17 easy dinners for when you just can’t even (we’ve all been there)

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We’ve all had those nights. You know, the ones where “dinner” feels like a four-letter word, and even cereal seems like too much effort. But fear not because these 17 easy dinners are here to rescue you from the depths of culinary despair. With recipes so simple you can practically make them in your sleep, these meals will have you saying “Dinner is served!” in no time.

A plate of loaded smashed potatoes topped with sour cream, bacon bits, and chopped green chives.
Loaded Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls

Front view of 2 stuffed chicken Crescent rolls on a white plate garnished with parsley.
Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Flaky crescent rolls filled with savory chicken bake to golden perfection – these Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls turn a busy evening into a cozy experience! Ready in under an hour, you can have a delicious meal without the fuss. Quick, easy, and comforting, they’re the perfect dinner when you don’t want to get tied up in the kitchen!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls

Copycat Cracker Barrel Sunday Homestyle Chicken

Fried chicken with mashed potatoes and green beans on a plate with a fork.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Sunday Homestyle Chicken. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Bring Southern comfort home with this Copycat Cracker Barrel Sunday Homestyle Chicken, perfect for nights when you just can’t even (we’ve all been there)! Juicy, crispy chicken captures the essence of home-cooked goodness without requiring hours in the kitchen. Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right in your own home!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Sunday Homestyle Chicken

Sweet Potato Avocado Toast

Plate of sweet potato halves topped with guacamole, chopped tomatoes, and sesame seeds. Halved avocado and chopped tomatoes in the background.
Sweet Potato Avocado Toast. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Feeling burnt out after a crazy long day? This Sweet Potato Avocado Toast is your energy boost! Crispy sweet potato and creamy avocado come together for a quick and easy meal that feels both healthy and satisfying. This fun twist on a classic toast offers a nutritious dinner option with barely any effort!
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Avocado Toast

Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplings

A bowl of chicken and dumplings with a spoon and parsley.
Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplings. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Perfect for those drained days, this Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplings delivers comfort minus the hassle! Fluffy dumplings and juicy chicken simmer together in a hearty broth, creating a meal that feels like a warm embrace. Let the cozy flavors take care of you when you need it most!
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplings

Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Spinach

Chicken breasts stuffed with spinach and dates on a white plate.
Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Spinach. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Dinner shouldn’t be one more thing to worry about! These Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Spinach are a lifesaver. Chicken breasts offer a flavorful surprise with earthy spinach and sweet dates. They’re fancy enough to feel like a treat, but easy enough for hectic weeknights!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Spinach

Jalapeno Poppers Chicken Casserole

A serving spoon scoops into a baked casserole with penne pasta, cheese, jalapeños, and bacon pieces.
Jalapeno Poppers Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Creamy, cheesy, and with a little kick, this Jalapeno Poppers Chicken Casserole is a one-dish meal that takes care of dinner. Just pop it in the oven and forget about it until it’s time to eat. Enjoy a satisfying meal without the stress of cooking!
Get the Recipe: Jalapeno Poppers Chicken Casserole

Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

A white plate with vegan stuffed portobello mushrooms garnished with cherry tomatoes and parsley.
Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Filled with savory goodness, these Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms are surprisingly filling and packed with flavor! Minimal preparation means you can have a nutritious meal with little effort. Even meat lovers will rave about these mushrooms
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Air Fryer Caprese Chicken

Chicken Caprese with tomato and basil on a blue plate.
Air Fryer Caprese Chicken. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Juicy chicken with fresh mozzarella and basil comes together quickly – this Air Fryer Caprese Chicken is your shortcut to Italy! The air fryer does most of the work, so you can relax. Fresh, flavorful, and ready in minutes, it’s a weeknight miracle!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Caprese Chicken

Lentil Quesadillas

Halved lentil quesadillas on a white plate, garnished with fresh herbs, next to a fork.
Lentil Quesadillas. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Tired of the same old dinner? You need a dinner refresh. These Lentil Quesadillas are a must-try! They’re packed with protein, easy to make, and surprisingly delicious. You won’t believe how good something this simple can taste!
Get the Recipe: Lentil Quesadillas

Mushroom Hummus

Hummus with mushrooms and crackers on a white plate.
Mushroom Hummus. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Creamy and flavorful, this Mushroom Hummus comes together in a snap, making it perfect for unwinding with minimal prep! Pair it with some pita or veggies, and you’ve got a dip that feels special with almost no effort. Ideal for relaxing after a long day!
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Hummus

Loaded Smashed Potatoes

A plate of loaded smashed potatoes topped with sour cream, bacon bits, and chopped green chives.
Loaded Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated. These Loaded Smashed Potatoes are pure comfort! Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and loaded with your favorite toppings. This dish is simple to make but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen!
Get the Recipe: Loaded Smashed Potatoes

Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps With Peanut Sauce

Thai chicken lettuce wraps with peanut sauce on a white plate.
Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps With Peanut Sauce. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

These Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce are a refreshing dinner option with an interactive twist! Savory chicken wrapped in crisp lettuce cups with a creamy peanut sauce that’s quick to assemble and fun to eat. This light and tasty meal comes together effortlessly, perfect for those nights when you just can’t be bothered!
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps With Peanut Sauce

Quick Baked Salmon With Mayo

Salmon fillets stacked on a plate with lemons and herbs in the background.
Quick Baked Salmon With Mayo. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Transforming a simple fish dish into a restaurant-worthy meal in under 30 minutes, this Quick Baked Salmon With Mayo is so creamy and perfectly baked! With minimal effort, you can enjoy a special treat that feels luxurious. Let this quick and easy salmon dish take care of dinner for you!
Get the Recipe: Quick Baked Salmon With Mayo

Shrimp Tomato Basil Pasta

A plate of pasta with shrimp, asparagus, tomatoes, and a garnish of fresh herbs. A skillet with more pasta and additional tomatoes and asparagus can be seen in the background.
Shrimp Tomato Basil Pasta. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

When dinner feels like a chore, this Shrimp Tomato Basil Pasta brings a burst of freshness to your evening! Quick, easy, and bursting with Italian flavors, it’s perfect for moments when you’re just not feeling it. No fancy ingredients required!
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tomato Basil Pasta

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Potatoes

A plate with roasted chicken, seasoned baby potatoes, and a lemon wedge.
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Potatoes. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

This Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Potatoes recipe is a hands-off meal, letting your slow cooker handle the work! Tender potatoes with cheesy garlic flavor are ready when you are, making weeknight cooking a breeze. Sit back and enjoy an effortless dinner that’s ready when you need it!
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Potatoes

Slow Cooker Chicken with Greek Yogurt

A plate of shredded chicken and green beans served with a garnish of herbs, accompanied by lemon slices and bowls of food in the background.
Slow Cooker Chicken with Greek Yogurt. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Feeling completely wiped out? Prep and serve this Slow Cooker Chicken with Greek Yogurt in just minutes! Tender chicken smothered in a tangy yogurt sauce cooks slowly to perfection while you go about your day. Let the slow cooker handle dinner so you can relax!
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken with Greek Yogurt

Puff Pastry Cheese Pockets

A plate with puff pastry cheese pockets on it.
Puff Pastry Cheese Pockets. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Dinner shouldn’t be stressful. These Puff Pastry Cheese Pockets are your cheat code! They’re quick, cheesy, and surprisingly satisfying. Perfect for those nights when you just can’t cope with all the fuss!
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Cheese Pockets

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