17 Easy and Quick Dinners for When Cooking’s the Last Thing You Want to Do

Some nights, cooking feels like the last thing anyone wants to do. That’s where these 17 easy, quick dinners come in. They’re all simple to make, packed with flavor, and ready to go without a lot of work. Perfect for the nights you just need a break, each recipe is as tasty as it is effortless.

Fork holding a bite of asian marinated salmon with the rest of the fillet on a blue plate in the background.

Asian Glazed Salmon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Honey Habanero Tacos

Image shows three honey habanero tacos with corn shells sitting on a wooden board.
Honey Habanero Tacos. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Craving something with a little spice? These tacos are packed with smoky ground meat and a touch of honey to balance the heat. This simple recipe makes a quick and flavorful meal that’s sure to satisfy without taking up too much time.
Get the Recipe: Honey Habanero Tacos

Poached Orange Salmon

Image shows a spoon drizzing orange sauce over a salmon filet in a blue dish.
Poached Orange Salmon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Looking for a quick, restaurant-style dinner? This salmon is poached in a tangy, sweet orange broth that brings out fresh, vibrant flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a simple yet impressive meal that feels special.
Get the Recipe: Poached Orange Salmon

Asparagus Goat Cheese Pizza

Image shows a close up of an Asparagus and Goat Cheese Pizza on a pizza peel sitting on a black counter.
Asparagus Goat Cheese Pizza. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Want a light, flavorful twist on pizza? This recipe features tangy goat cheese and fresh asparagus for a refreshing change from the usual toppings. With a crispy crust and minimal effort, it’s a quick dinner that feels like it took more time.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Goat Cheese Pizza

Spicy Tuna Rolls

Image shows Chopsticks holding spicy tuna roll over a plate with more of the roll.
Spicy Tuna Rolls. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Looking for a fun, fast dinner idea? These spicy tuna rolls turn canned tuna into a tasty sushi meal with just a few simple ingredients. It’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy a homemade sushi night without a lot of work.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Rolls

Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl

Three quarter view of deconstructed chicken egg roll in a red bowl with chopsticks resting on top.
Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Want all the flavors of an egg roll but without the frying? This recipe takes the classic egg roll filling and turns it into an easy-to-make bowl that’s ready in about 30 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that brings a big flavor with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl

Asian Inspired Turkey Burgers

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

Looking for something different than your usual burger? These turkey burgers are made with ginger and soy sauce for a savory twist on a classic. The bold flavors are sure to please, and the recipe is quick and easy, making it a great dinner choice.
Get the Recipe: Asian Inspired Turkey Burgers

Honey Glazed Chicken

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

Craving a dinner that’s sweet and savory? This honey-glazed chicken is sticky, tender, and packed with flavor, making it a simple yet satisfying meal. Paired with rice and veggies, it comes together quickly for a complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Honey Glazed Chicken

Asian Glazed Salmon

Overhead of a fork cutting into a glazed salmon fillet on a blue plate.
Asian Glazed Salmon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Want a quick dinner that’s bursting with flavor? This salmon is coated in a sweet and savory glaze that’s perfect when paired with rice or noodles. It’s a simple, easy recipe that brings huge flavor in a short amount of time.
Get the Recipe: Asian Glazed Salmon

Cacio e Pepe

Image shows a plate with cacio e pepe in a neat pile topped with shaved parmesan cheese.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Looking for a comforting meal that’s easy to make? This creamy pasta combines rich cheese with simple ingredients, creating a flavorful dish that’s ready in no time. It’s a quick and satisfying option for when you’re short on time but want something comforting.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa

Image shows an overhead shot of Spinach Parmesan Quinoa in a blue bowl with a sprinkle of cheese on top.
Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Want a nutritious dinner that’s also filling? This quinoa dish combines fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese for a hearty, protein-packed meal. It’s simple to make and perfect when you need something quick and healthy.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa

Caprese Panini

Image shows a sliced caprese panini on a wooden board with the melted cheese oozing out.
Caprese Panini. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Craving a simple but satisfying meal? This panini is made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, all melted between crispy bread. It’s an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something quick yet delicious.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Panini

Creamy Pea Pasta

Image shows Creamy Pea Pasta in an enameled cast iron pot.
Creamy Pea Pasta. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Looking for a comforting pasta dish that’s ready in a flash? This creamy pea pasta combines a rich sauce with sweet peas for a filling and flavorful meal. It’s perfect for busy nights when you need something quick but satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta

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.

Want a one-pot meal that’s full of flavor? This quinoa dish combines black beans, corn, and salsa to create a protein-packed, tasty dinner that’s easy to make and even easier to clean up. It’s a quick and exciting meal that doesn’t require much prep.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Skillet Quinoa

Pesto Salmon

Image shows Salmon with pesto and rice on a blue plate.
Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Craving a healthy dinner that’s packed with flavor? This salmon is topped with fresh pesto, giving it a vibrant, herby taste that makes it stand out. Ready in just minutes, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Salmon

Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas

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

Looking for a quick, comforting dinner? These chicken enchiladas are made with rotisserie chicken for an easy, flavorful meal that’s ready in no time. The tangy enchilada sauce and gooey cheese make this dish satisfying and simple to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas

Chicken Tenders

Image shows Hand dipping a corn flake crusted chicken tender into a bowl of sauce on a wooden table.
Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Want a classic meal that’s quick to make? These homemade chicken tenders are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a hit with everyone. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect when you want something familiar yet quick and easy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tenders

Kefta Kebabs

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

Looking for something different but still quick? These grilled kebabs are seasoned with savory spices, creating a flavorful meal that’s ready in no time. The ground meat cooks up fast, making this recipe a great choice for busy nights when you want something delicious without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Kefta Kebabs

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