14 Easy Weeknight Dinners to Add to Your Recipe Rotation

Stuck in a dinner rut? These 14 quick and easy recipes will shake up your weeknight routine without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. From creamy pasta to protein-packed bowls, each dish is ready in 30 minutes or less, delivering bold, restaurant-worthy flavors.

Whether you’re cooking solo or for a family, these recipes offer simple ingredients and no-fuss methods for satisfying meals. Ready to break free from your usual dinner lineup? You won’t believe how easy these meals are to make.

1. Mediterranean Chicken Wraps

These healthy wraps feature seasoned chicken with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. Taking about 30 minutes to prepare, they can be expedited by using rotisserie chicken and store-bought hummus.

The combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors creates a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1½ pounds chicken breast, skinless, boneless
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• 1½ teaspoons dried mint
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ cup yogurt
• ½ teaspoon dried dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup chopped cabbage
• Store-bought or homemade hummus
• Everyday salad (tomatoes, cucumber, avocado)
• Cooked broccoli (optional)
• 3-4 tortillas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the yogurt sauce by combining yogurt, one minced garlic clove, dill, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken, remaining garlic, chili flakes, black pepper, and dried mint.
3. Cook chicken for 8-10 minutes until golden brown, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Prepare the fresh salad with tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado.
5. Assemble each wrap by layering chopped cabbage, cooked chicken, broccoli (if using), fresh salad, hummus, and yogurt sauce in the center of each tortilla.
6. Roll up like a burrito and serve immediately.

2. Quick Shrimp & Vegetable Stir-Fry

This 15-minute stir-fry combines succulent shrimp with fresh vegetables in a spicy sauce.

The addition of garlic and ginger creates an aromatic base that elevates the simple ingredients. Green beans and broccoli provide nutrients and texture to this quick and healthy meal.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1½ cups broccoli florets, bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup green beans
• ½ red bell pepper, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 scallions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon tamari sauce
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Prepare all ingredients before starting: chop vegetables, mince garlic, grate ginger, and have everything ready to go.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and green beans, stir-frying for 1-2 minutes. If using frozen vegetables, cover briefly to speed cooking.
3. Add red bell pepper and continue stir-frying for 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in tamari sauce, then add shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and scallions. Stir-fry for final 2-3 minutes until shrimp turns pink and broccoli is tender-crisp.
6. Serve immediately.

3. Fifteen Minute Cheesy Chicken Quesadilla

These quesadillas offer the perfect combination of melted cheese and seasoned chicken. Using rotisserie or leftover chicken makes this recipe incredibly quick and convenient.

The result is a crispy, cheesy exterior with a flavorful chicken filling that comes together in just 15 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shredded chicken
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese
• 1½ tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ⅓ teaspoon cumin
• ⅓ teaspoon coriander
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1 jalapeño, chopped
• ½ cup chopped arugula
• 1 handful basil leaves or chopped dill
• ½ cup shredded cheese (mozzarella recommended)
• 2 flour tortillas
• Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. Combine cream cheese, garlic, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, crushed red pepper, and a teaspoon of water in a bowl until smooth.
2. Mix in the shredded chicken, herbs (basil or dill), jalapeño, and arugula to create the filling.
3. Divide the mixture between two tortillas, spreading it on one half of each tortilla. Top with shredded cheese.
4. Fold tortillas in half to create half-moons.
5. Heat a non-stick pan with olive oil and toast each quesadilla until golden brown on both sides.
6. Cut each quesadilla into 3-4 pieces and serve immediately.

4. Ground Beef & Broccoli Fried Quinoa

This innovative dish transforms leftover quinoa into a delicious one-pan meal. The combination of ground beef, broccoli, and other vegetables creates a healthy, protein-rich dinner.

Ready in 20 minutes, this versatile recipe allows for various vegetable substitutions while maintaining its nutritious profile.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz ground beef
• 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1½ tablespoons tamari sauce
• 2 spring onions, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Add-ins:

• Crushed red pepper
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Heat a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until nearly done, covering with a lid if needed.
2. Add olive oil, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper (if using). Sauté until fragrant.
3. Add chopped broccoli and cook for 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender.
4. Stir in tamari sauce, carrots, spring onions, and cooked quinoa. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional tamari sauce if needed.
6. Finally, stir in cilantro and spinach (if using). Turn off the heat and serve immediately.

5. Garlic Shrimp In Tomato Sauce

This impressive five-ingredient dish transforms simple shrimp into a gourmet experience. The generous amount of garlic infuses the tomato sauce with incredible flavor, while the shrimp cooks to perfection in just 15 minutes.

The one-pan preparation method ensures easy cleanup while delivering maximum taste.

Ingredients:

• 4 tomatoes, chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a non-stick pan. Add chopped tomatoes and cover with a lid. Cook for 4-5 minutes until tomatoes break down into a sauce-like consistency.
2. Add shrimp to the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through.
3. Add minced garlic, chopped dill, and remaining olive oil. Stir to combine.
4. Serve immediately while hot.

6. Quinoa Fried Rice

This healthy twist on traditional fried rice uses quinoa as its base for added nutrition. The vegetarian dish can be customized with additional protein like shrimp or chicken.

The recipe proves that making fried rice at home can be simple and delicious, especially when using leftover quinoa.

Ingredients:

• 1½ cups cooked quinoa
• 3 eggs
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1/3 cup frozen peas
• ½ cup cauliflower or broccoli, chopped
• ½ cup cabbage, chopped
• 2 scallions, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1-2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons coconut or olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a medium-large non-stick pan and scramble the eggs until cooked through.
2. Add minced garlic to eggs and stir, then incorporate cauliflower and peas. Cook for 2 minutes while stirring.
3. Add cooked quinoa and the remaining ingredients. Continue cooking for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional soy sauce or sesame oil if needed.
5. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

7. Coconut Curry Shrimp Soup

This Thai-inspired soup combines succulent shrimp with creamy coconut milk and aromatic red curry paste. Ready in just 10 minutes, this light yet satisfying soup delivers complex flavors with minimal effort.

The combination of vegetables and coconut milk creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (400ml) coconut milk
• 1½ teaspoons red curry paste
• 6oz (170g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 5 lime leaves or lemongrass
• ½ zucchini, chopped
• 1 handful cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a small pot over medium-high heat, combine coconut milk and red curry paste. Whisk or stir until smooth and well combined, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add shrimp and lime leaves (or lemongrass) to the pot. Cook until shrimp turns pink, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add chopped zucchini, stir, and immediately turn off the heat.
4. Remove lime leaves or lemongrass from the soup.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

8. One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken Dinner

This flavorful dish combines chicken with Mediterranean ingredients like feta cheese and fresh vegetables. The 20-30 minute cooking time yields tender chicken in a sauce that’s perfect for bread dipping.

The combination of tomatoes, eggplant, and spinach creates a healthy, satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1½ cups eggplant, chopped
• 2 medium-sized tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon tomato paste
• 1 carrot
• ½ cup broccoli florets, chopped
• ½ cup olives, whole
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 scallions
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 teaspoon basil, dried (or handful fresh)
• ½ teaspoon coriander
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and eggplant, sautéing for 4-5 minutes.
2. Add chopped tomatoes, cover with lid, and cook for 3 minutes.
3. Stir in tomato paste with 1-2 tablespoons water if needed.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add broccoli, carrots, scallions, dried basil (if using), coriander, and crushed pepper. Add another tablespoon of olive oil and cook for 3-4 minutes until broccoli is tender.
5. Add feta cheese, olives, garlic, and fresh basil (if using). Cook for one minute until the cheese begins to melt.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

9. Spicy Mediterranean Bowls

These vibrant vegan bowls combine fresh vegetables with spiced chickpeas and creamy hummus. The preparation is minimal, focusing on chopping vegetables and heating chickpeas with aromatic spices.

These bowls are perfect for meal prep, as they make excellent next-day lunches.

Ingredients:

• 1½ cups chickpeas, canned, rinsed and drained
• 1 tablespoon dried mint
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon tomato paste
• 4 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 cup olives
• 1 cup tomatoes
• 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
• 2 scallions, thinly chopped
• 1 bunch parsley, thinly chopped
• ½ lemon, juiced
• 1½ cups cabbage
• 1 avocado
• Hummus for serving
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add chickpeas, mint, crushed red pepper, 2 minced garlic cloves, and tomato paste. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring until chickpeas are well coated. Season with salt and pepper.
2. In a large bowl, combine cabbage with remaining garlic, 1 teaspoon olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well.
3. Make the salad by combining chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, scallions, and parsley. Dress with 1 teaspoon olive oil and salt.
4. Assemble bowls by layering: cabbage base, spiced chickpeas, tomato-cucumber salad, olives, sliced avocado, and a dollop of hummus in the center.

10. Tortellini with Salmon

This creamy pasta dish combines tender tortellini with perfectly cooked salmon in a rich sauce. The addition of fresh herbs and vegetables elevates the dish to restaurant quality in just 20 minutes.

The combination of cream cheese and mozzarella creates an irresistibly smooth sauce that perfectly complements the salmon.

Ingredients:

• 6 oz salmon
• 8 oz refrigerated tortellini
• 1/3 cup cream cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small tomato, chopped
• 1/2 zucchini, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons mozzarella
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cut salmon into bite-sized pieces and prepare all vegetables before starting.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pan. Add salmon, dill, and tomato with a tablespoon of water and a pinch of salt. Cover and cook for 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cream cheese and black pepper to create a sauce, adding an extra tablespoon of water if needed for consistency.
4. Add tortellini to the sauce and cook for 3-4 minutes or according to package instructions.
5. Finish by adding garlic, basil, zucchini, and mozzarella. Stir until the cheese melts.
6. Serve hot with optional grated Parmesan on top.

11. Fifteen Minute Spicy Chickpeas & Chicken

This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken with protein-rich chickpeas in a spicy, flavorful sauce. The dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The simplicity of canned chickpeas paired with chicken creates a nutritious, filling meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast (boneless, skinless, chopped)
• 1 cup chickpeas (canned, rinsed and drained)
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 scallions, thinly chopped
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper/chili flakes
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add chopped chicken, crushed red pepper, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat the chicken evenly, then cover and cook for 3-4 minutes until the chicken loses its pink color.
2. Add chickpeas to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, then add scallions and continue cooking for 2 more minutes or until chicken is fully cooked.
4. Remove from heat and finish with a sprinkle of lemon juice and fresh parsley.

12. Ten Minute Macaroni with Chicken

This quick pasta dish combines quick-cooking macaroni with tender chicken for a satisfying meal. The recipe takes just 10 minutes to prepare and can be made even easier with rotisserie chicken.

The result is a comforting, flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup macaroni
• 1½ cups cooked chicken, shredded
• ½ cup mozzarella
• 3 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 strings of dill, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon tomato paste
• Salt to taste
• ¼ cup water

Instructions:

1. If using chicken thighs, remove the bones and shred the meat.
2. Combine chicken, chopped tomatoes, olive oil, and minced garlic in a non-stick pan. Cook over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes until tomatoes break down into a sauce.
3. Add water, tomato paste, and salt. Stir in macaroni and dill. Ensure pasta is just covered with sauce but not submerged.
4. Cook until macaroni is tender, following package instructions.
5. Add mozzarella and stir until melted into a creamy sauce.
6. Serve hot immediately.

13. Healthy Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir-fry

This low-carb stir-fry combines ground beef with fresh cabbage for a nutritious meal. The dish is packed with vegetables and protein while remaining simple to prepare. The result is a flavorful, healthy dinner that satisfies without weighing you down.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups red or green cabbage
• 8 oz ground beef
• 1 red pepper, chopped thinly
• 1 carrot, cut into strips
• 2 scallions, thinly chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1½ tablespoons tamari sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons chopped parsley or cilantro
• 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and one minced garlic clove, breaking up the meat while cooking for 5-6 minutes.
2. While beef cooks, prepare vegetables by chopping cabbage, carrots, peppers, herbs, and scallions.
3. Add cabbage, crushed pepper, carrot, second minced garlic clove, and scallions to the pan. Cover with lid and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add red pepper, remaining garlic, and tamari sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, adding more oil if needed.
5. Turn off the heat and stir in fresh herbs. Serve immediately.

14. Creamy Tortellini with Spinach

This comforting pasta dish combines refrigerated tortellini with fresh spinach in a luxurious creamy sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the perfect quick dinner solution that delivers restaurant-quality taste.

The combination of sour cream and tender tortellini creates a rich, satisfying meal that’s both simple to prepare and impressive to serve.

Ingredients:

• 15oz cheese tortellini (refrigerated)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/3 cup milk
• 2/3 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella
• 1 1/2 cup fresh baby spinach
• 1 small tomato, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 scallions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons parsley or basil, chopped
• Parmesan cheese for serving
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large, deep pan over medium-high heat. Add tortellini and sauté for 30-60 seconds until lightly golden-brown.
2. Pour milk into the pan and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously.
3. Reduce heat slightly and add sour cream. Cook while stirring for 2-3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
4. Add garlic, scallions, tomato, spinach, and parsley (or basil). Season generously with black pepper.
5. Stir in grated mozzarella cheese and continue cooking until the sauce thickens further. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Remove from heat and serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

These 14 dinner recipes prove that delicious, nutritious meals don’t require complicated techniques or hours in the kitchen.

Keep this collection handy for those busy weeknights when you want to serve something special without the stress. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, these recipes will help you put dinner on the table quickly without compromising on taste.

Disclaimer: Some images in this content were created/edited with the help of AI.

Davin Eberhardt

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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.

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