23 Easy Dinners to Make Busy Parents Rejoice

Photo of author

| Published:

23 Easy Dinners to Make Busy Parents Rejoice


In the whirlwind of daily life, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal often falls by the wayside for busy parents. The challenge of juggling work, school runs, and extracurricular activities means that dinner needs to be both quick and satisfying. That’s why having a repertoire of easy-to-make dinners is a game changer. These meals are designed to reduce time in the kitchen and increase quality time spent around the dinner table.

Each recipe in this collection is chosen with time-strapped guardians in mind, offering a variety of flavors and nutrients without the need for elaborate preparation or rare ingredients. Whether you’re looking for something to whip up in under 30 minutes or a simple set-and-forget slow cooker dish, there’s something here that will make evenings smoother and more enjoyable. Say goodbye to the stress of meal planning with these straightforward, tasty options that everyone in the family will love.

Chicken and cheese in a skillet.
Cheesy Chicken Skillet. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Burrito Bowls

Burrito bowls are a versatile and quick option for parents on the go, allowing each family member to tailor their meal with a mix of ground turkey, vegetables, and cauliflower rice. This dish is a convenient choice for a fulfilling family dinner where everyone can enjoy a personal touch to their meal.
Get the Recipe: Burrito Bowls

A skillet filled with chicken and spinach.
Creamy Chicken with Sage and Spinach. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Creamy Chicken with Sage and Spinach

Creamy chicken with sage and spinach is a comforting choice for a family meal, combining herbs and cream for a flavorful evening dish. It’s a warm, inviting option for parents looking for a quick yet comforting meal to serve on a busy night.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken with Sage and Spinach

Shredded pork on a white plate.
Brown Sugar Crockpot Pork. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Brown Sugar Crockpot Pork

For a dinner that requires minimal attention, the brown sugar crockpot pork is a standout. Its sweet caramelized coating makes it a special yet effortless dish that’s perfect for those evenings when time is tight but a flavorful meal is desired.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Crockpot Pork

Cheesy squash casserole in a white dish.
Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Squash Casserole

A squash casserole is a hearty and warm meal, combining vegetables and cheese for a comforting dinner experience. It’s an ideal choice for a nutritious and filling meal that requires little fuss.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole

Chicken meatballs in a white bowl with a fork.
Chicken Meatballs. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Chicken Meatballs

Chicken meatballs offer a health-conscious dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, blending spices and a buttery sauce for a protein-rich meal. This dish is a great way to end a busy day with a nourishing and appealing dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Meatballs

Easy casserole dish with cheese and green onions.
Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Taco Casserole

Taco casserole merges the familiar flavors of tacos in a simple, one-dish meal that’s perfect for a hectic evening. It’s a stress-free dinner solution that promises a flavorful and peaceful end to the day.
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole

Chicken Baklava

Chicken baklava offers a unique and flavorful dinner option with seasoned chicken wings and a mix of aromatic spices. It’s a suitable choice for those evenings when a conventional meal just won’t do.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Baklava

Chicken wings on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Air Fryer Chicken

Air fryer chicken tenders provide a healthier alternative to a beloved classic, with a crispy texture that’s sure to please. This dish is an effortless way to serve up a meal that’s both enjoyable and convenient.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken

Instant pot cheesy cheeseburger soup.
Cheeseburger Soup. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger soup is a warm, hearty blend that brings together beef, bacon, and cheese in an Instant Pot for a filling meal. It’s an excellent choice for a comforting and easy-to-prepare dinner that will keep everyone content.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

Chicken Cheesy Skillet

The cheesy chicken skillet is a one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken pieces with a deliciously cheesy sauce, mixed with delicious vegetables. It’s a quick and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite, satisfying the taste buds of both children and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cheesy Skillet

Chicken curry in a white bowl on a wooden cutting board.
Chicken Curry. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Chicken Curry

Chicken curry is a straightforward, one-pot meal that brings a touch of variety to the dinner table. It’s an excellent choice for busy parents who want to provide a warm and flavorful meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Curry

Chicken Fricassee

Chicken fricassee is a classic dish that’s perfect for a family sit-down dinner, combining chicken thighs with a creamy sauce and herbs for a comforting taste. It’s a great option for parents looking for a meal that feels like a warm hug for the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fricassee

A plate of chicken with sauce and parsley on a cutting board.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Chicken Paprikash

Chicken paprikash offers a comforting and flavorful dinner choice, seasoned with paprika and combined with onions, peppers, and tomatoes. This dish is ideal for a cozy night in, providing a taste of tradition with minimal hassle.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

A white bowl of soup on a wooden cutting board.
Chili. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Chili

Chili is the quintessential comfort food, perfect for a warming family dinner. It’s easy to prepare, can be frozen for future meals, and combines a mix of meats with vegetables and spices for a hearty bowl that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Chili

Curry Chicken

Curry chicken is a warming dish that brings a rich spice blend and tender chicken together for a flavorful dinner. It’s a comforting choice for parents looking to serve a meal that’s both hearty and easy to prepare on a brisk evening.
Get the Recipe: Curry Chicken

A white plate with chicken and carrots on it.
Crockpot Chicken. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Crockpot Chicken

Crockpot chicken is a convenient slow-cooker meal that’s ideal for busy parents. This flavorful dish is perfect for those days when time is scarce but a home-cooked meal is still on the agenda.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Chicken

Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken

Maple pecan crusted chicken is a simple yet impressive dish that adds a touch of sweetness to the dinner routine. It’s an excellent choice for a hassle-free meal that brings a bit of flair to the family table without the stress.
Get the Recipe: Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken

A casserole dish filled with meatballs and cheese.
Meatball Casserole. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Meatball Casserole

Meatball casserole combines meatballs with a creamy sauce and cheese for a comforting and easy dinner option. It’s a great pick for parents in need of a quick and satisfying meal that will be met with smiles all around.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Casserole

Tex Mex Chicken

Tex Mex chicken is a colorful and straightforward dish that adds a burst of flavor to the dinner routine. It’s an ideal choice for parents seeking a comforting and easy meal that brings a bit of excitement to the table.
Get the Recipe: Tex Mex Chicken

Chicken fajitas in a skillet with avocado.
Monterey Chicken Skillet. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Monterey Chicken Skillet

The Monterey chicken skillet is a fast and tasty meal, bringing together seasoned chicken, fresh toppings, and cheese. It’s a fantastic choice for busy parents who want to whip up a satisfying dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Monterey Chicken Skillet

Hot dog buns with little smokies on a plate.
Pigs in a Blanket. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Pigs in a Blanket

Pigs in a blanket provide an uncomplicated and enjoyable meal, perfect for those evenings when parents need a no-fuss option. This classic favorite is guaranteed to be a hit, offering comfort food that everyone can enjoy together.
Get the Recipe: Pigs in a Blanket

Asian chicken skewers on top of rice.
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Teriyaki chicken skewers are a straightforward dinner choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor, thanks to the homemade teriyaki glaze. They make for an uncomplicated yet delightful meal that’s easy to put together on a busy night.
Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Thyme Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Honey

Thyme roasted chicken with lemon and honey is a dish that combines the tang of citrus with the sweetness of honey, all in an easy-to-make recipe. It’s an ideal choice for a tranquil and heartwarming family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Thyme Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Honey

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.