Who needs the drive-thru when you can whip up dinner faster than you can say “extra fries, please”? We’ve rounded up 37 speedy meals that bring the restaurant experience right to your kitchen table. From Kung Pao Chicken to Cajun Shrimp and Grits, we’ve got your weeknights covered without the wait.
Pork Fried Rice
This Pork Fried Rice recipe is the epitome of weeknight convenience. Utilizing leftover rice and simple ingredients, you’ll have a satisfying dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice
Kung Pao Chicken
Kung Pao Chicken offers a quick way to get complex flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. With a combination of spice, sweetness, and a hint of tanginess, this dish is both time-efficient and deeply satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken
Szechuan Shrimp
If you’re looking for a speedy seafood dish with a kick, Szechuan Shrimp is your answer. Ready in less than 30 minutes, this recipe brings the distinct flavors of Szechuan cuisine right to your table.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp
Miso Glazed Salmon
Miso Glazed Salmon is a dish that’s both elegant and expedient. The miso glaze brings a depth of flavor, and the salmon itself cooks up in no more than 20 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Salmon
Thai Fried Rice
For a one-pan wonder that’s both quick and flavorful, consider Thai Fried Rice. Incorporating traditional Thai spices and ingredients, this dish offers a complete meal in just 25 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fried Rice
Lamb Kofta Kebabs
Lamb Kofta Kebabs provide a way to travel through taste in under 30 minutes. The skewers of spiced lamb pair perfectly with fresh veggies and are grill-ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Kofta Kebabs
Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Cajun Shrimp and Grits is an ideal dish for those who crave Southern comfort but have little time. The shrimp cook quickly in a Cajun spiced sauce, while the grits offer a creamy contrast.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Mochiko Chicken
Mochiko Chicken brings Hawaiian flavors to your table fast. The chicken is marinated in a sweet-savory sauce and then quickly fried, making it a unique and quick dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Mochiko Chicken
Singapore Noodles
Singapore Noodles offer a colorful and time-effective meal option. Stir-fried with curry-spiced vermicelli and an assortment of veggies, it’s a fulfilling dinner in under 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Singapore Noodles
Thai Chicken Satay
Thai Chicken Satay is perfect when you want grilled flavors without the extensive prep. Serve the skewered, marinated chicken with peanut sauce for a quick yet sophisticated meal.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Satay
Harissa Chicken
Harissa Chicken offers a North African twist for your weeknight dinner rotation. Spiced with harissa paste, it brings heat and flavor to the table in less than an hour.
Get the Recipe: Harissa Chicken
Air Fryer Enchiladas
Utilizing the Air Fryer, these enchiladas bring Mexican cuisine to your table without the oven wait. They’re ready in about 30 minutes, including prep and cook time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Enchiladas
Fish Tacos
Fish Tacos are a breeze to make and offer a light, flavorful alternative to heavier dishes. With quick-cooking fish and simple toppings, dinner is ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Fish Tacos
Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos
Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos are a simple, healthier take on a Mexican favorite. The Air Fryer gets them crispy in less than 20 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos
Mongolian Chicken
Mongolian Chicken offers sweet and salty flavors in a dish that’s quicker than takeout. Cook up this saucy chicken in under 30 minutes for a fast, satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mongolian Chicken
Camarones al Mojo de Ajo
For a garlic-lover’s dream that’s also quick, Camarones al Mojo de Ajo is the answer. Shrimp sautéed in garlic sauce are both flavorful and fast, perfect for a weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Camarones al Mojo de Ajo
Beef Bulgogi Bowls
Beef Bulgogi Bowls bring Korean flavors to your table swiftly. Quick-marinated beef cooks in minutes and pairs well with steamed rice and veggies.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls
Chicken Hot and Sour Soup
This Chicken Hot and Sour Soup delivers comfort and complexity in under an hour. It’s a soothing option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Hot and Sour Soup
Blackened Fish Tacos
Blackened Fish Tacos offer a Cajun twist on a classic. The fish cooks quickly while retaining a spicy kick, making it a fast and unique dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Fish Tacos
Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles
If you’re in the mood for Thai flavors but short on time, these Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles are an excellent choice. The sauce and noodles combine in under 30 minutes for a quick, satisfying dish.
Get the Recipe: Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps
These Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps bring Middle Eastern flair to your table in a jiffy. Using the Air Fryer ensures quick cooking and juicy results.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps
Camarones a la Diabla
Camarones a la Diabla is a spicy shrimp dish that’s surprisingly quick to make. The robust sauce and shrimp combine in less than 30 minutes for a flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Camarones a la Diabla
Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema
For a unique spin on fish tacos, this version includes a cilantro lime crema. Quick to assemble and cook, it’s an elevated but efficient dinner choice.
Get the Recipe: Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema
Grilled Beef Finger Meat
Grilled Beef Finger Meat is a straightforward, quick protein source. Season lightly and grill for a meal ready in less than 20 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Beef Finger Meat
Chicken Scampi
Chicken Scampi brings Italian restaurant flavors home without the wait. Garlic, butter, and chicken come together quickly for an easy, delectable meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Scampi
Lemon Pepper Pork Chops
Lemon Pepper Pork Chops are a zesty and quick option for dinner. Pan-seared for speed, they offer a tangy twist in less than 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pepper Pork Chops
Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs
For a fast, upgraded take on hot dogs, try wrapping them in bacon and using the Air Fryer. This method ensures quick cooking and a crispy finish.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs
Chicken Tinga Tostadas
Chicken Tinga Tostadas offer a Mexican meal that’s both flavorful and quick. Shredded chicken in a smoky sauce sits atop crisp tostadas for a complete dish in under an hour.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga Tostadas
Baked Lemon Butter Fish
For a light and speedy meal, Baked Lemon Butter Fish is a solid choice. The fish bakes quickly in a lemon butter sauce, making it a convenient dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Baked Lemon Butter Fish
Panko Chicken Breast
Panko Chicken Breast is a versatile and quick option. The panko coating ensures a crispy texture, and it’s ready in less than 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Panko Chicken Breast
Honey Butter Fried Chicken
For a southern twist that’s also time-efficient, Honey Butter Fried Chicken is a go-to. The honey butter adds a sweet contrast to the fried chicken, ready in less than an hour.
Get the Recipe: Honey Butter Fried Chicken
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken offers rich flavors in a short amount of time. The creamy sauce and chicken cook quickly, making it a hearty meal for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
This Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is a one-pan solution for a speedy dinner. With minimal prep and a quick roast, it’s both convenient and nutritious.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach
For an Italian-inspired quick meal, Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach is an excellent choice. Shrimp and spinach in a garlic sauce make for a balanced and fast dinner.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake delivers the flavors of buffalo wings in a convenient pasta dish. It’s a one-dish meal that’s oven-ready in under 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Pasta Pot or Casserole
This dish is a comfort food staple that’s also quick and simple. Combining pasta, hamburger, and cheese, it offers a full meal in just one pot or casserole dish.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cheesy Hamburger Pasta Pot or Casserole
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
For a soup that’s both hearty and quick, Creamy Italian Sausage Soup fits the bill. Filled with Italian sausage and vegetables, it’s a full meal ready in less than an hour.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup