Weeknights can often be hectic with work, school, and other obligations, leaving little time or energy to cook a delicious and nutritious meal. However, with just a few simple ingredients and some creativity, you can whip up a tasty meal in no time. Here are 10 simple and savory recipes for weeknight cooking that will have your family coming back for seconds.
1. Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas – Toss together sliced chicken, bell peppers, onions, and fajita seasoning on a sheet pan and bake for a quick and delicious meal. Serve with warm tortillas, salsa, and guacamole for a complete and satisfying dinner.
2. Pasta Primavera – Cook your favorite pasta and toss with sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and spinach. Add a splash of olive oil, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese for a light and flavorful dish.
3. One-Pot Taco Pasta – Brown ground beef with taco seasoning, then add cooked pasta, canned diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and crushed tortilla chips for a fun twist on traditional tacos.
4. Stir-Fried Chicken and Vegetables – Stir-fry thinly sliced chicken breast with your favorite vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas. Add soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a savory and satisfying meal.
5. BBQ Chicken Quesadillas – Shred leftover rotisserie chicken and toss with your favorite BBQ sauce. Spread on tortillas with shredded cheese, red onions, and cilantro. Cook in a skillet until crispy and golden brown for a delicious and easy meal.
6. Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill – Season salmon fillets with lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Bake in the oven until flaky and tender. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy and flavorful dinner.
7. Caprese Stuffed Chicken – Butterfly chicken breasts and stuff with sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. Season with salt, pepper, and balsamic glaze and bake until cooked through. Serve with a side salad for a light and tasty meal.
8. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry – Marinate thinly sliced beef in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry with broccoli florets and serve over steamed rice for a classic and delicious weeknight dinner.
9. Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps – Brown ground turkey with taco seasoning and spoon onto large lettuce leaves. Top with shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and avocado slices for a low-carb and flavorful meal.
10. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio – Cook spaghetti until al dente and toss with garlic, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a simple yet satisfying pasta dish.
These 10 simple and savory recipes are perfect for weeknight cooking when you’re short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious and homemade meal. Whether you’re in the mood for Mexican, Italian, or Asian-inspired dishes, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. So grab your apron and get cooking!
