20 quick and easy back-to-school dinners for hectic weeknights

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When school starts, getting dinner on the table fast becomes a top priority. These quick and easy back-to-school dinners are perfect for busy weeknights when time is short. They’re simple to make, require minimal prep, and are designed to satisfy the whole family. With these recipes, you can have a tasty meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen.

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

Easy Beef Stew

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

This Easy Beef Stew is a hearty dish that brings together tender chunks of beef with potatoes and carrots in a rich broth. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting without the hassle. The beef is flavorful, and the vegetables soak up the savory juices, making every bite satisfying. It’s a great option for a quick, filling dinner that tastes like it took hours to make.
Get the Recipe: Easy Beef Stew

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy is a flavorful dish that combines juicy pork chops with a tangy mustard and shallot sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, the sauce adds a sharp kick that balances the richness of the pork. The gravy enhances the natural flavors, making each bite deliciously savory. It’s an easy meal that feels indulgent without taking too much time.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy

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 crispy option for weeknight dinners, taking just 25 minutes to make. The chicken comes out juicy on the inside with a perfect golden crust on the outside. The simple seasoning brings out the natural flavor of the chicken without overpowering it. This recipe is ideal for those nights when you need something fast and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Beef Tenderloin Recipe with Winter Vegetables

Roasted beef with herbs served with roasted potatoes and vegetables in a blue casserole dish.
Beef Tenderloin Recipe with Winter Vegetables. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Beef Tenderloin with Winter Vegetables is a comforting dish featuring tender beef paired with seasonal vegetables. In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a meal that’s full of earthy flavors from the vegetables and the savory richness of the beef. The tenderloin is cooked to perfection, and the vegetables complement the meat beautifully. It’s a satisfying dinner that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tenderloin Recipe with Winter Vegetables

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 bright and zesty dish that combines juicy chicken with fluffy rice infused with lime and cilantro. Ready in 30 minutes, this meal offers a refreshing flavor that’s perfect for hectic evenings. The lime adds a tangy twist that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken. It’s a quick way to enjoy a flavorful dinner with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

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 brings together sweet and savory flavors in a dish that’s ready in just 35 minutes. The pork chops are juicy, and the applesauce with fresh blackberries adds a sweet contrast that complements the meat. The combination of flavors makes it a unique and tasty option for dinner. It’s an easy meal that feels special without a lot of prep.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries

Grilled Steak with Peaches and Onions

Grilled steak with peaches and onions on a wooden cutting board.
Grilled Steak with Peaches and Onions. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled Steak with Peaches and Onions is a delicious blend of savory and sweet, with juicy steak and caramelized onions balanced by the sweetness of grilled peaches. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a great way to mix up your usual steak night. The peaches add a unique twist that pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of the steak. It’s an easy yet impressive dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak with Peaches and Onions

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy is a comforting classic with a twist, featuring tender chicken and vegetables in a rich, herb-infused gravy. Ready in 45 minutes, it’s a dish that offers the warmth of a traditional pot pie with the fresh flavor of tarragon. The flaky crust and creamy filling make it a family favorite. It’s perfect for those nights when you need a little comfort in your meal.
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 simple and satisfying one-pan meal that’s ready in just 40 minutes. The chicken is juicy and flavorful, while the vegetables roast to perfection, absorbing all the savory juices. This dish is all about letting the natural flavors of the ingredients shine. It’s an easy option for a wholesome dinner that doesn’t require much cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

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 is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a tangy balsamic cream sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a quick way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. The sauce is smooth and velvety, complementing the juicy chicken perfectly. It’s a satisfying dinner option that’s big on flavor but easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

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 a delicious combination of juicy pork chops and succulent seafood, all grilled to perfection. Ready in just 35 minutes, it offers a mix of rich and fresh flavors that work together beautifully. The pork chops are tender and flavorful, while the seafood adds a touch of elegance. It’s a great choice for a quick yet special dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes is a simple and hearty dish that’s ready in 40 minutes. The pork is seasoned with garlic and herbs, while the potatoes roast alongside, soaking up all the delicious flavors. This dish is all about comfort and ease, with no fancy ingredients or techniques needed. It’s perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Chicken Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe

Close-up of roasted meatballs with a mix of colorful, chopped bell peppers and zucchini slices.
Chicken Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Chicken Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe is an easy one-pan meal that’s ready in 30 minutes. The chicken sausage is flavorful and pairs perfectly with the roasted vegetables, which become tender and caramelized in the oven. It’s a no-fuss dinner that’s both healthy and satisfying. This dish makes weeknight cooking a breeze with minimal cleanup required.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe

Bomb Meatloaf

Meatloaf on a white plate cut into slices with fresh parsley garnish.
Bomb Meatloaf. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Bomb Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on the classic, featuring a mix of beef, spices, and a tangy glaze. Ready in 45 minutes, this meatloaf is juicy on the inside with a slightly crispy crust. The flavors are bold and satisfying, making it a hit with the whole family. It’s a quick and easy way to put a comforting meal on the table.
Get the Recipe: Bomb Meatloaf

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 sweet and savory dish that’s ready in just 25 minutes. The chicken is juicy, with a perfect balance of sweetness from the maple syrup and tanginess from the mustard. The flavors come together to create a deliciously satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare. It’s a great option for busy nights when you need something tasty and fast.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Beef bulgogi in a bowl with rice and cucumbers.
Beef Bulgogi Bowls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Beef Bulgogi Bowls are a flavorful Korean-inspired dish that’s ready in 30 minutes. The beef is marinated in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, then cooked until tender and served over rice. The result is a bowl full of savory, slightly sweet, and umami-rich flavors. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Ramen Chicken Noodles

Keto Ramen Chicken Noodles in a black bowl with various vegetables and boiled egg.
Ramen Chicken Noodles. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Ramen Chicken Noodles is a quick and comforting dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes. The chicken is tender and juicy, served with ramen noodles in a savory broth. The dish is simple yet flavorful, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s an easy way to enjoy a warm and satisfying meal in no time.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Chicken Noodles

Filet Mignon with Peach Mango Cilantro Sauce

A steak on a plate with green sauce.
Filet Mignon with Peach Mango Cilantro Sauce. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Filet Mignon with Peach Mango Cilantro Sauce is an elegant dish that’s ready in 35 minutes. The tender filet mignon pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy peach mango cilantro sauce. The flavors are fresh and vibrant, making it a standout option for dinner. It’s a quick way to enjoy a gourmet meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Filet Mignon with Peach Mango Cilantro Sauce

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 bright and flavorful dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes. The pork chops are juicy, with a tangy citrus glaze that adds a fresh twist. The glaze brings a zesty balance to the rich flavor of the pork, making it a refreshing dinner option. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner is a simple and flavorful meal that’s ready in 35 minutes. The pork is seasoned with garlic and black pepper, then roasted with vegetables in one pan. The result is a dish that’s rich in flavor and easy to prepare. It’s a great choice for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

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