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17 Dinner Recipes To The Rescue For You When You Don’t Know What To Cook

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Stuck on what to make for dinner? These 17 easy dinner recipes are here to save the day with simple, tasty meals you can whip up without stress. Whether you’re craving something hearty, healthy, or just quick to make, there’s a dish for every mood. Say goodbye to mealtime frustration and hello to delicious dinners made easy!

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Shredded Chicken Breast with Coleslaw

A vibrant blue plate holds a serving of grilled chicken strips atop a creamy cabbage coleslaw. The dish is garnished with chopped green onions, adding a pop of color. The ingredients appear fresh, emphasizing a light and healthy meal.
Shredded Chicken Breast with Coleslaw. Photo credit: Chef’s Pencil.

This light and tasty dish combines tender shredded chicken with crisp, fresh coleslaw, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. You can grill, bake, or pan-fry the chicken, giving you plenty of flexibility. It’s a simple, protein-packed meal that’s great for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Shredded Chicken Breast with Coleslaw

Bistec a la Mexicana (Mexican-Style Beef)

Bistec a la Mexicana served on a decorative clay plate next to beans and nopales.
Bistec a la Mexicana. Photo by Mama Maggie’s Kitchen.

Bistec a la Mexicana is a flavorful beef dish simmered in a rich tomato sauce. It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with bold flavors that make it an easy favorite.
Get the recipe: Bistec a la Mexicana

Veggie Pot Pie

A golden-brown pot pie with a slice removed, revealing a filling of mixed vegetables including potatoes, peas, and chickpeas. The pie is placed on a white plate on top of a wooden cutting board, with fresh herbs on the side and a green cloth underneath.
Veggie Pot Pie. Photo credit: Raepublic.

Veggie pot pie is loaded with colorful vegetables in a creamy sauce, all tucked inside a flaky, golden crust. It’s a delicious, meat-free dish that’s perfect for guests looking for a vegetarian option. If you’re searching for a savory Thanksgiving pie that’s just as satisfying as the classics, this one is a winner.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pot Pie

Creamy Chipotle Chicken Tostadas

A tostada topped with shredded chicken, cream sauce, and sliced avocado sits on a blue and white patterned plate. A lime half and a dish of rice are in the background on a wooden table.
Creamy Chipotle Chicken Tostadas. Photo credit: Mama Maggie’s Kitchen

Wow your dinner guests with these easy and flavorful Creamy Chipotle Chicken Tostadas. Shredded chicken is smothered in a rich, smoky chipotle cream sauce and piled high on crispy tostadas. It’s a great way to use up leftovers while serving up something totally delicious.
Get Recipe: Creamy Chipotle Chicken Tostadas

The BEST Healthy Buffalo Chicken Spaghetti Squash Casserole

A white baking dish filled with a golden-brown shredded potato casserole, topped with a drizzle of creamy sauce and garnished with chopped green onions. A small bowl of green onions is visible in the top left corner.
The BEST Healthy Buffalo Chicken Spaghetti Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Lauren Fit Foodie.

This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Spaghetti Squash Casserole is a must-try! It’s low-carb, packed with protein, and absolutely bursting with cheesy, spicy buffalo flavor. A reader favorite for a reason!
Get the Recipe: The BEST Healthy Buffalo Chicken Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Carne Picada Burritos

Two rolled burritos on a white plate with slices of avocado. A bowl of shredded meat, diced onions, and jalapeño slices surround the plate. Cilantro and half an avocado are also on the wooden table.
Carne Picada Burritos. Photo by Mama Maggie’s Kitchen

Carne Picada Burritos are stuffed with tender, saucy beef, giving them that perfect restaurant-quality taste. This easy recipe lets you enjoy bold, mouthwatering burritos right at home.
Get Recipe: Carne Picada Burritos

Herb Crusted Salmon

A perfectly cooked salmon fillet with a herb-crusted topping is served on a plate. Accompanying the salmon are golden, roasted potatoes and a fresh green salad. The dish is plated on a dark blue plate set against a rustic wooden table.
Herb Crusted Salmon. Photo credit: Krumpli.

Herb-crusted salmon is packed with fresh flavors, thanks to a crunchy coating of herbs and pistachios. It bakes up quickly and has the perfect balance of crispy and tender textures. A simple, healthy way to bring more herbs to your dinner recipes.
Get the Recipe: Herb Crusted Salmon

Red Enchiladas

Enchiladas Rojas on a decorative Mexican plate topped with cilantro, crumbled cheese, and diced onion.
Enchiladas Rojas. Photo By Mama Maggie’s Kitchen

Enchiladas Rojas, or Red Enchiladas, are a Mexican classic. Soft tortillas are stuffed with delicious fillings, then smothered in a bold, savory red sauce. Every bite is packed with rich, authentic flavor!
Get Recipe: Enchiladas Rojas

Roasted Shrimp and Spring Vegetables with Creamy Herb Dip

A platter with cooked shrimp, sliced cucumbers, sugar snap peas, and fresh greens arranged around a creamy green dip, garnished with lime slices and herbs. Asparagus and parsley are scattered around the wooden table in the background.
Roasted Shrimp and Spring Vegetables with Creamy Herb Dip. Photo credit: Style and Grace.

Roasted shrimp and seasonal vegetables make for a fresh, healthy appetizer. A creamy herb dip adds an extra burst of flavor, making it a fantastic way to enjoy seafood with a herby twist. This makes a great addition to your collection of dinner recipes.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Shrimp and Spring Vegetables with Creamy Herb Dip

Chicken Chipotle Pasta

A bowl of spicy chicken chipotle pasta topped with chopped parsley.
Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Photo by Mama Maggie’s Kitchen

Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta is the ultimate combo of creamy and spicy. It’s a quick, easy recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights and anyone who loves bold, Mexican-inspired flavors.
Get the recipe: Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Rustic Swiss Chard Pie With Yeasted Spelt Crust

A golden-brown pie with a slice cut out, revealing a vegetable filling, sits on a green plate. A metal knife lies beside it. A side plate holds a piece of the pie next to a leafy salad with radishes and onions. Everything is set on a marble surface.
Rustic Swiss Chard Pie With Yeasted Spelt Crust. Photo credit: Buttered Veg.

Swiss chard pie with a yeasted spelt crust is a hearty, savory dish packed with fresh greens and wholesome ingredients. Its rustic, earthy flavors make it a standout addition to any holiday meal. If you’re looking for a unique Thanksgiving pie that balances out the sweet options, this one is a great choice.
Get the Recipe: Rustic Swiss Chard Pie With Yeasted Spelt Crust

Shredded Beef Burritos (Instant Pot)

A burrito cut into half and sitting on a wooden cutting board.
Instant Pot Shredded Beef Burritos. Photo by Mama Maggie’s Kitchen.

Shredded Beef Burritos are a fast, satisfying meal. Stuffed with juicy beef, beans, and creamy avocado, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. A perfect go-to for easy Mexican dinners!
Get Recipe: Instant Pot Shredded Beef Burritos

Chicken Pot Pie

A slice of creamy chicken pot pie on a white plate. The pie has a golden, flaky crust and is filled with chunks of chicken, corn, peas, and a rich sauce.
Chicken Pot Pie. Photo credit: Whipped it Up.

Chicken pot pie is pure comfort food, with its flaky golden crust and creamy filling packed with tender chicken and vegetables. It’s a warm, hearty dish that belongs on any holiday spread. If you want a savory Thanksgiving pie that everyone will love, this is it!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

Skillet Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks

A white oval plate holding six glossy, honey-glazed chicken drumsticks sprinkled with sesame seeds rests on a wooden table, with a floral-patterned napkin underneath.
Skillet Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: Beyod Kimchee.

These teriyaki chicken drumsticks are a quick, delicious option for busy nights. The sticky-sweet sauce adds an irresistible touch, making them a fun and flavorful addition to your dinner lineup. Plus, they cook in just one pan—easy to make and even easier to clean up!
Get the Recipe: Skillet Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white plate holds a serving of spaghetti topped with a creamy sauce containing diced tomatoes and herbs. The dish is garnished with a roasted chicken drumstick. A fork rests to the right of the plate on a wooden table.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Homemade on a Weeknight.

Indulge in the bold flavors of this creamy garlic chicken dish. The rich sauce, made with garlic and roasted red peppers, pairs perfectly with tender chicken drumsticks. It’s a fresh, exciting way to switch up your usual chicken recipes!
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Smothered Chicken & Potatoes

A close-up of a bowl filled with creamy mashed potatoes topped with turkey legs. The dish is generously covered with a thick, rich brown gravy and garnished with chopped herbs. The creamy texture of the potatoes contrasts with the succulent turkey and savory gravy.
Smothered Chicken & Potatoes. Photo credit: Homemade on a Weeknight.

Dig into a comforting plate of smothered chicken and potatoes. Juicy drumsticks are coated in a silky, flavorful gravy, making this dish a cozy, satisfying favorite. Serve it with fluffy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
Get the Recipe: Smothered Chicken & Potatoes

Chicken Burrito Bowl

A close-up of a colorful, high-protein lunch dish featuring sliced grilled chicken drizzled with sauce, black beans, tomato pieces, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a lime wedge. The meal appears fresh and appetizing.
Chicken Burrito Bowl. Photo by Living Chirpy

The Chicken Burrito Bowl is packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients like chicken, avocado, black beans, and more. It’s a simple way to enjoy a restaurant-style meal right at home!
Get the recipe: Chicken Burrito Bowl

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About Maggie Unzueta

Maggie Unzueta is the face behind In Mama Maggie's Kitchen. She has been publishing Mexican recipes and creating delicious recipes since 2010. From family recipes to her extensive travels throughout Mexico, she brings traditional Mexican flavors from South of the Border and into your kitchen. Maggie has been featured in notable culinary websites and other media outlets. For more details, check out her About page.

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