When your evenings are packed with activities and you need a quick meal, it can be tough to find something both fast and tasty. Luckily, there are plenty of dinner ideas that come together in a snap and still taste great. You’ll love these 19 fast and flavorful dinners that can help you get a delicious meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
Shortcut Chicken Salad
When time is short but flavor matters, this no-cook chicken salad fits the bill. It’s ready in minutes and perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. Serve it on crisp greens or a whole-wheat roll for a satisfying and easy meal.
Get the Recipe: Shortcut Chicken Salad
Chicken Tortellini Soup
This comforting soup uses leftover chicken to create a quick and flavorful dinner. The combination of tender tortellini and savory broth makes it a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. Ideal for busy nights when a hearty meal is needed.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup
Honey Glazed Chicken
With a sweet and sticky glaze that comes together in a flash, this chicken dish is perfect for busy evenings. Minimal prep is needed, making it a quick option that’s both delicious and satisfying. It’s an excellent choice for a fast and flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Honey Glazed Chicken
Creamy Pea Pasta
This pasta dish offers a creamy sauce with peas and dill, providing a quick and tasty meal. It’s easy to prepare and delivers comfort without taking up too much time. Perfect for nights when a flavorful dinner is needed fast.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta
Cacio e Pepe
A few simple pantry staples turn into a rich and decadent meal with this classic dish. Combining pasta, cheese, and pepper, it’s an easy option that’s both impressive and satisfying. Great for a quick weeknight dinner that still feels special.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe
Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
Ground beef, rice, and melted cheese come together in a single pot for a comforting meal. This casserole is quick to prepare and bake, making it a convenient option for busy evenings. It provides a warm and satisfying dinner with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
Mexican Skillet Quinoa
Packed with beans, salsa, and corn, this skillet quinoa is a flavorful meal that cooks up quickly. It’s an easy one-pan dish that’s perfect for busy nights, leaving more time to relax. A great way to enjoy a Mexican-inspired meal with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Skillet Quinoa
Italian Meatball Soup
Hearty meatballs simmering in rich broth create a comforting soup that’s ready in no time. This quick meal is perfect for evenings when a warm and filling dinner is needed. It’s an ideal choice for a satisfying and flavorful option.
Get the Recipe: Italian Meatball Soup
Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups
Cheesy and packed with flavor, these lasagna roll-ups are a fast and easy way to enjoy a classic dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re perfect for busy nights when a quick and delicious meal is needed. This recipe is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups
Pesto Salmon
This vibrant dish combines pesto and salmon for a quick, flavorful meal. With minimal preparation required, it’s a healthy and satisfying option for busy evenings. It’s a perfect choice for a fast dinner that still offers plenty of taste.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Salmon
Poached Orange Salmon
Bright citrus flavors and tender salmon come together in this simple and elegant dish. It’s a quick option that provides a healthy and satisfying meal with minimal effort. Ideal for busy nights when a delicious dinner is desired in a hurry.
Get the Recipe: Poached Orange Salmon
Cheesy Stuffed Shells
Stuffed shells are a comforting and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare. With minimal prep work, this dish is perfect for busy nights when a satisfying dinner is needed quickly. Simply stuff and bake for a delicious meal ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Stuffed Shells
Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
Using rotisserie chicken, these enchiladas come together quickly with just a few steps. This semi-homemade recipe offers the flavors of Mexico without a long cooking time. It’s a great choice for nights when a quick and tasty meal is needed.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
Crescent Roll Bagel Dogs
These bagel dogs offer a fun twist on a classic meal, making dinnertime exciting. They’re quick to make and provide a flavorful change from ordinary sandwiches. A great option for a fast and enjoyable meal that the whole family will love.
Get the Recipe: Crescent Roll Bagel Dogs
Kefta Kebabs
Juicy and flavorful, these kebabs are perfect for busy nights when a quick meal is needed. Seasoned ground meat is grilled to perfection, offering a tasty alternative to traditional burgers. This dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Kefta Kebabs
Caprese Panini
Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together in this quick and easy panini. Toasted to perfection, it offers a light and flavorful option for lunch or dinner. Ideal for a fast meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Panini
Instant Pot Lentil Soup
This lentil soup is packed with protein and nutrients, making it a healthy and quick option. It cooks up quickly in the Instant Pot, providing a satisfying meal without hours of simmering. Perfect for busy schedules when a hearty meal is needed fast.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Lentil Soup
Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
For a takeout-style meal at home, this recipe combines chicken, veggies, and savory seasonings in one pan. It’s a fast and fuss-free option that satisfies cravings without ordering out. A delicious and quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
Cashew Chicken
This classic chicken dish gets a tasty upgrade with crunchy cashews for added texture. It’s easy to whip up and packed with flavor, making it a great choice for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. This meal is sure to please everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken