As many parents can attest, introducing variety into their kids’ meals can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to finding dishes that the whole family will enjoy. With busy schedules and picky eaters, it’s no wonder that mac and cheese or chicken nuggets become staples of the dinner routine.
However, there is hope! A little creativity and some simple, yet effective, recipes can go a long way in making dinnertime more enjoyable and less stressful. That’s why we’ve curated a list of 35 easy kid-friendly dinner recipes that are not only delicious but also customizable to suit your family’s tastes.
These recipes cater to busy parents who want to serve up something new and exciting, without sacrificing ease or quality. So, whether you’re looking for inspiration to break the cycle of mac and cheese or seeking ways to get your kids to eat something other than chicken nuggets, we’ve got you covered.
35 Easy Kid-Friendly Dinners
Homemade Pizza
Involve your kids in the pizza-making process by letting them craft their own personal pies, complete with their top three favorite toppings. This interactive experience not only fosters creativity and independence but also increases the likelihood that they’ll devour their very own culinary masterpiece.
Baked Chicken Parmesan
When it comes to satisfying everyone’s palate, this timeless Italian recipe consistently impresses. Its versatility allows it to pair perfectly with a variety of accompaniments, such as al dente pasta and a medley of roasted vegetables, ensuring a meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Tacos
Encourage a sense of ownership by offering an assortment of toppings, allowing each individual to craft their own unique taco experience. This flexible approach ensures that every guest leaves with a satisfied smile, having tailored the meal to their personal preferences.
Meatball Subs
Pair these satisfying sandwiches with a refreshing accompaniment, such as crispy chips or crunchy vegetables. This winning combination is guaranteed to delight a gathering of any size.
Sheet Pan Fajitas
Transforming the humble ingredients of chicken, steak, peppers, and onions into a mouthwatering meal is as straightforward as it gets. Simply dice the protein and vegetables of your choice, then combine them with a sprinkle of spices and a drizzle of oil before baking to perfection on a sheet pan. This effortless approach yields a dish that’s not only delectable but also remarkably easy to prepare.
One Pan Chicken and Veggies
Transforming a weeknight dinner into a stress-free affair is as simple as preparing an ensemble cast of ingredients on a baking sheet. Combine diced chicken, potatoes, and your choice of colorful vegetables with a drizzle of oil and a sprinkle of spices. The result is a harmonious union of flavors and textures that requires minimal effort, yet yields a satisfying meal.
Fried Rice
Transform the flavors of Asia into your everyday meal by combining the simplicity of rice, versatility of vegetables, and protein of your choice. This iconic dish offers a straightforward and scrumptious solution to break free from the monotony of your daily dinner schedule.
Pasta with Meat Sauce
Transforming a humble combination of browned ground beef or turkey, paired with rich marinara sauce, and served atop a bed of pasta creates a satisfying and flavorful culinary experience that’s sure to hit the spot.
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Indulge in the convenience of a slow cooker by whipping up this effortless recipe. As a bonus, it pairs perfectly with a refreshing side of coleslaw and toasted buns.
Chicken Quesadillas
Transform the flavors of sautéed chicken, peppers, and onions into a mouthwatering quesadilla by layering these ingredients within tortillas alongside melted cheese. This straightforward yet satisfying dish is a staple in many cuisines and can be easily customized to suit individual tastes.
Sloppy Joes
A timeless favorite, this iconic sandwich is guaranteed to delight even the pickiest eaters. For an added bonus, serve it on soft buns alongside a crunchy medley of vegetables and crispy chips, providing a satisfying and well-rounded snack for kids (and adults alike) to enjoy.
Chicken Stir Fry
For a quick and savory dinner, simply cook chicken and your favorite vegetables together with a drizzle of soy sauce, then serve the mixture atop a bed of fluffy rice. This straightforward combination yields a deliciously balanced meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Baked Potatoes
Transform mealtimes by serving up baked potatoes as a canvas for your little ones to create their own masterpieces. Allow them to get creative with a medley of toppings, from classic options like cheese and sour cream, to more adventurous choices like diced veggies and lean proteins.
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
A staple of comfort food, the harmonious pairing of grilled cheese and tomato soup has earned its reputation as a timeless favorite. When it comes to pleasing even the pickiest of eaters, this classic combination is sure to hit the spot, making it an excellent choice for a stress-free dinner option.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Transform succulent shrimp into a mouthwatering main course by sautéing them in a mixture of rich butter, pungent garlic, and tangy lemon juice. This effortless yet flavorful preparation method can be completed in no time, making it an ideal solution for busy home cooks seeking a satisfying meal. To elevate the dish to new heights, consider pairing it with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, which will not only add texture and visual appeal but also provide a nutritious contrast to the protein-rich shrimp.
Cheesy Chicken Casserole
With minimal effort, this satisfying casserole can be prepared and serves as a nutritious and flavorful solution for a quick dinner fix. Not only does it provide an impressive amount of protein, but it also offers a welcome change from the usual evening meal monotony.
Turkey Burgers
Savor the flavor of a well-crafted meal by serving homemade turkey burgers on toasted buns, paired with a crispy side of oven-baked sweet potato fries. This duo offers a perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and satisfying flavors that will leave you feeling full and content.
Chicken Tenders
Indulge in the comfort of homemade chicken tenders, easily crafted with a straightforward breading process that yields mouthwatering results. Pair them with a medley of fresh vegetables or crispy fries for a satisfying meal.
Baked Salmon
Savor the taste of a nutritious meal with our straightforward baked salmon recipe, perfectly paired with a medley of rice and fresh vegetables.
Turkey Chili
Crafting a hearty and satisfying meal is just a simmer away. A large pot of rich and flavorful turkey chili is the perfect solution for a comforting dinner. Pair it with a warm and crumbly slice of cornbread, and you’ll have a match made in culinary heaven. The combination of tender turkey, savory spices, and nutritious beans will fill your belly and warm your heart.
Spaghetti and Meatballs
The quintessential Italian comfort food, spaghetti and meatballs never fails to delight even the pickiest of eaters. Its familiar flavors evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please kids of all ages.
Homemade Mac and Cheese
Indulge in a richly satisfying macaroni and cheese that effortlessly wins over the taste buds of both children and grown-ups, with its velvety creaminess and generous helping of melted goodness.
Chicken and Rice Soup
Savoring the essence of comfort, this delectable soup recipe combines the tenderness of chicken, the heartiness of rice, and the vibrancy of flavorful vegetables, making it an ideal selection for a cozy evening meal.
Mini Meatball Sliders
Take your slider game to the next level by serving bite-sized mini meatball sliders on diminutive rolls smothered in gooey melted cheese, infusing a whimsical spin into a timeless treat.
Vegetable Fried Rice
Elevate the humble fried rice game by infusing it with an abundance of colors and flavors that will have even the pickiest eaters excited about consuming vegetables. By making this simple twist, you’ll not only create a satisfying side dish but also instill a lifelong love for nutrient-dense veggies in your little ones.
Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Indulge in a culinary delight as tender grilled chicken, perfectly al dente pasta, and a decadent Alfredo sauce come together to create a truly satisfying dining experience.
Mini Corn Dog Muffins
Indulge in the perfect blend of comfort and portability by whipping up a batch of bite-sized corn dogs baked to perfection in convenient muffin tin molds. This innovative twist on a classic favorite offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Honey Glazed Chicken
Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of honey-glazed chicken, paired with a comforting side of rice or creamy mashed potatoes. This delightful combination is sure to tantalize your senses and leave you craving more.
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Savor the rich flavors of tender, slow-cooked pulled chicken smothered in tangy barbecue sauce, perfectly balanced on soft buns alongside refreshing slaws and crudités that add a delightful textural contrast to each satisfying bite.
Mini Meatball Pizzas
Transform the traditional pizza night into a fun and engaging experience for kids by blending mini meatballs with timeless pizza toppings. This unique combination will surely delight your little ones, adding an exciting spin to a beloved family activity.
Veggie-loaded Quesadillas
Elevate the humble quesadilla to a nutritional powerhouse by packing it with an assortment of vibrant, freshly chopped vegetables. This simple swap makes for a scrumptious and wholesome option that’s sure to please both children and adults alike.
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Casserole
Elevate the timeless combination of chicken, broccoli, and Alfredo sauce by transforming it into a satisfying casserole that’s perfect for families. With its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing appeal, this reimagined dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Tater Tot Casserole
Indulge in a comforting culinary experience with a casserole that combines the crispy delight of tater tots, the savory flavor of seasoned ground beef, and the gooey richness of melted cheese. This satisfying and filling dish is perfect for any gathering or special occasion.
Hawaiian Pizza
Embark on a gastronomic adventure to the sun-kissed islands of Hawaii by fusing two unlikely flavors together – savory ham and sweet pineapple. This unconventional combination adds a tropical twist to the traditional pizza, resulting in a unique culinary experience that will tantalize your taste buds.
Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas
Transform the humble tortilla into a flavorful vessel by wrapping seasoned chicken and cheese within its folds. Then, bake it to perfection with a rich enchilada sauce that will leave everyone craving more. And if you’re looking for even more creative dinner options, consider these 35 easy kid-friendly recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether your family is in the mood for pizza, tacos, stir-fry, or pasta, this collection has got you covered. With simple, customizable, and delicious meal ideas, you’ll be able to break free from the dinner routine and enjoy a meal that’s truly satisfying. So next time you’re stuck, take a cue from these recipes and watch as your little ones eagerly devour every last bite!