Our 33 Favorite Weeknight Dinners

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Our 33 Favorite Weeknight Dinners

Looking for quick and satisfying dinner options for your busy weeknights? We’ve got you covered with our top 33 favorite weeknight dinners that are both easy to make and delicious. These recipes are designed to minimize your time in the kitchen while maximizing flavor on your plate.

Whether you’re craving something comforting or looking for a simple one-pan solution, our selection has something for every night of the week. You’ll find a variety of meals to fit your schedule and keep the whole family happy, even when time is not on your side.

Air fried chicken leg quarters served on plates.
Air Fryer Chicken Legs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.
Chicken drumsticks on a plate.
Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks

Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks bring a vibrant South American flair to your dinner table. In just 30 minutes, these drumsticks, marinated with traditional Colombian spices, deliver a rich and aromatic flavor. The main ingredients include chicken, citrus, and a blend of spices that result in a taste that’s both exotic and homely. It’s an effortless way to add international cuisine to your weeknight rotation.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks

Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken

Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s ready in about 30 minutes. It features chicken breasts topped with ripe tomatoes and creamy mozzarella cheese. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth experience with a balance of savory chicken and the classic Italian caprese salad taste. This dish is perfect for those who love minimal ingredients with maximum flavor.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes is a hearty and rustic meal that can be on your table in about an hour. This one-pan dish features pork tenderloin and potatoes, all seasoned with a robust mix of garlic and herbs. The pork is succulent, and the potatoes are perfectly roasted, making for a taste that’s both comforting and full of flavor. It’s a foolproof dinner option for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Pork chops with blackberry applesauce on a gray plate.
Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries

Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries combines tender pork with a sweet and tangy fruit sauce. Ready in under an hour, this dish features juicy pork chops, homemade applesauce, and fresh blackberries. The flavors blend harmoniously, offering a comforting taste with a hint of acidity from the berries. It’s a delightful twist on a classic pairing that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet is a dish that promises rich flavors in a creamy sauce, ready in under 30 minutes. The chicken is pan-seared and then simmered in a decadent balsamic cream sauce. The main ingredients are chicken breasts, balsamic vinegar, and cream, which come together to create a sweet and tangy taste profile. It’s a quick and elegant meal that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Chicken Shawarma Plate

Chicken Shawarma Plate offers a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine in under an hour. This dish features spiced chicken served with accompaniments like hummus and salad. The main ingredients include marinated chicken thighs and a variety of fresh vegetables, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s a great way to enjoy a feast of textures and tastes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Shawarma Plate

Buttermilk chicken and potatoes on a plate.
Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes is a comforting meal that’s ready in about an hour. The chicken is marinated in buttermilk, which ensures it’s juicy and tender, while the potatoes roast to perfection alongside. The main ingredients are simple—chicken, potatoes, and buttermilk—resulting in a taste that’s creamy and slightly tangy. This dish is a fuss-free way to enjoy a classic combination.
Get the Recipe: Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Air Fryer Chicken Legs are a quick and healthier alternative to traditional frying, ready in just 30 minutes. The chicken legs are seasoned and cooked in an air fryer, which gives them a crispy exterior without excess oil. The main ingredients are chicken legs and your choice of seasoning, leading to a taste that’s both satisfying and guilt-free. It’s a convenient option for a delicious and crispy meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy offers a comforting taste with a hint of herbaceous flavor, ready in about an hour. This dish features a creamy tarragon-infused gravy, tender chicken, and vegetables, all encased in a flaky crust. The main ingredients, including chicken, vegetables, and tarragon, combine to create a warm and savory taste. It’s a classic comfort food with a flavorful twist.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Bowl of chicken Ajiaco soup.
Ajiaco Recipe. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Ajiaco Recipe

Ajiaco Recipe is a traditional Colombian soup that’s hearty and full of flavor, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Taking about 90 minutes, it’s made with chicken, three types of potatoes, and the herb guascas, which gives it a unique taste. The soup is thick, comforting, and has a mild, earthy flavor profile. Ajiaco is a nourishing meal that’s worth the wait.
Get the Recipe: Ajiaco Recipe

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies is a colorful and easy-to-make dinner that’s ready in under an hour. The dish consists of chicken and a medley of vegetables, all seasoned with smoky paprika. The main ingredients are chicken thighs, paprika, and a variety of vegetables, resulting in a taste that’s robust and slightly spicy. It’s a convenient one-pan meal that’s both nutritious and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry is a savory and quick dish that’s ready in about 20 minutes. It features thinly sliced beef and fresh broccoli in a flavorful stir fry sauce. The main ingredients, beef and broccoli, are complemented by garlic and soy sauce, offering a taste that’s bold and umami-rich. It’s a fast and satisfying way to enjoy a classic stir fry.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Chicken skewers on skewers with lemon wedges.
Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab

Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab is a Middle Eastern-inspired dish that’s ready in about 30 minutes. The kebabs are made with ground chicken and a blend of spices, offering a taste that’s both savory and slightly spicy. The main ingredients, including chicken and spices like cumin and coriander, create a taste that’s aromatic and delicious. It’s a simple yet exotic addition to your weeknight dinner lineup.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab

Cheddar Chicken Bake

Cheddar Chicken Bake is a cheesy and satisfying meal that’s ready in about 45 minutes. This bake combines tender chicken, quinoa, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce. The main ingredients are chicken, quinoa, and cheddar cheese, which meld together for a taste that’s hearty and comforting. It’s a great way to enjoy a protein-packed dish with a cheesy twist.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Chicken Bake

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy is a dish that’s both savory and slightly tangy, ready in under an hour. The pork chops are seared and served with a creamy mustard and shallot gravy. The main ingredients include pork chops, mustard, and shallots, creating a flavor that’s rich and complex. This meal is a sophisticated take on a classic pork dish.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy

Colombian tamales on a plate.
Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano). Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano)

Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano) are a traditional dish that’s packed with flavor, typically enjoyed over a leisurely weekend. The preparation takes a few hours, involving corn dough filled with chicken, vegetables, and spices, all wrapped in banana leaves. The main ingredients are chicken, masa, and a blend of Colombian spices, resulting in a taste that’s savory and slightly spicy. It’s a festive and authentic experience that’s well worth the effort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano)

Colombian Platanos Maduros Fritos – Fried Ripe Sweet Plantains

Colombian Platanos Maduros Fritos – Fried Ripe Sweet Plantains is a sweet and simple dish that can be ready in just 15 minutes. The ripe plantains are fried until caramelized, bringing out their natural sweetness. The main ingredients are plantains and oil, resulting in a taste that’s rich and indulgent. This dish serves as a delightful side or dessert.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Platanos Maduros Fritos – Fried Ripe Sweet Plantains

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken is a dish that’s sweet and tangy, perfect for a quick dinner ready in 30 minutes. The chicken is marinated in a maple mustard sauce and then grilled to perfection. The main ingredients, including chicken, maple syrup, and mustard, create a taste that’s both bold and slightly sweet. It’s an easy and delicious way to enjoy grilled chicken with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Roasted chicken with pomegranate and parsley.
Festive walnut and pomegranate chicken. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Pomegranate Chicken with Walnuts

Pomegranate Chicken with Walnuts is a Persian-inspired dish that’s both sweet and nutty, ready in about an hour. The chicken is cooked in a sauce made with pomegranate molasses and crushed walnuts. The main ingredients are chicken, pomegranate molasses, and walnuts, offering a taste that’s rich and tangy with a hint of sweetness. It’s an exotic and flavorful meal that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Pomegranate Chicken with Walnuts

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice is a zesty and refreshing dish that’s ready in under an hour. It combines juicy chicken thighs, tangy lime juice, and fresh cilantro with rice. The main ingredients work together to create a taste that’s vibrant and full of citrus notes. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy bright, fresh flavors in their meals.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce is a succulent and tangy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep and several hours of slow cooking. The pork shoulder is cooked until tender and then paired with a homemade mustard BBQ sauce. The main ingredients, including pork shoulder and mustard, yield a taste that’s smoky and slightly spicy. It’s a hands-off meal that delivers big on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

Close up on ottolenghi chicken marbella on plate.
Chicken Marbella. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Chicken Marbella

Chicken Marbella is a classic recipe that’s both sweet and savory, ready in about an hour. This dish features chicken marinated with prunes, olives, capers, and a blend of Mediterranean spices. The combination of ingredients results in a complex flavor profile that’s both rich and slightly tangy. With chicken as the main ingredient, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple for its unique and delightful taste.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marbella

Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

Citrus Glazed Pork Chops are a sweet and zesty dish that’s ready in about 30 minutes. The pork chops are glazed with a citrusy sauce that includes orange and lemon juice. The main ingredients, pork chops and citrus fruits, create a taste that’s bright and tangy. This dish is a quick and flavorful way to liven up your pork chop routine.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad is a light and tangy dish that’s ready in about 30 minutes. It features shredded chicken tossed with a Carolina-style BBQ dressing over a bed of greens. The main ingredients, including chicken, vinegar-based BBQ sauce, and fresh salad greens, combine for a taste that’s zesty and refreshing. It’s an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

Roasted chicken and vegetables in a skillet on a cutting board.
Roasted Chicken and Vegetables. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables is a wholesome and hearty meal that’s ready in under an hour. This one-pan wonder features chicken roasted with a variety of seasonal vegetables. The main ingredients, such as chicken, carrots, and potatoes, provide a taste that’s comforting and familiar. It’s an easy and nutritious dinner option that’s perfect for any night.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a dish that’s sweet and savory, ideal for setting and forgetting, ready in several hours. The chicken is slow-cooked in a honey garlic sauce, ensuring it’s fall-apart tender. The main ingredients, including chicken, honey, and garlic, meld together for a taste that’s comforting with a touch of sweetness. It’s a hassle-free meal that’s perfect for a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Mini Chicken Taco Cups

Mini Chicken Taco Cups are a fun and customizable dish that’s ready in about 30 minutes. These bite-sized tacos are made with wonton wrappers filled with seasoned chicken and toppings. The main ingredients are chicken, cheese, and your choice of taco fixings, resulting in a taste that’s zesty and familiar. They’re perfect for a playful and hands-on dinner experience.
Get the Recipe: Mini Chicken Taco Cups

Fried chicken tenders on a plate with dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a healthier and quick option for a classic favorite, ready in just 20 minutes. The chicken tenders are coated and cooked in an air fryer, ensuring a crispy exterior without the need for deep frying. The main ingredients, chicken tenders and breadcrumbs, create a taste that’s crunchy and satisfying. It’s an easy and kid-friendly meal that’s also adult-approved.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf is a luxurious dish that’s ready in about 45 minutes. It pairs seasoned pork chops with seafood, typically shrimp or scallops, for a high-end dining experience. The main ingredients, pork chops and seafood, offer a taste that’s rich and smoky with a delicate seafood flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy a restaurant-style meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

Chicken Curry Laksa

Chicken Curry Laksa is a spicy and aromatic dish that’s ready in about an hour. This Malaysian-inspired soup features chicken, noodles, and a coconut curry broth. The main ingredients, including chicken, coconut milk, and laksa paste, result in a taste that’s creamy and complex with a kick of heat. It’s a warming and flavorful dish that’s perfect for spice lovers.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Curry Laksa

39 Quick Recipes for grilled zucchini rolls on a blue plate.
Zucchini Roll with Crab Salad. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Zucchini Roll with Crab Salad

Zucchini Roll with Crab Salad is a light and refreshing dish that’s ready in about 20 minutes. Thinly sliced zucchini is rolled with a flavorful crab salad filling. The main ingredients, zucchini and crab meat, combine for a taste that’s delicate and slightly sweet. This dish is perfect for a healthy and quick meal.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Roll with Crab Salad

Chicken Karaage

Chicken Karaage is a Japanese dish that’s crispy and flavorful, ready in about 30 minutes. The chicken is marinated, coated in a light batter, and deep-fried. The main ingredients, chicken and soy sauce, create a taste that’s savory with a hint of sweetness. This dish is ideal for those who enjoy a crunchy and delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Karaage

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner is a robust and savory dish that’s ready in about an hour. This one-pan meal features pork chops seasoned with garlic and pepper, alongside vegetables. The main ingredients, pork chops and a variety of vegetables, blend for a taste that’s hearty and full of flavor. It’s a convenient and tasty option for a no-fuss dinner.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

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