21 quick dinners that make relaxing after work a reality

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After a long day, finding time to relax can feel impossible when dinner plans are up in the air. These 21 quick dinner recipes are the solution to making your evenings stress-free while still serving up satisfying meals. They’re designed to help you focus on what matters most—unwinding after work—with meals that come together effortlessly and leave everyone happy.

A fork lifting a portion of cooked noodles with vegetables from a pan, with a bowl of chopped green onions in the background.
Spicy Garlic Beef Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

A close-up of a hand using chopsticks to lift cooked noodles from a black pan. The noodles are mixed with vegetables and sauce. A small dish is visible in the background.
Garlic Chili Oil Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

After a long day at work, nothing beats a dish that’s both simple and packed with flavor, like Garlic Chili Oil Noodles. This recipe promises a comforting warmth perfect for relaxing evenings. It’s quick to prepare, ensuring you have more time to unwind. Each bite brings a comforting spice that’s just right for those cooler nights.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Hoisin Beef

A white bowl with rice and hoisin ground beef and chopsticks on the side.
Hoisin Beef. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re in the mood for a savory dish that combines ease with mouth-watering tastes, Hoisin Beef is your go-to meal. It cooks in no time and offers a fulfilling dinner option. Ideal for when you’re looking to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal in peace. With this dish, winding down after work becomes a part of your daily routine.
Get the Recipe: Hoisin Beef

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake is the epitome of comfort food without the hassle. This dish is a dream come true for those seeking a heartwarming meal to end their day. It’s straightforward, with a cooking process that’s as relaxing as the meal itself. Enjoy a cozy night with this creamy treat, letting the smooth flavors guide you into a peaceful evening.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Beef Bulgogi Bowls

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

For a dinner that brings together simplicity and deliciousness, Beef Bulgogi Bowls are unbeatable. This meal turns an ordinary night into a special occasion without any fuss. It’s fast to whip up, giving you more time to settle in for the evening. Let each bite take you on a much-needed escape after a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

You can transform your dinner into a no-stress sanctuary of flavor with Creamy Tuscan Chicken. This dish is about bringing a slice of culinary joy to your weekday evenings, without complicating things. It’s creamy, comforting, and ready before you know it. End your day on a high note with this soothing, easy-to-make recipe.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Bombay Sandwiches

Bombay Sandwiches layered with potato, tomato, cucumbers, and an herb chutney sauce.
Bombay Sandwiches. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bombay Sandwiches offer a refreshing twist on dinner that’s as easy as it is delicious. This recipe is ideal for those nights when you crave something different but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. A few simple steps, and you’ll be biting into a meal that’s sure to brighten your evening. These sandwiches are about making dinner an enjoyable, stress-free affair.
Get the Recipe: Bombay Sandwiches

Salmon and Asparagus Quiche

Salmon and asparagus quiche on a metal plate with parchment paper.
Salmon and Asparagus Quiche. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

When you’re looking for a dish that feels special but is incredibly easy to put together, Salmon and Asparagus Quiche fits the bill. It’s a testament to how a few simple touches can create a meal that’s comforting and fulfilling. Perfect for those cooler evenings when you want something hearty yet effortless. Enjoy this quiche and let its flavors lead you into a tranquil night.
Get the Recipe: Salmon and Asparagus Quiche

Pork Fried Rice

Pork fried rice in a blue and white striped bowl.
Pork Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Pork Fried Rice is the ultimate comfort meal for a hassle-free dinner experience. It combines ease with the satisfying fulfillment of a home-cooked meal. This recipe is all about making the most of your evening, ensuring you’re nourished and content. Dip into this dish for a well-earned break that promises relaxation.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice

Avocado Toast with Grated Egg

Avocado toast on a wooden cutting board.
Avocado Toast with Grated Egg. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

When simplicity meets flavor, Avocado Toast with Grated Egg is the result. This recipe is perfect for those evenings when you want something light yet fulfilling. It’s quick to prepare, leaving you plenty of time for relaxation. Enjoy this wholesome meal as the perfect end to your day.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Toast with Grated Egg

Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Lamb kofta kebabs on a wooden board with  fresh herbs and vegetables.
Lamb Kofta Kebabs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Lamb Kofta Kebabs bring the warmth and spice of a delicious dinner without any of the wait. This meal is about enjoying rich flavors while still keeping things straightforward. It’s quick to prepare, making it the ideal choice for a relaxing night in. Cozy up with these kebabs and let the evening slow down.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Cajun Shrimp and Grits

A bowl of grits topped with cajun shrimp.
Cajun Shrimp and Grits. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a dinner that’s both comforting and quick to make, Cajun Shrimp and Grits offer a warm solution. This meal is a shortcut to a flavorful evening, embracing the joy of hassle-free cooking. It’s all about indulging in good food that brings comfort after a long day. Let this dish whisk you away to a state of relaxation and enjoyment.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Instant Pot Pork Lo Mein

A bowl of stir-fried noodles with beef, carrots, red bell peppers, and greens. Hand using chopsticks to pick up noodles.
Instant Pot Pork Lo Mein. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

Embrace the convenience of Instant Pot Pork Lo Mein for a dinner that’s as effortless as it is fulfilling. This recipe is perfect for those seeking to minimize kitchen time while still enjoying a delicious meal. It’s a friendly companion for your weeknight routine, ensuring a relaxing end to your day. With this dish, you’re just a few easy steps away from a comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Pork Lo Mein

Miso Glazed Salmon

Miso glazed salmon on a plate with rice and spinach.
Miso Glazed Salmon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Miso Glazed Salmon offers a quick, nutritious dinner option that doesn’t compromise on taste. This dish caters to those evenings when you crave something light yet hearty. It’s straightforward, ensuring you have more time to unwind and enjoy your meal. This salmon recipe is your ticket to a soothing, stress-free evening.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Salmon

Shrimp Yaki Udon Noodles

A bowl of shrimp lo mein with noodles, shrimp, and vegetables, topped with green onion slices. Chopsticks are placed on top of the dish. The bowl has a patterned design on the inside rim.
Shrimp Yaki Udon Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

Make whipping up a delicious dinner seem effortless with Shrimp Yaki Udon Noodles. This recipe is all about delivering big flavors without the big fuss, perfect for relaxation after a day’s work. It promises a minimal stress experience in the kitchen, matched with a rewarding meal. Let this dish be your quick escape to a world of flavor and ease.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Yaki Udon Noodles

Chicken Egg Foo Young

Chicken egg foo young on top of rice on a white plate.
Chicken Egg Foo Young. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

If you’re in search of a dinner that’s both comforting and simple to make, Chicken Egg Foo Young is the answer. This meal brings a homey feel to your dining table without any complex cooking steps. It’s all about enjoying the little pleasures of cooking without the stress. Settle into your evening with this easy-going, flavorful dish.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Foo Young

Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Fish tacos on a small baking sheet with limes.
Air Fryer Fish Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Fish Tacos are for those evenings when you want something quick, light, and flavorful. Utilizing an air fryer, this meal reduces cooking time and effort, making it perfect for a laid-back dinner. It’s a no-muss, no-fuss approach to ending your day on a delicious note. Treat yourself to these tacos for a simple yet enjoyable dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Mochiko Chicken

A hand holding a crispy piece of mochiko chicken.
Mochiko Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Enjoy a quick trip to Flavor Town with Mochiko Chicken, a recipe that promises minimum effort and maximum taste. This dish is all about relishing the comforting taste of chicken with a unique twist, perfect for a cozy night in. It requires little preparation time, ensuring you can relax sooner rather than later. Let this meal be the highlight of your relaxing evening routine.
Get the Recipe: Mochiko Chicken

Char Kway Teow

A close-up of stir-fried flat noodles with shrimp, sliced sausage, and vegetables, served on a banana leaf.
Char Kway Teow. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

Prepare to enjoy a dish that’s as easy to make as it is flavorful with Char Kway Teow. This recipe is the perfect answer to your quest for a quick yet fulfilling dinner. It’s designed to be straightforward, allowing you more time to relax and less time worrying about cooking. Enjoy this comforting meal as the perfect accompaniment to a peaceful evening.
Get the Recipe: Char Kway Teow

Blackened Fish Tacos

Blackened fish tacos in taco holders.
Blackened Fish Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Blackened Fish Tacos offer a delicious twist to your dinner routine without any complicated steps. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a quick, flavorful meal to end their day. It’s all about bringing a burst of flavor to your table with minimal effort. Cozy up with these tacos and let your evening unwind in the most delicious way.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Fish Tacos

Spicy Garlic Beef Noodles

A fork lifting a portion of cooked noodles with vegetables from a pan, with a bowl of chopped green onions in the background.
Spicy Garlic Beef Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

For a dinner that’s as fiery as it is quick to prepare, Spicy Garlic Beef Noodles are your go-to. This dish is about enjoying robust flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s designed for those evenings when you crave something warming and full of character. Settle into a comforting evening with this simple yet bold recipe.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Garlic Beef Noodles

Tom Kha Gai

A bowl of soup garnished with cilantro, lime, and chili slices, with a person taking a spoonful.
Tom Kha Gai. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Tom Kha Gai brings the soothing warmth of Thai cuisine right to your dinner table, effortlessly. This meal is all about indulging in a rich, aromatic experience without the lengthy preparation time. It’s perfect for those nights when you need a dose of comfort without any fuss. This dish is a gentle reminder that relaxing dinners can be both easy and incredibly rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Tom Kha Gai

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