25 quick dinner recipes that give you more time to relax

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When life gets busy, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I’ve put together a list of quick dinner recipes that are perfect for those nights when you need a meal fast, but still want something satisfying. These recipes will help you get dinner on the table in no time, so you can spend more time doing what you enjoy.

A plate of cheesy baked pasta and chicken casserole served with chopped scallions, accompanied by a baking dish and fork.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

A piece of air fried chicken thigh on a fork, with a caramelized exterior and garnished with a small leaf, in focus against a blurred background of more chicken pieces.
Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This air fryer recipe gives you juicy, crispy chicken thighs in no time. With minimal prep and a quick cook, it’s a great option when you want to enjoy a comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The air fryer does most of the work, leaving you with plenty of time to relax. It’s an easy dish that the whole family can enjoy. Perfect for nights when you just want a simple, flavorful dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

Crab Pasta

A close-up of spaghetti twirled on a fork with bits of crab meat and herbs, with more pasta and a dish in the blurred background.
Crab Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This crab pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner. With tender crab and a creamy sauce, it’s an elegant meal that requires little effort. It’s ideal for nights when you want a comforting meal without all the work. A quick, delicious option that lets you enjoy a satisfying meal without much preparation. You’ll love how easy it is to pull together, giving you more time to relax afterward.
Get the Recipe: Crab Pasta

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Serving of buffalo chicken pasta bake with casserole dish.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This buffalo chicken pasta bake is a comforting, easy-to-make meal that comes together in no time. With the bold flavors of buffalo sauce and creamy cheese, it’s a dish that the whole family will love. Simply bake and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a busy evening when you want a filling dinner without a lot of prep. A great way to unwind after a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

A single barbecued chicken skewer on a white plate, with a small bowl of barbecue sauce and a parsley garnish, next to a plate of additional chicken skewers.
Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These chicken skewers made in the air fryer are a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful dinner. The air fryer makes them crispy on the outside and tender on the inside without a lot of work. They’re a great choice when you want something simple yet satisfying. Perfect for nights when you need a meal that’s both fast and delicious. A simple, no-fuss dish that’s perfect for a relaxing evening.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

Salmon Pasta Alfredo

Salmon pasta Alfredo served on a white plate with lemon.
Salmon Pasta Alfredo. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This salmon pasta Alfredo is a creamy, comforting dish that comes together quickly. The tender salmon and rich sauce create a satisfying meal with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want to enjoy a comforting dish without spending too much time in the kitchen. You’ll appreciate how easy this meal is to prepare, leaving you with more time to relax. A great option for a cozy, stress-free dinner.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Alfredo

Ground Pork Stir Fry

A plate with ground pork and vegetables on top of cauliflower rice.
Ground Pork Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Ground pork stir fry is a simple and quick dish that’s perfect for a busy night. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, it’s a great way to get dinner on the table fast. With tender pork and a savory sauce, it’s a meal that everyone will love. This dish comes together with minimal effort, letting you enjoy a stress-free evening. A great choice when you want something filling without a lot of work.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Stir Fry

Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

A plate of salmon on a white plate with lemon slices on it.
Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This lemon butter sauce for salmon is a simple yet flavorful way to prepare your salmon. It takes little time to prepare and adds a fresh, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the fish. The sauce is easy to make, making it a great choice when you want a quick, satisfying meal. It’s the perfect addition to any dinner when you need something light but comforting. You’ll love how easily it comes together with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

A bowl of pasta with shrimp and tomatoes.
Shrimp and Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp and tomato pasta is a quick and easy dinner that’s perfect for a busy evening. The combination of shrimp and fresh tomatoes creates a flavorful, comforting dish. It’s a great option when you want something hearty but don’t have a lot of time to cook. With simple ingredients and quick prep, it’s a meal that lets you relax while still enjoying a home-cooked dinner. It’s a perfect choice for when you want dinner fast, but still want something flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

Cream Cheese Chicken

A plate with chicken and green beans on it.
Cream Cheese Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This cream cheese chicken is a rich and creamy dish that’s easy to prepare and quick to cook. With tender chicken and a creamy sauce, it’s perfect for a no-fuss meal that the whole family will enjoy. It’s simple, quick, and satisfying, making it ideal for busy nights when you want something comforting. This meal requires little prep, so you can enjoy a hearty dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen. A great choice for when you need dinner fast and filling.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Three pieces of bacon-wrapped salmon bites garnished with parsley on a white plate.
Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These bacon-wrapped salmon bites are a quick, flavorful dish that comes together effortlessly. The combination of crispy bacon and tender salmon makes for a satisfying meal. It’s an easy, no-fuss option for busy nights when you still want something indulgent. These bites cook quickly, giving you more time to unwind. Perfect for nights when you want a comforting meal without a lot of prep.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Fried chicken tenders on a plate with dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These air fryer chicken tenders are the perfect quick meal for when you need something satisfying with minimal effort. The air fryer makes them crispy without a lot of prep time. They’re easy to make and perfect for a busy night when you want a comforting meal. Simple ingredients come together for a meal that the whole family can enjoy. It’s a great choice when you need a meal that’s fast and filling.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Wet Burrito

Chicken wet burrito with salsa and sour cream on a white plate.
Wet Burrito. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Wet burritos are an easy and satisfying meal that comes together in no time. Filled with flavorful ingredients and covered in a rich sauce, they’re perfect for a quick, hearty dinner. This meal requires minimal effort, letting you enjoy a filling dish with ease. They’re a great option when you want something comforting without spending too much time cooking. Perfect for busy nights when you still want a flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Wet Burrito

Shrimp Scampi

A plate with shrimp and bread on it.
Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp scampi is a quick, flavorful dish that comes together in minutes. With juicy shrimp and a garlic butter sauce, it’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. This dish lets you enjoy a comforting dinner without a lot of work. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something both light and satisfying. A great choice for a stress-free, delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

Roasted broccoli and tofu cubes garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, served with a wooden spoon.
Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This broccoli tofu stir-fry is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy nights. The combination of tofu and broccoli creates a healthy, satisfying dish with minimal prep. It’s a great option when you want a comforting dinner that doesn’t take much time. This stir-fry is easy to make and full of flavor, making it a go-to meal for a relaxed evening. Perfect for when you want to unwind with a tasty, simple meal.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

Ground Pork Tacos

Two pork tacos on a white plate with lime wedges.
Ground Pork Tacos. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Ground pork tacos are a fast, flavorful meal that’s easy to make. With a savory filling and simple toppings, they’re perfect for a quick dinner. These tacos come together in just a few steps, letting you enjoy a satisfying meal without the hassle. Great for busy nights when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. A simple, quick choice that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Tacos

Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Shrimp macaroni salad in a pink bowl with lemon wedges.
Shrimp Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp macaroni salad is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick meal. With tender shrimp and a creamy dressing, it’s a great choice for a light, flavorful dinner. This salad comes together easily, letting you enjoy a filling meal without the stress. It’s an excellent option for busy nights when you want something tasty but don’t have time for complicated prep. Quick to make and sure to please everyone.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

A bowl of shrimp pasta with lemon and parsley.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Garlic butter shrimp pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish that comes together quickly. The garlic butter sauce makes the shrimp and pasta a flavorful combination. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for when you want something comforting but don’t want to spend too much time cooking. A great go-to meal when you need something filling, fast, and delicious. It’s an ideal choice for a relaxing dinner after a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce

A plate with steak, tomatoes and cucumbers on it.
Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Steak and mushrooms with balsamic sauce is a rich, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare. The balsamic sauce adds a savory depth to the tender steak and mushrooms. It’s a perfect choice for a quick, filling dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen. Simple ingredients make this dish both comforting and satisfying. Ideal for nights when you want something hearty but don’t have hours to cook.
Get the Recipe: Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce

Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

Bowl of black pepper chicken with chop sticks.
Chinese Black Pepper Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chinese black pepper chicken is a quick and flavorful stir-fry that’s easy to prepare. The black pepper sauce gives the chicken a nice kick, while the veggies add color and crunch. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty without spending much time cooking. This dish comes together fast, letting you enjoy a flavorful dinner with minimal effort. A great option when you want a quick, satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

Alfredo Steak Pasta

Alfredo steak pasta in skillet with wooden spoon.
Alfredo Steak Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Alfredo steak pasta is a rich and comforting dish that’s easy to make in a short amount of time. The creamy Alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with tender steak and pasta. It’s a great choice when you want a filling meal without all the prep work. Perfect for busy nights when you crave something indulgent but easy to prepare. This dish comes together quickly, letting you enjoy a comforting dinner with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Alfredo Steak Pasta

Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Panko pork chop on plate with greens.
Breaded Panko Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Breaded panko pork chops are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a great option for a quick, satisfying dinner. The panko crust gives them a nice crunch without taking too long to prepare. They’re perfect for nights when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. This dish is simple to make and full of flavor. Great for busy nights when you need a comforting meal fast.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Honey Butter Fried Chicken

Serving of honey butter chicken garnished with parsley on plate.
Honey Butter Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Honey butter fried chicken is a crispy, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy nights. The honey butter sauce adds a touch of sweetness, making it an indulgent meal that’s easy to prepare. With minimal prep and quick cooking, it’s an excellent choice when you need something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. A great option for when you want a hearty meal that’s both comforting and quick.
Get the Recipe: Honey Butter Fried Chicken

Beef Quesadillas

A stack of quesadillas filled with cheese and steak served with a side of red salsa on a white plate.
Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Beef quesadillas are quick to prepare and full of flavor. The tender beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas make for a simple, satisfying meal. It’s an easy choice when you need a quick dinner that everyone will enjoy. This dish requires minimal effort but delivers big flavor. Perfect for a busy night when you want something hearty without all the prep.
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

Chicken Nuggets

Hand dipping a chicken nugget into a bowl of ketchup, with a gray cloth background.
Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These homemade chicken nuggets are a quick and easy dinner that’s perfect for busy nights. They cook up fast, making them a go-to meal when you need something satisfying in a hurry. With crispy breading and tender chicken, they’re always a hit. A simple dish that doesn’t take much time to prepare, so you can spend more time relaxing. Perfect for nights when you want comfort food without a lot of effort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

Popcorn Chicken

A bowl of golden brown popcorn chicken on a table.
Popcorn Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Popcorn chicken is a quick and easy option that’s great for busy nights. With crispy bites of chicken and simple ingredients, it’s a meal everyone will love. It cooks up fast, leaving you with plenty of time to unwind after a busy day. These bite-sized pieces are perfect for a satisfying meal that doesn’t require a lot of prep. An ideal dish when you want comfort food without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Popcorn Chicken

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