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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Pesto-Salmon-for-FDL-and-TD-1024x576.jpg)
Cacio e Pepe
![Image shows a plate with cacio e pepe in a neat pile topped with shaved parmesan cheese.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Cacio-e-Pepe-on-a-plate.jpg)
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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Canned-Chicken-Salad.jpg)
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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Pesto-and-Sundried-Tomato-Tuna-Salad.jpg)
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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Caprese-panini-on-a-blue-plate.jpg)
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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Chicken-enchiladas-in-a-blue-pyrex.jpg)
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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Pesto-Salmon-for-FDL-and-TD.jpg)
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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Lime-marinated-grilled-chicken-sliced-on-a-red-plate-over-rice.jpg)
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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Spoon-drizzling-orange-sauce-over-poached-orange-salmon.jpg)
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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Baked-Ranch-Chicken-13.jpg)
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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/15.jpg)
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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/baked-salmon-with-mayo.jpg)
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