17 easy and quick dinners for when cooking feels like a chore

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Some nights, the idea of cooking feels like too much. Whether you’re tired from work or just not in the mood, making a big meal can seem impossible. That’s where these 17 easy and quick dinners come in. They’re simple to make and perfect for when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Image shows Tongs holding carnitas over a tray.
Carnitas. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Cacio e Pepe

Image shows a plate with cacio e pepe in a neat pile topped with shaved parmesan cheese.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Cacio e pepe is a simple pasta dish that feels fancy without the hard work. It takes just about 15 minutes to make, making it a great option for those who want a delicious dinner without spending a lot of time cooking. With just a few ingredients, cheesy carbs have never been easier or more satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Poached Orange Salmon

Image shows a spoon drizzing orange sauce over a salmon filet in a blue dish.
Poached Orange Salmon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Poached orange salmon is a quick and healthy meal that’s easy to prepare. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a delicious dish in no time. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a tasty dinner that feels light and satisfying without complicated cooking steps.
Get the Recipe: Poached Orange Salmon

Caprese Panini

Image shows a sliced caprese panini on a wooden board with the melted cheese oozing out.
Caprese Panini. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

A caprese panini brings together fresh flavors and melted cheese in a simple sandwich. This quick meal is a great choice for those wanting something that tastes fancy but doesn’t require a lot of cooking. It shows that easy meals can still be both delicious and impressive.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Panini

Tuna and Tomato Pasta

Image shows a closeup view of tuna and tomato pasta in a white patterned bowl.
Tuna and Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Tuna and tomato pasta is an easy recipe that kids can help with. It comes together in about 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. This dish offers a nutritious meal without the hassle of long cooking times, perfect for anyone who wants dinner on the table quickly.
Get the Recipe: Tuna and Tomato Pasta

Crockpot Chili

Image shows a closeup of a bowl of Crockpot beef chili.
Crockpot Chili. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Hearty crockpot chili is a comforting meal that requires minimal effort. Just toss the ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work. This dish is perfect for those who want a filling dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen, making it a favorite for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Chili

Tomato Basil Bisque

Image shows a close up of a bowl of Tomato Basil Bisque with grated parmesan on top of it.
Tomato Basil Bisque. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Tomato basil bisque is a smooth and rich soup that’s quick to prepare for a satisfying dinner. With its comforting texture and flavors, this dish is a great choice for anyone wanting a warm meal without complicated steps. It’s perfect when cooking feels like a chore but a delicious dinner is still desired.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Basil Bisque

Crockpot Carnitas

Image shows Tongs holding carnitas over a tray.
Crockpot Carnitas. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Enjoy succulent crockpot carnitas, where tender pork meets flavorful spices. This recipe is perfect for creating mouthwatering tacos with ease. It’s a great dinner option for those who want something tasty without spending a lot of time cooking.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Carnitas

Chipotle Burger with Jalapeno Mayo

Image shows a Chipotle burger with grilled corn in the background.
Chipotle Burger with Jalapeno Mayo. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Chipotle burgers with jalapeno mayo add a spicy twist to a classic meal. These juicy patties are packed with smoky flavor and topped with a creamy jalapeno mayo that makes them stand out. This dish is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a burger without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Burger with Jalapeno Mayo

Bacon Cheddar Stuffed Burger

Bacon cheddar stuffed burger cut in half and on a white plate.
Bacon Cheddar Stuffed Burger. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

A bacon cheddar stuffed burger is an easy way to enjoy a hearty meal. Juicy beef patties filled with melted cheese and crispy bacon come together quickly, making it perfect for anyone looking for a delicious dinner without much hassle. This burger satisfies cravings without extensive cooking.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheddar Stuffed Burger

Honey Glazed Chicken

Honey glazed chicken on a blue plate.
Honey Glazed Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Honey glazed chicken is a sweet and sticky dish that’s simple to prepare. It makes for a quick weeknight meal that doesn’t lack flavor. This recipe is ideal for those who want a delicious dinner without complicated steps or long cooking times, providing a satisfying option with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Honey Glazed Chicken

Semi-homemade Chicken Enchiladas

Image shows baked cheesy chicken enchiladas in a blue Pyrex casserole.
Semi-homemade Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

These cheesy chicken enchiladas are made easy with rotisserie chicken, transforming weeknight dinners. In just a few simple steps, a comforting meal is ready to enjoy, making it perfect for families wanting something delicious without a lot of work. Say goodbye to dinner stress with this simple recipe.
Get the Recipe: Semi-homemade Chicken Enchiladas

Chicken and Pea Risotto

Image shows Chicken and pea risotto on a spoon with more in a green bowl behind it.
Chicken and Pea Risotto. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Chicken and pea risotto is a creamy dish that skips the hard work. By using rotisserie chicken, this recipe becomes an easy option that still offers all the comfort of traditional risotto. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a tasty dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Pea Risotto

Tomato Soup

Overhead image of a bowl of tomato soup with parmesan grated into it.
Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Instant Pot tomato soup is a classic that can be ready in no time. Its smooth and rich flavor is perfect for those wanting comfort food without extensive cooking. This simple and satisfying meal warms you up and takes just a few minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Soup

Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken

Image shows a Bite of tomato lime chicken on a fork with rice and the rest of the bowl in the background.
Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Slow cooker tomato lime chicken is a flavorful dish that takes little effort to prepare. Juicy chicken simmers with tangy tomato and lime, creating a tasty meal that pairs well with any side. This recipe is perfect for anyone who wants an easy dinner that delivers delicious flavors without a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken

Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa

Image shows an overhead shot of Spinach Parmesan Quinoa in a blue bowl with a sprinkle of cheese on top.
Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Spinach and parmesan quinoa offers a nutritious and tasty meal that’s simple to make. Packed with protein and flavor, it’s an ideal choice for anyone looking for a quick vegetarian option. This dish is perfect for those who want a filling dinner without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa

Slow Cooker Garlic Roast Pork

Image shows an overhead shot of Slow Cooker Garlic Roast Pork on a blue plate served with rice.
Slow Cooker Garlic Roast Pork. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Slow cooker garlic roast pork is a flavorful dish that practically cooks itself. Just set it up in the morning, and return home to tender meat infused with garlic. This easy dinner is perfect for anyone who wants a delicious meal without spending the evening in the kitchen, making it ideal for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Garlic Roast Pork

Honey Habanero Tacos

Image shows three honey habanero tacos with corn shells sitting on a wooden board.
Honey Habanero Tacos. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Honey habanero tacos add a fun twist to a classic favorite. They are easy to make and full of flavor, transforming an ordinary taco night into something special. This dish is perfect for those wanting a tasty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen, proving that easy can still be delicious.
Get the Recipe: Honey Habanero Tacos

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