21 easy dinner ideas your family will beg for again and again

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Finding a dinner recipe that’s both easy to make and a hit with the whole family can often feel like a daily challenge. These 21 dinner ideas are designed to minimize your time in the kitchen while maximizing satisfaction around the dinner table. Each recipe is straightforward, quick to prepare, and promises a delicious meal that will keep everyone at home looking forward to dinner time.

A plate of enchiladas garnished with cilantro and lime on a decorative dish.
Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy

A fork holding a bite of pork chop with mustard shallot gravy in front of a plate of pork chops and mashed potatoes.
Pork chops with mustard shallot gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Tender Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy combines succulent meat with a rich, tangy sauce for a comforting meal. Ready in 30 minutes, this dish features seared pork chops and a homemade gravy with shallots and Dijon mustard. It’s a savory blend that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. This recipe is perfect for a quick yet elegant weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

An easy weeknight meal featuring a grilled pork chop with diced carrots and potatoes in a cast iron skillet on a wooden table.
One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner is a fuss-free meal that’s ready in under an hour. It’s a hearty combination of garlic-seasoned pork chops, bell peppers, and onions all cooked together in one pan for easy cleanup. The flavors meld to create a peppery, slightly spicy taste. It’s an ideal choice for those busy evenings when time is of the essence.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

Grilled pork chops on a plate with oranges and limes.
Citrus Glazed Pork Chops. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Citrus Glazed Pork Chops are a zesty delight, ready to serve in about 25 minutes. This dish highlights the pork’s natural flavor with a sweet and tangy orange-lemon glaze. Main ingredients include fresh citrus juice, honey, and pork chops. It’s a refreshing twist on the traditional pork chop dinner.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries

Pork chops with blackberry applesauce on a gray plate.
Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries is a unique dish that brings a sweet and savory experience to your dinner table. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy perfectly cooked pork chops paired with homemade applesauce enhanced with ripe blackberries. The fruit adds a tart contrast to the meal. This dish is a lovely combination of flavors that the whole family will appreciate.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Pork chops in gravy served with mashed potatoes on a decorative plate.
Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes is a simple yet satisfying meal ready in about an hour. Roasted together, the pork and potatoes absorb the flavors of garlic and herbs, creating a rustic and comforting taste. The main ingredients are pork chops, potatoes, and a blend of seasonings. It’s a one-pan wonder that makes dinnertime a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

Bone in pork chop topped with hollandaise sauce and shrimp, on a white plate next to green beans.
Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf is an impressive dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, taking about 45 minutes. This recipe pairs juicy pork chops with succulent shrimp for a gourmet twist on the classic surf and turf. The flavors of the grill infuse the meat and seafood with a smoky taste. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

A plate of pulled pork on a white plate with a fork.
Slow cooker pork shoulder with mustard bbq sauce. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce is a low-effort, high-reward meal that cooks for 8 hours. The pork shoulder becomes incredibly tender, and is complemented by a tangy mustard BBQ sauce. Key ingredients include pork shoulder, Dijon mustard, and honey. This dish offers a balance of sweet and savory flavors that melt in your mouth.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot

Pork tenderloin on a cutting board next to a slow cooker.
Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

The Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot recipe is a hands-off dinner option that cooks for about 4 hours. It features a pork loin roast that becomes fork-tender in a flavorful broth. Main ingredients like pork loin, herbs, and broth come together to create a juicy, savory dish. This meal is a testament to the convenience and deliciousness of slow cooking.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot

Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup

A bowl of wonton soup with shrimp in it.
Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that takes about an hour to prepare. Homemade wontons filled with a mixture of pork and shrimp float in a clear, aromatic broth. The soup is light yet satisfying, with a taste that combines the sweetness of shrimp with the savory depth of pork. It’s a warm and inviting meal that’s perfect for any night.
Get the Recipe: Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

A serving of chicken pot pie on a dark plate.
Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy is a classic comfort food ready in about an hour. This dish features a creamy tarragon-infused gravy, tender chicken, and vegetables encased in a flaky crust. The tarragon adds a unique, slightly sweet flavor to the hearty filling. It’s a complete meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Roasted chicken and vegetables in a skillet on a cutting board.
Roasted Chicken and Vegetables. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables is a wholesome meal that comes together in about an hour. This one-pan dish includes juicy chicken and a medley of seasonal vegetables, all roasted to perfection. The chicken’s crispy skin and the vegetables’ natural sweetness highlight the simplicity of the ingredients. It’s a nutritious and delicious option for any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

A plate of enchiladas garnished with cilantro and lime on a decorative dish.
Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice is a vibrant dish ready in 30 minutes. It combines the bright flavors of fresh cilantro and zesty lime with tender chicken and fluffy rice. The main ingredients deliver a refreshing taste that’s both light and fulfilling. This dish is a quick and easy way to bring a burst of flavor to your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Chicken Shawarma Plate

A wooden cutting board with pita bread, hummus, tzatziki and tzatziki sauce.
Chicken Shawarma Plate. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Chicken Shawarma Plate is a Middle Eastern-inspired meal that’s ready in about an hour. Enjoy spiced, marinated chicken served with a variety of accompaniments like hummus and fresh vegetables. It’s a flavorful dish that offers a taste of aromatic spices and tender chicken. This plate is perfect for those looking to explore international cuisines at home.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Shawarma Plate

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

A serving of creamy balsamic chicken skillet next to a serving of green salad.
Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet combines succulent chicken breasts with a rich balsamic cream sauce for a meal ready in 30 minutes. Ingredients like balsamic vinegar, cream, and chicken come together to create a luxuriously smooth and tangy taste. The skillet preparation ensures the chicken stays moist and flavorful. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Overhead shot of grilled maple mustard chicken.
Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, ready in just 30 minutes. The chicken is marinated in a maple syrup and mustard mixture, which caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Main ingredients include chicken, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious outdoor meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Air fried chicken leg quarters served on plates.
Air Fryer Chicken Legs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Chicken Legs are a quick and easy meal, ready in just 30 minutes. The air fryer crisps the chicken to perfection while keeping it juicy inside. Main ingredients like chicken legs and your choice of seasoning provide a customizable taste experience. This dish is ideal for a no-fuss, healthy dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken

Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken inside cast iron.
Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken is a simple Italian-inspired dish ready in 30 minutes. It features chicken breasts topped with slices of tomato and mozzarella cheese, baked until bubbly and golden. The flavors of tomato and cheese complement the chicken for a light and satisfying taste. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken

Cream Cheese Chicken

Cream cheese chicken in a white skillet.
Cream Cheese Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Cream Cheese Chicken is an indulgent dish that’s ready in about 30 minutes. The chicken is coated in a creamy, five-spice sauce that adds a unique flavor profile. Ingredients like cream cheese, chicken breasts, and Chinese five-spice powder create a rich and savory taste. This recipe is a comforting and quick dinner solution.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

Buttermilk chicken and potatoes on a plate.
Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes is a comforting meal that’s ready in about an hour. The chicken and potatoes are marinated in buttermilk, resulting in tender, flavorful meat and creamy potatoes. Key ingredients include buttermilk, chicken, and potatoes, which combine to create a comforting and hearty taste. It’s a simple, one-dish meal that’s perfect for a cozy evening at home.
Get the Recipe: Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

Bowl of black pepper chicken with chop sticks.
Chinese Black Pepper Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chinese Black Pepper Chicken is a stir-fry delight that’s ready in just 20 minutes. This dish features tender chicken pieces coated in a bold black pepper sauce with onions and bell peppers. The main ingredients bring a spicy and savory flavor that’s characteristic of Chinese cuisine. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a takeout favorite from the comfort of your home.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

Chicken Biryani

Chicken biryani on a plate with raita.
Chicken Biryani. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Biryani is a fragrant and flavorful one-pot meal that takes about an hour to prepare. It’s a richly spiced dish with layers of marinated chicken and aromatic basmati rice. Ingredients like saffron, cardamom, and chicken meld together to create a taste that’s both exotic and comforting. This dish is a celebration of flavors that’s sure to be a hit with everyone.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Biryani

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