By Suzana Mikolova 
One-Pan Roasted Chicken and Veggies
Weeknight dinners don’t have to be complicated! Toss chicken pieces and your favorite chopped veggies (broccoli, carrots, potatoes work great) with olive oil, herbs, and salt & pepper. Spread everything on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. This is a minimal cleanup meal that’s both healthy and delicious. Kids can even help with the chopping (with supervision, of course!). For extra flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice at the end.
Speedy Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini noodles (zoodles) are a fantastic low-carb alternative to pasta, and they cook incredibly quickly. Sauté shrimp with garlic, butter, and white wine (or chicken broth for a kid-friendly version) until pink. Toss in the zoodles and cook until tender-crisp. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (optional). This dish is ready in under 15 minutes and feels fancy enough for a special occasion, but is simple enough for a busy weeknight.
Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers
Another sheet pan winner! Slice Italian sausages (sweet or spicy, depending on your family’s preference) and bell peppers into chunks. Toss with olive oil, Italian seasoning, and salt & pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausages are cooked through and the peppers are tender. Serve with crusty bread for dipping in the delicious pan juices. This is a great way to sneak in extra veggies, and the cleanup is a breeze.
Quick Chicken Stir-Fry
Stir-fries are a fantastic way to use up leftover veggies and get a healthy meal on the table fast. Stir-fry bite-sized chicken pieces with your favorite veggies (broccoli, snow peas, carrots, peppers) in a little oil. Add a simple sauce made with soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Serve over rice or noodles. You can easily adjust the sauce to your family’s taste preferences – add a little more honey for sweetness or a dash of sesame oil for extra flavor.
Taco Tuesday Made Easy
Taco Tuesday doesn’t have to mean hours spent in the kitchen. Use pre-cooked ground beef or chicken, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a shortcut. Warm the meat and assemble your tacos with your favorite toppings: shredded lettuce, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and guacamole. Let everyone customize their own tacos for a fun and interactive meal. Consider offering a variety of toppings, like black beans or corn, for extra nutrition.
Black Bean Burgers
Homemade black bean burgers are surprisingly easy to make and a healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers. Mash black beans with breadcrumbs, spices (cumin, chili powder), and an egg (or flax egg for a vegan option). Form into patties and cook in a pan or bake in the oven. Serve on buns with your favorite burger toppings. This is a great way to introduce more plant-based protein into your family’s diet, and kids often love the flavorful, slightly sweet taste of black beans.
Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
A simple pasta dish can be elevated with fresh ingredients. Cook your favorite pasta according to package directions. While the pasta cooks, toss cherry tomatoes with pesto, a little olive oil, and salt & pepper. Combine the cooked pasta and tomato mixture, and serve. This is a quick, easy, and colorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight. You can also add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Breakfast for Dinner
Sometimes, the easiest family-friendly meal is breakfast for dinner! Pancakes, waffles, scrambled eggs, bacon, and sausage are all quick and easy to prepare. Let everyone customize their plates with their favorite breakfast items. This is a fun and casual meal that’s sure to please everyone, even picky eaters. Add some fruit on the side for a healthier twist.
One-Pot Chili
Chili is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. Combine ground beef or turkey, beans, diced tomatoes, onions, peppers, and chili seasoning in a large pot. Simmer until the flavors have melded and the meat is cooked through. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and avocado. This is a make-ahead meal that tastes even better the next day.
Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a quick and easy meal that’s always a hit with kids. Spread refried beans or cheese on a tortilla, top with your favorite fillings (cooked chicken, black beans, vegetables), fold in half, and cook in a pan until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown. Serve with salsa and sour cream. This is a customizable meal that can be adapted to suit everyone’s preferences. Visit here about diet dinners for families