23 unbeatable weeknight meals you probably haven’t tried yet

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If you’re looking to mix up your dinner routine, these 23 unbeatable weeknight meals offer fresh options that go beyond the usual. Each recipe is designed to fit into your busy schedule, often taking less than an hour from start to finish. Discover simple yet satisfying dishes that bring new flavors to your weeknight dining without extra hassle.

An easy weeknight meal featuring a grilled pork chop with diced carrots and potatoes in a cast iron skillet on a wooden table.
One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Cilantro lime chicken on a plate next to avocado and cilantro garnish.
Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice is a quick 30-minute dish bursting with flavor. The combination of cilantro, lime, and chicken creates a fresh, tangy taste that pairs perfectly with fluffy rice. This meal is both satisfying and light, making it ideal for a busy weeknight. Enjoy a vibrant and zesty dinner that’s sure to please the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes is a delicious 40-minute meal featuring tender pork and perfectly roasted potatoes. The garlic and herb blend infuses the dish with a savory, aromatic flavor. This hearty combination is both comforting and nutritious. Perfect for a simple yet satisfying weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries

Pork chops with blackberry applesauce on a gray plate.
Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries is a delightful 35-minute meal. Juicy pork chops are complemented by a sweet and tangy applesauce with fresh blackberries. The contrast of flavors creates a unique and memorable dining experience. This dish is perfect for those seeking something different for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce takes minimal effort and cooks over several hours. The pork becomes tender and flavorful, infused with a tangy mustard BBQ sauce. This meal is perfect for hands-off cooking and results in a deliciously satisfying dinner. Ideal for a busy weeknight when you need a hearty meal without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

Bone in pork chop topped with hollandaise sauce and shrimp, on a white plate next to green beans.
Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf is a 30-minute meal combining succulent pork chops with savory seafood. The grill adds a smoky flavor, enhancing the taste of both the pork and seafood. This dish offers a unique take on the classic surf and turf. It’s perfect for a quick, gourmet weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

A serving of creamy balsamic chicken skillet next to a serving of green salad.
Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet is a 25-minute dish featuring tender chicken in a rich balsamic cream sauce. The combination of balsamic vinegar and cream creates a balanced, tangy yet smooth flavor. This meal is both indulgent and easy to prepare. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Chicken Shawarma Plate

Chicken Shawarma Plate. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Chicken Shawarma Plate is a flavorful 30-minute meal packed with spices. Marinated chicken is cooked to perfection and served with fresh vegetables and rice. The combination of bold flavors and tender chicken makes this dish a standout. It’s a quick and delicious option for a weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Shawarma Plate

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy is a savory 30-minute meal. Juicy pork chops are topped with a rich gravy made from mustard and shallots. The combination of flavors is both hearty and sophisticated. This dish is perfect for a comforting yet elegant weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Roasted chicken and vegetables in a skillet on a cutting board.
Roasted Chicken and Vegetables. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables is a simple, one-pan meal ready in 40 minutes. Juicy chicken and seasonal vegetables are roasted with garlic and herbs. The result is a flavorful, balanced dinner that’s both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for an easy cleanup weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner is a quick 30-minute meal featuring tender pork and vibrant vegetables. The garlic and pepper seasoning adds a savory and slightly spicy flavor. This dish is both easy to prepare and satisfying. Ideal for a no-fuss weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Overhead shot of grilled maple mustard chicken.
Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken is a sweet and tangy dish ready in 30 minutes. The combination of maple syrup and mustard creates a delicious glaze for the grilled chicken. This meal is both flavorful and quick to prepare. Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

Grilled pork chops on a plate with oranges and limes.
Citrus Glazed Pork Chops. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Citrus Glazed Pork Chops is a bright, tangy dish ready in 25 minutes. Juicy pork chops are glazed with a citrus sauce that adds a fresh, zesty flavor. This meal is both quick and delicious, perfect for a busy weeknight. Enjoy a burst of citrusy goodness in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy is a comforting 45-minute meal. Tender chicken and vegetables are baked in a flaky crust with a savory tarragon-infused gravy. This dish is both hearty and flavorful, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. Enjoy a classic comfort food with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Air fried chicken leg quarters served on plates.
Air Fryer Chicken Legs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Chicken Legs is a quick and crispy meal ready in 25 minutes. The air fryer ensures the chicken legs are perfectly cooked with a crispy exterior. This dish is both easy and delicious, ideal for a busy weeknight. Enjoy a healthier take on fried chicken without the mess.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

Buttermilk chicken and potatoes on a plate.
Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes is a tender, flavorful meal ready in 45 minutes. The buttermilk marinade keeps the chicken juicy while the potatoes roast to perfection. This dish is both comforting and easy to prepare. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

Chicken Biryani

Chicken biryani on a plate with raita.
Chicken Biryani. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Biryani is a fragrant, flavorful dish ready in about an hour. Tender chicken is cooked with aromatic spices and basmati rice. This meal offers a delicious taste of traditional Indian cuisine. Ideal for a weeknight when you want something a bit special.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Biryani

Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup

A bowl of wonton soup with shrimp in it.
Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup is a savory, comforting dish ready in 40 minutes. Juicy pork and shrimp wontons are cooked in a flavorful broth. This meal is both light and satisfying, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Enjoy a delicious homemade soup with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup

Easy Beef Stew

Beef stew in yellow bowls.
Easy Beef Stew. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Easy Beef Stew is a hearty, flavorful meal ready in an hour. Tender beef is cooked with vegetables in a rich, savory broth. This dish is perfect for a comforting, satisfying dinner. Ideal for a weeknight when you need something warm and filling.
Get the Recipe: Easy Beef Stew

Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Beef bulgogi in a bowl with rice and cucumbers.
Beef Bulgogi Bowls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Beef Bulgogi Bowls is a flavorful, quick meal ready in 30 minutes. Marinated beef is cooked to perfection and served over rice with fresh vegetables. This dish offers a delicious taste of Korean cuisine. Perfect for a tasty and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Ramen Chicken Noodles

Keto Ramen Chicken Noodles in a black bowl with various vegetables and boiled egg.
Ramen Chicken Noodles. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Ramen Chicken Noodles is a quick, flavorful dish ready in 20 minutes. Tender chicken is cooked with low-carb ramen noodles and a savory broth. This meal is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for a busy weeknight when you need something fast and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Chicken Noodles

Curry Chicken with Onion

Curry Chicken with Onion inside golden pan.
Curry Chicken with Onion. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Curry Chicken with Onion is a rich, aromatic dish ready in 30 minutes. Tender chicken is cooked with onions and a blend of spices. This meal offers a delicious taste of Indian cuisine. Ideal for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Curry Chicken with Onion

Bomb Meatloaf

Meatloaf on a white plate cut into slices with fresh parsley garnish.
Bomb Meatloaf. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Bomb Meatloaf is a flavorful, hearty dish ready in an hour. The meatloaf is packed with spices and topped with a tangy glaze. This meal is both comforting and satisfying, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Enjoy a classic dish with a delicious twist.
Get the Recipe: Bomb Meatloaf

Dairy Free Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo

white bowl with chicken pasta with sundried tomatoes and peas and garlic and a light linen around the bowl.
Dairy Free Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

Dairy Free Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo is a creamy, flavorful dish ready in several hours with minimal prep. Tender chicken is cooked in a dairy-free alfredo sauce. This meal is perfect for a hands-off weeknight dinner. Enjoy a classic comfort food made lighter and dairy-free.
Get the Recipe: Dairy Free Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo

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