“Just Enough” Recipes That Won’t Overwhelm The Fridge

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“Just Enough” Recipes That Won’t Overwhelm The Fridge

Looking for dinner ideas that are just right for a smaller household? Our collection of recipes ensures you can enjoy a delicious meal without worrying about excessive leftovers. From BBQ chicken drumsticks to small batch KFC-style chicken, these dishes are perfectly portioned to serve just enough. Each recipe is designed for ease and convenience, making your evening meal both simple and enjoyable. Whether you’re dining alone or with a partner, these recipes will fit your needs perfectly. Let’s make your dinner routine both satisfying and straightforward.

Crispy fried chicken served with ketchup and garnished with fresh tomato slices.
Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

A chicken drumsticks in a pan.
BBQ Chicken Drumsticks. Photo Credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Using an air fryer for BBQ chicken drumsticks ensures you get a delicious meal without excess oil. This method delivers crispy, flavorful drumsticks coated in a tangy barbecue sauce, making just the right amount for a no-leftover dinner. It’s a simple, mess-free way to enjoy a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Oven Fried Chicken

Oven fried chicken with cherry tomatoes.
Oven Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Oven fried chicken offers all the crunch and flavor of traditional fried chicken with less grease. Bread the chicken pieces, season them, and bake until golden. This dish is perfect for a dinner that satisfies the craving for something crispy without the hassle of deep frying.
Get the Recipe: Oven Fried Chicken

Breakfast for Denver Omelets

An omelet on a wooden cutting board made with fresh ingredients from a small batch.
Denver Omelets. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

A Denver omelet, filled with diced ham, bell peppers, onions, and cheese, makes a satisfying and balanced dinner. It’s quick to whip up, and the ingredients can easily be adjusted to suit the number of people eating, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Get the Recipe: Denver Omelets

Chicken Pot Pies

Two pot pies in a green and blue bowl.
Chicken Pot Pies. Photo Credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Chicken pot pies are a comforting meal that neatly packages protein, vegetables, and a creamy sauce under a flaky crust. They’re perfect for serving individual portions, making sure everyone has just enough for dinner with no need for second helpings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pies

Lemon Garlic Chicken

Small batch chicken gyro with tzatziki sauce on a pita.
Lemon Garlic Chicken. Photo Credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Lemon garlic chicken is light and bursting with flavor, ideal for a dinner that doesn’t feel too heavy. Quickly marinate the chicken in lemon and garlic, then roast or grill for a dish that’s easy to prepare and portion according to your dinner needs.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Chicken

Oven Baked Ranch Chicken

Small batch chicken salad with apples and kale in a white bowl.
Baked Ranch Chicken. Photo Credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Oven baked ranch chicken is effortlessly delicious, requiring just a few ingredients. Coat chicken breasts in ranch seasoning and breadcrumbs, then bake until crispy. This dish is easy to portion, ensuring each person gets just enough to fill them up.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ranch Chicken

Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts

An air fryer basket with stuffed chicken breasts.
Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Stuffed chicken breasts made in the air fryer are a fantastic way to serve a complete meal in a single dish. Fill the chicken with ingredients like spinach, cheese, or sun-dried tomatoes for a meal that’s both fulfilling and perfectly portioned.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Oven BBQ Ribs

A plate of food with meat and potatoes.
Oven Baked BBQ Ribs. Photo Credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Oven BBQ ribs can be prepared to yield just the right amount for dinner, avoiding the fuss of leftovers. Slow cook the ribs in the oven with your favorite BBQ sauce for a tender, flavorful finish that’s perfect for a satisfying, single-meal serving.
Get the Recipe: Oven BBQ Ribs

Meatball Subs

A close up of food.
Meatball Subs. Photo Credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Meatball subs are a fun and easy dinner option that can be tailored to the exact number of servings needed. Prepare your meatballs, simmer them in marinara, and load them onto fresh sub rolls for a hearty meal that’s neatly contained in individual servings.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Subs

Blackened Chicken Thighs

A small batch of food with tomatoes.
Blackened Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Blackened chicken thighs offer a spicy, smoky flavor that’s ideal for a quick dinner. The seasoning is robust, and cooking is straightforward, making it easy to prepare just enough for one meal. Pair with a simple side like steamed vegetables or rice for a complete, no-fuss dinner.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Chicken Thighs

KFC Fried Chicken

A hand holding a piece of fried chicken.
KFC Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Enjoy the iconic taste of KFC-style chicken at home with this small batch recipe. Season your chicken pieces with a blend of spices to mimic that famous flavor and then fry or bake them for a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Get the Recipe: KFC Fried Chicken

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