Having a solid collection of dinner recipes can make your evenings run smoothly. These 12 recipes are exactly that—reliable and straightforward.

They’re our secret weapons, ideal for any weekday meal. You’ll find they keep dinner time fresh without adding stress.

Each recipe is designed to be delicious and easy to follow. With these in your back pocket, you’re set for success at the dinner table.

Uzbek chicken plov

Uzbek chicken plov brings together rice, carrots, onions, and chicken in a savory one-pot meal. This traditional dish takes about 2 hours to make and is known for its aromatic spices and tender meat. The flavors meld together, creating a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. Its taste is a balance of earthy and warm notes, with a hint of sweetness from the carrots.
Get the Recipe: Uzbek chicken plov

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies is a colorful and simple dish that takes about 30 minutes to prepare. It’s a combination of chicken, bell peppers, and onions, all seasoned with smoky paprika. This meal is roasted to perfection, offering a slightly crisp texture to the vegetables and a juicy chicken. It’s a straightforward recipe that delivers on flavor and ease.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Pomegranate chicken with walnuts

Pomegranate chicken with walnuts is a delightful dish that infuses chicken with the tangy sweetness of pomegranate molasses and the rich texture of walnuts. It typically takes about 1 hour to create this vibrant dish. The result is a succulent chicken with a sauce that’s both sweet and tart, complemented by the crunch of walnuts. This dish is a celebration of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress.
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Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes is a comforting dish that requires roughly 1 hour to make. The chicken is marinated in buttermilk, ensuring it stays moist and tender, while the potatoes roast to a golden brown. The tang of the buttermilk pairs well with the natural flavors of the chicken and potatoes. It’s a fuss-free recipe that yields a satisfying and homely meal.
Get the Recipe: Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

Instant Pot Chicken Ghallaba

Instant Pot Chicken Ghallaba is a quick and flavorful dish that’s ready in about 30 minutes. Using an Instant Pot, chicken is cooked with a medley of vegetables and a blend of Middle Eastern spices. The result is a dish that’s packed with flavor, offering a combination of sweet, spicy, and savory notes. It’s a time-saver that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Ghallaba

grilled chicken kofta kebab

Grilled chicken kofta kebab is a Middle Eastern-inspired recipe that takes about 30 minutes to prepare. Ground chicken is mixed with herbs and spices, then formed around skewers and grilled to perfection. The kebabs are juicy and packed with flavor, with a hint of char from the grill. They’re perfect for a quick and delicious meal that’s also fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: grilled chicken kofta kebab

Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks

Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks are a zesty and savory dish that requires about 1 hour to make. The drumsticks are marinated in a blend of Latin spices and lime, giving them a tangy and aromatic flavor. They’re baked until the skin is crispy and the meat falls off the bone. This recipe brings a taste of Colombia to your dinner table with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks

Ajiaco Recipe

Ajiaco is a traditional Colombian soup that takes about 1.5 hours to cook. It’s a hearty combination of chicken, potatoes, and corn, simmered in a flavorful broth. The dish is finished with a dollop of cream and capers, adding a rich and tangy taste. Ajiaco is a warming and satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Ajiaco Recipe

Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano)

Chicken Colombian Tamales are a labor of love, usually taking around 4 hours to make. They’re filled with chicken, vegetables, and spices, all wrapped in a masa dough and steamed in banana leaves. The tamales are moist, with a balance of savory flavors and a hint of sweetness from the masa. They’re a festive and filling dish that’s worth the effort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano)

Chicken Marbella

Chicken Marbella is a sweet and savory dish that requires about 1 hour of cooking time. It combines chicken with prunes, olives, and capers, creating a unique flavor profile. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of white wine, brown sugar, and herbs, which caramelizes during baking. This dish is a sophisticated yet easy-to-make option for any dinner occasion.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marbella

Colombian Cheese Arepas

Colombian Cheese Arepas are a quick and versatile dish that can be ready in about 15 minutes. These arepas are made with cornmeal and filled with cheese, resulting in a crispy exterior and a gooey, melted center. The taste is a delightful balance of savory with a slight sweetness from the corn. They serve as a great side or a base for a variety of toppings.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Cheese Arepas

Chicken Pakora

Chicken Pakora is an Indian street food favorite that takes about 30 minutes to prepare. The chicken is marinated in spices, then dipped in a chickpea flour batter and fried until golden and crispy. These bite-sized snacks are crunchy on the outside with a tender, flavorful interior. Chicken pakora is perfect for those who love a spicy and crunchy treat.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pakora