23 easy weeknight meals to get you over that wednesday hump

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Navigating the midweek slump can be a challenge, especially when it comes to preparing dinner. That’s why having a collection of easy weeknight meals at your fingertips is a game-changer. These 23 recipes are designed to simplify your Wednesday evenings, offering straightforward and delicious options that can be quickly brought to the table.

Overhead shot of karaage chicken with noodles on the side.
Chicken Karaage. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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.

The One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner combines tender pork, crisp bell peppers, and savory onions. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish offers a flavorful experience with its garlic pepper seasoning. It’s perfect for a midweek meal, providing a satisfying taste without the hassle of extensive prep or cleanup.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

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 takes about an hour to bake. Juicy chicken marinated in tangy buttermilk pairs perfectly with the soft, roasted potatoes. This dish is a testament to the rich flavors that can be achieved with simple ingredients. The result is a homestyle taste that brings warmth to any Wednesday evening.
Get the Recipe: Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

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 option, requiring only 30 minutes to get crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Using just a handful of spices and the air fryer, this meal is both convenient and flavorful. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a fuss-free dinner with minimal oil and maximum taste.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

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 delightful combination of savory and sweet, ready in 35 minutes. The pork chops are complemented by a homemade applesauce infused with fresh blackberries, creating a unique and satisfying flavor profile. This dish is a creative twist on a classic, offering a comforting taste with a hint of fruitiness.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries

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.

The Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet is a sumptuous meal that can be on your table in just 25 minutes. It features chicken in a rich and tangy balsamic cream sauce. This skillet meal is a crowd-pleaser, delivering a gourmet taste with everyday ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Cilantro lime chicken on a plate next to avocado and cilantro garnish.
Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice is a zesty one-pot meal that’s ready in about 30 minutes. With the bright flavors of cilantro and lime, this dish provides a refreshing taste alongside the hearty comfort of rice and chicken. It’s an ideal choice for injecting some excitement into your midweek dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

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 yet delicious meal that takes 25 minutes to prepare. Juicy chicken breasts are topped with ripe tomatoes, melted mozzarella, and Italian herbs, creating a taste reminiscent of a Caprese salad. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy Mediterranean flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken

Pomegranate Chicken with Walnuts

Pomegranate Chicken with Walnuts. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Pomegranate Chicken with Walnuts is a unique dish that combines the tartness of pomegranate with the earthy crunch of walnuts. Ready in about an hour, this meal offers a complex flavor profile that’s both exotic and comforting. It’s a great way to spice up your weeknight dinner with something different and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Pomegranate Chicken with Walnuts

Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks on a plate.
Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks take about an hour to cook and are full of vibrant Latin flavors. The marinade, rich with spices and citrus, infuses the drumsticks with a deep, zesty taste. This recipe is perfect for those looking to bring some international flair to their dinner table in a simple yet flavorful way.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks

Ajiaco Recipe

Bowl of chicken Ajiaco soup.
Ajiaco Recipe. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

The Ajiaco Recipe is a traditional Colombian soup that takes about 2 hours to simmer to perfection. It’s filled with chicken, potatoes, and corn, all melding together in a herby broth. This hearty soup is ideal for those chilly evenings when you crave a comforting and filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Ajiaco Recipe

Cheddar Chicken Bake

Chicken cheddar quinoa casserole in a pyrex dish.
Cheddar Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Cheddar Chicken Bake is a cheesy, protein-packed dish that’s ready in 45 minutes. It combines tender chicken with quinoa and a generous helping of cheddar cheese, baking into a gooey, satisfying casserole. This bake is perfect for those who want a simple, comforting meal that’s also nutritious.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Chicken Bake

Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab

Chicken skewers on skewers with lemon wedges.
Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab can be prepared in just 25 minutes, offering a Middle Eastern twist to your weeknight menu. Ground chicken is seasoned with herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection. These kebabs are flavorful and light, making them an excellent choice for a quick and healthy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab

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 hearty meal that you can enjoy after just 45 minutes of cooking. The pork loin is seasoned with a blend of garlic and herbs, and the potatoes roast to perfection alongside the meat. This dish delivers a robust taste that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Chicken Karaage

Overhead shot of karaage chicken with noodles on the side.
Chicken Karaage. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Karaage, ready in about 40 minutes, is Japanese-style fried chicken that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Marinated in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, it has a savory flavor that’s hard to resist. This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy a different cuisine on a weeknight without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Karaage

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 that takes about an hour to bake. It features a creamy tarragon-infused gravy with chunks of chicken and vegetables, all encased in a flaky crust. This pie offers a homemade taste that’s both familiar and indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Honey garlic chicken in a bowl served over rice.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s ready in about 4 hours. The chicken becomes incredibly tender as it soaks up the sweet and garlicky sauce. This dish is ideal for those who want to come home to a delicious meal without any last-minute preparation.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

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 takes just 20 minutes to cook, making it one of the fastest meals on this list. The chicken is glazed with a sweet and tangy maple mustard sauce, which caramelizes beautifully on the grill. This dish offers a delightful balance of flavors that’s sure to please any palate.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Hands holding paprika chicken and vegetables on a sheet pan.
Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies is a colorful and nutritious meal ready in 40 minutes. The smoky paprika seasoning enhances the chicken and an array of vegetables roasted together on one pan. It’s a convenient and tasty option for a no-fuss weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Chicken Marbella

Close up on ottolenghi chicken marbella on plate.
Chicken Marbella. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Chicken Marbella is a sophisticated dish that cooks in about an hour. This recipe features chicken with prunes, olives, and capers, creating a sweet and savory flavor profile. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy bold and complex tastes in their meals.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marbella

Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano)

Colombian tamales on a plate.
Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano). Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano) are a labor of love, typically taking a few hours to steam. Filled with seasoned chicken, vegetables, and spices, they’re wrapped in banana leaves for an authentic taste. These tamales are perfect for a weekend prep and an easy Wednesday reheat.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano)

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.

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy is a dish that’s ready in 30 minutes. The pork chops are smothered in a creamy gravy with the tang of mustard and the sweetness of shallots. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that combines classic flavors with ease.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy

Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Beef and broccoli stir fry served with white rice on a white plate.
Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry is a speedy meal, ready in just 20 minutes. Thinly sliced beef and fresh broccoli are tossed in a savory stir fry sauce. This dish is perfect for those who want a delicious and hearty meal without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

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 one-pan meal that takes about an hour to cook. The chicken roasts to juicy perfection while the vegetables caramelize and sweeten. This dish is a great way to enjoy a balanced and flavorful meal with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

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