Feeling lazy? Pick one of these 13 dinners and call it a night

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We all have those nights when the idea of cooking feels like way too much effort. The kind where you just want to throw something together and call it a day. Luckily, these dinners are practically made for those moments. They’re quick, easy, and won’t leave you stuck in the kitchen all night.

Bucatini cacio e pepe in a bowl with a gold fork and a pepper mill off to the side.
Bucatini Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Jalapeño Chicken

Jalapeño Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Feeling lazy but want something that tastes like your favorite takeout? This jalapeño chicken is perfect. Crispy chicken and spicy jalapeños tossed in a sweet, sticky sauce—all you need to do is throw it over some rice and you’re done. Easy and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Chicken

Pesto Salmon

Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Got 25 minutes? This pesto salmon is a no-brainer for a quick, lazy dinner. Five ingredients and a quick bake time get you a meal that’s full of flavor without any extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Salmon

Salsa Chicken

A white dish with chicken in a tomato sauce.
Salsa Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Lazy night? Salsa chicken has your back. Baked chicken breasts topped with salsa, corn, and melty cheddar. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, which means more time to kick back and relax.
Get the Recipe: Salsa Chicken

Kale and Feta Egg Bake

Kale and feta egg bake in a white ramekin with a piece of toasted bread to the side.
Kale and Feta Egg Bake. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This kale and feta egg bake is the perfect lazy dinner fix. Toss in a few simple ingredients, bake, and you’ve got an easy meal without lifting a finger. Great for when you just don’t feel like trying too hard.
Get the Recipe: Kale and Feta Egg Bake

Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Ground beef cabbage stir fry in a bowl with chopsticks.
Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Need dinner fast? This ground beef and cabbage skillet is all about ease. A quick stir-fry packed with simple flavors, ready in 30 minutes. It’s a no-fuss meal that’s perfect for weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

Bucatini cacio e pepe in a bowl with a gold fork and a pepper mill off to the side.
Bucatini Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Lazy night pasta alert! Bucatini cacio e pepe brings together just five ingredients to make a creamy, cheesy dish that’s simple to throw together and rich enough to make you forget you barely did any work.
Get the Recipe: Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

Sheet Pan Maple Mustard Chicken

Maple mustard chicken breasts with brussels sprouts, squash and cranberries.
Sheet Pan Maple Mustard Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Maple mustard chicken baked with Brussels sprouts, squash, and cranberries—all on one pan. Toss everything together and let the oven do the rest. Perfect for when you want dinner with minimal effort and cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Maple Mustard Chicken

Pork and Cabbage Stir Fry

Ground pork and purple cabbage stir fry in a white pan.
Pork and Cabbage Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This pork and cabbage stir-fry comes together in no time. Ground pork, cabbage, and mushrooms all cooked up in a tasty sauce. A quick and easy dinner that won’t leave you hanging.
Get the Recipe: Pork and Cabbage Stir Fry

Garlic Chicken Bite Skillet

Garlic chicken bites with peppers and mushrooms in a skillet.
Garlic Chicken Bite Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A one-pan dinner that’s ready in just 20 minutes? Yes, please. Garlic chicken bites with mushrooms, onions, and peppers—everything you need for a great meal with almost zero cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chicken Bite Skillet

Vegetable Bean Skillet

Cast iron skillet with beans and vegetables.
Vegetable Bean Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

For those lazy nights, this veggie and bean skillet is a lifesaver. Packed with fresh veggies and two types of beans, it’s an easy, meatless meal that you can whip up without a sweat.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Bean Skillet

Smashed White Bean Quesadillas

Smashed white bean quesadillas on a cutting board.
Smashed White Bean Quesadillas. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These smashed white bean quesadillas are perfect for when you’re feeling lazy but still want something cheesy and filling. With melted cheddar and a creamy BBQ sauce, it’s an easy meal that hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Smashed White Bean Quesadillas

Sheet Pan Pork Chop Dinner

Pork chops with purple cabbage and apples on a baking sheet.
Sheet Pan Pork Chop Dinner. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This sheet pan pork chop dinner has everything you need—pork chops, cabbage, potatoes, and apples—all in one go. Throw it in the oven, and let it cook while you kick back. The best part? Only one pan to clean up!
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Pork Chop Dinner

Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta

Lemon pasta with spinach, feta and cherry tomatoes in a bowl.
Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Need dinner in a pinch? This lemon feta spinach pasta is super quick to make. Just cook the pasta, toss in some spinach, feta, and lemon, and you’re good to go. Perfect on its own or with your favorite protein.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta

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