25 easy peasy kid-friendly dinners for busy parents

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Finding dinner solutions that satisfy both kids and busy schedules is a struggle. Welcome to a world of easy kid-friendly dinners, where simplicity meets smiles around the table. We’ve gathered a lineup of dishes that promise minimal fuss and maximum flavor, making dinnertime a breeze for parents while delighting young palates.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot

Two tacos on a plate with a bowl of guacamole.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos make dinner a breeze for busy parents. Just set it and forget it, and let the slow cooker work its magic to create tender, flavorful taco fillings that the kids will love. Top with their favorite fixings for a fuss-free family meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Fried chicken tenders on a plate with dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a game-changer for parents looking for a healthier and quicker alternative to fried chicken. These crispy, golden tenders are a hit with kids and can be on the table in no time, making hectic weeknight dinners a piece of cake.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Fried potato wedges with ketchup and parsley.
Air Fryer Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crispy and seasoned to perfection, Air Fryer Potato Wedges are a must-try for families. These guilt-free wedges satisfy kids’ cravings for fries while being a breeze to prepare. Parents can enjoy a side dish that’s easy on the waistline and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Chicken Pot Pie

Small serving of chicken pot pie casserole on plate with fork.
Chicken Pot Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken Pot Pie is a classic comfort food that even the pickiest eaters won’t be able to resist. With a flaky crust and creamy chicken and veggie filling, it’s a hearty, homemade meal that can be made ahead of time, saving parents precious moments on busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

A bowl of chicken and spinach soup with a spoon.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Creamy and comforting, Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a kid-friendly delight. Loaded with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vegetables in a creamy broth, it’s a warm bowl of goodness that’s easy to whip up. Parents can serve up smiles and seconds without breaking a sweat.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Braised Short Ribs

Braised beef short ribs in white bowl.
Braised Short Ribs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Braised Short Ribs offer an indulgent dinner option that’s surprisingly simple for parents to prepare. The slow-cooked, fall-off-the-bone ribs are packed with flavor, and their rich sauce is sure to please even the most discerning young palates. It’s a dish that elevates weeknight dinners without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Braised Short Ribs

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Chicken bacon ranch casserole in baking dish.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole combines beloved flavors in a kid-friendly package. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, and the zing of ranch dressing, it’s a one-dish wonder that simplifies dinner prep. Parents can savor the smiles around the table when this casserole is served up hot.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Panko pork chop on plate with greens.
Breaded Panko Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Breaded Panko Pork Chops offer a crunchy twist on a classic favorite. These juicy pork chops coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs are sure to be a hit with the little ones. Parents can cook up these chops in no time, leaving more room for quality family time at the table.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Popcorn Chicken

Popcorn chicken in bowl with one piece cut to show inside.
Popcorn Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Popcorn Chicken is a snack-turned-dinner that kids adore. These bite-sized, crispy chicken pieces are perfect for little fingers and can be paired with their favorite dipping sauces. Parents can easily whip up a batch, ensuring a hassle-free dinner that brings smiles all around.
Get the Recipe: Popcorn Chicken

Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Air Fryer Chicken Wings on white plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Chicken Wings are a win for busy parents seeking an appetizer-style dinner. With minimal fuss and maximum flavor, these crispy wings are a crowd-pleaser. Parents can serve them up with various sauces to cater to different taste preferences, making dinner a customizable delight.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Alfredo Steak Pasta

Alfredo steak pasta in skillet with wooden spoon.
Alfredo Steak Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Alfredo Steak Pasta introduces kids to the savory goodness of steak paired with creamy Alfredo sauce. This indulgent dish is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a go-to for parents looking to elevate their weeknight dinners without extra hassle. It’s a taste of luxury that the whole family can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Alfredo Steak Pasta

Honey Butter Fried Chicken

Serving of honey butter chicken garnished with parsley on plate.
Honey Butter Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Honey Butter Fried Chicken offers a sweet and savory twist on a family favorite. With its crispy exterior and tender, flavorful meat, it’s a dish that kids can’t resist. Parents can create this delicious comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen, ensuring a happy and well-fed household.
Get the Recipe: Honey Butter Fried Chicken

Chicken Nuggets

Air fryer chicken nuggets on plate with ketchup.
Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken Nuggets are a beloved classic among kids, and parents can easily prepare them at home with healthier ingredients. These homemade nuggets are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for dipping. Parents can feel good about serving up a crowd-pleasing meal that’s made with love.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Serving of buffalo chicken pasta bake with casserole dish.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake brings a spicy kick to family dinner time. This cheesy, oven-baked delight combines pasta, chicken, and tangy buffalo sauce for a mouthwatering experience. Parents can simplify their evening routine with this easy-to-assemble dish that’s sure to satisfy even the hungriest little ones.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Individual Lasagna

Lasagna for One in small 10-ounce square baking pan.
Individual Lasagna. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Individual Lasagna portions out the Italian classic into personal servings. Kids will love having their own mini lasagnas, and parents can appreciate the convenience of portion control. These little delights are a hit at dinnertime and can be prepared in advance for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Individual Lasagna

Panko Chicken Breast

Panko chicken on a white plate.
Panko Chicken Breast. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Panko Chicken Breast offers a crispy and flavorful twist on traditional chicken. Parents can quickly whip up these golden-crusted cutlets that are loved by both kids and adults. It’s a dinner option that proves you don’t need to sacrifice taste for convenience.
Get the Recipe: Panko Chicken Breast

Beef Quesadillas

Stack of beef quesadillas on a plate.
Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Beef Quesadillas are a quick and satisfying dinner solution for busy parents. With seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and crispy tortillas, they’re a hit with kids and can be customized to suit various tastes. Parents can serve up a delicious Tex-Mex meal without a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

Bowl of bacon wrapped cocktail sausages.
Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are an irresistible appetizer that can double as a kid-friendly dinner option. These bite-sized sausages wrapped in bacon are a crowd-pleaser and a breeze to prepare. Parents can count on smiles and empty plates when these smokies are on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

BBQ boneless chicken thighs on indoor grill.
Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs are a barbecue favorite that’s easy to prepare on busy evenings. With their smoky flavor and tender texture, kids will devour them. Parents can spend more time enjoying the meal and less time worrying about dinner prep with these scrumptious thighs.
Get the Recipe: Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

A bowl of macaroni and cheese in front of a slow cooker.
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese simplifies a classic comfort food that kids adore. Creamy, cheesy, and cooked to perfection in the slow cooker, this dish lets parents set it and forget it. It’s a hassle-free way to ensure that mac and cheese night is a hit with the entire family.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

Individual Shepherd’s Pie

Individual Shepherd's Pie.
Individual Shepherd’s Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Individual Shepherd’s Pie offers a mini version of a beloved British classic. Kids will love the combination of seasoned ground meat and mashed potatoes in these personal servings. Parents can create a hearty meal with minimal effort and a delightful presentation that appeals to young appetites.
Get the Recipe: Individual Shepherd’s Pie

Easy Beef Stew

Beef stew in yellow bowls.
Easy Beef Stew. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Easy Beef Stew is a hearty and nutritious dinner that’s ideal for busy parents. With tender chunks of beef and a medley of vegetables, it’s a one-pot wonder that can be prepared in advance and enjoyed by the whole family. Parents can feel good about serving up this wholesome, satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Beef Stew

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 delicious way to satisfy young appetites. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these drumsticks are perfect for kids who love finger foods. Parents can rely on the air fryer for a hassle-free dinner that’s sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Personal Pizza

Single serve pepperoni pizza on wooden cutting board.
Personal Pizza. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Personal Pizza allows kids to become mini pizzaiolos by creating their own custom pies. Parents can set up a pizza-making station with various toppings, and everyone gets to build their ideal pizza. It’s an interactive and fun way to enjoy a homemade dinner that’s tailor-made for each family member.
Get the Recipe: Personal Pizza

Sloppy Joe Casserole

Cheesy hashbrown topped casserole in baking pan.
Sloppy Joe Casserole. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Sloppy Joe Casserole reinvents a classic favorite in a convenient casserole form. Kids will love the saucy, meaty goodness, and parents will appreciate the easy prep. It’s a comforting dish that brings back childhood memories while simplifying dinnertime for the entire family.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

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