Weeknights can be hectic, with work, school, and other obligations taking up most of our time. When you finally get home after a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen making dinner. That’s why having a repertoire of easy and quick dinner recipes is essential for busy weeknights. In this post, we will share 10 delicious and simple weeknight dinner recipes that will save you time and stress in the kitchen.
1. One-Pan Chicken and Veggies
This one-pan chicken and veggies recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Simply toss your favorite vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes) in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and place them on a baking sheet. Season boneless, skinless chicken breasts with your favorite spices and place them on top of the veggies. Bake in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Spaghetti aglio e olio is a classic Italian pasta dish that is both simple and delicious. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, then sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Toss the cooked spaghetti in the garlic-infused oil, along with red pepper flakes, salt, and parsley. Top with grated parmesan cheese and enjoy!
3. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This beef and broccoli stir-fry is a favorite in many households for good reason—it’s quick, easy, and oh-so tasty. Marinate thinly sliced beef in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes. In a hot skillet, stir-fry the beef until cooked through, then add broccoli florets and stir-fry until crisp-tender. Serve over steamed rice for a complete meal.
4. Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill
Salmon is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. This baked salmon recipe with lemon and dill is a breeze to make. Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and dill. Bake in the oven at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
5. Chickpea and Spinach Curry
This chickpea and spinach curry is a vegetarian-friendly option that is both flavorful and filling. In a large skillet, sauté diced onion, garlic, and ginger in oil until fragrant. Add curry powder, cumin, and coriander, then stir in canned chickpeas and diced tomatoes. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, then add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Serve over rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.
6. Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
These taco stuffed sweet potatoes are a fun twist on traditional tacos and are super easy to make. Bake sweet potatoes in the oven until tender, then split them open and fill with seasoned ground beef, black beans, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and avocado slices. Top with sour cream, salsa, and cilantro for a hearty and flavorful dinner.
7. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Lemon garlic shrimp pasta is a quick and elegant weeknight dinner option that requires minimal effort. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then sauté shrimp in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes until pink and cooked through. Toss the cooked pasta with the shrimp and sauce, then garnish with chopped parsley and grated parmesan cheese.
8. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
If you have a slow cooker, making BBQ pulled pork sandwiches is a breeze. Place pork shoulder in the slow cooker with BBQ sauce, onion, and garlic, then cook on low for 6-8 hours until the pork is tender and easily shreddable. Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns with coleslaw and pickles for a delicious and satisfying meal.
9. Caprese Chicken Skillet
Caprese chicken skillet is a colorful and flavorful dish that comes together in no time. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sear in a hot skillet until golden brown. Top the chicken with sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves, then cover and cook until the cheese is melted. Serve with a balsamic glaze drizzle for an extra burst of flavor.
10. Sheet Pan Fajitas
Sheet pan fajitas are a simple and customizable dinner option that the whole family will love. Toss sliced bell peppers and onions in olive oil, cumin, chili powder, and paprika, then spread them on a baking sheet. Top with seasoned chicken strips and bake in the oven at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Serve the fajitas with warm tortillas, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for a delicious and satisfying meal.
In conclusion, these 10 easy weeknight dinner recipes are sure to make your evenings a little less stressful and a lot more delicious. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, stir-fry, or a hearty sandwich, there’s something for everyone on this list. So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of cooking dinner after a long day, just refer back to this post and whip up one of these quick and tasty meals. Your taste buds—and your busy schedule—will thank you!
