Tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience? Look no further! I’ve curated 33 mouth-watering dinner recipes that are sure to become your new go-to’s for busy weeknights. And the best part? You don’t have to break the bank or sacrifice your health by ordering takeout. As someone who rarely ventures out to eat, I can attest that there’s no beating the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal. But let’s be real – after a long day at work, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen.
That’s why these recipes are perfect for those looking to get back into cooking. From comforting classics like lasagna soup and chicken parmesan, to more adventurous options like burrito bowls and copycat Applebee’s recipes, there’s something for everyone on this list. And with each recipe featuring simple, easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be whipping up a delicious meal in no time.
DINNER RECIPES
QUESO CHICKEN TACOS
Indulge in the delicious flavors of tacos without breaking a sweat! This recipe is a game-changer for busy days when you need a quick and satisfying meal. Simply prep in just 10 minutes, then let your slow cooker do the work while you relax. The end result is a mouthwatering dish packed with flavor and nutrients.
In terms of nutrition, this recipe boasts an impressive profile:
• Calories: 214
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 3g
PARMESAN-CRUSTED CHICKEN SHEET PAN DINNER
If you’re tired of spending a significant amount of time scrubbing away at dishes after cooking, this recipe is the perfect solution. By using a single-sheet pan and combining green beans, red potatoes, and chicken, you can prepare a delicious meal in under an hour – including prep time. With its simplicity and speed, it’s no wonder this dish has become a favorite among busy home cooks.
In terms of nutrition, this recipe delivers:
Calories: 626
Carbohydrates: 53g
Protein: 48g
Fat: 26g
Fiber: 7g
TERIYAKI CHICKEN RICE BOWL
Indulge in the mouth-watering flavors of this easy and quick meal! With just a few simple ingredients like tender chicken, homemade teriyaki sauce, fluffy rice, crisp veggies, and about half an hour to spare, you can create a culinary masterpiece. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you need something that’s both satisfying and effortless. From a nutritional standpoint, this dish boasts 214 calories per serving, with 23.9g of carbs, 12g of protein, 8.3g of fat, and a modest 1.
1g of fiber, making it a well-rounded choice for a weeknight dinner. Just follow the simple recipe and you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time!
RESTAURANT STYLE CHICKEN FRIED RICE
If you’re a lover of classic chicken fried rice, I’ve got some good news for you. This recipe is an exact replica of the dish you’d get at those high-end restaurants – but with a twist that makes it even better! The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes and is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Here are the nutritional highlights: 359 calories, 36g of carbs, 20g of protein, 15g of fat, and 2g of fiber.
HIBACHI STEAK BOWLS
Indulge in these scrumptious Hibachi steak bowls, overflowing with a medley of flavors and textures – tender sirloin, perfectly cooked sautéed vegetables, and crispy fried rice. Not only do they tantalize the taste buds, but they’re also incredibly convenient for meal prep on busy weeknights or workdays ahead.
CAJUN CHICKEN
Indulge in the rich flavors of this creamy Cajun chicken recipe, a hearty and satisfying dinner option that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. With its bold spices and tender chicken, it’s no wonder why this dish has become a staple in many households. Simply cook everything in one skillet, then serve it with your choice of rice or pasta for a filling meal.
And if you’re curious about the nutritional breakdown, here are some key stats: approximately 481 calories per serving, with 18g of carbs, 21g of protein, and only 2g of fat, all while providing a moderate amount of fiber at 2g.
LOUISIANA RED BEANS AND RICE
There’s something about a hearty, comforting meal that just screams ‘relaxation mode’ activated. And this recipe is the epitome of that feeling – it’s the perfect excuse to hunker down with a good show on Netflix and indulge in some well-deserved self-care. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it a great option for a cozy afternoon spent indoors.
STEAK BURRITO BOWL
Get ready to elevate your Chipotle-inspired meal game! This mouth-watering recipe combines tender steak, colorful fresh veggies, fluffy rice, and melted shredded cheese. Feel free to swap out the veggies for your personal favorites and top it off with a trio of flavorful fixins’: Pico de Gallo, creamy guacamole, and a zesty lime crema. With this recipe, you’ll be indulging in a nutritious meal that’s as satisfying as your favorite Chipotle burrito bowl.
NUTRITION:
CALORIES: 558 (with minor adjustments to make it more comprehensive)
PULLED BBQ CHICKEN CROCK POT RECIPE
This hands-off recipe is perfect for those who want to cook with minimal effort. Simply add all the ingredients to a slow cooker and let it do the work while you attend to other tasks. The best part? This versatile recipe can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and sandwiches to tacos and more. And if you’re curious about the nutritional breakdown, here are the details: 102 calories per serving, with 10g of carbs, 9g of protein, 3g of fat, and 1g of fiber.
CROCKPOT CHICKEN AND DUMPLINGS
I’m thrilled to share one of my go-to dinner recipes that never fails to impress: a mouthwatering combination of juicy chicken and savory dumplings. As a self-proclaimed dumpling aficionado, I can confidently say that this dish is a staple in our household – it’s a comfort food at its finest! With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
BURGER IN A BOWL
Imagine a burger salad that’s not only delicious but also convenient and quick to prepare. This meal is perfect for those who want to enjoy the flavors of a burger without the hassle of cooking patties or worrying about toppings getting all over the place. With this recipe, you can load it up with your favorite ingredients in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for meal prep or a lazy weeknight dinner. And the best part? It’s incredibly filling and packed with nutrients.
NUTRITION:
CALORIES: 764
CARBS: 22g
PROTEIN: 34g
FAT: 62g
FIBER: 10g
RICOTTA MEATBALLS
These indulgent ricotta meatballs are a masterclass in simplicity, yielding a rich flavor profile that can be effortlessly paired with a variety of dishes. Whether served atop spaghetti, nestled within a crusty sandwich, or perched on a fresh green salad, these bite-sized morsels are sure to please. Moreover, this recipe offers an impressive degree of versatility, allowing for 4 distinct preparation methods to suit any culinary whim.
THAI CHICKEN LETTUCE WRAPS
Indulge in the mouthwatering taste of these chicken lettuce wraps, a perfect option for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. If you’re a fan of Asian-inspired cuisine, you’ll find this recipe to be a delightful addition to your repertoire. With preparation time clocking in at under 30 minutes, you can enjoy this scrumptious meal without sacrificing precious moments from your busy schedule.
Nutritionally speaking, each serving provides approximately 158 calories, comprising 8g of carbs, 11g of protein, and 9g of fat, with a fiber content of 1g.
CROCKPOT TUSCAN CHICKEN
With just 10 minutes of preparation, this mouthwatering recipe will quickly become a staple in your household. If you’re a fan of Tuscan-inspired flavors, you’ll be delighted by the harmonious blend of creamy parmesan sauce, succulent sundried tomatoes, and tender chicken. Serve it alongside spaghetti or rice for a satisfying meal. From a nutritional standpoint, this dish provides 283 calories, with a balanced breakdown of 8g of carbs, 22g of protein, 19g of fat, and 2g of fiber per serving.
CREAMY CAJUN CHICKEN PASTA SOUP
Indulge in the rich flavors of our revised cajun chicken pasta recipe, which boasts an even creamier and more filling twist on the classic. With a cooking time that’s under an hour, including prep, this dish is perfect for busy schedules or when you need a comforting meal quickly. While maintaining its Cajun-inspired zest, this recipe offers a satisfying serving of 744 calories, consisting of 43g carbohydrates, 45g protein, and 42g fat, with a fiber content of 4g.
CHICKEN PARMESAN CASSEROLE
Got leftover rotisserie chicken? Turn it into a mouthwatering chicken parmesan casserole that’s sure to delight your guests and is incredibly simple to prepare. You can even make it up to two days in advance, making it the perfect solution for party hosting or potluck gatherings. With its satisfying balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
According to the nutrition facts, each serving contains approximately 740 calories, 80g of carbohydrates, 42g of protein, 28g of fat, and 6g of fiber.
GINGER GLAZED CHICKEN RAMEN
Ramen noodles have been my college staple for as long as I can remember. The ease of preparation – under five minutes, no less! – combined with their undeniable taste appeal has cemented their place in my culinary rotation. If you’re a fellow ramen enthusiast looking to elevate your game, this recipe is designed specifically with you in mind.
By incorporating a medley of flavors and textures, we’ll transform the humble noodle into a sweet and savory masterpiece that can be whipped up in under half an hour.
BEEF PAN-FRIED NOODLES
Are you craving a delicious Chinese-inspired meal? Look no further! This mouthwatering beef pan-fried noodles recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and taste buds. With tender slices of beef, crispy noodles, and a medley of crunchy vegetables, this dish is a game-changer. Whether you’re in the mood for something quick and easy or looking for a flavorful dinner option, this recipe has got you covered.
From a nutritional standpoint, one serving of this pan-fried noodles recipe contains:- Calories: 341- Carbohydrates: 28.1g- Protein: 16.5g- Fat: 18.3g- Fiber: 1.8g
SOUTHWEST CHICKEN WRAP
This convenient dish is perfect for a quick dinner or lunch on-the-go. In just 30 minutes, you can have a nutritious meal filled with chicken, vegetables, black beans, and a tangy southwest dressing. When time is of the essence, this recipe delivers. The nutritional breakdown reveals a healthy balance: 393 calories, 31.5g of carbohydrates, 19.9g of protein, 17.7g of fat, and 13.9g of fiber, making it an excellent choice for busy days.
BBQ CHICKEN SKEWER SALAD
The visual appeal of this recipe is matched only by its exceptional flavor profile. A harmonious blend of fresh ingredients, including crisp lettuce, pungent green onions, juicy tomatoes, creamy black beans, fragrant cilantro, sweet basil, crunchy corn, and rich avocado, all come together to create a truly delectable dinner experience.
ONE-PAN CREAMY CHICKEN ORZO
Within just 30 minutes, this mouthwatering one-pan chicken orzo dish can be ready to devour. And the best part? It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that requires only ONE pan! The combination of juicy chicken, creamy orzo, and an abundance of vegetables creates a flavor profile that is both rich and satisfying. To take it to the next level, simply garnish with some fresh basil and indulge in this delightful meal.
NUTRITION:
CALORIES: 659
CARBS: 40g
PROTEIN: 48g
FAT: 34g
FIBER: 3g
SLOW COOKER CHICKEN POT PIE
Indulge in the quintessential comfort food experience with this mouth-watering slow-cooker chicken pot pie recipe! A hearty combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flaky crust is sure to become a family staple. With only [insert number] calories per serving, you can enjoy this delightful dish without compromising on your health goals.
CALORIES: 386
GARLIC BUTTER CHICKEN BITES WITH LEMON ASPARAGUS
While I’m not typically enamored with asparagus, this dish has won me over with its incredible flavor profile. What’s more, it’s incredibly simple to prepare and requires minimal equipment – just a single pan is needed! This recipe is an excellent option for those following a low-carb or keto diet, making it a great addition to your meal rotation.
CRISPY CHILLI BEEF
This quick and convenient recipe is designed to be cooked in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights. The preparation time is included in the overall cooking time, ensuring that you can have a delicious meal on the table without sacrificing too much time. You can enjoy this dish with a side of rice or savor each bite on its own – either way, you’ll be in for a delightful culinary experience.
In terms of nutritional value, this recipe offers 472 calories, with 37g of carbohydrates, 21g of protein, and 26g of fat per serving. Additionally, it provides a moderate amount of fiber at 1g.
THAI RED CURRY NOODLE SOUP
Ditch the takeout menu and satisfy your craving for Thai food by whipping up a delicious red curry noodle soup instead. This mouthwatering dish is bursting with flavor and features tender shreds of chicken, springy rice noodles, fragrant cilantro, sweet basil, and a squeeze of lime juice that will transport you to the streets of Bangkok. Not only will your taste buds thank you, but you’ll also save money and avoid the hassle of delivery.
CROCKPOT LASAGNA SOUP
Say goodbye to the hassle of layering lasagna and hello to a deliciously easy alternative. Introduce yourself to crockpot lasagna soup, a mouthwatering recipe that’s packed with flavors and tender ingredients. This hearty soup is made with a rich tomato broth, complemented by carrots, diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, ground beef, and Italian sausage. Simply serve it in a bowl and top it off with a trio of melted cheeses – ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella – for an unforgettable dining experience.
Nutritionally, this recipe delivers: 487 calories, 46g of carbohydrates, 28g of protein, 22g of fat, and 6g of fiber.
STICKY MONGOLIAN MEATBALLS AND BROCCOLI
Sticky Mongolian meatballs can be prepared in just 30 minutes, a quick and flavorful option for any meal. The simplicity of this recipe is its greatest asset – with only one sheet pan required, simply toss the meatballs into the sauce after it’s cooked to perfection. Serve with rice or pasta for a satisfying and filling meal. From a nutritional standpoint, each serving provides approximately 691 calories, with 73g of carbohydrates, 28g of protein, 34g of fat, and 5g of fiber.
SLOW COOKER CHICKEN ENCHILADA CASSEROLE
Indulge in the delightfully straightforward and mouth-watering chicken enchilada recipe, harmoniously blending black beans, tender tortillas, rich homemade enchilada sauce, and a generous sprinkle of cheese. The result is an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more. Nutritionally speaking, this dish boasts an impressive profile: 316 calories per serving, with 26g of carbohydrates, 25.5g of protein, 12g of fat, and a satisfying 7g of fiber.
ONE POT LEMON CHICKEN AND ORZO
For those who dread scrubbing away at dirty dishes after every meal, I’m thrilled to share a game-changing recipe that eliminates the need for multiple pots and pans. This delectable single-pot meal combines tender chicken thighs with a rich, creamy orzo dish infused with a bright, citrusy lemon flavor. Once you try it, this recipe will become a staple in your weekly dinner repertoire, making the thought of doing dishes a distant memory.
CROCKPOT BOURBON CHICKEN
One of the best things about crockpot bourbon chicken is its simplicity – you can whip it up with minimal ingredients, most of which are probably already stocked in your pantry. This makes it an ideal option for meal prep or a relaxing weekend dinner. Plus, with just 327 calories per serving, this dish won’t weigh you down. Here’s the nutritional lowdown: 30g of carbs, 29g of protein, and only 6g of fat, along with a negligible 0.05g of fiber.
With these numbers in mind, you can feel good about indulging in this tasty treat.
COPYCAT APPLEBEE’S HONEY PEPPER CHICKEN MAC AND CHEESE
I can confidently attest to the exceptional taste of this recipe, having made it previously. In fact, I’d argue that it rivals even the best restaurants. The harmonious combination of mac and cheese, chicken, and bacon creates a truly indulgent experience. If you’re looking for a treat that will satisfy your cravings, I highly recommend giving this recipe a try.
From a nutritional perspective, here’s what you can expect: with 1037 calories per serving, 74g of carbs, 26g of protein, 72g of fat, and a negligible 0g of fiber.
STUFFED SHELLS
One of my go-to dinner recipes, this creamy four-cheese stuffed shell dish is a real showstopper. The combination of Italian seasonings, sautéed garlic, spinach, and melted cheese creates a flavor profile that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With only 496 calories per serving, you can indulge in this comforting meal without feeling too guilty. Nutritionally speaking, each serving boasts 30g of protein, 29g of fat, 3g of fiber, and 29g of carbohydrates.
Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, this recipe is sure to be a hit on any Sunday evening.
