Instant favorites: 17 dinner recipes to love

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Ready to shake up dinner time? These 17 dinner recipes are sure to become instant favorites. They’re simple to make and packed with flavor, perfect for those busy nights when you need something delicious on the table fast. Each dish brings something unique, making every meal a little adventure. These recipes are so good, they’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

A serving of chicken tamale pie topped with a dollop of sour cream and garnished with chopped herbs on a white plate.
Chicken Tamale Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken breast slices served over a bed of greens with lemon wedges on the side.
Chipotle Grilled Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who says you need to wait for the BBQ season to enjoy some grilled goodness? With a slight kick that keeps things interesting, this dish is a crowd-pleaser at any table. Chipotle Grilled Chicken brings the heat and the flavor, making it a go-to for those evenings when you want something quick yet thoroughly enjoyable. Fire up your grill (or grill pan) and get ready for a meal that promises minimal fuss but maximum taste.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Pasta Carbonara

A close-up image of spaghetti carbonara topped with grated cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
Pasta Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of pasta, and when you’re in the mood for creamy goodness, look no further. Pasta Carbonara is a classic that combines simplicity with utter deliciousness, perfect for those nights when you want a cozy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish does wonders with just a few ingredients, proving that sometimes, less really is more.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Golden fried chicken pieces with a side of dipping sauce.
Chick-fil-A Nuggets. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Craving something crispy, tender, and downright delicious? These bite-sized treats are a homemade twist on a fast-food favorite, bringing the joy of Chick-fil-A Nuggets right into your kitchen. Perfect for gatherings or a family-friendly meal, they’re a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, making them at home allows you to enjoy a beloved treat anytime the craving strikes.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Cowboy Casserole

Close-up of a cowboy casserole in a white dish, showing layers of ground meat and vegetables topped with a golden-brown mashed potato crust, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cowboy Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re all about hearty meals that leave everyone at the table full and happy, then this is your next dinner winner. Cowboy Casserole layers flavors and textures in a way that’s both simple and satisfying, making it ideal for those busy weeknights. It’s a dish that combines a handful of ingredients in one pot, proving that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Just serve and watch it disappear!
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Casserole

Chicken Pot Pie

A slice of chicken pot pie being lifted, showing its creamy filling with chunks of chicken and vegetables, garnished with thyme.
Chicken Pot Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes, all you want is a bit of nostalgia on your plate, and what better way to satisfy that craving than with a classic Chicken Pot Pie? It’s the ultimate comfort dish, featuring a golden, flaky crust with a warm, savory filling. This recipe is perfect for those colder evenings when you’re in need of a little warmth from the inside out. And despite its homely feel, it brings a sense of elegance to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

Best Lemon Pasta

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Best Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those days when you’re craving something light yet satisfying, turn your attention to a dish that shines with simplicity. Best Lemon Pasta is a refreshing take on pasta that will awaken your palate. It’s a fantastic option for a quick dinner that feels special without all the extra effort. Bright, creamy, and inviting, it will surely become a favorite in your weeknight rotation.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

A bowl of white rice topped with glazed chicken and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ever wish you could recreate your favorite takeout at home? With this recipe, you get all the mouthwatering flavors of Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken without leaving your house. It’s easier than you might think, and it’s a surefire hit with anyone who loves a good balance of sweet and savory. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Beef Tacos

Three beef tacos filled with ground meat, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheese, and sliced red onions.
Beef Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Taco night just got a whole lot better! Bring the flavor of your favorite Mexican restaurant home with these easy-to-make Beef Tacos. They’re not only delicious but also customizable with your favorite toppings, making them perfect for a fun family dinner. Load them up, and don’t forget the guacamole for a taco Tuesday (or any day) feast that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tacos

Easy Chicken Tenders

Breaded chicken tenders served on a plate with dipping sauce.
Easy Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who doesn’t love chicken tenders? This recipe takes you back to your childhood but with a homemade twist. Easy Chicken Tenders are not only simple to make but also deliciously crispy, making them a sure-hit whether you’re 8 or 80. Serve them up with your favorite dipping sauces for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Tenders

Pasta Primavera

A colorful Pasta Primavera salad with cherry tomatoes, asparagus, peas, and spinach in a blue bowl.
Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Looking for a way to get your veggies in without compromising on taste? Pasta Primavera is packed with fresh vegetables and comes together in a snap, making it the perfect meatless Monday option. It’s bright, colorful, and flavorful, showing off the best of what your produce aisle offers. Plus, it’s a great way to bring some spring to your table, no matter the season.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Chicken Korma

A bowl of Chicken Korma garnished with herbs and sliced almonds, served with a spoon on the side.
Chicken Korma. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

If you’re in the mood for something rich, creamy, and full of flavor, then you’re in for a treat. Chicken Korma is a beloved dish for a reason, offering a taste of India that’s both exotic and familiar. It’s perfect for when you want to spice up your dinner routine without going too far out of your comfort zone. Plus, it’s a lot easier to make than you might think, bringing complex flavors right to your dinner table with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Korma

Easy Meatloaf Recipe

A close-up of a savory meatloaf slice topped with a glossy sauce. The hearty meatloaf reveals visible chunks of vegetables like carrots and celery.
Easy Meatloaf Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you think of classic American comfort food, meatloaf has to be near the top of the list. This Easy Meatloaf Recipe sticks to the basics, delivering a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for a hearty meal. It’s the kind of dinner that feels like a hug from the inside, especially when paired with mashed potatoes and gravy. Whether you’re a meatloaf lover or looking to convert, this recipe won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Kung Pao Chicken

A close-up of a stir-fry dish featuring pieces of chicken, snap peas, red bell peppers, scallions, and black sesame seeds.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ready for a little spice in your life? Kung Pao Chicken brings the perfect amount of heat and a whole lot of flavor, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to kick their dinner up a notch. It combines a few ingredients in a way that’s both simple and utterly unforgettable. Plus, it’s a great way to bring excitement to your weeknight meals without hassle.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Lamb Rogan Josh

A bowl of Lamb Rogan Josh, garnished with cilantro and served in a decorative brass dish.
Lamb Rogan Josh. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

If you’re looking to impress with something a bit more exotic, then you’ve got to try your hand at this. Lamb Rogan Josh is a rich, aromatic dish that’s steeped in history and flavor, offering a little adventure right from your kitchen. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in, especially when you want something a bit different from the usual fare. Serve it with some naan or rice, and you’ve got a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Rogan Josh

Chicken Tamale Pie

A serving of chicken tamale pie topped with a dollop of sour cream and garnished with chopped herbs on a white plate.
Chicken Tamale Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Yearning for the comfort of tamales but not the work that comes with them? Chicken Tamale Pie takes all the beloved flavors of traditional tamales and wraps them up into an easy, oven-baked dish. It’s a fusion of flavors that brings a touch of Mexican cuisine to your dinner table without the added complexity. This weeknight wonder pie offers a unique twist on classic comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tamale Pie

Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot

A bowl of Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot, served on a blue woven placemat with a spoon on the side.
Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Have you ever wondered if your Instant Pot can take you to flavor town? With Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot, the answer is a resounding yes. This dish is all about big flavors with minimal effort, combining creamy coconut, tender shrimp, and a blend of spices that will have everyone asking for more. It’s a quick, delicious option for when time is tight but you’re craving something with a bit more zing.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot

Copycat Smash Burger

Close-up of a copycat smash burger with lettuce, tomato, and a thick beef patty on a sesame seed bun.
Copycat Smash Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Missing your favorite burger joint? With Copycat Smash Burger, you can bring that juicy, crispy-edged wonder to your own kitchen. It’s surprisingly simple to recreate, offering up that irresistible burger goodness whenever the craving hits. Perfect for a casual dinner or hosting a group, it’s a foolproof way to satisfy those fast food desires with a homemade touch.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger

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