Between work, homework, and activities, who has time to spend hours cooking dinner? But that doesn’t mean you have to settle for boring meals or takeout every night. We’ve got you covered with 25 delicious and family-friendly dinner ideas that are also quick and easy to make. These recipes won’t take forever, and they’re sure to please everyone at the table.
![Caprese panini on a blue plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Caprese-panini-on-a-blue-plate-1024x576.jpg)
Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken
![Image shows a Bite of tomato lime chicken on a fork with rice and the rest of the bowl in the background.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Bite-of-tomato-lime-chicken.jpg)
Dinner on autopilot! Toss chicken, tomatoes, and lime in your slow cooker and come home to a fragrant and flavorful meal. No need to babysit the stove – this recipe lets your appliance do the work.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken
Shortcut Chicken Salad
![Image shows a Canned Chicken Salad sandwich on a wooden table.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Canned-Chicken-Salad.jpg)
This chicken salad skips the cooking, throwing together shredded chicken, veggies, and a light dressing for a quick and satisfying meal. Pile it high on a whole-wheat roll or enjoy it on a bed of crisp greens.
Get the Recipe: Shortcut Chicken Salad
Asparagus Goat Cheese Pizza
![Image shows a close up of an Asparagus and Goat Cheese Pizza on a pizza peel sitting on a black counter.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Asparagus-and-Goat-Cheese-Pizza.jpg)
This pizza skips the heavy tomato sauce and piles on fresh asparagus spears. Tangy goat cheese crumbles add a sharp counterpoint, creating a pizza bursting with contrasting flavors and textures. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a delightful change-up for pizza night.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Goat Cheese Pizza
Kefta Kebabs
![Image shows kefta kebabs stacked on a white tray.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Kefta-kebabs-on-skewers-on-a-white-platter.jpg)
Skip the grill! These juicy kebabs are packed with flavor and perfect for busy nights. Made with seasoned ground meat and grilled to perfection, they’re a delicious twist on the classic burger, sure to please a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Kefta Kebabs
Cheesy Stuffed Shells
![Image shows an overhead shot of Easy Cheesy Stuffed Shells with a small plate holding one and the rest of the pan next to it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Easy-Cheesy-Stuffed-Shells.jpg)
Craving comfort food? Look no further! This dish explodes with flavor with minimal effort. Simply stuff shells with ricotta, bake until bubbly, and enjoy a warm and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Stuffed Shells
Caprese Panini
![Image shows a sliced caprese panini on a wooden board with the melted cheese oozing out.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Caprese-panini-on-a-blue-plate.jpg)
A taste of Italy in minutes! Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil are layered on bread and toasted to perfection. This Caprese Panini is a light and flavorful option for lunch or dinner, made with simple ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Panini
Tuna and Tomato Pasta
![Image shows a closeup view of tuna and tomato pasta in a white patterned bowl.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Tuna-and-tomato-pasta.jpg)
Calling all sous chefs! This easy tuna and tomato pasta is perfect for a no-brainer weeknight meal. Light, refreshing, and ready in about 25 minutes, it’s a great option for the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Tuna and Tomato Pasta
Pesto Salmon
![Image shows Salmon with pesto and rice on a blue plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Pesto-Salmon-for-FDL-and-TD.jpg)
Pesto lovers, this vibrant dish is for you! Salmon bathed in herbaceous pesto takes just minutes to prepare and bursts with flavor. It’s a healthy and satisfying meal for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Salmon
Slow Cooker Thai Pork
![Image shows Slow Cooker Thai Pork on a bed of rice on a white plate with sliced carrots and green onion on top of it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Slow-Cooker-Thai-Pork.jpg)
Takeout craving? Stay home! This slow cooker recipe simmers juicy pork in a flavorful Thai sauce for a delicious and hassle-free dinner.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Thai Pork
Mexican Skillet Quinoa
![Image shows a wooden spoon holding a scoop of Mexican skillet quinoa with the full pot behind it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Mexican-Skillet-Quinoa.jpg)
This one-pan wonder is bursting with Mexican flavors. Quinoa cooks alongside black beans, corn, and salsa for a satisfying and colorful meal. It’s quick and easy to throw together, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to cook.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Skillet Quinoa
Chicken Tenders
![Image shows Hand dipping a corn flake crusted chicken tender into a bowl of sauce on a wooden table.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Homemade-Chicken-Tenders.jpg)
Craving crispy, juicy chicken without the mystery meat? These homemade tenders are the answer. They’re golden brown on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth tender on the inside, a million miles better than anything you’ll find in a box. Dip them in your favorite sauce for a fun and satisfying meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tenders
Honey Glazed Chicken
![Honey glazed chicken on a blue plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Honey-glazed-chicken-on-a-blue-plate.jpg)
This recipe is all about quick flavor. A sweet and sticky glaze comes together in a flash, coating juicy chicken for a satisfying meal. Minimal prep, maximum flavor – perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Honey Glazed Chicken
Poached Orange Salmon
![Image shows a spoon drizzing orange sauce over a salmon filet in a blue dish.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Spoon-drizzling-orange-sauce-over-poached-orange-salmon.jpg)
This healthy salmon dish is deceptively simple. Bright citrus notes from oranges mingle with melt-in-your-mouth salmon for a light and refreshing weeknight meal. It’s a fuss-free recipe perfect for busy schedules.
Get the Recipe: Poached Orange Salmon
Crockpot Chili
![Image shows a closeup of a bowl of Crockpot beef chili.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Crockpot-beef-chili.jpg)
Craving comfort without the work? Dive into a warm and comforting bowl of crockpot chili! This recipe is packed with hearty flavors and protein, guaranteed to please a crowd with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Chili
Soy Ginger Salmon
![Image shows Soy ginger salmon on a white plate with sweet potato tater tots.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Soy-Ginger-Salmon-with-tater-tots.jpg)
Short on time but looking to impress? This recipe whips up a vibrant Asian-inspired salmon dish in a flash. Ginger and soy sauce create a savory marinade that infuses the salmon with deep flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s both healthy and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Soy Ginger Salmon
Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
![Image shows a closeup of a spoon holding some Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole with the full skillet behind it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Beef-and-Rice-Casserole.jpg)
This hearty dish is like a warm hug on a plate. Ground beef, fluffy rice, and melty cheese bake together until bubbly and golden brown. It’s a classic comfort food that’s perfect for feeding a crowd on busy weeknights. No fancy ingredients required, just simple, satisfying flavors the whole family will love.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
Tomato Basil Bisque
![Image shows a close up of a bowl of Tomato Basil Bisque with grated parmesan on top of it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Tomato-Basil-Bisque.jpg)
Skip the bland canned soup! This creamy tomato soup is bursting with fresh tomato and basil flavors, ready in about 30 minutes. It’s a warm and satisfying option for a quick weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Basil Bisque
Instant Pot Lentil Soup
![Image shows A bowl of lentil soup with a spoon in it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Intstant-Pot-Lentil-Soup.jpg)
Protein-packed and bursting with flavor, this lentil soup is a healthy and satisfying choice for busy schedules. Your Instant Pot does the work, cooking up this hearty soup in a fraction of the time.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Lentil Soup
Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
![Image shows baked cheesy chicken enchiladas in a blue Pyrex casserole.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Chicken-enchiladas-in-a-blue-pyrex.jpg)
Short on time but craving Mexican? Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut and whip up these delicious enchiladas in just a few steps. Perfect for those nights when you want a taste of Mexico without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa
![Image shows an overhead shot of Spinach Parmesan Quinoa in a blue bowl with a sprinkle of cheese on top.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Spinach-Parmesan-Quinoa.jpg)
This protein-packed vegetarian dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Earthy spinach and sharp parmesan cheese add a delightful contrast to the fluffy quinoa, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal in just 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa
Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups
![Image shows a lasagna roll up on a white plaet.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Lasagna-roll-up-on-a-plate.jpg)
Lasagna craving without the wait? These cheesy lasagna roll-ups come to the rescue! Packed with flavor and melty cheese, they’re a guaranteed hit the whole family will love in just 30 minutes. Forget the layered casserole – this recipe lets you enjoy all the lasagna flavors in easy-to-eat roll-ups, perfect for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups
Italian Meatball Soup
![Image shows A bowl of italian meatball soup with a basil leaf on top.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Italian-Meatball-Soup.jpg)
Classic comfort made easy! This hearty Italian meatball soup is packed with flavor and perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. Simple to prepare, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Italian Meatball Soup
Crockpot Carnitas
![Image shows Tongs holding carnitas over a tray.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Tongs-holding-carnitas-over-a-tray.jpg)
Taco night just got easier! Skip the stove and let your slow cooker do the hard work. This recipe simmers pork in a fragrant spice rub until it’s tender and juicy, perfect for delicious and hassle-free carnitas tacos. Throw everything in before you leave for work and come home to a flavorful meal that’s ready to fall apart in your tortillas.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Carnitas
Pulled Pork
![Image shows a Pulled pork sandwich on white plate with pretzels on the side.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Pulled-pork-sandwich-on-white-plate.jpg)
Tenderness in a flash! This recipe transforms your Instant Pot into a pull-apart pork paradise. Make delicious pulled pork for sandwiches, tacos, or fun and interactive nachos – dinner with minimal effort is served!
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork
Asian Glazed Salmon
![Image shows a fork holding a bite of an Asian glazed salmon with the remaining serving in the background.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Fork-holding-a-bite-of-asian-glazed-salmon.jpg)
Salmon gets a flavor makeover! This recipe features a sweet and savory glaze for a delicious and easy meal in 30 minutes. Serve it with rice or noodles for a complete Asian-inspired dinner. Weeknights just got exciting!
Get the Recipe: Asian Glazed Salmon