50+ Best Easy Dinner Ideas

Here’s your ultimate guide for the best easy dinner ideas! From lightning-fast recipes to batch cooking on a Sunday, I’ll show you how to plan a stress-free week filled with tasty and nourishing meals the whole family will enjoy.

Plan Your Dinner Recipes Ahead

Ever struggle to get a home-cooked meal done by dinner time? Or feel uninspired by your weekly rotation? Well, good news – I’ve rounded up a list of the best dinner ideas that check the boxes for healthy, uncomplicated, and super delicious.

Easy Dinner Ideas Under 30 Minutes

These flavorful yet easy dinner ideas can be ready in under 30 minutes! That means minimal ingredients and tools with easy cleanup. Who doesn’t love that?

Chicken Stir-Fry: This speedy dinner is loaded with juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and is a 30-minute meal the whole family will love!

Chicken Fajitas: This is great for a build-your-own dinner kind of night! And if you want to switch it up the protein, you can make my steak fajitas or shrimp fajitas.

Best Baked Salmon: This easy 15-minute dinner achieves perfectly tender salmon coated in lemon, garlic butter, and fresh herbs.

Best Baked Chicken: Make juicy and tender chicken breasts with this foolproof baked chicken that takes only 25 minutes. For more easy marinade ideas, check out my list of chicken marinades!

Shrimp Scampi: Nothing beats a classic shrimp scampi cooked in the most fragrant garlic butter sauce. And yes, it only takes about 10 minutes to make! Side note — you can toss it with zucchini noodles to make this zucchini pasta with shrimp.

Turkey Burgers: These turkey patties can be made in under 30 minutes and they’re super juicy! Serve them as a classic burger, a lettuce wrap or a burger bowl.

Baked Pork Chops: This entire recipe is quick and easy, which makes it a great choice for weeknight meals. All you need, in addition to the pork chops, is a simple homemade seasoning blend that’s layered with smoky, sweet flavors and gets beautifully caramelized under the broiler. 

Chicken Piccata: Such a beautiful dinner that comes together quickly! Juicy chicken breasts are dredged in flour, seared with a golden crust, then simmered in a lemon butter sauce with a touch of capers and parsley.

Coconut Curry Chicken: I love how simple yet flavorful this dinner is! The chicken simmers in a creamy coconut milk sauce with warm curry spices, then gets served over fluffy rice to soak up every saucy bite.

Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry: The best thing about this easy stir fry dinner is how customizable it is! Plus, it tastes great served with rice, lentils, and more.

Mediterranean Cod en Papillote: In 30 minutes, you’ll have flaky baked cod and perfectly steamed veggies infused with fresh Mediterranean flavors.

Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps: This chicken lettuce wrap is perfect for a fresh yet savory meal that can be made in under 30 minutes!

Dinner Ideas Your Family Will Love

Satisfy those picky eaters with these deliciously comforting dinner ideas for the family! Choose from stir-fry’s, stews, and classic shrimp and chicken meals — with a healthy, homemade spin.

Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs: These will forever be a dinner staple for me (and my family). They’re incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, have the crispiest skin, and are much healthier than traditional fried chicken. 

Beef Stew: The whole family will love this cold-weather, one-pot wonder with chunks of beef chuck roast that are seared until golden, then simmered with vegetables and herbs in a rich and savory broth.

Healthy Hamburger Helper: This is the one-pan meal your family will love time and again. Instead of pasta or rice, I’m adding white beans for nutritious fiber and an extra boost of protein.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken: Tender chicken simmered in a creamy sauce filled with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach is sure to be a dinner favorite.

Fried rice: My family can’t get enough of this classic egg fried rice! And I love that you can customize it with whatever veggies you might have leftover. If you have shrimp, I’d also give my shrimp fried rice a try!

Meatballs: These juicy meatballs simmered in homemade marinara sauce are always a family favorite. You could also pair this sauce with fennel pork meatballs.

Jambalaya: The best one-pot meal the whole family will love! It’s a hearty blend of chicken, sausage, shrimp, veggies, and rice, brimming with spiced Cajun and Creole flavors.

Chipotle Chicken: Introducing the ultimate Chipotle restaurant copycat! It’s beautifully charred, has a deep smoky, spicy flavor, and is perfectly juicy. Add it to burrito bowls, tacos, and more!

Cauliflower Pizza Crust: Enjoy pizza with a healthy twist using this easy cauliflower pizza crust! Plus, everyone can get creative with their toppings.

Creamy Pesto Ground Turkey Skillet: This one has quickly become a fan favorite around here! It’s an easy, high-protein meal that’s filling yet light, and loaded with wholesome ingredients like white beans, artichoke hearts, and plenty of fresh basil pesto. 

Barbacoa Tacos: This slow cooker barbacoa is a great set-it-and-forget-it dinner. And once it’s done, you can make these delicious tacos topped with you favorites. Think cilantro, pico de gallo, salsa verde, and more!

Air Fryer Dinner Ideas

It’s really hard to beat the air fryer when it comes to easy dinner ideas. Bonus – there’s usually just one item to clean up afterward – the air fryer itself!

Air Fryer Chicken Breast: This is an air fryer staple recipe to keep in your back pocket. It results in super juicy chicken coated in the best seasoning.

Air Fryer Salmon Bites: Anything bite-sized naturally makes your meals so much more fun and delicious. So if you’re looking for a new way to cook salmon for dinner, you’ll love these salmon bites coated in the best lemon garlic butter sauce.

Air Fryer Salmon: The spiced Dijon mustard topping on these salmon filets is chef’s kiss. Plus, they turn out super moist with a beautiful outer crust every time.

Air Fryer Chicken Wings: The entire family will love these crispy and juicy lemon pepper chicken wings. And yes, they can be served for dinner or as an appetizer.

Best Dinner Ideas with Chicken

There’s no denying our love for chicken when it comes to dinner. From chicken breast to chicken thighs, I’ll show you how to create the tastiest chicken dinners in a snap.

Teriyaki Chicken: I’ll show you how to make the most delicious teriyaki chicken with an authentic homemade teriyaki sauce.

Greek Lemon Chicken: If you loved my Greek sheet pan chicken, there’s no doubt you’ll love this stand-alone version. Plus, I’ll show you how to pair it with lemon herb rice straight from my cookbook!

White Chicken Chili: This one-pot wonder is a hearty chili that swaps in white beans and chicken for a switch-up you’ll love.

Greek Sheet Pan Chicken: This sheet pan chicken is one of my top recipes for a reason. You’ve got juicy marinated chicken roasted with fresh tomatoes, zucchini, red onions, olives, and crumbled feta – all in one sheet pan.

Butter Chicken: With a handful of spices, I’ll show you how to make the best butter chicken that simmers in the most velvety curry sauce.

Honey Mustard Chicken: You’ll love this addictively delicious, sticky-sweet, and savory baked chicken!

Lemon Pepper Chicken: This is my favorite for a bright and healthy dinner. Chicken breasts are coated in a lemon pepper seasoning, seared until golden, and then topped with a drizzle of the best lemony garlic butter sauce.

Chicken Marsala: Now this is restaurant-quality at home! Chicken breasts are dredged in flour and seared until juicy and golden, then simmered in a luxurious Marsala wine sauce layered with tender mushrooms, aromatics, and fresh herbs.

Cilantro Lime Chicken: Whisk together cilantro, lime, spices, and a touch of honey to turn chicken thighs into sticky-sweet, cilantro lime goodness.

Chimichurri Chicken: When grilling season hits, this chimichurri chicken is always on the meny. It’s quick and easy, grilled to juicy perfection, and coated in a generous amount of fresh chimichurri sauce.

Greek Chicken Burger: No matter the season, I always have a batch of these Greek chicken patties in my freezer! They’re perfectly juicy and layered with herbs and fresh veggies. Make a lettuce wrap burger or top the patties on a bowl—there’s so many ways to enjoy them!

Greek Chicken Souvlaki: Come grilling season, these skewers with a side of tzatziki sauce are sure to be in rotation. And if you want grilled veggies in the mix, make these Greek chicken kabobs!

Balsamic Chicken: Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a savory-sweet balsamic sauce, then roasted with Brussels sprouts and red onions in one easy sheet pan recipe!

Creamy Cajun Chicken: With a batch of my homemade Cajun seasoning, this chicken dinner comes together fast! It’s got loads of flavor with a creamy sauce that’s great served over mashed potatoes.

Hot Honey Chicken Drumsticks: Whether it’s game day or not, these drumsticks are perfect for a simple yet flavorful chicken dinner. Serve this alongside a Caesar salad and dinner is served!

Chicken Meatballs: These baked chicken meatballs served with homemade chimichurri sauce are the best easy dinner and meal prep idea for the week!

Italian Sheet Pan Chicken: This is one of those easy and healthy meals you’ll make on repeat. Diced chicken breast and hearty vegetables are tossed in Italian dressing, then baked until fragrant and tender.

One Pan Chicken And Rice: This one-pan dish shines bright with Mediterranean flavors, juicy chicken thighs, and citrusy rice.

Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake: I made this on a whim, and have loved it ever since! It’s a mix of diced chicken breast, artichoke hearts, bell pepper, and a creamy lemon-herb sauce

Exciting Beef Dinner Ideas

Don’t overlook that pound of ground beef sitting in your freezer. It cooks fast, makes for hearty meals, and can be stuffed or layered into the most comforting, freezer-friendly, easy dinner ideas.

Best Chili Recipe: There’s always a time and a place for a big pot of beef chili. Plus, it’s super easy to make and great for meal prepping!

Meatloaf: The delicious glaze turns a nostalgic meatloaf into a new family favorite! It’s moist, filling, hearty, and just like my mom used to make. For a lighter version, you’ll love this turkey meatloaf.

Ribeye Steak: You can never go wrong with a classic, pan-seared ribeye steak for dinner. This version is cooked to a perfectly tender medium-rare, and basted with a fragrant herb butter sauce.

Stuffed Peppers: I’d say stuffed peppers are a family favorite, so make a double batch to store some in the freezer for later.

Birria: Turn this flavorul slow cooker birria into cheesy birria tacos! Just dip the tortilla in the consommé before adding the filling, and then pan fry it for the ultimate crispy taco!

Zucchini Lasagna: This zucchini lasagna tastes just as good as the original, plus it’s loaded with extra greens!

Braised Short Ribs: This is one of my favorite comfort food dinners. A quick sear, then a slow simmer, and the meat becomes incredibly tender without any fuss. 

Shepherd’s Pie: This is comfort food at its finest — with ground lamb and vegetables simmered in a savory sauce, then topped with fluffy mashed potatoes.

Mongolian Beef: The first time I made this Mongolian beef recipe, I knew immediately it would rival any Chinese restaurant’s version. The steak is perfectly tender and the sauce is SO GOOD.

Taco Soup: Enjoy your favorite taco flavors — all in one soup! And yes, this is a great pantry-friendly recipe.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites: Tender, bite-sized pieces of steak are seared to golden perfection, then tossed in melted butter infused with shallots, garlic, and plenty of fresh herbs.

Fresh and Light Seafood Dinner Ideas

The options are seemingly endless when it comes to seafood for dinner — there’s salmon, flakey baked cod, juicy scallops, and of course tasty little shrimp. Bonus, you only need a few simple ingredients to make each of these seafood options taste amazing!

Tuna Salad: For something super quick, this creamy and crunchy tuna salad always ticks the box. Plus, you can serve it with bread or lettuce wraps. And if you want extra greens in your meal, you’ll love this broccoli tuna salad.

Baked Cod: This easy, foolproof method guarantees perfectly flaky fish baked in the best garlic butter herb topping.

Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers: After soaking in an herby, garlicky marinade, these grilled shrimp taste amazing with just about any side dish.

Poached Salmon: This is one of the best ways to get soft and tender fish in under 20 minutes! The poaching liquid is infused with fresh herbs, shallots, lemon slices, and a splash of white wine for fresh and bright flavor!

Cajun Shrimp: With my Cajun seasoning, this comes together in minutes! It’s earthy, zesty, and slightly spicy with lots of bold flavors. Aka, the perfect way to take a break from the usual garlic butter shrimp for dinner!

Miso Salmon: This is one of those dinners I never get sick of. The miso glaze on this is so delicous, and pairs beautifully with this Asian cucumber salad and ginger rice!

Salmon Salad: This creamy salad has it all – flaky baked salmon, crisp celery, red onion, radishes, and fresh herbs, tossed in the best lemony dressing. 

Creamy Chipotle Shrimp: With the help of this homemade chipotle sauce, this easy one-pan recipe is bursting with zesty flavors and a spicy kick.

Scallops With Citrus Ginger Sauce: The best way to dress scallops is with this easy citrus ginger sauce!

Dijon Baked Salmon: This is one of my go-to salmon recipes for dinner. The Dijon herb spread is incredibly tasty and the salmon comes out perfectly moist and tender.

Rainbow Trout Almondine: This is one of my favorite 15-minute dinners. It’s simple, fast, and oh, so delicious! Trout fillets are gently seasoned, pan-seared until golden, and topped with the best briny and lemony almondine topping.

Orange Glazed Salmon: Coated in the best citrusy sweet glaze, these salmon fillets are guaranteed to be a weeknight favorite.

Salads for Dinner That Honestly Keep You Full

Don’t think a salad will keep you full? Think again! These recipes are loaded with greens, delicious proteins, and healthy fats.

Ultimate Chicken Salad: You can enjoy it straight out of the bowl (like I do), add it to a sandwich, or wrap it in butter lettuce leaves. So much versatility!

Cobb Salad: You can never go wrong with this protein-packed salad. It’s layered with lettuce, chicken, crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and a sprinkle of blue cheese.

Broccoli Salad: This is the best combination of creamy and crunchy ingredients. Bonus — it stores well for the week!

Salmon Avocado Salad: Top pan-seared salmon on a bed of leafy greens, avocado, tomatoes, and red onions for the best salad ever.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad: This chopped salad is undoubtedly one of my favorite protein-packed salads to keep in rotation. The tasiest combination of juicy grilled chicken, crispy bacon, fresh crunchy vegetables, and the best creamy ranch dressing. 

Taco Salad: If you love ground beef tacos, this salad is sure to be a part of your dinner rotation. And the best part is that you can top it with all your favorites like beans, guacamole, salsa, and more!

Southwest Chicken Salad: Grilled cilantro lime chicken gets layered with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, beans, corn, and a creamy avocado dressing.

Veggie-Heavy Vegetarian Dinner Ideas

Sometimes, the best dinners revolve around plant-based ingredients and loads of veggies. Perfect for meatless Monday, or truthfully, any day of the week!

Very Best Lentil Soup: A blend of lentils, kale, mirepoix vegetables, roasted tomatoes, and herbs creates this delightfully filling and flavorful soup.

Zucchini Fritters: These crisp and golden fritters are a must-make when it’s zucchini season!

Falafel: these delicious balls of chickpea goodness taste amazing in wraps, pitas, sandwiches and even salads – along with a drizzle of tahini sauce.

Chickpea Curry: This is my go-to vegetarian dinner to make on the fly! It’s incredibly flavorful, can be tweaked to add more veggies, and only takes about 30 minutes.

Ultimate Vegetarian Chili: this flavorsome, veggie-heavy chili is just what you need for a filling vegetarian dinner idea. Plus, it’s great for meal prep.

The Best Dinner Meal Prep

To wrap up these dinner ideas, I’m circling back to my meal prep guide where ingredients themselves become the star of the show. Because nothing makes us feel more on top of our game than prepping grains, proteins, and veggies to create mix-and-match dinner recipes that come together in under 5 minutes!

You can make macro bowls, wraps, tacos, salads, or a simple combo plate. And don’t forget sauces and toppings for flavor and freshness. Add a dollop of hummus to a Mediterranean bowl or guacamole and creamy salsa to tacos.

Start with a Base

• Grains: white rice, mexican rice, or cilantro lime rice.
• Vegetables: broccoli rice, cauliflower rice, cilantro lime cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or leafy greens.
• Tortillas: Cassava flour tortillas

Add in Protein

• Meats: slow cooker pulled pork, carne asada, or roast chicken and this slow cooker whole chicken (that can be turned into shredded chicken).
• Seafood: garlic butter shrimp or plain shrimp.
• Vegetarian: lentils, chickpeas, or black beans.

Add in Vegetables

• Roasted Vegetables: roasted brussels sprouts, roasted sweet potatoes, roasted broccoli, or roasted butternut squash
• Sauteed Vegetables: garlic ginger bok choy, sauteed cabbage, green beans with shallots and lemon, or sauteed swiss chard.
• Fresh Greens: coleslaw, vinegar coleslaw, or a massaged kale salad.

Mix and Match Dinner Ideas

With your prepped ingredients, here’s a few ideas on how to combine them into the BEST dinner recipes!

• Tacos: pulled pork street tacos, carne asada tacos, or shrimp tacos with cilantro lime bacon slaw.
• Salads: pulled pork, cabbage, and arugula salad, warm sweet potato noodles, cabbage, and lentil salad, or mediterranean chickpea salad.
• Bowls: similar to my carnitas burrito bowl, start with a base and layer on your favorite protein and vegetables.
• Zoodles: zucchini noodles with chicken, spinach, and parmesan, Mexican chicken zucchini noodles,

Recipe roundup originally posted December 2020, but updated to include new recipes.