7 Easy Family Dinner Ideas: Tried and True Recipes for Busy Weeknights
With these 7 easy family dinner ideas in your arsenal, you’ll never have to stress about mealtime again.
Finding time to cook a delicious and nutritious meal for your family can be challenging, especially on busy weeknights. I know if you’re anything like me then sometimes you get lost in the endless scroll of Instagram and TikTok looking for inspo. But fear not! I’ve rounded up some of my most popular dinner recipes that are not only easy to make but also loved by families everywhere. From comforting skillets to savory baked chicken dishes, these recipes are sure to make mealtime a breeze. So, let’s dive in and plan out a week of delicious dinners for your family!
- Chicken and Broccoli Rice Skillet: Whip up this hearty one-pan meal in no time! Tender chicken, wholesome broccoli, and fluffy rice come together in a flavorful skillet dinner that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s packed with protein and veggies for a balanced meal. This recipe has hundreds of 5 star reviews for a reason. It’s simple yet flavor packed and easy to make.
2. Chicken and Veggie Rigatoni: This comforting pasta dish is a family favorite for a reason. Juicy chicken, colorful veggies that have been roasted for extra flavor and char and rigatoni pasta are tossed in a rich and savory cream sauce for a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy dinner option. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love pasta?
3. Lemon Butter Salmon Fettuccine: Elevate your weeknight dinner with this elegant yet effortless pasta dish. Succulent salmon is paired with tender fettuccine noodles and tossed in a bright and tangy lemon butter sauce. It’s a restaurant-worthy meal that you can enjoy in the comfort of your own home.
4. Easy Leg of Lamb: Impress your family with this simple yet impressive dish. Tender leg of lamb is seasoned to perfection and roasted until juicy and flavorful. Serve it alongside your favorite veggies and potatoes for a classic Sunday dinner that’s sure to please. It looks complicated but it’s so easy and perfect to kick off the week for Sunday dinner.
5. Baked Lemon Butter Chicken: Juicy bone in chicken are coated in a zesty lemon butter sauce and baked to perfection in this easy yet elegant dish. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and fuss-free. Plus, the leftovers are great for lunch the next day!
6. Cheesy Rice Skillet: This crowd-pleasing skillet dinner is a go-to recipe for busy families. Fluffy rice, savory sausage, and melty cheese come together in a comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites. Plus, it’s customizable with your favorite veggies and spices.
7. Lemon Parmesan Chicken Thighs: Viral for a reason, my tender parmesan chicken thighs are coated in a flavorful mixture of lemon and garlic then baked to golden perfection. It’s a simple yet delicious recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Serve it with roasted veggies or a side salad for a complete meal.
With these 7 easy family dinner ideas in your arsenal, you’ll never have to stress about mealtime again. From comforting skillets to elegant dishes, there’s something for everyone in this roundup. So, grab your apron and get ready to impress your family with these mouthwatering meals! Happy cooking!
Certainly! Here are seven easy family dinner ideas that are perfect for busy weeknights:
1. **Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas:**
– Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Toss sliced chicken breast, bell peppers, and onions with olive oil and fajita seasoning on a baking sheet.
– Roast for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
– Serve with tortillas, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
2. **One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese:**
– In a large pot, brown ground beef with diced onions and garlic.
– Add canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
– Stir in uncooked spaghetti and cook until pasta is tender and sauce has thickened, about 10-12 minutes.
– Serve with grated Parmesan cheese.
3. **BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches:**
– Place pork shoulder in a slow cooker and cover with your favorite barbecue sauce.
– Cook on low for 8 hours until pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
– Shred the pork and serve on hamburger buns with coleslaw.
4. **Teriyaki Salmon with Rice and Vegetables:**
– Marinate salmon fillets in teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes.
– Grill or bake salmon until cooked through, about 12-15 minutes.
– Serve with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.
5. **Taco Salad:**
– Brown ground beef with taco seasoning in a skillet.
– In a large bowl, toss together lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sliced avocado, black beans, and corn.
– Top with cooked ground beef and crushed tortilla chips. Serve with ranch or salsa dressing.
6. **Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu:**
– Press tofu to remove excess moisture, then dice into cubes.
– Stir-fry tofu with mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas) in a skillet with sesame oil and soy sauce.
– Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
7. **Chicken and Vegetable Quesadillas:**
– Cook diced chicken breast in a skillet with taco seasoning until cooked through.
– Place a tortilla in a skillet, top with cooked chicken, shredded cheese, sliced bell peppers, and onions.
– Place another tortilla on top and cook until cheese is melted and tortillas are golden brown.
– Slice into wedges and serve with salsa and sour cream.
These tried and true recipes are sure to please the whole family while keeping dinner prep simple and stress-free!