Kid Approved Meals That Work for Busy Weeknights

Weeknights can be chaotic, and getting dinner on the table fast is a must especially with hungry kids waiting. But quick meals don’t have to mean boring or repetitive. With the right go-to recipes, dinner can be both simple and a hit with the whole family.

These kid-approved meals are favorites for a reason. They’re quick to prepare, use everyday ingredients, and don’t require you to spend hours in the kitchen. Even picky eaters will find something to love here.

Whether you’re balancing homework time or just coming home from work, these meals help take the stress out of dinner. They’re all about ease, flavor, and making sure everyone leaves the table full and happy.

Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini

This hearty combo brings the flavors of a classic cheesesteak together with tender cheese-filled tortellini. It cooks low and slow, letting all that cheesy goodness and savory beef blend perfectly. It’s great for busy weeknights when you want something filling without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini

Pork Chops on the Blackstone Griddle

Searing pork chops on a hot griddle gives them a crispy outside while keeping the inside juicy. Add your favorite seasoning blend or marinade for extra flavor. This quick-cook option is perfect when you want dinner on the table fast.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops on the Blackstone Griddle

Cowboy Stew

Loaded with ground beef, beans, potatoes, and veggies, this stew is rich and super hearty. It’s a one-pot favorite that sticks with you and works well for feeding a hungry crowd. Plus, it’s simple to throw together using pantry staples.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Stew

Simple and Delicious Mongolian Beef Noodles Recipe

This noodle dish mixes sweet and savory with a bit of garlicky kick. Thin slices of beef soak up a soy-based sauce while noodles tie it all together for a quick and flavorful meal. It’s a great takeout-style dish without leaving your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Simple and Delicious Mongolian Beef Noodles Recipe

Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this casserole combines tender chicken with the richness of spinach and artichokes. It bakes into a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight meals or sharing. Bonus points for being easy to prep ahead.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

Stuffed Turkey Roll Ups

Thin turkey slices wrapped around stuffing or veggies make this dish both tasty and fun to serve. It’s a smart way to use holiday leftovers or to enjoy those same flavors anytime. Just roll, bake, and you’re ready to eat.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Turkey Roll Ups

Enchilada Meatballs

These meatballs take on the bold taste of enchiladas, complete with a saucy kick and melted cheese. They’re great for appetizers, tacos, or served over rice. Super versatile and full of flavor without being complicated.
Get the Recipe: Enchilada Meatballs

Ritz Cracker Chicken

Crushed crackers add a buttery crunch that takes baked chicken to the next level. It’s simple, family-friendly, and doesn’t require many ingredients. Serve it with mashed potatoes or veggies for a classic dinner.
Get the Recipe: Ritz Cracker Chicken

Chicken Taco Soup

Warm, hearty, and full of classic taco ingredients, this soup is an easy comfort meal. It’s packed with beans, corn, tomatoes, and shredded chicken in a seasoned broth. Top it with chips, cheese, or avocado to make it your own.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Taco Soup

General Tso’s Tofu

Crispy tofu coated in a sticky, flavorful sauce makes this a great plant-based twist on a favorite takeout dish. It’s sweet, tangy, and just spicy enough. Serve with rice or steamed veggies for a complete, easy meal.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Tofu

Creamy Garlic Chicken

Tender chicken smothered in a rich, garlicky sauce makes this dish cozy and flavorful. The cream sauce pairs well with pasta, rice, or even roasted potatoes. It’s a go-to for something comforting and quick.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Potato Chip Chicken

This one uses crushed chips to give the chicken a crunchy, salty crust that’s hard to resist. It’s a fun way to switch up your usual baked chicken recipe. No fancy ingredients needed, just pantry staples.
Get the Recipe: Potato Chip Chicken

Bubble Up Pizza Bites

Fluffy biscuit dough bubbles up with pizza toppings and cheese baked right in. It’s quick to prep and fun to eat, perfect for kids or casual get-togethers. Think pizza night without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Bubble Up Pizza Bites

The Best Instant Pot Rump Roast Recipe

This roast turns out tender and full of flavor thanks to pressure cooking. It’s seasoned just right and pairs great with veggies or mashed potatoes. A classic comfort dish made faster.
Get the Recipe: The Best Instant Pot Rump Roast Recipe

Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts

These chicken breasts are filled with creamy, cheesy goodness and crisp up nicely in the air fryer. They’re quick, juicy, and packed with flavor. Great for dinner when you want something that feels a bit special without the work.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables

Everything cooks together on one pan, making cleanup a breeze. The chicken stays juicy while the veggies roast to perfection. It’s a simple, balanced meal that’s great for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables

Chicken Piccata

This classic dish features thin chicken cutlets in a lemony sauce with capers that add a pop of flavor. It’s light but still rich enough to feel like something special. Pairs perfectly with pasta or rice.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Wonton Soup

This comforting soup features soft wontons filled with savory meat or veggies floating in a clear, flavorful broth. Add a few greens or mushrooms and it’s a cozy meal in a bowl. It’s quick to make and feels like a warm hug.
Get the Recipe: Wonton Soup

Sausage Tortellini Soup

With cheesy tortellini, hearty sausage, and a rich tomato broth, this soup brings bold flavors together. It’s thick enough to fill you up but still has that slurpable soup appeal. Add some bread on the side and you’re set.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Tortellini Soup

Southern Mac and Cheese

Creamy, baked, and topped with a golden crust, this version of mac and cheese is rich and nostalgic. It’s cheesy through and through with no shortcuts. Whether as a main or a side, it’s always a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mac and Cheese

Stuffed Chicken

Juicy chicken breasts are packed with flavorful fillings like spinach, cheese, or herbs. It’s a smart way to turn a simple protein into something a little more exciting. Ideal for weekday meals or when you want to impress with minimal effort
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Chicken