Dinner magic: 13 family favorites to keep on rotation

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What is dinner magic? It’s those recipes you make for dinner that aren’t too hard to make. Don’t call for any specialty items. They don’t take a ton of time to put together. And they don’t create a lot of dirty dishes either. But most of all, it’s all about family favorite recipes that bring everyone to the table for dinner. Now, that’s truly where the magic happens.

Cheesy mexican meatballs in a skillet.
Enchilada Meatballs. Photo Credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Crispy Pork Chops

Slicing into a crispy pork chop with thyme on the side.
Crispy Pork Chops. Photo Credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Indulge in the irresistible crunch of our Crispy Pork Chops recipe. Tender and juicy pork chops are coated in a delectable blend of herbs and spices and panko. With every bite, you’ll experience a satisfying crunch that gives way to succulent meat.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Pork Chops

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A cast iron skillet with chicken in a creamy sauce.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo Credit: Little House Big Alaska.

After a busy school day, dive into this easy-to-make creamy garlic chicken. Using minimal ingredients, it cooks up fast and is a hit with both kids and adults. Pair with some quick-cooking rice for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Crispy Chicken Tenders

Crispy chicken tenderloins on a plate with bbq sauce.
Crispy Chicken Tenders. Photo Credit: Little House Big Alaska

School nights call for fuss-free favorites like these crispy chicken tenders. Ready in a flash, they’re perfect for a homework break. Serve with a side salad for a quick, balanced meal.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chicken Tenders

Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Stuffed chicken breasts lined up in a baking dish.
Stuffed Chicken Breast. Photo Credit: Little House Big Alaska.

For those evenings when you want something a tad special without the effort, try stuffed chicken breasts. Prep ahead in the afternoon and pop in the oven after school. Elegant yet efficient.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Chicken Fajita Casserole

Chicken Fajita Casserole with avocado slices on the side.
Chicken Fajita Casserole. Photo Credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Combine the excitement of fajitas with the simplicity of a casserole. Prep your ingredients the night before, and you have a flavorful dinner ready soon after the school bell rings. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want everyone to get to the table even if it’s just for a few minutes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fajita Casserole

Grilled Chicken Tenders

A plate with chicken breasts, tomatoes, and a fork.

Short on time? Got a crew to feed? These grilled chicken tenders come to the rescue. Quickly seasoned and grilled, they’re a healthier, fast alternative that pairs well with any side. Or make them into sandwiches or throw them on salads.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Tenders

Creamy Ranch Chicken

Creamy Ranch Chicken. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

When you need a dinner for everyone in a hurry this creamy ranch chicken is your go-to. Using pantry staples, it’s a heartwarming dish that’s ready quickly. Perfect for rejuvenating after a long school day. Serve it over bread or pasta or potatoes for an easy-to-serve dinner everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ranch Chicken

Mini Meatloaf

Mini Meatloaves on a white platter with sweet potatoes and brussels sprouts behind it.
Mini Meatloaf. Photo Credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Speed up meatloaf night with these mini versions. They cook injust about half the time of a full meatloadand are perfect portion sizes for the kids. A delicious solution to school night hunger. And they make great sandwiches!
Get the Recipe: Mini Meatloaf

Enchilada Meatballs

Cheesy mexican meatballs in a skillet.
Enchilada Meatballs. Photo Credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Blend the ease of meatballs with the flavors of enchiladas for a quick dinner solution. Prep them ahead and you’ve got a school night meal in minutes. Serve with tortillas or a quick salad.
Get the Recipe: Enchilada Meatballs

Chicken Piccata

A skillet with chicken piccata in it on a wooden board on a white back ground.
Chicken Piccata. Photo Credit: Little House Big Alaska.

This zesty chicken dish might sound fancy but is a breeze on busy weeknights. Quick-cooking and vibrant, it’s a refreshing break from routine school night dinners. Pair with steamed veggies for a fast and healthy meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Hearty Turkey Pumpkin Chili

A bowl of chili with avocado and sour cream.
Turkey Pumpkin Chili. Photo Credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Put a spin on regular chili with this turkey and pumpkin version. Ideal for cooler school nights, it’s warming and can be made in bulk for the next day. Serve with some crusty bread for a fulfilling meal.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Turkey Pumpkin Chili

Lasagna Soup

Lasagna Soup in a large orange pot with bowls next to it.
Lasagna Soup. Photo Credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Get the flavors of lasagna without the layering time. This soup version is rich, hearty, and perfect for school nights when time’s tight. Best with a side of garlic toast.
Get the Recipe: Lasagna Soup

Oven BBQ Pork Chops

BBQ Pork Chops in a cast iron frying pan.
Oven BBQ Pork Chops. Photo Credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Easy BBQ pork chops?? YES! Start with a rub, and quickly brown them, and then finish them in the oven. From start to finish they take less time than you would imagine. And when you say dinner is ready, everyone will come running.
Get the Recipe: Oven BBQ Pork Chops

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