Salmon

Sheet pan baked salmon is a quick and delicious dinner option perfect for busy moms. The salmon comes out flaky and tender, while the accompanying vegetables soak up all the delightful flavors. This dish is not only simple to make but also packs a nutritious punch, making it a family favorite.

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a healthy meal on the table in no time. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks on one pan. It’s a win-win for any hectic evening!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried herbs (like thyme or rosemary)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange the salmon fillets in the center. Surround them with asparagus and cherry tomatoes.
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Drizzle this mixture over the salmon and vegetables.
4. Place lemon slices on top of the salmon and around the veggies.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Quick Veggie Stir-Fry

Quick Veggie Stir-Fry is a delightful dish that bursts with vibrant colors and fresh flavors. It’s a fantastic way to pack a variety of vegetables into a single meal, making it both nutritious and satisfying. The combination of bell peppers, broccoli, and onions creates a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with a light soy sauce and sesame oil dressing.

This recipe is super simple to whip up, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you need something healthy and delicious on the table in no time. Plus, you can easily customize it with any veggies you have on hand!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
• 2 green onions, sliced for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced bell peppers, broccoli, and onion. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the vegetables, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Risotto

This One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Risotto is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table. The creamy texture combined with the rich, earthy flavors of mushrooms makes it an instant family favorite. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings.

Using just one pot, you can create a satisfying meal that’s not only delicious but also allows for easy cleanup. This risotto is creamy, flavorful, and sure to impress anyone at the table!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become tender.
3. Stir in the Arborio rice, allowing it to toast slightly before adding the broth.
4. Gradually pour in the vegetable broth, stirring continuously until the rice absorbs the liquid and becomes creamy.
5. Once the rice is cooked, stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that brings bright, tangy flavors to your dinner table with minimal fuss. The juicy chicken is infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings. Not only is it simple to make, but it also requires just one pan, which means less cleanup for you!

This recipe is perfect for families looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. With tender chicken and fresh herbs, it’s a dish everyone will love. Serve it alongside your favorite vegetables or over rice for a complete meal that feels special without taking too much time to prepare.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice and zest of 2 lemons
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional)
• 1 cup green beans or asparagus (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts and sear for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Add Vegetables (optional): If using, toss in cherry tomatoes and green beans or asparagus around the chicken in the skillet.
5. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 75°C).
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with your favorite sides.

30-Minute Taco Pasta

Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Taco pasta is a fun twist on traditional tacos, combining the flavors of taco seasoning with pasta for a hearty dish that everyone will love. It’s a perfect blend of spices, savory meat, and tender pasta, making it a family favorite.

This recipe is not just delicious but also super easy to whip up in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re pressed for time after a long day or simply want something comforting and satisfying, taco pasta fits the bill. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 12 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Chopped cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil water and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Meat: In the same pot, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the pot, mixing well to combine all ingredients. Allow to cook for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Finish Up: Remove from heat and stir in sour cream and half of the cheddar cheese. Top with remaining cheese and cilantro before serving.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

Slow cooker chicken tacos are a simple and delicious way to bring the flavors of Mexico to your dinner table. With tender, shredded chicken infused with spices, these tacos are not only tasty but also a breeze to prepare. Just set it and forget it until dinner time!

This recipe is perfect for busy evenings. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the chicken to soak up all the savory flavors. You can customize your tacos with fresh toppings like avocado, salsa, or cilantro to suit your family’s taste. Everyone will love the freshness and simplicity of this meal.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup salsa
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the top, then pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
3. Shred the Chicken: Use two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker, mixing it with the juices for added flavor.
4. Prepare the Tacos: Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken, avocado slices, and salsa.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy your delicious chicken tacos!

Easy Vegetable Fried Rice

Vegetable fried rice is a colorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy nights. Packed with fresh veggies and savory flavors, this recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it a go-to choice for dinner.

This dish brings a delightful mix of textures and tastes, with the crunch of the vegetables complementing the fluffy rice. It’s simple to whip up, and you can easily customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand. It’s a great way to use leftovers, and everyone in the family will enjoy it!

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, bell peppers)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are tender.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, mixing well.
4. Pour in soy sauce and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Finally, fold in the sliced green onions and serve hot.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian dish that is both simple and satisfying. With just a few ingredients—spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes—it delivers a punch of flavor that is hard to resist. This dish captures the essence of Italian cooking, emphasizing the importance of quality ingredients and straightforward preparation.

The taste is rich and savory, with a hint of heat from the red pepper and a delightful aroma from the garlic. Perfect for busy nights, it comes together in under 20 minutes, making it a go-to option for quick dinners at home.

Ingredients

• 400g spaghetti
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add Flavor: Stir in the red pepper flakes and cooked spaghetti into the skillet. Mix well, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Season and Serve: Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley and, if desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Caprese Salad with Pesto

Caprese Salad with Pesto is a refreshing dish that combines the delightful flavors of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil. This salad is not only visually appealing but also offers a burst of flavor that’s perfect for a quick dinner. With just a few ingredients, it’s a simple and nutritious meal that busy moms will appreciate.

The combination of ripe tomatoes and mozzarella provides a wonderful balance, while the pesto adds a rich and herby note. This dish can be prepared in under 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those hectic evenings when time is short but you still want a delicious meal.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup pesto sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions

1. Arrange the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella on a serving platter, alternating each slice.
2. Scatter fresh basil leaves between the slices for added flavor.
3. Drizzle pesto sauce over the top, ensuring to cover the tomatoes and mozzarella evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Serve immediately as a light dinner or a side dish.

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a tasty, easy option for busy nights. The combination of tender chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and melted cheese wrapped in a crispy tortilla is sure to please everyone at the table. They’re perfect for a quick dinner or even a fun snack!

This recipe is not only simple to make, but it also allows for customization. Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to suit your family’s taste. Serve these quesadillas with a side of ranch or your favorite dipping sauce for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños

Instructions

1. Mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a bowl until well coated.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet, then layer half with BBQ chicken mixture and sprinkle cheese on top.
4. Fold the tortilla in half and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook the other side until cheese is melted.
5. Remove from skillet, cut into wedges, and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Need more ideas? Check out 10 Must-Try Easy Dinner Recipes – Perfect for Busy Moms