30 dinner recipes so quick, you’ll forget you cooked

Photo of author

| Published:

If you’re looking for dinner ideas that come together in no time without sacrificing flavor, you’re in the right place. These quick recipes are perfect for those evenings when you’re short on time but still want a satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your whole family, these easy dishes will make dinner feel effortless, so you can spend more time relaxing and less time in the kitchen.

Alfredo steak pasta in skillet with wooden spoon.
Alfredo Steak Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

A piece of air fried chicken thigh on a fork, with a caramelized exterior and garnished with a small leaf, in focus against a blurred background of more chicken pieces.
Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These juicy chicken thighs with a crispy finish are made effortlessly in the air fryer. They provide a great option for a quick and flavorful dinner with minimal cleanup. The air fryer ensures even cooking without much effort, making it a convenient choice for busy nights. It’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect when you need something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. This recipe is ideal for simple, fuss-free weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

Creamy Chicken Curry

Chicken curry with rice.
Creamy Chicken Curry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This creamy chicken curry is a flavorful, one-pan dish that’s quick to prepare. The rich sauce and tender chicken make for a comforting meal that feels like it took more effort than it did. It’s easy to customize with what you have on hand, so you can adapt it to your taste. This dish requires minimal preparation and offers maximum flavor. It’s a great dinner option when you need something hearty but easy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Curry

Mexican Steak Pizza

Close-up of a cheesy Mexican steak pizza on a wooden spatula.
Mexican Steak Pizza. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This Mexican steak pizza combines tender steak with your favorite Mexican flavors on a crispy crust. It’s a simple meal that delivers bold, satisfying flavors in no time. The easy-to-make ingredients come together effortlessly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. You’ll love how quickly this pizza comes together and how satisfying it is. It’s a great option for those who want something different but don’t want to spend much time preparing it.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Steak Pizza

Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables

Baked salmon fillet with asparagus, zucchini, and bell peppers on a white plate, garnished with herbs.
Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This sheet pan meal combines tender salmon with roasted vegetables for a quick and healthy dinner. Cooking everything together on one pan means minimal cleanup and less effort. It’s a light yet satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and easy to prepare. The combination of flavors makes for a delicious meal without the need for complicated steps. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a simple dinner that feels wholesome.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables

Beef Quesadillas

A stack of quesadillas filled with cheese and steak served with a side of red salsa on a white plate.
Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These beef quesadillas are a quick and hearty dinner option that’s simple to prepare. With flavorful beef, cheese, and spices, they’re grilled to crispy perfection for a satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect when you want a comforting meal without spending much time in the kitchen. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that works for any night of the week. The minimal prep makes it ideal for a fast, filling dinner.
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

Shrimp Scampi

A plate with shrimp and bread on it.
Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp scampi is a flavorful dish featuring tender shrimp in a garlic butter sauce. It’s perfect for a quick dinner that feels indulgent without the hassle of lengthy prep. The shrimp cook up quickly, making it a great choice for when you want something rich and satisfying with minimal work. Pair it with a side of pasta or a salad for a complete meal. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that will leave everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Panko Crusted Cod

Panko-crusted cod fish on a plate with green beans.
Panko Crusted Cod. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These panko-crusted cod fillets have a crispy, golden exterior with a tender interior, making them a perfect quick dinner. The crunchy coating adds a satisfying texture without the need for frying. This recipe is an easy choice when you want something simple and flavorful. The minimal prep and simple ingredients make it a go-to for busy nights. It’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for families.
Get the Recipe: Panko Crusted Cod

Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

A grilled chicken thight with barbecue sauce and a side of green beans on a white plate, garnished with chopped parsley.
Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These grilled BBQ chicken thighs bring together smoky flavor and tender meat for a satisfying dinner. The BBQ sauce adds a tangy, sweet layer of flavor that enhances the chicken’s natural richness. It’s an easy, no-fuss recipe that works for both casual weeknights and family meals. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare and how quickly it comes together. Perfect for anyone craving a flavorful, effortless dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Shrimp and broccoli stir-fry in a bowl.
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This shrimp and broccoli stir-fry is a quick, flavorful dish with tender shrimp and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. The combination of ingredients creates a satisfying meal without the need for extensive prep. It’s a great choice for busy nights when you want something healthy but still full of flavor. The easy-to-make stir-fry comes together effortlessly, making it a weeknight favorite. This dish is a quick way to get a wholesome meal on the table.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

Roasted broccoli and tofu cubes garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, served with a wooden spoon.
Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This broccoli tofu stir-fry offers crispy tofu and tender broccoli in a light, savory sauce. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s easy to customize with what you have in your pantry. The stir-fry is a perfect choice when you want something healthy and flavorful with minimal effort. The flavors come together easily, making this dish a great option for busy nights. It’s a filling meal that’s simple to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt

A sandwich with avocado, chicken and cheese on a plate.
Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This chicken avocado melt is a flavorful, simple dinner that combines tender chicken with creamy avocado and melted cheese. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that everyone will love, and it’s easy to prepare with just a few ingredients. This melt is perfect for when you want something filling but don’t have much time to spend on dinner. The combination of flavors is both comforting and light, making it ideal for any night of the week. It’s a no-fuss dish that feels like a treat.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Fried chicken tenders on a plate with dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These air fryer chicken tenders are crispy and golden on the outside while staying juicy on the inside. They’re the perfect option for a quick and easy dinner that everyone will enjoy. The air fryer makes them crispy without extra oil, and they’re ready in no time. It’s a simple dish that works for any occasion, whether you’re feeding kids or adults. Minimal prep and maximum flavor make these tenders a go-to for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Panko Chicken Breast

Panko chicken on a white plate.
Panko Chicken Breast. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These panko-coated chicken breasts are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a satisfying, simple meal. The crunchy coating adds a layer of texture that makes this dish both easy and flavorful. It’s an effortless recipe that’s perfect for busy evenings when you don’t want to spend much time in the kitchen. The simple ingredients and minimal prep make this an ideal dinner choice. This dish pairs well with any side, making it a versatile weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Panko Chicken Breast

Wet Burrito

Chicken wet burrito with salsa and sour cream on a white plate.
Wet Burrito. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This wet burrito is a hearty and flavorful dish with layers of seasoned beef, beans, and cheese, topped with a savory sauce. It’s a comforting, filling meal that’s easy to prepare with just a few ingredients. This recipe is great for busy nights when you want something substantial without a lot of effort. The combination of flavors and the ease of preparation make it a weeknight favorite. It’s a great choice for when you want a satisfying meal that doesn’t take long to make.
Get the Recipe: Wet Burrito

Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Three pieces of bacon-wrapped salmon bites garnished with parsley on a white plate.
Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Bacon-wrapped salmon bites offer a perfect balance of smoky bacon and tender salmon in every bite. These bites are a simple and quick dinner option that brings together two crowd-pleasing flavors. They’re a great way to enjoy salmon with minimal preparation. This dish works well for any night of the week when you want something that feels special but doesn’t require much effort. Perfect for those busy nights when you still want to impress with your meal.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Salmon Pasta Alfredo

Salmon pasta Alfredo served on a white plate with lemon.
Salmon Pasta Alfredo. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This creamy salmon pasta Alfredo combines rich salmon with a creamy sauce for a comforting, filling meal. It’s an easy recipe that brings together the best of both worlds, offering something both hearty and simple to make. The flavors are rich and satisfying, making it a perfect choice when you want a quick dinner that still feels indulgent. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables. It’s an effortless recipe that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Alfredo

Air Fryer Tuna Melt

A grilled cheese tuna sandwich is cut in half on a plate.
Air Fryer Tuna Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This air fryer tuna melt is a quick and easy option when you want a warm, comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The crispy bread and melted cheese make this dish feel indulgent, while the air fryer ensures it’s done in no time. It’s a simple and satisfying choice for dinner when you’re craving something cheesy and filling. You’ll enjoy how effortlessly the ingredients come together. This recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you want a comforting meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Melt

Alfredo Steak Pasta

Alfredo steak pasta in skillet with wooden spoon.
Alfredo Steak Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Alfredo steak pasta combines tender steak with a creamy Alfredo sauce and pasta for a hearty and flavorful dish. The richness of the sauce and the savory steak make this a go-to for a filling dinner without needing hours in the kitchen. It’s a straightforward meal that offers maximum flavor with little prep. This dish is perfect for when you want something comforting and quick. It’s an easy, no-fuss option for a busy evening.
Get the Recipe: Alfredo Steak Pasta

Ground Pork Stir Fry

A plate with ground pork and vegetables on top of cauliflower rice.
Ground Pork Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Ground pork stir fry is a quick and versatile meal that comes together with ease. The ground pork cooks quickly, making it a perfect weeknight option when you want something flavorful and filling without much effort. This stir fry is easy to customize with any veggies you have on hand, making it adaptable to your taste. It’s a great choice for a fast dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The simplicity of the recipe ensures it’s perfect for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Stir Fry

Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

A skillet containing a stir-fried mix of ground meat, sliced bell peppers, leafy greens, and white sesame seeds, with a wooden spoon resting on the side. Plates with flatbreads are in the background.
Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Ground beef and cabbage skillet is an easy one-pan meal that brings together savory beef and tender cabbage for a quick, satisfying dinner. It’s the kind of dish that’s simple to throw together but still hearty and full of flavor. With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, it’s perfect for when you need a wholesome meal without the fuss. This dish is a great option for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet filling. It’s a no-hassle recipe that will have everyone eating in no time.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Korean Beef and Broccoli

Ground Beef and Broccoli stir-fry over rice.
Korean Beef and Broccoli. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Korean beef and broccoli is a flavorful, easy dish that pairs tender beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. This stir-fry comes together quickly, offering a satisfying meal without a lot of preparation. The savory sauce and tender beef make this a great choice for a filling dinner when you’re short on time. The balance of flavors makes it a perfect meal for busy evenings. It’s an easy-to-make dish that feels like a treat, yet doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Korean Beef and Broccoli

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

A bowl of shrimp pasta with lemon and parsley.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Garlic butter shrimp pasta is a rich and flavorful meal with succulent shrimp in a creamy garlic butter sauce. It’s an easy dinner option that feels indulgent but requires minimal effort to prepare. The shrimp cook quickly, making it a great choice for busy nights when you want something delicious without a lot of prep. Pair it with your favorite pasta for a comforting meal that’s ready in no time. This recipe is perfect when you want to impress without spending hours cooking.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Baked Lemon Butter Fish

Baked lemon butter fish fillet seasoned with herbs and spices, garnished with lemon slices and chopped parsley,.
Baked Lemon Butter Fish. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Baked lemon butter fish is a quick and healthy meal that’s packed with flavor. The lemon butter sauce keeps the fish moist and adds a bright, fresh flavor that’s perfect for a light yet satisfying dinner. This dish requires minimal prep and is easy to make, making it a great choice for when you want something delicious without a lot of work. It’s a go-to recipe for busy nights when you want something fresh and flavorful. The simple ingredients and easy method make it perfect for any weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Baked Lemon Butter Fish

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Grilled shrimp skewers with red and green bell peppers, served with lemon wedges and a dipping sauce on a white plate.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Grilled shrimp skewers are a quick, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare. The shrimp cook quickly, making this a perfect dinner option when you need something satisfying but don’t have a lot of time. The smoky grilled flavor adds an extra layer of depth, making these skewers a crowd-pleaser. This dish is simple to prepare and pairs well with a variety of sides. It’s an ideal choice for busy evenings when you want a tasty meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

A bowl of pasta with shrimp and tomatoes.
Shrimp and Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp and tomato pasta is a quick, flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with fresh tomatoes and pasta. It’s a light yet filling meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. The simple ingredients come together to create a satisfying meal that doesn’t take long to make. This recipe is great for busy nights when you want something healthy but still full of flavor. It’s a straightforward dish that feels comforting without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

Chicken Nuggets

Hand dipping a chicken nugget into a bowl of ketchup, with a gray cloth background.
Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These crispy chicken nuggets are a perfect option when you want something quick and easy. Made with simple ingredients, they’re a great choice for dinner when you’re short on time but still craving something satisfying. The crispy coating and juicy chicken inside make them a family favorite. You can easily pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or side for a complete meal. It’s a go-to recipe for busy nights when you want something both simple and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

Bowl of black pepper chicken with chop sticks.
Chinese Black Pepper Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chinese black pepper chicken is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a savory black pepper sauce. It’s a quick meal that packs a punch with bold, spicy flavors. The simple stir-fry method ensures that this dish is ready in no time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. You can serve it with rice or veggies for a complete meal. This recipe is an easy way to enjoy bold flavors without a lot of time spent in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Serving of buffalo chicken pasta bake with casserole dish.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Buffalo chicken pasta bake combines tender chicken, pasta, and a tangy buffalo sauce for a filling and flavorful meal. It’s an easy dish that comes together quickly and is sure to be a hit with the whole family. The buffalo sauce adds a spicy kick, while the creamy cheese balances the flavors perfectly. This recipe is ideal for when you want something hearty but don’t have a lot of time to prepare it. It’s a simple, no-fuss dish that feels like a treat.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce

A plate with steak, tomatoes and cucumbers on it.
Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Steak and mushrooms with balsamic sauce is a quick and flavorful meal that brings together tender steak and savory mushrooms in a rich sauce. The balsamic glaze adds depth and complexity to the dish, making it feel like you spent hours in the kitchen, even though it’s easy to prepare. This recipe is perfect for a filling, hearty dinner that doesn’t require much effort. It’s a great choice for busy nights when you want something satisfying and full of flavor. The combination of steak and mushrooms makes it a classic, no-fuss meal.
Get the Recipe: Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce

Honey Butter Fried Chicken

Serving of honey butter chicken garnished with parsley on plate.
Honey Butter Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Honey butter fried chicken is a crispy, sweet, and savory dish that comes together with minimal effort. The honey butter adds a sweet finish that complements the crispy coating, making it a comforting and flavorful meal. It’s a perfect option for busy nights when you want something indulgent yet easy to prepare. The simplicity of the recipe makes it a quick go-to dinner for any night of the week. This fried chicken is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a crispy, flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Honey Butter Fried Chicken

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.