21 quick recipes that prove dinner doesn’t have to be hard

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Dinner can often feel like a chore, but it doesn’t have to be! I’ve gathered a collection of quick recipes that will simplify your evenings and keep everyone satisfied without the stress. Whether you’re short on time or just looking for something easy, these meals prove that delicious dinners can be made in a flash.

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.

Honey Butter Fried Chicken

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

A quick take on fried chicken, this recipe pairs the richness of butter with the sweetness of honey, making it an easy crowd-pleaser that’s ready in no time. Perfect for those evenings when you want something special without the extra effort, this fried chicken is crispy, tender, and flavorful. It brings together familiar ingredients in a way that will quickly become a favorite. This is an ideal choice for a no-stress meal that can be prepared quickly. It’s a satisfying option for weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Honey Butter Fried Chicken

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.

Using the air fryer makes these chicken thighs an easy, mess-free option for dinner. You get crispy skin and juicy meat in a fraction of the time it takes to bake or fry. These are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade without the hassle. With minimal ingredients, they’re also versatile, making them ideal for a variety of side dishes. This recipe brings convenience and great flavor to your table in under 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

Chicken Chop Suey

Stir-fried chicken chop suey in a skillet.
Chicken Chop Suey. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This chicken chop suey comes together quickly with tender chicken and crunchy vegetables for a stir-fry that’s perfect for a busy evening. It’s a great option when you want a healthy, balanced meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. With a blend of fresh vegetables and simple seasonings, it’s a meal the whole family will enjoy. Quick, nutritious, and simple to prepare, it’s an easy way to get dinner on the table fast. This recipe is a great go-to for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chop Suey

Creamy Chicken Curry

Chicken curry with rice.
Creamy Chicken Curry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This creamy chicken curry brings rich, comforting flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. It’s perfect for nights when you’re craving something hearty yet quick to prepare. The smooth, flavorful sauce pairs well with chicken for a filling meal that’s sure to be a hit. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that feels like it took much longer to make. Simple ingredients and bold flavors make this a top choice for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Curry

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.

A bright and buttery sauce that transforms salmon into a quick and easy dinner choice. The lemon adds a refreshing touch while the butter keeps things rich and smooth, making it perfect for a hassle-free yet flavorful meal. This recipe comes together in minutes, making it an ideal weeknight option when you need something simple but tasty. It’s also versatile enough to pair with other fish or seafood. An easy way to add flavor without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

Shrimp Scampi

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

This shrimp scampi is a light yet flavorful meal that’s ready in under 20 minutes. The shrimp cook quickly, while the garlic and butter sauce brings everything together for a delicious, no-fuss meal. Perfect for when you’re in the mood for something special but short on time, it’s a versatile dish that can be served over pasta or with bread. Minimal ingredients and a short cooking time make this recipe ideal for weeknights. Simple, quick, and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Alfredo Steak Pasta

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

Alfredo steak pasta combines the richness of a creamy sauce with tender steak, all in one dish that’s perfect for when you want a hearty meal without a lot of fuss. It’s a great option for busy nights when you need a satisfying dish that doesn’t take long to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can have a complete meal on the table in no time. The combination of steak and pasta is a crowd-pleaser, making it an easy choice for family dinners. A quick and hearty dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Alfredo Steak Pasta

Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

A grilled chicken thight with barbecue sauce and a side of green beans on a white plate, garnished with chopped parsley.
Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These BBQ boneless chicken thighs offer that classic grilled flavor with minimal preparation time, perfect for when you want to spend more time eating than cooking. The BBQ sauce adds a rich, smoky flavor, and the boneless thighs ensure fast cooking. It’s a great meal to throw together for a quick, no-fuss dinner. Serve with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a complete meal in no time. A straightforward option for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

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 brings together tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy buffalo sauce for a quick and easy meal. It’s a perfect solution for those nights when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The whole dish bakes in one pan, making cleanup just as easy as the preparation. With bold flavors and minimal effort, it’s a crowd-pleasing option for weeknight dinners. Quick, comforting, and packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

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

This Chinese black pepper chicken comes together quickly with tender chicken pieces and a peppery sauce that’s perfect for a fast weeknight dinner. It’s a simple stir-fry with bold flavors that pairs well with rice or noodles. The ingredients are easy to find, making it a practical option when you need something quick and flavorful. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a complete meal. Ideal for busy nights when you want something both quick and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

A bowl of meat and green peppers with a spoon.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These garlic butter steak bites are a fast and simple way to enjoy tender steak with rich, savory flavors. The steak cooks quickly in a skillet, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights when you want something homemade. Serve with a side of veggies or potatoes for a complete meal that doesn’t take long to prepare. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s a great choice for a quick dinner. Ready in just minutes, this recipe keeps things simple yet satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Panko Chicken Breast

Panko chicken on a white plate.
Panko Chicken Breast. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Panko-coated chicken breasts offer a crispy exterior with juicy, tender meat inside, perfect for a quick and easy dinner. The panko adds a crunchy texture that elevates the chicken with minimal effort. This recipe is great for weeknights when you need something filling but don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Pair with a salad or vegetables for a balanced meal. A convenient and fast way to get dinner on the table.
Get the Recipe: Panko Chicken Breast

Baked Lemon Butter Fish

Baked lemon butter fish fillet seasoned with herbs and spices, garnished with lemon slices and chopped parsley,.
Baked Lemon Butter Fish. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Baked lemon butter fish is an easy, light meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The lemon adds a fresh touch, while the butter gives the fish a smooth, rich finish. This dish bakes quickly, making it a great option when you want something fast but flavorful. It’s versatile enough to pair with various sides, whether you prefer veggies, rice, or potatoes. A simple way to enjoy a wholesome, satisfying dinner with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Baked Lemon Butter Fish

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 offers a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for when you want something special but don’t have much time. The crab adds a touch of sweetness, and the pasta ties everything together for a quick, elegant dinner. It’s an ideal dish for busy nights when you still want to enjoy something homemade. With simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, this recipe makes dinner a breeze. An easy and flavorful option for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Crab Pasta

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 fast and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy evenings. It’s packed with vegetables and lean protein, making it a balanced meal that comes together quickly. This stir-fry can be made with whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a versatile option for weeknight dinners. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, it’s an easy way to enjoy a homemade meal in no time. A simple and satisfying option for any night.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Stir Fry

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 weeknights. The tofu adds protein while the broccoli provides crunch, creating a balanced dish that comes together in minutes. This recipe is a great option when you want something light but still filling. It’s also versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. A healthy, no-fuss meal that’s ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

A skillet containing a stir-fried mix of ground meat, sliced bell peppers, leafy greens, and white sesame seeds, with a wooden spoon resting on the side. Plates with flatbreads are in the background.
Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This ground beef and cabbage skillet is a quick, one-pan meal that’s perfect for a busy evening. The beef adds protein while the cabbage brings a light, crunchy texture to the dish. It’s a simple, hearty meal that’s ready in just minutes, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners. The ingredients are easy to find and come together quickly. A fast and flavorful dinner option that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

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 combines the richness of garlic and butter with tender shrimp for a simple yet flavorful meal. This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings. The pasta and shrimp pair well for a light but filling dinner that’s easy to prepare. It’s a great option for when you want something special without spending too much time in the kitchen. Quick, flavorful, and easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Chicken Nuggets

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

Homemade chicken nuggets are a quick and easy option for a family-friendly dinner. With just a few ingredients, these nuggets come together in no time, perfect for busy weeknights. They’re crispy on the outside and tender inside, making them a hit with both kids and adults. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a simple yet enjoyable meal. A fast, easy option that’s great for any night.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

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 a quick, healthier alternative to frying, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The tenders come out crispy and golden in just minutes, with minimal effort. They’re great for a simple dinner or as part of a larger meal with sides like vegetables or fries. Easy to prepare and even easier to clean up, thanks to the air fryer. A convenient and quick meal for any time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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 light, quick meal that’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something flavorful but not too heavy. The shrimp cook quickly, while the tomato adds a touch of freshness to the dish. It’s a versatile meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights. Pair with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner. A fast, no-fuss option for any night.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

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