Get Kids Excited About Dinner with These 25 Easy Recipes

Dinner time can sometimes feel like a battle. Kids often turn up their noses at what’s on the table, but with the right recipes, you can change that. This list of 25 easy recipes is packed with meals that kids actually want to eat. These meals are simple to make and will have your little ones asking for seconds.

Image shows easy to make instant pot spaghetti and meatballs.

Meatballs and Sauce. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Lemon Marinated Chicken Kebabs

Image shows a skewer of lemon marinated chicken held diagonally with green grass in the background.
Lemon Marinated Chicken Kebabs. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Juicy chicken kebabs marinated in lemon are a hit with kids, bringing fresh flavors that appeal to young eaters. The colorful veggies on skewers not only add a fun touch but also make the meal visually exciting. This easy recipe is perfect for dinner, and it’s sure to have kids asking for seconds at the table.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Marinated Chicken Kebabs

Cheesy Stuffed Shells

Image shows an overhead shot of Easy Cheesy Stuffed Shells with a small plate holding one and the rest of the pan next to it.
Cheesy Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Cheesy stuffed shells are a comforting dish that fills hungry bellies without being too complicated. Each shell is packed with savory goodness that makes it a great option for meatless meals that kids really enjoy. This budget-friendly dinner not only satisfies cravings but also leaves everyone wanting more when the plates are cleared.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Stuffed Shells

Calzones

Image shows an overhead shot of a Calzone cut in half on a wooden board with a small bowl of marinara above it.
Calzones. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Calzones filled with a mix of tasty ingredients make mealtime exciting for kids. These pocket-sized treats are not only fun to eat but also simple to prepare, allowing everyone to customize their fillings to their liking. Their deliciousness guarantees clear plates and happy faces at the end of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Calzones

Tomato Lime Chicken

Image shows a Bite of tomato lime chicken on a fork with rice and the rest of the bowl in the background.
Tomato Lime Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This flexible tomato lime chicken recipe is ideal for busy nights and can easily be adjusted to fit kids’ tastes. Whether served in tacos or rice bowls, this dish keeps meals interesting and delicious for young diners. It’s a go-to meal that kids will request often, ensuring dinner is always something to look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Lime Chicken

Pizza Rolls

Image shows a Pizza roll on a white plate in front of a pyrex with the rest of the batch in it.
Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Fun and delicious, pizza rolls combine rotisserie chicken, spinach, cheese, and sauce for a delightful twist on a classic. Every bite offers a fluffy texture and savory flavor that kids will devour, making these rolls a favorite at the dinner table. These tasty rolls promise a meal that keeps plates empty and everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

Meatballs and Sauce

Image shows delicious meatballs and sauce.
Meatballs and Sauce. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Juicy meatballs drenched in savory tomato sauce create a comforting favorite for kids that never goes out of style. Cooked to perfection, this classic dish guarantees seconds for little ones who can’t get enough. It’s an easy recipe that not only satisfies but also promises smiles all around the table.
Get the Recipe: Meatballs and Sauce

Shortcut Chicken Salad

Image shows a Canned Chicken Salad sandwich on a wooden table.
Shortcut Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This easy canned chicken salad is perfect for a quick meal that kids enjoy on busy days. It’s refreshing and versatile, working well on a bed of greens or as a filling for sandwiches that are fun to eat. This simple recipe ensures plates are cleared every time, making it a go-to for busy families.
Get the Recipe: Shortcut Chicken Salad

Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Image shows a closeup of a spoon holding some Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole with the full skillet behind it.
Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

A mix of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and melted cheese creates a comforting dish that kids truly adore. This hearty casserole is budget-friendly and loaded with savory flavors and textures that keep young eaters coming back for more. It’s a reliable recipe that guarantees empty plates at the table and satisfied smiles all around.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Chicken Taco Wraps

Image shows an overhead shot of chicken taco wraps cut into pinwheels and on a wooden skewer.
Chicken Taco Wraps. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Quick and easy chicken taco wraps made with leftover rotisserie chicken create a flavorful dinner that kids adore. Kids will love the fun of wrapping their own tacos, choosing from fresh ingredients and tasty toppings that excite their taste buds. This fun recipe guarantees happy faces and empty plates when the meal is finished.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Taco Wraps

Ground Turkey Pancakes

Image shows Ground Turkey Pancakes cooking on a griddle.
Ground Turkey Pancakes. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Savory ground turkey pancakes offer a fun and protein-packed twist on dinner that kids will enjoy. These unexpected and delicious pancakes are easy to make, satisfying little appetites with each bite. It’s a creative way to mix things up for dinner and ensure everyone leaves the table happy.
Get the Recipe: Ground Turkey Pancakes

Asian Inspired Turkey Burgers

Image shows Asian inspired turkey burger on a blue plate.
Asian Inspired Turkey Burgers. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Juicy Asian-inspired turkey burgers take a classic meal and make it more exciting for kids with their vibrant flavors. Packed with spices and a crunchy texture, they are easy to prepare and perfect for satisfying little appetites. Each burger promises happy faces and empty plates, making them a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Asian Inspired Turkey Burgers

Chicken Stew with Biscuits

Image shows an overhead shot of Chicken stew with biscuits in a blue ceramic enameled pot.
Chicken Stew with Biscuits. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This warm chicken stew is a classic meal that kids really enjoy, featuring tender chicken mixed with hearty vegetables. The rich flavors and comforting broth create a filling dish that satisfies even the hungriest of bellies. Every bite is like a warm hug, making it a top choice for family dinners that leave everyone wanting more.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stew with Biscuits

Sweet Potato Turkey Meatballs

Image shows a baking sheet with a raised tray holding Sweet Potato Turkey Meatballs.
Sweet Potato Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Sweet potato turkey meatballs provide a healthier take on a classic dish that kids will adore. These meatballs are packed with flavors and textures that even picky eaters will find appealing. This recipe is perfect for those looking to serve meals that guarantee empty plates and satisfied smiles.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Turkey Meatballs

Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas

Image shows an overhead shot of puff pastry Chicken Empanadas on a white tray.
Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

These easy chicken empanadas are a fun, handheld meal that kids really love. Filled with tasty chicken and wrapped in a flaky crust, they make for an excellent option for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. This delightful recipe guarantees clear plates at the table and happy kids at mealtime.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas

Honey Glazed Chicken

Honey glazed chicken on a blue plate.
Honey Glazed Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This delicious and easy-to-make honey glazed chicken is perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal. Coated in a sweet and sticky glaze, the chicken will be hard for kids to resist, ensuring it disappears fast. Pair it with their favorite sides, and watch them enjoy every last bite.
Get the Recipe: Honey Glazed Chicken

Carnitas

Image shows Tongs holding carnitas over a tray.
Carnitas. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Tender pulled pork carnitas make for delicious tacos that kids always enjoy, creating excitement at dinner. The blend of spices in this recipe brings authentic flavors that appeal to young taste buds. It’s a simple dish that ensures happy faces and empty plates every time the meal is served.
Get the Recipe: Carnitas

Mexican Skillet Quinoa

Image shows a wooden spoon holding a scoop of Mexican skillet quinoa with the full pot behind it.
Mexican Skillet Quinoa. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Combining quinoa, beans, salsa, and corn creates a tasty one-pan meal that’s full of flavor and protein. Kids will appreciate the deliciousness of this dish, which is quick to prepare on busy nights. With its filling nature, this recipe is sure to be a favorite that everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Skillet Quinoa

Chicken Tortellini Soup

Image shows Chicken tortellini soup in a ceramic enameled pot with a wooden spoon stirring it.
Chicken Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

A warm bowl of chicken tortellini soup is sure to delight kids with its cheesy pasta and tender chicken. This easy recipe uses leftover rotisserie chicken, making it a convenient and tasty meal for busy nights. Each spoonful offers a satisfying taste that leaves plates empty and smiles all around.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup

Kefta Kebabs

Image shows kefta kebabs stacked on a white tray.
Kefta Kebabs. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Juicy and flavorful, these kebabs offer a fun twist on dinner that kids will love with their tasty spices. They are easy to make and perfect for breaking the usual dinner routine, bringing something new to the table. Each bite will have kids asking for more, ensuring happy faces and empty plates at the end of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Kefta Kebabs

Chicken and Dumplings

Image shows Chicken and dumplings on a spoon with more in the backgroumd.
Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Classic chicken and dumplings deliver heartwarming flavors that kids adore, combining tender chicken with fluffy dumplings in savory broth. This homestyle meal provides comfort and satisfaction that fills hungry bellies. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, guaranteeing clear plates all around when the meal is finished.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Dumplings

Crescent Roll Bagel Dogs

Image shows Hot dogs wrapped in crescent roll dough on a baking sheet.
Crescent Roll Bagel Dogs. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Crescent roll bagel dogs are a fun and tasty recipe that kids enjoy, making dinner exciting. Delicious for dinner and just as tasty as leftovers, they also make a hit in school lunches. This dish is sure to make any child excited to eat and keep them coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Crescent Roll Bagel Dogs

Southwest Tortilla Pie

Image shows a slice of a Southwest Tortilla Pie sitting on a white plate.
Southwest Tortilla Pie. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

A kid-friendly southwest tortilla pie features layers of rotisserie chicken, black beans, and zesty spices that create a flavorful dish. Crisp tortillas and melted cheese make this meal a tasty treat for young eaters, ensuring they enjoy every bite. This recipe keeps everyone coming back for seconds, leading to clear plates every time.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Tortilla Pie

Shredded BBQ Chicken

Image shows a BBQ shredded chicken sandwich on a wooden board.
Shredded BBQ Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This easy shredded BBQ chicken recipe is perfect for creating kid-friendly sandwiches or adding to salads for a tasty twist. Using the Instant Pot makes it simple to prepare, ensuring a quick meal that still tastes amazing. Kids will keep coming back for more of this delicious dish, leaving no leftovers behind.
Get the Recipe: Shredded BBQ Chicken

Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas

Image shows baked cheesy chicken enchiladas in a blue Pyrex casserole.
Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Mouthwatering cheesy chicken enchiladas made with rotisserie chicken bring comfort and flavor to the dinner table. Each bite offers rich tastes that kids will enjoy, making this a family favorite at mealtime. This effortless recipe promises clear plates and happy hearts when dinner is served.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas

Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups

Image shows a lasagna roll up on a white plaet.
Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Quick and easy to make, these lasagna roll-ups are a fun twist on a classic dish that kids adore. Packed with cheese and flavor, they turn busy nights into a delicious experience that everyone looks forward to. Each serving leaves kids asking for seconds and brings smiles all around the table.
Get the Recipe: Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups

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