17 Quick Dinner Recipes to Rescue Your Evening — More Time for You!

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17 Quick Dinner Recipes to Rescue Your Evening — More Time for You!

Quick dinner recipes are your evening’s unsung heroes, giving you back a chunk of your night. These 17 dishes are about ease and speed, whisking you away from the kitchen and into whatever else you’d rather be doing. They’re simple, they’re fast, and they hit the spot. Let’s dive in and get your dinner sorted so you can reclaim your evening and move on with life.

A skillet with sautéed red and white cabbage, topped with melted cheese and a drizzle of creamy sauce, stirred by a white spatula.
Reuben Bowls. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Two shake and bake pork chops on a plate.
Shake and Bake Pork Chops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Shake and Bake Pork Chops are perfect for a quick meal and are ready in 25 minutes. They come out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Coat chops with mayo and seasoned breading mix and bake for a dish that’s easy to make and clean up after. There’s no need to fry or spend a lot of time prepping. These pork chops let you serve a great meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for when you’re short on time but still want a meal that feels like a treat. This recipe makes dinner simple and stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is great for a quick dinner and is ready in 30 minutes. It combines broccoli and cauliflower with cream cheese, sour cream, and bacon. The bacon adds rich flavor, and the cream cheese and sour cream make it creamy. This dish transforms basic veggies into a meal everyone will love. It’s perfect for spending less time in the kitchen and more time relaxing. This casserole helps you get a great dinner on the table fast without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Quick and easy, these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are perfect for a fast dinner. They come together in just 20 minutes. Chop some chicken, fry it, and toss it in a simple garlic butter sauce for flavor. This dish is a stress-free option for a busy weeknight, letting you enjoy a great meal without spending much time cooking. It’s a fast way to get a meal on the table and is perfect for busy evenings. This recipe is a game changer when you need something great without the hassle, making dinner time less of a chore and more of a joy. It simplifies your dinner routine and tastes amazing.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach with tomatoes in a pan.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach are great for a quick and delicious dinner and are ready in 30 minutes. Shrimp, garlic, grape tomatoes, spinach, and coconut milk cook quickly for a great meal. The garlic adds rich flavor while the shrimp and spinach combine for a light yet hearty dinner. It’s great when you need something special but lack time, making it perfect for a stress-free evening. This recipe brings a touch of elegance to your weeknight dinners without the time commitment. Perfect for those nights when you want a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is great when you need to leave the kitchen fast. Toss sausages, sweet mini peppers, broccoli florets, and zucchini on a sheet pan and roast. It cooks quickly with hardly any cleanup. The flavors mix well in the oven, giving you a hearty meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy nights when you want to relax after eating without worrying about a mess. You get a balanced meal with protein and veggies in one go. The simple prep and easy cleanup mean you spend less time in the kitchen and more time relaxing.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Cabbage and Sausage

A pan of cabbage and sausage garnished with fresh herbs.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Cabbage and Sausage is great for a fast dinner done in under 30 minutes. Combining sausage, cabbage, onion, and spices delivers a comforting taste with every bite. It’s perfect for a hearty meal that won’t keep you in the kitchen all night and is great for unwinding after a busy day without sacrificing a good dinner. Serve on its own or with a side dish for a complete meal. It’s a great way to enjoy a filling dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The quick cooking time and easy preparation make it perfect for weeknights when you’re short on time.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

A fresh Caesar salad with chicken, croutons, tomatoes, and dressing, served in a large white bowl with a fork.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is perfect when you need dinner in a hurry, ready in just 25 minutes. Pre-cooked chicken and store-bought Caesar dressing cut your kitchen time, letting you step out of the kitchen sooner than expected. Simple ingredients combine to create a filling meal that’s easy to prepare for busy nights. It is a great choice when you want something quick yet delicious, combining Caesar salad with the heartiness of pasta and chicken. The convenience of pre-cooked chicken and store-bought dressing means you can have a great meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Reuben Bowls

A bowl of coleslaw with creamy dressing, garnished with green onions, served in a ceramic bowl with a fork.
Reuben Bowls. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Whip these Reuben Bowls in 30 minutes for a quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Brown up some deli corned beef and toss it with coleslaw or shredded cabbage. Add sauerkraut and top with melted Swiss cheese. Finish with a drizzle of homemade or store-bought Thousand Island dressing for an easy-to-prepare dish. This meal is great for both dinner rush and next-day lunches. Perfect for busy nights when you want something quick and delicious. This recipe makes dinner time easy.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Bowls

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Italian sausage soup in a pot with a spoon and garnishes on the side.
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is perfect for speedy dinners ready in 30 minutes. Combining Italian sausage, cream cheese, tomatoes, and heavy cream creates a rich and hearty soup. The cream and cheese melt into the broth, creating a rich texture for chilly evenings. It’s great for ending a long day with a comforting meal that warms you up quickly. Adjust the spices to suit your taste. With minimal prep and a short cooking time, it’s a lifesaver on busy nights. The hearty ingredients make it a great option for those nights when you need something filling fast.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Spinach Chicken Bake is great for a quick meal that is ready in 30 minutes. It combines juicy chicken thighs, fresh spinach, a kick of red pepper flakes, and melted mozzarella. Simple ingredients like cream cheese add a rich texture. This dish delivers a nutritious, protein-packed meal without complicated steps. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to make a great dinner that helps you unwind after a busy day. The quick cooking time and simple prep mean you can have a healthy meal without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Creamy Dijon Chicken

A pan of creamy dijon chicken with herbs and bacon.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Dijon Chicken is a one-pan meal perfect for a quick dinner ready in 30 minutes. It combines juicy chicken thighs, tangy Dijon mustard sauce, fresh spinach, and crispy bacon. The simple preparation means minimal cleanup. It’s great for putting a comforting and hearty meal on the table fast and enjoying more time to relax after a long day. This dish makes it easy to serve a great meal without hassle. You’ll love how quickly you can prepare dinner and have time to unwind. The bold flavors and simple prep make it a go-to for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet

Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice with a wooden spoon.
Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet is great for a quick dinner, ready in 30 minutes. It mixes ground beef with creamy cheese, cauliflower rice, and mushrooms for a filling low-carb meal. Perfect for evenings when you’re short on time but still want a complete meal. This skillet helps you make a hearty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish lets you easily switch from a busy day to a peaceful evening. It’s a simple way to eat well without a lot of effort.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is great for a quick meal, ready in 30 minutes. Season the chicken, sauté mushrooms, and whip up a creamy sauce with chicken stock and cream. The rich flavors are comforting, and the preparation is straightforward. This recipe is perfect for nights when you want something special without much effort. It’s a great way to enjoy a nice dinner and still have time to relax. Perfect for busy evenings when you need a stress-free meal. You’ll be impressed by how easy it is to make.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Cheesy beef casserole with cauliflower rice and spinach being spooned out of a baking dish.
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach is perfect for a fast meal, ready in 30 minutes. It combines well-seasoned ground beef with cauliflower rice and fresh spinach, all covered in melted cheese. This casserole is easy to make, flavorful, and nutritious. It’s perfect for evenings when you want a hearty meal without spending much time cooking. It’s a simple way to unwind after a busy day with a meal that hits the spot and saves you time. You’ll love how effortless it is to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Canned Chicken Patties

Chicken patties with broccoli on a plate.
Canned Chicken Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In just 20 minutes, you can whip up these Canned Chicken Patties, making them perfect for a quick dinner that gets you out of the kitchen fast. These patties mix canned chicken with eggs, parmesan, and ground sunflower seed meal. You can serve them with steamed broccoli or in buns for a quick sandwich. This dish is effortless and perfect for nights when you need a fast and great meal. It’s a convenient way to enjoy a homemade dinner without much prep. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to make a good dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Garlic Chicken is ready in 30 minutes and is perfect for a quick dinner. It features tender chicken breasts in a creamy, garlicky sauce made with chicken stock, heavy cream, and parmesan. This dish is quick to prepare and fills your kitchen with a tempting aroma. It’s a stress-free recipe for a relaxing meal when you want good food without much effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a simple and delicious meal. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to make and how great it tastes. It’s a reliable choice for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Fajita Baked Chicken

Cheesy chicken fajita bake in a baking pan.
Fajita Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Fajita Baked Chicken comes together in 30 minutes and is great for a fast meal that quickly gets you out of the kitchen. It’s packed with the bold flavors of traditional fajitas and needs minimal prep. Season the chicken with fajita spices, layer with cream cheese, sweet peppers, mozzarella, and bake. This stress-free recipe delivers a good meal, perfect for unwinding on a busy weeknight. It combines convenience and flavor in one dish. You’ll love the simple steps and great taste.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

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