Here is a lifesaving list of 17 kid-friendly family meals that will be a hit with everyone—from mom and dad right down to the kiddos who think “fine dining” is a plate full of chicken nuggets.
![Piece of chicken and waffle casserole on a plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/chicken-and-waffles-1270049.jpg)
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken
![Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken on a white plate on rice topped with parsley.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/slow-cooker-msn-8.jpg)
This dish brings together tender chicken and a rich, creamy sauce, making it an instant family favorite. The slow-cooked method ensures flavors meld perfectly, enticing even the most skeptical little eaters to dive in.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken
Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
![Pieces of chicken on a plate of spaghetti.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/air-fryer-chicken-parmesan-1180435-1200x901-1.jpeg)
With its golden crust and melted cheese, this air-fried delight offers all the allure of a restaurant dish at home. Even picky kids can’t resist the crispy chicken paired with tangy marinara.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
![A bowl of macaroni and cheese in front of a slow cooker.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/crock-pot-mac-and-cheese-10.jpg)
Classic, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting, this slow-cooked mac and cheese offers a smooth and creamy texture that kids adore. It’s a nostalgic dish that promises to win over even the fussiest of palates.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Taco Rice Skillet
![Closeup of a skillet with ground beef, cheese and tomatoes.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/taco-rice-skillet-1040626.jpg)
Combining the zest of tacos with the heartiness of rice, this skillet dish makes every bite a flavorful adventure. It’s a playful twist on traditional taco night that will have youngsters eager to dig in.
Get the Recipe: Taco Rice Skillet
Air Fryer Burgers
![Burger on a bun topped with cheese, tomato, onion and bacon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/air-fryer-burgers-1140243.jpg)
Juicy on the inside with a slight outer crunch, these burgers are air-fryer magic. They capture the classic burger experience, ensuring both kids and adults come running when they’re ready.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Burgers
Air Fryer Ham Steak with Pineapple
![Slice of ham steak with pineapples on top on a plate with asparagus.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/air-fryer-ham-steak-1230683.jpg)
The sweet pineapple glaze adds a delightful twist to the savory ham steak, achieving a balance that’s hard to resist. It’s an enticing combination that might just make a fruit lover out of any kid.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Ham Steak with Pineapple
Homemade Pizza
![Pizza in basket of the air fryer.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/air-fryer-pizza-2190042-Copy-edited.jpg)
Let’s be real; who can resist
Get the Recipe: Homemade Pizza
Chicken and Waffle Casserole
![Piece of chicken and waffle casserole on a plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/chicken-and-waffles-1270049.jpg)
Marrying the sweet charm of waffles with savory chicken makes this casserole a standout. It’s a dish that turns mealtime into a delightful surprise, capturing kids’ curiosity and their appetites.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Waffle Casserole
Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs
![Three bacon wrapped hot dogs in buns topped with cheese and onions.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/air-fryer-bacon-wrapped-hot-dogs-20681-1.jpg)
Elevating the humble hot dog with a crispy bacon wrapping promises an explosion of flavor in every bite. The savory combo is bound to be a hit, getting two thumbs up from kids with even the most discerning tastes.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs
Chick-fil-a Tortilla Soup
![Mexican chicken tortilla soup in a white bowl.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/chick-fil-a-tortilla-soup-2-1024x576.jpg)
This soup brings a hint of restaurant-style flair right to your kitchen. Its blend of hearty ingredients and familiar flavors ensures it’s a dish kids will eagerly scoop up.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-a Tortilla Soup
Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs
![Plate of spaghetti and meatballs topped with parmesan.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/instant-pot-spaghetti-7560.jpg)
Nothing says comfort quite like a classic plate of spaghetti and meatballs. Prepared in the Instant Pot, it guarantees a quick, flavorful dish that’s bound to have young ones asking for more.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs
Air Fryer Pancakes
![Air fryer pancakes on a plate with butter.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/air-fryer-pancakes-14-of-16.jpg)
Imagine getting pancakes with a slightly crispy edge every time! Thanks to the air fryer, these fluffy wonders are consistently delightful, making breakfast-for-dinner an event kids look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pancakes
Frozen Chicken Tenders
![Air fryer frozen chicken finger on a plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/air-fryer-frozen-chicken-tenders-1150527-1200x901-1.jpg)
These aren’t just any chicken tenders; they’re perfectly crispy and deliciously juicy. They serve as a hassle-free, kid-approved meal for those busy nights when you need a quick solution.
Get the Recipe: Frozen Chicken Tenders
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken
![Chicken drumsticks and thighs coated with BBQ sauce on a wooden cutting board with herbs.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/air-fryer-bbq-chicken.jpg)
With its tangy glaze and juicy meat, this BBQ chicken offers all the outdoor grilling flavors without the fuss. Kids are sure to love the familiar taste and parents will love the convenience.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken
Crock Pot Ramen
![Top view of slow cooker chicken ramen in the Crock Pot.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/slow-cooker-ramen-10.jpg)
This dish is a warm, cozy hug in a bowl! The slow-cooked broth and noodles provide a comforting base that’s sure to intrigue even the pickiest little taste buds.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Ramen
Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken
![Slow cooker chicken with BBQ sauce in a crock pot with a spoon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/slow-cooker-msn-6.jpg)
Tender, flavorful, and versatile, this pulled chicken is a game-changer. It’s a hit for family dinners and versatile enough to be incorporated into various kid-friendly dishes.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken
Air Fryer Chicken Legs
![Four chicken drumsticks with parsley on a plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/air-fryer-drumsticks.jpg)
The crispy exterior and juicy interior of these chicken legs are downright irresistible. Prepared in the air fryer, they ensure a healthier twist on a beloved classic that kids adore.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs
Air Fryer Meatballs
![Plate of frozen meatballs with toothpicks sticking out of them.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/meatballs-1150072.jpg)
These meatballs boast a perfectly seared outside with a juicy middle, capturing the essence of ideal meatball texture. Their bite-sized nature and delectable taste are kid magnets!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Meatballs
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs
![Slow cooker bbq chicken legs in the crock pot after cooking.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/slow-cooker-chicken-legs-14-3.jpg)
Imagine the flavors of a summer BBQ infused into tender chicken legs. Slow-cooked to perfection, these are sure to be a hit at family dinners, with kids reaching for seconds and thirds.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs