17 dinners that are a must in any kitchen

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Think of never worrying about what to make for dinner with these 17 essential meals. They cover all the bases, from quick weeknight dinners to slow-cooked favorites. Each dish is easy to make, with ingredients you probably already have. They’re perfect for when you want something reliable and tasty without the fuss. No matter your cooking skill, these meals are a must in the kitchen.

Slow cooker pot roast with mushrooms and carrots garnished with fresh rosemary.
Slow Cooker Pot Roast. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chick-fil-A Nuggets

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

These nuggets offer the classic taste of Chick-fil-A right in your own kitchen. Chick-fil-A Nuggets are tender, juicy, and perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces. They’re a crowd-pleaser for a quick lunch or a party snack. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
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.

Cowboy Casserole is ideal for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. This dish is a hearty combination of flavors, perfect for a cozy dinner. The ingredients are simple, making it a budget-friendly option. It’s a versatile addition to any meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Casserole

Easy Chicken Tenders

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

Simple ingredients and easy preparation mean you can have them ready in no time. These chicken tenders are a quick and delicious meal option. Easy Chicken Tenders are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a favorite for both kids and adults.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Tenders

Best Oven Baked Ribs

Grilled ribs garnished with herbs and served with a side of sauce and onions.
Best Oven Baked Ribs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Perfect for a family dinner or a backyard gathering. Best Oven Baked Ribs are tender and fall-off-the-bone delicious, with a rich, savory flavor. Baking them in the oven makes them a fuss-free option for any occasion. Simple and minimal prep makes these ribs a must-try.
Get the Recipe: Best Oven Baked Ribs

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Baked rice casserole with melted cheese on top, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Great for busy nights with minimal effort. Chicken and Rice Casserole is a one-dish wonder, combining satisfying elements into a wholesome meal. The ingredients are straightforward, making it a reliable go-to recipe. Perfect for leftovers and practical meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Casserole

Taco Salad Cups

Mexican taco salad cups on a plate.
Taco Salad Cups. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

They’re perfect for parties, family dinners, or a quick lunch. These taco salad cups are a fun and easy way to enjoy all the flavors of a taco in a convenient, bite-sized format. Easy to make and even easier to eat, they’re a hit with everyone.
Get the Recipe: Taco Salad Cups

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Roasted air fryer whole chicken served on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Air Fryer Whole Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This air fryer whole chicken is a game-changer. Providing a juicy and flavorful meal with minimal effort, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional roasting. Perfect for a family dinner, it’s ready in a fraction of the time it would take in the oven.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whole Chicken

KFC Zinger Burger

A chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and sauce on a bun, with fries in the background.
KFC Zinger Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

The flavors are bold and the preparation is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for a quick meal. This burger brings the iconic KFC Zinger experience to your home. With spicy, crispy chicken and all the classic fixings, it’s perfect for satisfying fast-food cravings.
Get the Recipe: KFC Zinger Burger

Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

A bowl of creamy chicken pasta garnished with herbs, served with a side of rice and a small bowl of fresh parsley.
Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Simple and easy to throw together in a pinch, it’s perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals. This pasta dish combines the bold flavors of chipotle with tender chicken. It’s a great option for a weeknight dinner, offering a tasty twist on traditional pasta.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Slow cooker pot roast with mushrooms and carrots garnished with fresh rosemary.
Slow Cooker Pot Roast. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Perfect for a hearty family dinner or entertaining guests. This pot roast is the epitome of comfort food. Slow Cooker Pot Roast is slow-cooked to perfection with tender beef and flavorful vegetables. It’s ideal for busy days, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Chettinad Chicken

A bowl of Chettinad Chicken Curry garnished with fresh cilantro, displaying chunks of chicken and spices in a rich, creamy sauce.
Chettinad Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Ideal for serving with rice or bread, it’s a must-try for any curry lover. This dish is a flavorful Indian curry with a rich blend of spices. Chettinad Chicken is perfect for those who enjoy bold, aromatic meals. It’s a great way to spice up your dinner routine with something different.
Get the Recipe: Chettinad Chicken

Asian Style Pork Chops

Close-up of sliced grilled pork belly garnished with sesame seeds and green chili, served on a bed of kale.
Asian Style Pork Chops. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. These pork chops are marinated in a flavorful Asian-inspired sauce. They’re quick to cook and pair well with a variety of sides. The ingredients are simple, and the result is a deliciously tender and juicy dish.
Get the Recipe: Asian Style Pork Chops

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Glazed barbecued chicken drumsticks on a white plate.
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

These drumsticks are a fantastic option for a quick and flavorful dinner. With a smoky BBQ taste that’s hard to beat, they’re perfect for a family meal or a casual get-together. The air fryer makes them crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Kolhapuri Lamb

Lamb Kolhapur in a bowl, topped with dried red chilies and fried onions.
Kolhapuri Lamb. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Kolhapuri Lamb is a traditional Indian recipe known for its rich, spicy flavors and tender meat. It’s perfect for a special dinner or when you want to impress with something different. The spices create a complex and delicious taste that pairs well with rice or naan.
Get the Recipe: Kolhapuri Lamb

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.

This pot pie is a classic comfort food. With a flaky crust and a rich, savory filling of chicken and vegetables, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner on a cold night. The ingredients are straightforward, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Close-up of a pulled pork sandwich with pickles and red cabbage on a bun, held in hand, with chips in the background.
Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re a crowd-pleaser. These sliders are a delicious blend of sweet and savory. With tender pulled pork and a touch of pineapple, they’re perfect for parties, game days, or a fun family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

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.

This korma is a creamy and mildly spiced dish. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner, ideal for those who enjoy flavorful yet gentle curries. The ingredients are simple, making it a straightforward recipe to follow. Serve it with rice or bread for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Korma

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