These Recipes Are Simple, Crowd-Pleasing, and Picky-Eater Friendly

Feeding a group can be tricky especially when you’re working around picky eaters. These recipes keep things simple without sacrificing flavor and they’ve been hits at everything from casual dinners to weekend gatherings.

They use everyday ingredients you probably already have which makes prep easier and faster. Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or something to bring to a potluck you’ll find something here that works.

You won’t need any complicated steps or hard-to-find items. These are easy to follow and even easier to enjoy whether you’re cooking for kids, friends or just yourself.

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken

This recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with a perfect char around the edges. It’s quick to make and great for weeknights when you want something that tastes like it came off the grill. The air fryer helps lock in moisture while giving you that sticky BBQ finish. It’s a solid go-to for family meals or casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken

Easy Spinach Mushroom Rice Recipe (Vegan Friendly)

A great option when you’re in the mood for something hearty yet plant-based. The mushrooms bring a nice texture while the spinach adds freshness and color. This dish works well on its own or paired with your favorite protein. Plus, it all comes together in one pot.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spinach Mushroom Rice Recipe (Vegan Friendly)

Air Fryer Blackened Shrimp

You get that bold, smoky flavor without needing to fire up a pan. These shrimp cook fast and turn out crisp around the edges while staying tender inside. They’re great over salads, in tacos, or straight from the basket. Perfect when you want something quick but packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Blackened Shrimp

Cantonese Style Chow Mein: Easy Pan-Fried Noodles

This version brings you those golden, crispy noodles with a slightly chewy center. It’s tossed with a savory sauce and a mix of vegetables that add both crunch and color. You’ll love how everything comes together in the pan. A good option for a takeout-style dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Cantonese Style Chow Mein: Easy Pan-Fried Noodles

Slow Cooker Maid Rite

This loose meat sandwich recipe is as hands-off as it gets. The slow cooker does all the work, giving you tender seasoned beef with minimal effort. It’s simple, classic, and always a hit with a crowd. Just toast the buns and pile it on.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Maid Rite

Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas

You can skip the skillet and still get that delicious sizzle. Bell peppers and onions turn out slightly charred while the chicken stays juicy and well seasoned. It’s fast, fresh, and perfect for stuffing into warm tortillas. No need to stand over a stove for this one.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas

Creamy Ranch Chicken

This recipe is all about rich, comforting flavor with barely any prep. The creamy ranch coating locks in moisture and adds just the right amount of tang. Serve it over rice, pasta, or potatoes for an easy meal. Great for days when you want something warm and fuss-free.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ranch Chicken

Pork Ribs Dry Rub Recipe Oven

With this method, you’ll get tender ribs that fall off the bone and are packed with spice from a homemade dry rub. No grill required. A low and slow roast in the oven gives you deep flavor and great texture. Just the thing when you’re craving ribs without the mess.
Get the Recipe: Pork Ribs Dry Rub Recipe Oven

Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini

This one combines the comfort of cheesy pasta with the bold flavors of a cheesesteak sandwich. Toss everything in the slow cooker and let it come together while you go about your day. It’s rich, hearty, and makes plenty for leftovers. A cozy twist on a classic combo.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini

The Easiest Peking Spare Ribs

These ribs come out sticky, tender, and full of flavor thanks to a sweet-savory glaze. It’s a simpler version of a restaurant favorite that still hits all the right notes. Serve it with rice or steamed veggies for a complete meal. Ideal when you’re craving something a little different.
Get the Recipe: The Easiest Peking Spare Ribs

Chicken Piccata

This dish balances bright lemon with savory chicken and a buttery pan sauce. It cooks quickly and feels special enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight. Capers give it a little punch without overwhelming the dish. Great with pasta or crusty bread.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Mississippi Chicken Recipe

Packed with flavor from just a few pantry staples, this slow-cooked chicken is incredibly tender. It’s tangy, savory, and pairs well with mashed potatoes or rice. The leftovers are just as good the next day. A solid pick for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Chicken Recipe

Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers

These skewers are all about a sweet and sticky glaze that caramelizes just right on the grill. The chicken turns out juicy and flavorful, perfect for outdoor meals or even stovetop grilling. Serve with rice and veggies for a balanced plate. They’re a crowd favorite every time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers

Air Fryer Chicken Quarters

These turn out crispy on the outside and juicy inside, no oven needed. The seasoning is simple but effective, giving you a classic flavor that works with just about any side. You’ll love how hands-off it is. Great for busy nights when you want a hearty meal without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Quarters

Air Fryer Panko Chicken

A crunchy coating without all the grease, this recipe makes that happen. The panko stays golden and crisp while the inside stays juicy. Serve it with your favorite dipping sauce or slice it over salads and wraps. A simple upgrade to your usual chicken routine.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Panko Chicken

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon

This is a quick way to get flaky salmon with a sticky-sweet glaze. The honey and garlic caramelize just enough without overpowering the fish. Pair it with rice or veggies for a light, flavorful meal. It’s fast enough for weeknights and still feels a bit special.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon

Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken

You get sweet and savory flavors with almost no effort. The chicken cooks low and slow until it’s tender and infused with pineapple and soy sauce. It’s great over rice and makes amazing leftovers. Perfect for laid-back meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken

Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken

You can skip the deep frying but still enjoy that crispy coating and tangy sauce. This version is lighter but still delivers on the flavor you expect. Bell peppers and pineapple make it pop. A great choice when you want something fun but easy.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken

Crock Pot Tater Tot Casserole

Comfort food doesn’t get much easier than this. Layers of beef, cheese, and crispy tater tots come together in the slow cooker for a hearty meal. It’s kid-friendly and always hits the spot. Perfect for busy nights or weekend lounging.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Tater Tot Casserole

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Wings

Crispy, sticky, and full of BBQ flavor without the mess of oil. These wings are easy to make and disappear fast, whether it’s game day or just dinner. The air fryer gives them a nice char while keeping things simple. A great one to keep in the rotation.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Wings

Crispy Air Fryer Cod

This recipe gives you golden fish with a flaky center and a nice crunch on the outside. It’s quick, clean, and works well with a squeeze of lemon or a creamy dip. Serve it with a salad or fries for a no-fuss dinner. A good way to add more seafood to your week.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Cod