31 easy recipes to make your family dinners a success every time

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Ditch the dinner drama with these straightforward dishes. These easy recipes are your best friend when it comes to making family dinners stress-free. With everything else going on, you don’t need the extra worry of complicated meals, and these dishes are here to help you serve something great without feeling overwhelmed.

Chicken pot pie soup in a white bowl with a spoon.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

A skillet of creamy sun dried tomato chicken with a wooden spoon.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken is a great choice when you want a family dinner that everyone will love, and it’s super easy. Ready in just 30 minutes, chicken thighs are cooked in a rich, creamy sauce made with Parmesan, heavy cream, and sun-dried tomatoes. The bold flavors and simple prep make this a perfect option when you want something impressive without spending all evening in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach with tomatoes in a pan.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach is a perfect way to get a family dinner on the table fast without sacrificing flavor. In just 30 minutes, you’ve got shrimp mixed with garlic, onions, and a handful of fresh spinach and tomatoes, all mixed into a creamy sauce made with coconut milk. This one-pan meal is perfect for nights when you want a special dish that takes almost no time. Your family will be impressed without you feeling rushed.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Coconut curry Thai turkey meatballs on top of cauliflower rice in a bowl.
Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs pack some serious flavor and are a perfect go-to for making family dinners easy but still interesting. Ground turkey mixed with coconut aminos, curry powder, and a creamy sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a one-pan meal that’s great for busy nights when you want something that feels a little different but doesn’t take all day. These meatballs bring bold flavors to the table, and they’ll make dinner feel like a win without much effort at all.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Chicken Tortellini Soup

A bowl of chicken tortellini soup with vegetables and herbs.
Chicken Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Tortellini Soup is perfect for a hearty, filling meal that doesn’t take too long. Ready in 40 minutes, this one-pot soup is packed with tortellini, chicken, and veggies. It’s a great choice for a family dinner that feels a little special without much work. The broth is light, but still, packs in lots of flavors, and the tortellini makes it extra filling. This is a perfect pick when you want a simple soup that everyone will enjoy. Plus, cleanup’s a breeze since it’s all made in one pot.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup

White Bean Soup

A bowl of white bean soup with carrots and croutons.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

White Bean Soup is a great option when you’re looking for something filling and quick. Ready in 40 minutes, this one-pot meal is packed with white beans, veggies, and a simple mix of herbs. Blending some of the beans makes the soup creamy, while lemon juice and spinach add a fresh touch. Serve it with croutons and some Parmesan for extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Baked Ravioli

A close-up of a cheesy baked ravioli garnished with herbs, with a fork lifting a portion to show the melted cheese.
Baked Ravioli. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Baked Ravioli is the perfect dish when you want family dinner to be easy and cheesy. You use frozen ravioli, which cuts down prep time, and it’s layered with marinara and cheese, like a lasagna without the work. Ready in just one hour, it’s a perfect choice for a hearty meal that’ll make everyone happy. The melted cheese and bubbling sauce make it hard to resist. It’s easy, cheesy, and makes dinner a success — a great pick for nights when you want comfort food without spending all day in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli

Lemon Garlic Scallops

Scallops with parsley and garlic in a skillet.
Lemon Garlic Scallops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Lemon Garlic Scallops are a great option for a family dinner when you want something quick and a little fancy. They’re ready in less than 30 minutes, with bright flavors from lemon and garlic, all in just one pan. These scallops are perfect for nights when you want to make something that feels special, but you don’t have a lot of time. Serve them with some crusty bread or a light salad, and dinner is done. You’ll look like you put in way more effort than you actually did.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Scallops

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Chicken pot pie soup in a white bowl with a spoon.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Pot Pie Soup gives you all the cozy vibes of a pot pie but without the extra steps. It’s a one-pot meal where chicken and vegetables simmer in a creamy broth until tender and flavorful. In about an hour, you’ll have a comforting soup that feels like home. This is a great choice for a family dinner when you want something hearty but don’t have time to make a classic pot pie.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Creamy Dijon Chicken

A pan of creamy dijon chicken with herbs and bacon.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Creamy Dijon Chicken is a perfect choice when you need a family dinner that’s quick but still feels like a treat. In just 30 minutes, you’ve got tender chicken thighs in a creamy Dijon sauce, with spinach and bacon adding some extra flavor. The rich sauce brings everything together, making it a great pick for family dinners when you want something a bit more special but without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Italian sausage soup in a pot with a spoon and garnishes on the side.
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is a great go-to for a quick, comforting family dinner. You’ll love how it comes together in just 30 minutes with one pot, so there’s not much cleanup. The Italian sausage adds richness, while the cream cheese and heavy cream create a smooth texture. The canned tomatoes give it a little brightness to balance everything out. It’s a simple meal that works perfectly when you want to make dinner feel special without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken makes family dinners easy without losing any flavor. You only need one pan, and in 40 minutes, you’ll have crispy chicken thighs simmered with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a creamy sauce. It’s a dish that feels special but is simple enough to make any night of the week. This is a great option for serving something hearty and flavorful without a lot of hassle. Perfect for when you’re short on time but still want to put a great meal on the table.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Roasted butternut squash with cauliflower and bacon and dollops of sour cream with a spoon.
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon is perfect when you need a filling, healthy meal that’s still easy to make. You’ve got roasted squash, cauliflower, and bacon, all brought together with spinach and a bit of sour cream. The veggies bring a nice balance of sweetness and savoriness, and the bacon adds just the right touch of richness. It’s great for a family dinner when you want something comforting but light enough to feel good afterward.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake is the perfect choice when you need a quick meal that doesn’t feel rushed. With chicken thighs, spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella, this casserole is ready in just 30 minutes. It’s delicious and filling without being heavy. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to throw together, making family dinners less stressful on those busy nights. Everyone will enjoy this one, and it doesn’t take much to pull off.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Reuben Bowls

A bowl of coleslaw with creamy dressing, garnished with green onions, served in a ceramic bowl with a fork.
Reuben Bowls. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Reuben Bowls are a fun way to make family dinners, especially when you want something quick and flavorful. In 30 minutes, you can have corned beef, coleslaw, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing all ready to go. It’s a low-effort dish with bold flavors that really work together. Perfect for those nights when you need a simple meal but still want to bring something interesting to the table.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Bowls

Keto Zuppa Toscana

A bowl of keto zuppa Toscana with a spoon in it.
Keto Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Keto Zuppa Toscana is a great choice for family dinners when you’re trying to keep it low-carb but still want something that feels hearty. Swap out the potatoes for radishes, and cook it all with sausage, bacon, kale, and cream. It takes about an hour to make, and the flavors come together perfectly in a comforting, rich soup. This dish keeps things simple while giving you a dinner everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana

Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy chicken thighs with artichoke hearts in a pan.
Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts is great for a quick dinner that still feels special. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have perfectly browned chicken thighs simmered with artichoke hearts and lemon juice. The creamy sauce brings everything together, making it a delicious and comforting dish. It’s a perfect option for busy nights when you want to serve something hearty but don’t have a lot of time. Everyone at the table will love it, and you’ll feel good about how easy it was to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Garlic Chicken is perfect for family dinners when you need something quick but still flavorful. In just 30 minutes, chicken breasts are cooked in a rich, creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce without being too heavy. This dish is a great option for busy weeknights when you want to make something that feels special without a lot of effort. It’s simple, comforting, and just what you need to pull off a successful dinner.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Bowl of instant pot butter chicken atop cauliflower rice in a bowl.
Instant Pot Butter Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Instant Pot Butter Chicken is a great way to make family dinners easier and more fun. The chicken is marinated with yogurt and spices and then cooked in a creamy tomato and butter sauce that’s rich in flavor. You also can marinate the chicken ahead of time to save even more time. It’s a simple, comforting meal that everyone will love without you having to spend hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Instant pot chicken adobo in a bowl atop cauliflower rice.
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Instant Pot Chicken Adobo is a perfect solution for busy family dinners. Tender chicken thighs are browned and then cooked in a tangy, flavorful mix of coconut aminos, vinegar, garlic, and spices. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish rich in taste but easy to pull off. The best part? It’s all done in one pot, so cleanup is quick. Garnish with spring onion for a fresh touch, and you’re good to go. This is a great meal to keep in your back pocket for those nights when you need something quick but hearty.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When you need a comforting meal for the family, this Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a great choice. The chicken is browned and then simmered in a creamy mushroom sauce made with garlic, cream, and broth. It’s all done in one pan in about 30 minutes, so you don’t have to spend all evening in the kitchen. It’s hearty, easy, and just right for a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Grilled chicken pieces with a glossy glaze, garnished with chopped herbs, served on a beige plate.
Grilled Hot Honey Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken makes family dinners easy and full of flavor. The homemade hot honey sauce gives the chicken just the right mix of sweet and spicy, and it grills up in no time. The whole dish takes 45 minutes, but you can save time by making the sauce ahead. This recipe is flexible and works for any occasion. It’s a great way to bring something a little special to the table without spending too much time on it.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil

A dish of seasoned shrimp, corn on the cob, sausage slices, and potato chunks garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil is a great option for a family dinner that’s easy and full of flavor. Shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and corn all bake together with Old Bay seasoning, giving you a hearty meal in under an hour. It’s a one-pan recipe, so cleanup is easy, and it’s perfect for feeding a group or making enough for leftovers. This dish works for busy nights when you still want to put something filling and fun on the table.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil

Sausage Curry

Sausage curry in a skillet garnished with herbs.
Sausage Curry. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage Curry is a great choice for family dinners when you want something simple but full of flavor. You brown the sausages, toss some veggies, and let everything simmer in a creamy curry sauce. This recipe is flexible — you can use whatever vegetables you have, and it’s ready in no time. It’s a quick, easy meal that’s perfect for busy nights when you still want to serve something comforting.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry

Pollo Asado

Pollo asado on a white plate with lime wedges.
Pollo Asado. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Pollo Asado is a great way to add flavor to your family dinners without much effort. The chicken is marinated in cilantro, onion, and citrus, giving it a fresh taste. You can grill it, bake it, or use a grill pan — whatever works for you. The marinade can be made ahead to save time, and the chicken cooks quickly. It’s perfect for gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner when you want something that feels special. You’ll keep making this easy recipe for its flavor and practicality.
Get the Recipe: Pollo Asado

Chicken Corn Soup

Two bowls of chicken corn soup garnished with parsley.
Chicken Corn Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Corn Soup is a great option for family dinners when you need something simple, hearty, and quick. It’s all made in one pot, so cleanup is easy, and the whole dish is done in under an hour. The soup is full of tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich broth, perfect for cooler nights when you want something comforting. It’s also great for making larger batches if you have a bigger family or want leftovers. Make this when you need a filling meal that’s easy to throw together without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is the perfect solution for a family dinner when you need something quick but comforting. Broccoli and cauliflower are steamed and mixed with a creamy cheese sauce and crispy bacon, then baked until golden. In just 30 minutes, you have a hearty dish made without much effort. It’s a great choice for busy weeknights or as a go-to side when you’re hosting. You can rely on this recipe to make dinner feel special, even on the busiest days.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Hungarian Mushroom Soup

A bowl of Hungarian mushroom soup with a gold spoon.
Hungarian Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Hungarian Mushroom Soup is perfect for an easy dinner that still feels comforting. It comes together in 45 minutes and brings rich mushroom flavor with a nice spice mix. Mushrooms and onions are sautéed and simmered with broth, creating a hearty soup. This one-pot meal is easy for cooks of any skill level and fits right into busy family dinners. You get great flavors without too much effort, and it’s nice knowing you don’t have a mountain of dishes to clean afterward.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are great when you need a fast, reliable meal. Bite-sized chicken pieces are cooked until juicy and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce. It takes just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic nights when dinner needs to happen quickly. The flavors are simple but always a hit, and you can easily pair them with veggies, rice, or whatever you have on hand. Because sometimes, simple is just what the family needs.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Two bowls of sweet potato and red pepper soup with sour cream and parsley.
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup is a great way to bring a comforting, healthy option to family dinner without spending all day in the kitchen. You sauté onions and garlic, then simmer sweet potatoes and red peppers until everything is soft enough to blend. It’s ready in about an hour and creates a creamy, slightly sweet and nourishing soup. This recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something wholesome and easy. Plus, it’s all made in one pot, which makes cleanup a breeze. Your family gets a great meal, and you spend less time cleaning.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Twice baked potato casserole with bacon and green onions.
Twice Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Twice Baked Potato Casserole is just what you need for an easy family dinner. You bake the potatoes, scoop them out, and mix the insides with sour cream, cheddar cheese, and bacon. Then, bake it again until everything’s golden and bubbly. It’s comforting and can be made ahead of time, which makes it a helpful dish for when life gets busy. The simple, familiar flavors are a hit with everyone, and you get to enjoy the meal knowing it didn’t take a lot of work.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Wild Rice Mushroom Soup

A bowl of wild rice mushroom soup with a spoon.
Wild Rice Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Wild Rice Mushroom Soup is perfect for family dinners when you want something simple yet hearty. The wild rice cooks separately while mushrooms, onions, and garlic sauté together, then everything simmers in broth until the flavors meld. It takes a little over an hour, but the process is easy, and the result is a rich, comforting soup. The wild rice adds a nice bite, making it filling enough to stand alone as a meal. The recipe is simple, hearty, and kind to your schedule.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Mushroom Soup

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