Some recipes stick around because they’re simple, comforting, and always turn out right. These 39 beloved reader favorites prove that easy meals can still feel special and bring everyone to the table. These recipes show how simple cooking can be both satisfying and full of flavor. You’ll want to try them tonight when you need something reliable that makes dinner feel effortless.
Poached Orange Salmon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Salmon
Salmon simmers in a creamy sauce with garlic, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes, which makes every bite rich and filling. It comes together quickly but feels like something you would order at a restaurant without the hassle. This beloved dinner favorite is one you will want to keep on hand for nights when you need a meal that always impresses.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Salmon
Bacon Egg Salad
Creamy egg salad gets a bold upgrade with the salty crunch of crispy bacon mixed in for extra flavor. It’s simple to make and works just as well in a sandwich as it does on its own for a light but filling meal. This trusted favorite is the kind of dish you will want to bring out when you need something quick, easy, and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Egg Salad
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Chicken, beans, and corn simmer in a broth that is hearty, flavorful, and warming in every single spoonful. It comes together fast but still makes a full meal that feels comforting and complete without extra effort. This go-to soup is a reader favorite because it works on any night you want something cozy and reliable for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortilla Soup
Miso Glazed Salmon
Salmon gets coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory miso glaze that cooks into every bite for rich flavor. It feels like an impressive dinner, but it only takes a few minutes to prepare from start to finish. This easy favorite has earned its spot on the table for nights when you want salmon that always turns out just right.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Salmon
Shortcut Chicken Salad
Canned chicken blends with creamy dressing for a salad that is quick to make but never short on taste. It works in sandwiches, wraps, or simply over greens for a light yet filling meal. This simple recipe has become a favorite because it makes busy nights easier while still delivering flavor you can count on.
Get the Recipe: Shortcut Chicken Salad
Asian Inspired Turkey Burgers
Juicy turkey patties are seasoned with bold flavors that bring a fresh twist to a weeknight burger. They cook up tender and flavorful without requiring much time or effort at all. This flavorful favorite is one you will want to return to whenever you need a quick meal that pleases everyone.
Get the Recipe: Asian Inspired Turkey Burgers
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken, noodles, and vegetables simmer in the Instant Pot until they become a warm and comforting soup. It’s fast to make but tastes like it has been simmering all day, filling every bowl with flavor. This cozy favorite is perfect for nights when you want a dinner that is both quick and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Poached Orange Salmon
Salmon cooks gently in a bright orange sauce that keeps it tender and adds a fresh burst of flavor. It’s simple to prepare, yet it looks and tastes like something that took hours to create. This fresh favorite has become a go-to for nights when you want a light dinner that still feels special.
Get the Recipe: Poached Orange Salmon
Chicken Tenders
Juicy chicken gets coated in a crunchy cornflake crust that bakes golden while keeping the inside tender. The recipe is fast and foolproof, making it a reliable choice for busy nights. This beloved favorite always wins over both kids and adults with its simple but delicious flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tenders
Chicken Tortellini Soup
Tender chicken and cheesy tortellini float in a savory broth that is both hearty and filling. The recipe is quick to prepare yet gives the comfort of something that feels homemade with care. This warm favorite is one you will want to keep close for nights when only a comforting bowl of soup will do.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup
Meatballs and Sauce
Juicy meatballs simmer in a rich tomato sauce that fills the kitchen with savory aroma and flavor. The Instant Pot makes the process easy, cutting down the time while giving perfect results. This classic favorite proves why meatballs and sauce are always welcome at the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Meatballs and Sauce
Chicken and Pea Risotto
Creamy risotto cooks with chicken and peas until it becomes a filling, flavorful meal that feels rich and comforting. It uses everyday ingredients and comes together without the need for constant stirring. This cozy favorite is a smart choice for nights when you want dinner that tastes like it took more effort than it did.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Pea Risotto
Cacio e Pepe
Pasta gets coated with melted cheese and black pepper for a dish that is bold in flavor yet simple in preparation. It takes only minutes to cook but has the richness of something far more elaborate. This classic favorite proves that a few ingredients can make a meal that satisfies every time.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe
Shredded BBQ Chicken
Tender chicken gets coated in tangy barbecue sauce, making it perfect for sandwiches, baked potatoes, or salads. The Instant Pot makes cooking fast and effortless while locking in flavor. This versatile favorite is always a winner for nights when you want something easy that still tastes homemade.
Get the Recipe: Shredded BBQ Chicken
Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups
Pasta sheets are rolled with cheese and sauce into neat bundles that bake more quickly than traditional lasagna. Each roll is cheesy, hearty, and simple to serve at the table without the mess. This beloved favorite is perfect for nights when you crave lasagna flavor without the long wait.
Get the Recipe: Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups
Chicken Taco Wraps
Juicy chicken gets wrapped with fresh toppings in a handheld dinner that is simple but packed with flavor. The recipe is quick to put together and works well for both lunch and dinner. This flexible favorite is always worth making when you need a meal that everyone enjoys.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Taco Wraps
Chicken Curry
Tender chicken simmers in a creamy coconut milk sauce that feels rich and comforting without using dairy. The spices give it warmth and depth while still being easy to make at home. This bold favorite has become a staple for nights when you want dinner that is both hearty and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Curry
Thai Chicken Chili
Spiced chicken and vegetables simmer together into a chili that has the perfect mix of heat and depth. It’s quick to prepare but makes a full and hearty dinner that stands on its own. This spicy favorite always delivers when you want a meal that feels bold but still easy.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Chili
Lemon Marinated Chicken Kebabs
Chicken soaks in fresh lemon juice before grilling, keeping it juicy and bright in flavor. The skewers cook quickly and can be served straight from the pan or grill. This zesty favorite is great for nights when you want a meal that is fresh, simple, and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Marinated Chicken Kebabs
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Spicy chicken, crisp greens, and creamy dressing combine for a salad that is both bold and filling. It comes together quickly but never feels boring or plain. This lively favorite is perfect for nights when you want something light that still feels like a full meal.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Salad
Honey Glazed Chicken
Chicken cooks in a sticky honey glaze that clings to every bite, making the dish sweet and savory at once. The recipe is quick to prepare and works well for even the busiest nights. This reliable favorite is one that proves simple ingredients can create a meal worth making again and again.
Get the Recipe: Honey Glazed Chicken
Tuna and Tomato Pasta
Canned tuna and tomatoes turn into a pasta dish that is both fast and flavorful for weeknights. It takes less than half an hour but makes a meal that feels complete. This simple favorite is always worth keeping in rotation when you need a dinner that delivers without fuss.
Get the Recipe: Tuna and Tomato Pasta
Kung Pao Chicken Salad
Crisp vegetables and tender chicken are tossed in a zesty sauce that keeps the salad flavorful and crunchy. It comes together in minutes but still tastes like a dish with plenty of care. This vibrant favorite is a smart choice when you want something fresh, filling, and easy.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken Salad
Orange Chicken
Juicy chicken is coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce that makes every bite flavorful and satisfying. It’s quick to cook at home but gives the same taste as your favorite restaurant order. This dependable favorite is always a hit when you want an easy dinner that feels like takeout.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken
Asian Glazed Salmon
Salmon cooks in a glaze that is sweet, savory, and rich enough to make every bite satisfying. It takes just a few minutes to prepare, but looks and tastes impressive on the plate. This simple favorite is perfect for nights when you want a quick dinner that still feels special.
Get the Recipe: Asian Glazed Salmon
Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes
Canned tuna gets a bold twist with pesto and sundried tomatoes for a meal that feels fresh and filling. It works well in wraps, sandwiches, or served as a light main dish. This easy favorite is worth making on busy days when you still want something tasty.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes
Lime Marinated Grilled Chicken
Chicken marinates in lime juice to stay tender and take on a tangy, zesty flavor. It grills quickly and makes a meal that is simple but bold. This go-to favorite is one that brings big taste with little effort, making it perfect for weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Lime Marinated Grilled Chicken
Mediterranean Chicken With Orzo
Chicken, herbs, and orzo cook together with feta for a dish that feels hearty and fresh at the same time. The flavors balance perfectly while still being easy to prepare in your own kitchen. This Mediterranean-style favorite is great for nights when you want something wholesome and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken With Orzo
Simple Pasta with Tomatoes and Ricotta
Tomatoes and creamy ricotta transform plain pasta into a meal that is rich without feeling heavy. It requires only a few ingredients and about thirty minutes to make. This quick favorite is perfect for nights when you want comfort food that doesn’t take long.
Get the Recipe: Simple Pasta with Tomatoes and Ricotta
Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
Chicken and crisp vegetables cook together in one skillet with seasonings that bring bold flavor. It cuts down on cleanup while still giving you the taste of classic egg rolls. This reliable favorite is great for nights when you need something quick, filling, and simple.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
Chicken and Rice Soup
Chicken, rice, and vegetables simmer in a savory broth that is both hearty and warming. It’s easy to prepare and uses ingredients that you probably already have at home. This timeless favorite is always a good choice when you want dinner to feel comforting.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Soup
Lemon Butter Pasta
Pasta gets coated in lemon and butter for a dish that is tangy, rich, and full of flavor. It uses just a few pantry staples and takes only minutes to prepare. This easy favorite makes busy weeknights smoother while still giving you a meal worth enjoying.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Pasta
Chicken Stew with Biscuits
Chicken, vegetables, and biscuits bake into a stew that is both filling and comforting. It’s simple to prepare yet has all the flavors of a meal made with care. This hearty favorite is always worth making when you want dinner that feels like home.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stew with Biscuits
Slow Cooker Pork Chili
Pork simmers in spices and sauce until tender, creating a chili that is hearty and full of flavor. The slow cooker does the work for you, leaving dinner ready without stress. This dependable favorite is great for nights when you want chili that tastes rich without effort.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Chili
Grilled Chicken Foil Packets
Chicken, rice, and vegetables steam together inside foil packets that lock in flavor and tenderness. The recipe is quick to assemble, and cleanup is just as easy. This practical favorite proves why foil packet dinners are always a smart choice for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Foil Packets
Chicken Paprikash
Chicken simmers in a paprika and cream sauce that is bold, rich, and comforting in flavor. The Instant Pot makes cooking simple while still giving you the depth you expect. This classic favorite is one to keep handy when you want a meal that warms the table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash
Honey Habanero Tacos
Ground beef gets a mix of sweet honey and spicy habanero for tacos that are bold and unforgettable. The recipe is easy to put together, but makes dinner taste exciting every single time. This spicy favorite is worth making whenever you want a fun twist on taco night.
Get the Recipe: Honey Habanero Tacos
Lemon Garlic Chicken
Chicken simmers with garlic and lemon until it becomes tender, flavorful, and full of bright taste. The recipe works in the Instant Pot or on the stove, keeping it flexible for any night. This simple favorite is one that fits right into your regular dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Chicken
Cashew Chicken
Chicken and cashews cook in a savory sauce that coats every bite with flavor and texture. It’s quick to make but gives the same result as your favorite takeout order. This stir-fry favorite is one you will want to keep ready for nights when dinner has to be fast and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken