11 simple 5-ingredient dinners for when you can’t deal with anything else

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When you are stressed to the max and just can’t handle anything complicated, these are the dinners to turn to. This collection of 11 reader-favorite recipes uses just 5 ingredients each. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or when your fridge is looking bare, these meals are fast, easy, and bursting with flavor.

Image shows Salmon with pesto and rice on a blue plate.
Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Cacio e Pepe

Image shows a plate with cacio e pepe in a neat pile topped with shaved parmesan cheese.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This cheesy pasta dish is fancy-looking but super easy to make. It only takes 15 minutes, including boiling the water. Get ready for the best cheesy carbs ever!
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Shortcut Chicken Salad

Image shows a Canned Chicken Salad sandwich on a wooden table.
Shortcut Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Skip the cooking with this refreshing chicken salad. Made with canned chicken, it’s perfect for hot days. Serve it on greens or in a sandwich for a quick and tasty lunch.
Get the Recipe: Shortcut Chicken Salad

Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes

Image shows an overhead shot of an open face Pesto and Sundried Tomato Tuna Salad sandwich.
Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This tuna salad is for grown-ups! Pesto and sundried tomatoes add a flavor explosion to this affordable and delicious lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes

Caprese Panini

Image shows a sliced caprese panini on a wooden board with the melted cheese oozing out.
Caprese Panini. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Take a quick trip to Italy with this Caprese Panini! Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil are toasted to perfection for a light and flavorful lunch or dinner. It’s easy, quick, and uses simple ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Panini

Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas

Image shows baked cheesy chicken enchiladas in a blue Pyrex casserole.
Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Craving Mexican food but short on time? Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut in these enchiladas. Whip them up in just a few steps for a delicious weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas

Pesto Salmon

Image shows Salmon with pesto and rice on a blue plate.
Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Calling all pesto lovers! This colorful dish is packed with flavor and takes minutes to prepare. The pesto perfectly complements the salmon for a healthy and satisfying meal, ideal for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Salmon

Lime Marinated Grilled Chicken

Lime marinated grilled chicken sliced on a red plate over rice.
Lime Marinated Grilled Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Get ready for a citrusy taste explosion with this grilled chicken recipe! The chicken is marinated in a zesty lime sauce, making it juicy and tender. Your taste buds will thank you!
Get the Recipe: Lime Marinated Grilled Chicken

Poached Orange Salmon

Image shows a spoon drizzing orange sauce over a salmon filet in a blue dish.
Poached Orange Salmon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy healthy salmon. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for both a weeknight meal or something a little more special.
Get the Recipe: Poached Orange Salmon

Oven Baked Ranch Chicken

Ranch baked chicken next to a rocket salad.
Oven Baked Ranch Chicken. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

This ranch chicken is so easy, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner. Just a few ingredients and a short baking time are all you need for a delicious and satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ranch Chicken

Air Fryer Ham Steak

air fryer ham steak on a white plate with asparagus and mashed potatoes.
Air Fryer Ham Steak. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Love ham but short on time? This air fryer ham steak recipe is the answer! It’s quick, easy, and cooks to perfection.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Ham Steak

Quick Baked Salmon With Mayo

Salmon fillets stacked on a plate with lemons and herbs in the background.
Quick Baked Salmon With Mayo. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Make weeknight dinners a breeze with this quick baked salmon recipe. The mayo topping keeps the salmon moist and juicy, making it perfect even for picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: Quick Baked Salmon With Mayo

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