When you’re juggling work, school, and family activities, it can be challenging to put together a tasty dinner that everyone will enjoy. Here are three diverse examples of easy weeknight dinners for families that will not only satisfy your family’s taste buds but also save you time and effort in the kitchen.
One-pan meals are a lifesaver on busy weeknights! This recipe brings together juicy chicken and colorful vegetables, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup.
Start by slicing 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and season with 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Next, slice 1 red bell pepper, 1 green bell pepper, and 1 onion into thin strips. Add these to the skillet and stir everything together. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Serve your chicken fajitas with warm tortillas, salsa, and your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and avocado.
Notes/Variations: You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Feel free to add more veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition.
This quick and colorful veggie stir-fry is not only healthy but also a great way to use up any vegetables you have on hand.
Start by cooking 2 cups of rice according to package instructions. While the rice is cooking, chop up your favorite veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas—about 4 cups total. In a large pan or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped veggies and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender yet crisp.
For flavor, add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and let it cook for another minute. Once the rice is done, serve the veggie stir-fry over the rice and enjoy!
Notes/Variations: You can add cooked chicken, beef, or tofu for extra protein. Feel free to switch up the sauces—teriyaki or hoisin sauce work well too!
Nothing says comfort food like a cheesy pasta bake! This dish is perfect for a family dinner and can easily be prepped in advance.
Start by boiling 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (like penne or rotini) according to package instructions. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, mix 2 cups of marinara sauce, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and mix it into the cheese and sauce mixture.
Transfer everything into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle another cup of mozzarella cheese on top and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes/Variations: You can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or veggies like spinach or mushrooms to the pasta mixture for added nutrition. This dish also freezes well, so feel free to make a double batch for a future meal!