When it comes to trying to be creative in the kitchen these days, it’s always smart to have quick and easy family dinner ideas up your sleeve. That’s why we’ve collected dynamite dishes that take very little prep work and guarantee to satisfy the whole family. Even better? Some of these quick meal ideas call for the slow cooker!

If you need more easy family dinner ideas, check out our favorite sheet-pan recipes, easy recipes for when you’re burned out, one-pot dinner ideas, and chicken breast recipes everyone will love.

Cheesy Pasta

Cheese? Check. Pasta? Check. Sounds like a total kid-pleasing easy dinner. Throw some rotisserie chicken in at the end of this recipe from The Cozy Cook to make it a one-pot meal.

Easy Dinner Recipe for Cashew Chicken

We’re always looking for recipes that taste just like (better?) our favorite take-out items. This recipe for Cashew Chicken fits the bill, and it’s made in one skillet. Get the recipe from Modern Honey.

Shrimp Fried Rice

So maybe your kiddo hates peas. Or carrots. Or both. The good news is, this easy family dinner idea from The Cozy Cook is super adaptable, so you can throw in whatever the kids will actually eat.

Instant Pot Chicken Marsala

Chicken Marsala is one of the ultimate comfort foods. This easy dinner recipe from Easy Chicken Recipes uses an Instant Pot to get the meal done in under 30 minutes, so we’re huge fans.

Ground Beef Stroganoff

ground beef stroganoff is an easy dinner recipe
Chelsea's Messy Apron

Beef stroganoff is a classic pasta dish, and this ground beef version from Chelsea's Messy Apron comes together quickly. It's a meal that even picky eaters can get behind. Get the recipe here

Crock Pot Chicken from Heaven

crock pot chicken recipe
Stock the Crock

It's right there in the title. This chicken is a little bit of heaven. It's also convenient, delicious, and can be adapted for Paleo diets! Grab the recipe by clicking here.

Chicken Fajitas

chicken fajitas are an easy dinner recipe
Weelicious

One of the best easy family dinner ideas, it's perfect for picky eaters because they can build their own plates. Get the recipe from Weelicious

Ham and Swiss Pasta Roll Up

The View from Great Island

Ham and Swiss cheese nestled into pasta and baked to perfection? Yes, please! This surprisingly simple recipe can be made ahead of time and popped into the oven before dinner time. Get the recipe from The View from Great Island. 

Chicken Cordon Blue Sandwiches

You’ll be able to serve up warm, tangy sandwiches in no time with this 30-minute recipe for Chicken Cordon Blue from Sprinkles and the Smiths. Best of all, it can be made in an air fryer, which makes it (almost) healthy.

Sheet Pan Nachos

Sheet pan nachos are a good option for busy families because you can add what you want, divide it up into sections for picky eaters, and of course, they’re ready in under 30 minutes. Get the scoop from Maple + Mango.

Grilled Cheese with Apple and Jam

Garlic My Soul

Give your classic grilled cheese a major upgrade with two ingredients you probably have on hand: apples and jam! Get the tasty recipe here.

Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken

A bowl of honey garlic chicken made in a slow cooker
Hello Spoonful

This chicken recipe is a keeper when it comes to weeknight dinner recipes! It only has a few ingredients, so you can get this into the Crock Pot in the morning in less than ten minutes! Get the recipe here.

Instant Pot Chili

The Bearded Hiker

Love your Instant Pot? Then you'll love this weeknight dinner recipe! Just sauté your beef, add veggies, beans, and spices and the pressure cooker will do the rest. Click here for the recipe.

One-Pot Orecchiette, Sausage, and Broccoli Pasta

Chelsea's Messy Apron

The flavor of the sausage, parmesan cheese, and olive oil gives this dish all the seasoning it needs, which means there's no heavy sauce to make on the side. Get the recipe from Chelsea's Messy Apron

Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf Bites

Catherine McCord from Weelicious

These meatloaf bites from our friend Catherine McCord of Weelicious are petite versions of your favorite comfort food. And you can bet they're perfect for kids' taste buds!

Hawaiian Barbecue Pizza

Kim's Cravings

With BBQ sauce, pineapple, and rotisserie chicken, this pizza couldn't be more simple. Get the kids in on the cooking to make dinnertime extra fun! Click here for the recipe.

Related: 18 Easy One-Pot Dinners Perfect for Busy Weeknights

One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta

tomato basil pasta is an easy dinner idea
iStock

This pasta dish isn't too fancy, sports kid-friendly ingredients, and is sure to be a weeknight dinner recipe that you'll make again and again. Bonus: It only gets one pot dirty! Get the how-to here.

Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket

Bake Me Some Sugar

Everyone's favorite party app also makes a great dinner-in-a-pinch! And with just two ingredients and four steps, kids can help whip these up! Make your own with this recipe from Bake Me Some Sugar.

Fettuccine Alfredo

fettucine alfredo for 30 minute meals
Engin Akyurt via Unsplash

Creamy fettuccine Alfredo that's healthy, too? The secret to this recipe is sneaking spinach into the sauce and adding pre-cooked chicken. Get the recipe here.

Grilled Cheese Rollups

My Little Gourmet

Think outside the grilled cheese! These rollups have the classic taste kids love, with just a bit of a twist. And they only take 10 minutes to make! Find out how here.

Related: 31 Make Ahead Meals That Are Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Korean Beef Bowl

Ambs Loves Food

You can fulfill your Korean food cravings in 15-20 minutes with this beef bowl recipe. And you probably have the ingredient list in your pantry! Click here for the recipe.

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish

panko fish is tops for weeknight dinner recipes
iStock

Want to introduce the kiddos to fish? Try this mild white fish covered in a crunchy parmesan crust. The ingredients are simple, and the flavors are excellent! Get the recipe here. Or, if you want to try salmon, check out our family-friendly salmon recipes here. 

One-Pot Chicken and Rice

chicken and rice is an easy dinner recipe
Scrummy Lane

Is there anything more comforting than chicken and rice? We don't think so. This quick one-pot version from Scrummy Lane is one of our favorite easy family dinner ideas. 

Crock Pot Chicken Teriyaki

crock pot chicken teriyaki is an easy dinner recipe
iStock

Fact: Kids love teriyaki. Another fact? This recipe from Our Little Acre uses the slow cooker and is super simple to make. What's not to love? 

 

 

It’s no surprise that we’re obsessed with Crock Pot recipes. They save a ton of time on busy weeknights (just like these other incredible make-ahead dinner recipes and one-pan meals) and make cleanup a breeze. Meal prep is easy when there are only a few ingredients: just dump them in, turn it on, and forget about it until you’re home for the evening. We’ve rounded up a list of our all-time favorite slow cooker recipes, from whole roasted chickens to pot roasts and tacos. And if you’re looking to save time in the morning as well, you can try these make-ahead breakfast recipes, too.  

Savory Crock Pot Soup Recipes

Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

This is a fix-it-and-forget-it recipe if we’ve ever seen one. For kids who think wild rice is weird, substitute long-grain white rice. Get the recipe from Eating Bird Food.

Crock Pot Lasagna Soup

Lasagna that’s made in a slow cooker? That’s served in a bowl? This has all the makings of our new favorite weeknight dinner recipe. Get the details from The Cozy Cook.

Baked Potato Soup

A baked potato with all the fixings is always a good idea, and this Crock Pot recipe for baked potato soup is so easy and so perfect for chilly days, you’ll be thanking us for finding it. Get the recipe from Slow Cooker Meals.

Slow Cooker Carrot and Apple Soup

Thanksgiving instant pot recipes
Foxes Love Lemons

This hearty and flavorful soup from Foxes Love Lemons features ingredients like apple, carrot, and fresh garlic. It’s a guaranteed fall classic slow cooker recipe and a great way to warm up on a chilly day! 

Chicken Noodle Soup

Bowl of chicken noodle soup, one of our favorite crock pot recipes
Weelicious

If there's another soup that is as big of a crowd-pleaser as chicken noodle soup, we haven't found it. Weelicious serves up this easy slow cooker version you'll want to add to your recipe rotation immediately. 

Hearty White Bean Soup

three bowls of white bean soup, cooked in a crock pot, sit beside a carrot and celery
My Whole Food Life

After trying this Crock Pot recipe from My Whole Food Life you'll never want to make soup on your stovetop again. Simply prep your veggies and then let the slow cooker do the work. 

 

Related: 25 Easy Crock Pot Recipes to Try This Fall

Cultural Cuisine Crock Pot Recipes

Healthier Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

A pot of slow cooker baked ziti with a serving spoon
Kristine's Kitchen Blog

Sometimes a chilly winter day calls for hearty pasta! This recipe from Kristine's Kitchen Blog is the perfect stick-to-your-ribs meal, with a healthier twist. (Think: ground turkey and whole wheat pasta.)

Moroccan Chicken Tagine

A bowl of tagine made from a slow cooker is ready to serve
Feed Me Phoebe

This tagine from Feed Me Phoebe is one of those great Crock Pot recipes to make ahead for the weekend. There's protein and veggie goodness in every bite, and you can adjust the seasoning to accommodate tiny taste buds. 

Chicken Tikka Masala

A bowl filled with dinner made from a chicken tikka masala crock pot recipe
One Lovely Life

This delish chicken recipe from One Lovely Life is bound to become a weekday Crock Pot staple. The rich, flavorful sauce and tender chicken pair perfectly with rice and veggies. 

Slow Cooker Ramen

A bowl of chicken ramen made in a slow cooker and topped with eggs
A Spicy Perspective

Ready for the best ramen news ever? You can make your fave noodle soup right in your own slow cooker! All you need for broth that's drink-from-the-bowl good is this recipe from A Spicy Perspective. Then just add noodles, chicken, and soft-boiled eggs!

 

Related: 32 Crock Pot Chicken Recipes for Lazy Nights

Chicken Slow Cooker Recipes

Chicken Enchiladas

A platter of chicken enchiladas made from a crock pot are topped with sour cream
UrbanCookery

Reason #1 to fall in love with this dish? It only takes 10 minutes to prep! These slow cooker chicken enchiladas from Urban Cookery are one of the more simple recipes to make and taste delicious topped with cheddar cheese, enchilada sauce, sour cream or salsa.

Korean Chicken Sliders

A Korean chicken slider sits on a black plate. It's one of those crock pot recipes that's great for entertaining
Shared Appetite

This crock pot recipe from Shared Appetite will quickly become a staple in your house. Since all of the work is done by the slow cooker over four hours, it's one of those recipes fit for entertaining. With toppings like aioli, bean sprouts, and avocado, your guests (and kids!) won't be able to resist these sliders. 

 

Lemon Chicken

A few lemons, a whole chicken, and a little salt and pepper turn into something magical after a few hours in the slow cooker. This dish pairs perfectly with jasmine rice and roasted veggies. 

Chicken Teriyaki

Chicken teriyaki is always a hit with our kids, and this slow cooker recipe makes it easier than ever. With just five ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Get it here.

Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

A plate of Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Domestic Superhero

Ditch the carbs with this easy slow cooker recipe from Domestic Superhero. With only eight ingredients in total, your dinner could not be easier. 

Slow Cooker Chicken

A bowl of honey garlic chicken made in a slow cooker
Hello Spoonful

Slow cooker recipes are our favorite, and this chicken recipe from Hello Spoonful is a keeper—with only six ingredients, you can get this into the crock pot in the morning in less than 10 minutes. Once it’s time for dinner, serve it over rice, with salad, or in sandwiches—the sky’s the limit!

5-Cheese Chicken Bacon Pasta

A plate of cheese and bacon chicken that was cooked in a crock pot
Slow Cooker Gourmet

Chicken and bacon over pasta? With five cheeses? Sign us up for this decadent dinner from Slow Cooker Gourmet.  

Orange Chicken

A plate of slow cooker orange chicken garnished with sliced oranges
Kirbie’s Cravings

Forget Panda Express—this orange chicken recipe from Kirbie’s Cravings is off-the-charts delicious and way healthier than anything you’d get in a restaurant. It’s the best way to brighten up your plate on a dreary weeknight. 

Perfect Roast Chicken

Forget roasting the chicken in the oven. Check out this recipe for throwing the entire chicken in the Crock Pot instead. The result is a delicious fall-off-the-bone dinner.

Crock Pot Comfort Food Recipes

Beef Stew

A white bowl of beef stew that was made from a Crock Pot
A Healthier Michigan

On a cold day, there’s no better way to warm up than with a hearty beef stew. This Crock Pot version is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, with tender chunks of beef, plenty of veggies, and a flavorful tomato base.

Crock Pot Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joes made from a crock pot are served in a bun on a plate
Dragon Fly Homes Recipes

What could be more down-home than a batch of sloppy joes? These amazing (and amazingly simple) sloppy joes from Dragonfly Home Recipes are our new favorite meal! 

Scalloped Potatoes

Thanksgiving instant pot recipes
Well Plated

For a hearty side, try making these yummy scalloped potatoes from Well Plated. They’re made using a mix of Yukon Gold and sweet potatoes, and the cheesy sauce makes them an instant kid favorite.

Mashed Potatoes

Thanksgiving instant pot recipes
Life Is But a Dish

We would have never thought to make mashed potatoes in the Crock Pot, but this recipe from Life Is But a Dish works like a charm. And since nobody likes cold ‘taters, the cooker keeps them warm until you’re ready to eat. 

Chicken Pot Pie Stew

Chicken pot pie is the ultimate comfort food, but who has time to roll out a pie crust and bake it to perfection? That’s why we can’t resist this stew, which incorporates all our favorite elements of a chicken pot pie without the hassle.

Chicken and Dumplings Crock Pot Recipe

There are a ton of chicken and dumpling recipes out there, but none are so healthy (or fast!) as this one that includes fresh, whole ingredients.

Turkey Breast with Gravy

Slow cooker turkey breast sits on a plate next veggie sides and a gravy boat
Skinny Taste

Who says turkey is just for Thanksgiving? This delicious recipe from Skinny Taste helps keep the turkey moist by cooking it in the gravy mixture.

Chicken Parm

crock pot chicken parmesan

A three-ingredient recipe that’s oh-so-yummy? Sign us up! While this recipe may not satisfy chicken parm traditionalists, we love how easy it is. And, the outcome is just as good as the real (non-crock pot) thing.

Crowd-Pleasing Party Dishes

Ranch Chex Mix

A close of of pretzels and other ingredients in a Ranch Chex mix that was made from a slow cooker recipe
Oh, Sweet Basil

The slow cooker isn’t just for main dishes—try out this awesome slow -cooker-made party mix from Oh, Sweet Basil. You can customize it by adding your favorite crunchy snacks, and the tangy ranch coating is super addictive. 

Spinach Bacon Dip

A close up of a white bowl of Spinach Bacon Dip surrounded by bread
Slow Cooker Gourmet

This genius recipe from Slow Cooker Gourmet is perfect for feeding a crowd, whether it’s game day or a family gathering. Serve it with warm crusty bread and tortilla chips for an appetizer that will disappear in a flash. 

 

BBQ Ribs

While everyone loves barbecue ribs, not everyone loves the prep time involved with this favorite meal. Nix the hassle and opt for the slow cooker. You won’t be disappointed.

Kid-Friendly Crock Pot Recipes

Sweet Pork

crock pot sweet pork recipe
Our Table for Seven

This just might be the easiest dinner recipe ever—only three ingredients are needed! Brown sugar and salsa come together to create a tasty sweet-but-spicy (depending on what kind of salsa you choose) glaze for the pork.

Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese that was cooked in a Crock Pot sits in a blue bowl
A Bountiful Love

Ditch the boxed mac and cheese and opt instead for this recipe from Khit of A Bountiful Love food blog. Not only is this recipe easy but it's budget-friendly. 

Honey Ginger Chicken

The Skinny Fork

This Asian-inspired dish from The Skinny Fork incorporates tastes that kids love, from savory soy sauce to sweet honey. The juicy chicken pairs perfectly with broccoli and steamed rice.

 

Mongolian Beef

Get adventurous with your slow cooker with this fun recipe for Mongolian beef. The little ones will love the delicious combination of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors.

French Dip Sandwiches

Talk about getting your hands dirty—kids will love dunking their sandwiches in a super tasty beef jus made in a slow cooker. Plus, these French dip sandwiches are definitely a unique twist on your usual beef roast.

Pulled Pork Tacos

pulled pork crock pot taco recipe
Frankie Lopez via Unsplash

Pulled pork isn't just for barbecue—this pulled pork taco Crock Pot recipe is super simple and fun for kids to customize with their own toppings. Add some veggies, cheese, and guac, and you've got a complete meal.

Related: 30-Minute Dinners That Are Insanely Easy

Lemon Chicken Pitas

chicken pita crock pot recipe
iStock

Kids will love this fresh Mediterranean-inspired dish. Lemony chicken, tzatziki sauce and veggies are served on top of warm pitas—delish! 

Vegetarian Crock Pot Recipes

Veggie Lasagna

Weelicious

Why slave away in the kitchen for hours trying to layer the perfect lasagna when you can easily make the recipe with your handy slow cooker?

Black Bean Soup

A black bean soup crock pot dish sits in a bowl
Away from the Box

Meat eaters and omnivores alike will love this filling soup from Away from the Box. You can finish it with tasty toppings like avocado, sour cream, and pico de gallo. 

Breakfast Crock Pot Recipes

Crock Pot Breakfast Casserole

 

Slow cooker recipes aren’t just for dinner! The mornings are often as hectic (if not more) as the evenings. Try prepping your breakfast the night before with this breakfast recipe made for the slow cooker.

The Sweeter Side

Blueberry Apple Cobbler

Two small bowls of blueberry apple cobbler topped with whipped cream
Spiced

This cobbler from Spiced is as comforting as homemade pie but way easier to make—sign us up! Topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s a guaranteed win with kids and adults alike. 

Nutella Bread Pudding

A delicious Nutella Bread Pudding made from a Crock Pot sits in a festive bowl
The Perfect Pantry

Dessert in the Crock Pot? Who knew! Little ones will happily gobble up this comforting Nutella bread pudding after a long day at school.

Full disclosure: we’re making the pizza buns for the extras that get left at home

If you want to get ahead of the game when it comes to coming up with creative school lunch ideas for kids, we’re here for it. Get your kids out of the PB&J rut with 30 great recipes that include roll-up recipes, homemade Lunchables, simple bento lunches, and more! Read on for the scrumptious kids’ lunch ideas for school—and expect an empty bento box to come back every time.

Save this list of fun kids’ school lunch ideas on Pinterest by just clicking here!

Apple Cheese Wraps

kids lunch ideas for school from Weelicious
Weelicious

The sweet and savory combo of apples and cheese is complimented by ham or turkey for a unique take on a school lunch idea for kids. We think Honeycrisp apples would be perfect! Get more details from Weelicious

Tortilla Pizza

kids lunch ideas for school from Kristine's Kitchen
Kristine's Kitchen

If your kiddo is pizza crazy, check this out: tortilla pizza from Kristine's Kitchen! It's a more lunchbox-friendly way to pack a pizza pie and pairs great with veggies, too. 

Hummus & Pita Dippers

school lunch ideas for kids from One Lovely Life
One Lovely Life

Have you heard about this hummus lunch idea from One Lovely Life? It's simple: your kiddo's fave hummus, combined with fresh veggies, pretzels, and pita crisps for dunking. No muss, no fuss! 

Ham and Cheddar Pinwheels

school lunch ideas for kids from Chelsea's Messy Apron
Chelsea's Messy Apron

These pinwheels are pretty as a picture and infinitely customizable to boot. Chelsea's Messy Apron has all the deets on this lunch idea, including how you can give it a boost with lunchbox-friendly ranch dip!

Ham and Cheese Freezer Sandwiches

kids lunch ideas for school from A Taste of Madness
A Taste of Madness

Two words: freezer sandwiches. A Taste of Madness has struck make-ahead magic with these ham and cheese creations. Just heat them up in the morning for a quick and easy school lunch that's packed with gooey cheesy goodness.

Sandwich Kabobs 6 Ways

Weelicious

Kids love kabobs, and Weelicious gives you six different ideas for lunch versions. From caprese to BLT to the fancy brunch kabob, there's one for every palate. 

Banana Muffin Lunchbox

Kristine's Kitchen

Boring lunches have nothin' on this muffin lunch. It's the perfect whole wheat and banana combo and pairs great with a hard-boiled egg for an extra dose of protein. Learn more at Kristine's Kitchen.

Mini Corndog Muffins

corn dog muffins
Shutterstock

Got a class clown on your hands? Give their lunch those carnival vibes with this version of a corn dog in muffin form. These bites are good warm or cold and super simple to make!

Homemade Kraft Easy Mac

lunch ideas for kids
Food Fanatic

Mac and cheese is a surefire win for our kids, which is why we love this take on easy mac from Food Fanatic. The best part? It’s made entirely in the microwave and comes together in a flash. 

Go-To Pesto

nut-free basil pesto pasta salad recipe
Jennifer Tyler Lee via 52 New Foods Challenge

Basil, parmesan, and sunflower seeds combine to make this fresh and flavorful nut-free pesto. Mix it up in pasta, use it as a sandwich spread, or make it a yummy dip for veggies. 

Pizza Bites

kids lunch ideas for school from super healthy kids
Super Healthy Kids

Two words: pizza bites. Keep a batch in the freezer, and you’ll always have them ready for an easy school lunch idea for kids. Get the recipe at Super Healthy Kids.

Ultimate Kiddie Cobb Salad

this kiddie cobb salad is a great cold dinner idea
Mom's Kitchen Handbook

Pack a salad loaded with goodies, and add a container of dressing on the side. Try out this kiddie cobb salad from Katie Sullivan Morford of Mom's Kitchen Handbook.

“Nachos” with Black Beans

school lunch ideas for kids from What Lisa Cooks
What Lisa Cooks

How do you turn lunchtime into a real fiesta? With these easy deconstructed nachos, courtesy of What Lisa Cooks. This idea not only skips the mess of traditional nachos but it can also be thrown together in about five minutes. 

Pizza Buns

school lunch ideas for kids from Simple As That
Simple as That

Thanks to Simple As That, you can treat little pizza connoisseurs to a creative school lunch that doesn’t involve foil-wrapped slices. These cheesy buns are simple to whip up (kids can even help with the prep work), and they can be tossed in the freezer for those days when you need a lunch or snack ASAP. 

Peanut Butter & Jelly on a Stick

A Whisk and Two Wands

Okay, so we said there was no PB&J to be seen, but sometimes a home run lunch isn’t about reinventing the wheel. Just take this school lunch idea from A Whisk and Two Wands. Alternate your sandwich bites with healthy fruit, and you’re all set for school. 

Monochrome Lunch

kids lunch ideas for school from The Mom 100
The Mom 100

Sometimes you just need to embrace kid food quirks—like when they get attached to one particular color. This genius idea from The Mom 100 groups great green munchies like pesto pasta, broccoli, and grapes (If your kid is hooked on a different hue, The Mom 100 also has orange and yellow lunches on her blog!).

Carrot and Hummus “Sushi” Sandwiches

Weelicious

We love how this idea from Weelicious incorporates fun flavors and lots of grated carrots. It’s perfect for when you want to amp up your kids’ veggie intake–or when you want to pack a lunch that looks impressive but takes minutes to make.

Homemade Lunchables

homemade lunchables are a fun school lunch idea for kids
Snap. Eat. Run.

Kids love the DIY aspect of Lunchables (go figure), but those unmade lunches can get pricey. Cue Snap. Eat. Run., which outlines how to make your own cheaper and healthier version of pizza Lunchables. You only need a few minutes to get these ready, and you can even make them ahead of time and toss them in a school bag on the way out the door. 

Mini BLT Wraps

Mini BLTS wraps are a fun school lunch idea for kids
The Girl Who Ate Everything

What do you get when you take the classic BLT and give it a school lunch twist? These bite-sized rollups from The Girl Who Ate Everything! These are easy to put together and adaptable too, so feel free to get creative with whole wheat tortillas, hummus, sprouts, sliced chicken, or whatever else is in the crisper drawer. 

Nut-Free Crispy Chicken Tenders

Lexi’s Clean Kitchen

Teacher, foodie, blogger, and supermom Lexi of Lexi’s Clean Kitchen is our hero. She created this paleo-friendly recipe with flaxseed, tapioca flour, and a whole lot of flavor for lunchtime. Pack a little dipping sauce and handi-wipes for the best finger food lunch in the cafeteria!

Applewiches

Add a Pinch

Think beyond bread! Add a Pinch shows how to include savory applewiches in your little one’s lunch. The filling ingredients include cheddar cheese and peanut butter–but if your kids’ school is a peanut-free zone, you can always substitute in other kinds of nut butter. 

Easy Soba Noodles

kids lunch ideas for school from Hippie Foodie Mom
Hip Foodie Mom

Talk about using your noodle! This school lunch idea for kids from Hip Foodie Mom can be whipped up quickly in the morning and features tasty Asian flavors (Think low-sodium soy sauce, sesame oil, and more.). It’s great for kids who are tired of the ol’ sandwich route and great for those who have mini lunch containers, too. 

Cucumber and Cream Cheese Sammy

Weelicious

Catherine McCord always has simple and fun ideas to please even the pickiest eaters. These sandwiches from Weelicious scream tea party and are a total hit when it comes to school lunches. Just make sure to stash a cold pack in those lunch bags so the cream cheese can stay cool all morning!

 

 

 

 

There are some classic summer recipes here

When you’re sweating it out in the summer, the last thing you want to do is turn on the stove and make an elaborate dinner. From refreshing salads and cold dinner ideas to delicious wraps, we’ve whipped up a list of our favorite summer recipes that don’t involve cooking. Take a break from the oven and make one of these tasty no-cook meals!

Shrimp Spring Rolls

These fresh and delicious shrimp spring rolls from Tastes Better from Scratch are such an easy cold dinner idea, you’ll want to add them to your recipe rotation ASAP.

Chopped Thai-Inspired Chicken Salad

Thai chicken salad is a cold dinner idea
Pinch of Yum

Grab a bag of pre-shredded cabbage and carrots, roast chicken, peanuts, and other yummy ingredients like ginger, soy, and of course, peanut butter, and whip up this Thai-inspired chicken salad from Pinch of Yum without ever having to turn on the stove or oven.

Easy Summer Corn Salad

corn salad is a great cold dinner idea, a great no cook meal and an easy summer recipe
Hip2Save

Great as a side or a delicious dinner, this summer corn salad is refreshing and light. Made with a homemade dressing, you can easily dress up this salad by adding a protein and make it easier, by chopping up everything the night before! Find the recipe at Hip2Save.

Best Ever Chicken Salad

Chicken salad is a perfect cold dinner idea and a classic summer recipe
How to Feed a Loon

Psst! The secret to this chicken salad from How to Feed a Loon—besides fresh and simple ingredients—is that it uses rotisserie chicken. It makes the prep work extra easy and the result extra delicious. Enjoy it as a sandwich or on top of a bed of lettuce!

Mexican Bean Salad

Mexican bean salad is a good no-cook meal and one of the easiest cold dinner ideas
Canva

Now, this is our kind of cooking: the most work you’ll have to do for this Mexican-inspired salad is chopping and opening a few cans of beans. And since letting it sit helps the flavors meld together, it tastes even better the day after you make it. To get the recipe, click here.

Tomato Marinara Sauce

Heather Ford via Unsplash

Your mind will be blown when you try this tomato sauce that doesn’t require any cooking at all. Just throw all the ingredients into the blender or food processor and prepare to be impressed. Click here to grab the recipe.

Chicken Taco Pinwheels

chicken taco pinwheels are a good cold dinner idea and an easy summer recipe
Lisa’s Dinnertime Dish

These tasty pinwheels from Lisa’s Dinnertime Dish make the perfect lunch or light dinner. With an assist from a rotisserie chicken, a little spinach, and a sprinkling of taco seasoning, they’re as tasty as they are a healthy summer recipe. 

Related: 25 Cold Pasta Salad Recipes (because It’s Just Too Hot)

Crab Rolls

One of our favorite cold dinner ideas! Inspired by the classic lobster roll, you can make these with pre-cooked crab from the store. With a few other ingredients, you’ll have a no-cook meal ready in under 30 minutes. Click on the picture for this incredible summer recipe.

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

chicken Caesar pasta salad recipe
Life Made Simple

What do you get when you combine pasta and Caesar salad? This dish from Life Made Simple! It’s loaded with all the classic flavors you expect—crisp romaine, pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, and lots of cheese!

No Noodle Pad Thai

Cookie and Kate

It doesn’t get much more refreshing than this noodle-free pad Thai by Cookie and Kate. Fresh and crunchy veggies are coated with a sweet, tangy, slightly salty peanut sauce to make a fabulous light dinner.

Open Sandwich with Cold Cut Salad

no-cook meals
A Gourmet Food Blog

This Dutch recipe from A Gourmet Food Blog has all the makings of an instant kid favorite: crusty bread, lunchmeat, and a little mayo. It’s a fun way to take your bologna sandwich to the next level.

Rainbow Raw-maine Taco Boats

no-cook meals
Minimalist Baker

For a super fresh and satisfying dinner, you’ve got to try this fun take on taco boats from Minimalist Baker. Veggies are nestled into leaves of romaine, then it’s all drizzled with hummus and a creamy tahini sauce.

Bagel Toast

no-cook meals
The View from Great Island

When it’s too hot to contemplate cooking, a bagel bar is THE way to go. There are a million delicious ways you can layer them up, and the results can be as hearty and healthy as you want. Get inspired to make your own over at The View from Great Island.

 

Related: 14 Trader Joe’s Products Perfect for a Summer Cookout

Kiddie Cobb Salad

this kiddie cobb salad is a great cold dinner idea
Mom's Kitchen Handbook

Here’s a win-win idea from Mom’s Kitchen Handbook: skip the over-complicated summer meal and get the kids to eat more greens. They’ll love this cobb salad, which sports delicious add-ons like avocado, smoked turkey, and egg.

Mozzarella and Tomato Salad

Caprese salad is a classic summer recipe, a great cold dinner idea and a great no cook meal
Bryony Elena via Unsplash

When you need a summertime meal, keep it simple! Combine fresh mozzarella and tomatoes for an easy peasy, kid-approved salad. For the quick how-to, (courtesy of Chef Brendan Collins), click here.

Gouda Rollups

these cheese roll ups are an easy cold dinner ideas
Arla®

These rollups from Arla are a great way to change up a lunch routine or give your usual summertime dinner a new spin. Use your favorite cheese, add in some extra veggies for a healthy kick, and you’re good to go!

Antipasto Salad

no-cook meals
Dinner at the Zoo

Psst! Looking for a salad that won’t trigger your picky eater’s veggie radar? This no-cook meal from Dinner at the Zoo is loaded with meat, cheese, olives and yes, veggies, so it’s got a range of tasty ingredients. You can even top it off with a homemade Italian-style dressing!

Southwestern Veggie Hummus Wrap

hummus veggie wraps are one of the best cold dinner ideas and they are an easy summer recipe
Chelsea's Messy Apron

This delicious wrap idea from Chelsea’s Messy Apron is super flavorful and even includes hummus and a bunch of good-for-you vitamins and minerals. Eat it straight-up as a summertime salad or just have a tasty wrap for dinner!

Greek Salad

Jeffrey Betts/Unsplash

For a cold dinner idea that everyone will love, why not go the classic route of sweet tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and tangy feta? This salad is a cinch for picky eaters—just arrange it on the table salad-bar style, which allows each family member to create their own unique dish. Snag the recipe for this no-cook meal here.

 

From an egg drop soup recipe to beef stew, these meals will warm you up during the cold winter months

When there’s a chill in the air, there’s nothing better than comforting soups, stews, and, of course, chili. From chicken noodle soup to beef strew and even a white chicken chili recipe, these hearty meals and comfort food are perfect for the cooler months. Plus, they’re all one-pot meals that are perfect for busy weeknights. So bundle up, simmer down, and scroll on for our favorite slow cooker stews, two-step soups, chili recipes, and more.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

You can't go wrong with Broccoli Cheddar Soup! This recipe from Damn Delicious is creamy, light, and perfect for any picky eaters.

Smoked Salmon Chowder

Check out this delicious Smoked Salmon Chowder from View from Great Island. This light, yet hearty chowder is ready in only 30 minutes!

Instant Pot White Chicken Chili

soup and stew recipes
Boulder Locavore

For a quick take on a popular version of chili, we like Boulder Locavore's Instant Pot version. It only takes 15 minutes and you can make it mild or spicy, depending on your preference. Don't have an Instant Pot? No Worries! Try this version instead. 

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

soup and stew recipes
Jennifer Tyler Lee

Does your soul need some homemade chicken soup? Jennifer Tyler Lee, the author of The 52 New Foods Challenge, has you covered. You can even pack it in a thermos, and send the kiddos to school with a warm and hearty lunch. 

Instant Pot Chili

soup and stew recipes
The Bearded Hiker

Love your Instant Pot? You'll love it even more once you try this chili recipe from The Bearded Hiker. Just sauté your beef, add your veggies, beans, and spices, and voila! 

Related: 30+ Simple Pasta Dishes Everyone Will Love

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Mindy's Cooking Obsession

This delish stew from Mindy’s Cooking Obsession is the perfect cure for a comfort food craving. Best of all, you can throw all the ingredients in the Crock Pot in the morning and have a warm meal ready when it’s time for dinner. 

Chili Mac and Cheese Soup

Baking with Blondie

If your kids can't get enough chili and they love mac and cheese, you can get the best of both worlds with this soup from Baking with Blondie! It comes together in about 30 minutes and is extra tasty in a bread bowl or sprinkled with some sharp cheddar. 

Vegetarian Crock Pot Chili

soup and stew recipes
Show Me the Yummy

There's no reason for vegetarians to be left out of the chili fun! This dish (which uses the crock pot!) includes three kinds of beans and is gluten- and dairy-free. Get the recipe here. 

Cream of Tomato Soup

The Cake Chica

This soup from The Cake Chica is just what your grilled cheese needs! It uses the freshest ingredients and takes two—count ‘em, two steps. And if you have a blender or food processor, it's that much easier!

Slow Cooker Maple Chicken Stew

Kristine's Kitchen Blog

Your busy workdays just got better with this recipe from Kristine’s Kitchen Blog. It’s bursting with healthy vegetables and flavors, and since it cooks all day in your Crock Pot, there’s not much work involved. 

Related: 50+ Slow Cooker Recipes We’re Obsessed With

Japanese Noodle Soup

soup and stew recipes
The Six O'Clock Scramble

Ditch the questionable instant ramen and whip up your own with this recipe from Aviva Goldfarb of The Six O’Clock Scramble. Your little noodle lovers will love all the fresh flavors, like ginger and lime! 

Cream of Broccoli Soup

Kitchen Sanctuary

More broccoli, please! That’s what the kids will be saying, thanks to this soup from Kitchen Sanctuary. It’s creamy and even has a couple of other veggies thrown in. Top with bacon for an extra treat! 

Tuscan-Style Sausage Soup

soup and stew recipes
Prevention RD

Great news! This recipe from Prevention RD uses ingredients you probably have on hand. And there’s a healthy twist: low-sodium chicken broth, whole wheat pasta, and lots of variations if you want to add your fave veggies. 

Mexican Street Corn Soup

soup and stew recipes
Closet Cooking

This recipe from Closet Cooking is Mexican street corn (think: corn, lime, cheese, avocado) and is surprisingly easy to pull off. And, since you can use fresh or frozen corn and customize the spices to suit your family, you can whip this up any time of the year! 

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

soup and stew recipes
Kitchen Sanctuary

For fans of chicken pot pie, this Kitchen Sanctuary takes the cake. It has the same comfort-food flavors, and you can customize it with your kids’ favorite veggies. It’s also a cinch to make! 

Tortellini, Spinach, and Black Bean Soup

soup and stew recipes
How to: Simplify

Not only does this soup (courtesy of Jen at How To: Simplify) feature kid-friendly tortellini, but it also sneaks in some spinach for extra veggie points. It’s sure to warm you up, fill you up, and get the whole fam asking for seconds. 

Related: Cast Iron Skillet Recipes You Need to Try This Winter

Lasagna Soup

soup and stew recipes
Boulder Locavore

If your family loves lasagna, you’ve got to give this soup from Boulder Locavore a try. It’s got all the same flavors, without the hours of preparation (Psst! It’s also great for gluten-free diets!). 

Chicken Tortilla Soup

soup and stew recipes
Katie Sullivan Morford of Mom’s Kitchen Handbook

Simmer up a big helping of this delish soup from Mom’s Kitchen Handbook! It’s simple, so the kids can get involved in the cooking process—put them to work crushing tortilla chips! 

Loaded Potato Soup

soup and stew recipes
Life Made Simple

We’re willing to bet that this soup from Life Made Simple is going to be your new cold-weather staple. It’s thick, creamy, and just like a loaded potato with all the fixings! And did we mention it’s a quick and easy one-pot recipe? 

Egg Drop Soup

soup and stew recipes
One Lovely Life

If egg drop soup is your kids' fave thing to order at Chinese restaurants, you’re in luck. This recipe from One Lovely Life is a great homemade option. It can be made in no time and is a total crowd-pleaser. 

Basic Beef Stew

soup and stew recipes
Food Blogga

This recipe, courtesy of Food Blogga, is the very definition of comfort food. It’s super easy and super tasty. You can make it ahead of time to wow kids and grownups alike.

Cheesy Roasted Vegetable Soup

soup and stew recipes
Kitchen Sanctuary

The best way to eat more veggies? Slurp them! This soup from Kitchen Sanctuary is chock-full of healthy vegetables and cheesy to boot. Plus, the veggies have an extra oven-cooked flavor for a truly tasty meal. 

Skinny Clam Chowder

My Healthy Eating

Nix the usual heavy cream that comes with clam chowder. This recipe from Mireya at My Healthy Eating Habits is a healthier version of the classic, and it uses your slow cooker, so it’s a great set-it-and-forget-it meal. 

Pasta Meatball Soup

Kim's Cravings

Thanks to a few shortcuts, this recipe from Kim’s Cravings is super easy to make. Grab pre-made meatballs and jarred marinara sauce and you’re halfway there!

—with additional reporting by Taylor Clifton

From dark fudge to bright and cheery pinwheel sugar cookies, we’ve got a whole lot of easy Christmas cookie recipes for you to try this winter

The holiday season is upon us, and that can only mean one thing: cookies! We’ve created the ultimate list of Christmas cookie recipes to include in your celebrations, many of which are tried-and-true favorites (like these cream cheese Christmas Tree cookies) from our own editors and staff. Whether you’re looking for the perfect cookie exchange recipe or a new twist on a classic cookie, our list has it all.

Christmas Lights Cookies with Royal Icing

This Christmas cookie recipe for frosted sugar cookies is a classic
Dessert for Two

While these cookies from Dessert for Two look like a million bucks, they are surprisingly easy to make yourself. Simple sugar cookies are topped with royal icing and artfully decorated using M&M's. You will totally win the cookie exchange this year.

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

candy cane cookies are a good Christmas cookie recipe
Cooking Classy

Cooking Classy's peppermint meltaway cookies are the essence of the holidays. Light and airy peppermint-infused cookies are topped with fluffy homemade frosting and crushed candy canes. These bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit this holiday.

Dark Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

Two cookies sit on a counter with one half of each cookie white with candy cane sprinkles
Liv for Cake

Ever heard of black cocoa powder? These gorgeous dark chocolate candy cane cookies from Liv For Cake are made with rich, dark ingredients. After baking, they are dipped in melting chocolate and crushed candy canes for the perfect holiday treat.

Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

This Christmas cookie recipe has cranberries and white chocolate
Live Well Bake Often

Nothing says the holidays quite like cranberry. Live Well Bake Often's chocolate cranberry cookies are a feast for the senses. Creamy white chocolate chips and chewy dried cranberries not only make for a beautiful-looking cookie that will be the centerpiece of your cookie platter but a tasty one, too.

Candy Cane Cookies

These candy-cane shaped cookies are a fun Christmas cookie recipe
Kristine's Kitchen

These perfectly festive candy cane-shaped cookies from Kristine's Kitchen are the epitome of the holidays. Simple sugar cookie dough is twisted and shaped, baked, and then topped with crunchy peppermint candy. These are great for cookie exchanges or holiday bake sales!

Brown Sugar Cookies

Brown sugar cookies are a unique take on a classic Christmas cookie recipe
Gimme Some Oven

Give your go-to cookie recipe a twist this holiday season and bake up some brown sugar cookies. This recipe from Gimme Some Oven comes together quickly and is easily customizable when you use festive cookie cutters, colored frosting, and sprinkles.

Salted Caramel Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies

A stack of brown salted caramel nutella chocolate ship cookies
A Taste of Madness

The warm flavors of the holidays are all here in A Taste of Madness' salted caramel Nutella chocolate chip cookies. Nutella, salted caramel, and chocolate chips put a unique twist on the traditional cookie and make it fancy enough for all your festivities.

Pinwheel Sugar Cookies

Red and green Christmas pinwheel cookies are a classic Christmas cookie recipe
Princess Pinky Girl

Knock your fam's socks off this holiday with Princess Pinky Girl's Christmas pinwheel sugar cookies. The different-colored dough is layered, rolled, and sliced before baking to make these festive and fun cookies. Don't forget the sprinkles!

Linzer Cookies

Linzer cookies are a popular Christmas cookie recipe
Rasa Malaysia

The holidays are a great time to try your hand at new recipes, and these Linzer cookies are the place to start. This recipe from Rasa Malaysia is made with buttery and crumbly dough that's baked into perfect circles and sandwiched together with a sweet jam. Don't forget the generous amount of powdered sugar on top!

Related: 20 Cookie & Baking Hacks to Save Your Holidays

Italian Almond Cookies

A stack of powdered almond cookies on a brown table
An Italian In My Kitchen

Need a simple cookie this holiday? This six-ingredient recipe for Italian almond cookies from An Italian In My Kitchen is for you. The buttery cookie is light and airy with the perfect amount of almond flavor. We imagine these as a perfect after-dinner treat enjoyed best with a cup of coffee.

Eggnog Snickerdoodles

Five eggnog snickerdoodle Christmas cookies sit on a cooling rack
Wondermom Wannabe

What do you get when you combine the best cookie in the world with the most iconic Christmas flavor? Eggnog snickerdoodles! Wondermom Wannabe has developed an easy way to combine your fave flavors into a chewy cookie that pairs great with a glass of milk, or let's be honest, eggnog.

Toffee Nutella Cookies

A brown toffee nutella cookie sits on top of a glass of milk
Food Fanatic

You had us at Nutella! Food Fanatic's toffee Nutella cookies are the perfect blend of hazelnut, chocolate, and toffee that results in a chewy cookie that you won't be able to stop eating.

Speculoos Spice Cookies

White snowflake shaped Speculoos Spice Cookies sit on a cooling rack
The View from Great Island

Dust off your cookie cutters to make these traditional Dutch cookies from The View from Great Island. They’re subtly spiced with cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and ginger, and they look great topped with a simple royal icing. 

Fudge Cookies

A pile of brown fudge Christmas cookies sit on a white plate
Simply Stacie

Keep it simple (but oh-so-delicious) by making a batch of these fudge cookies from Simply Stacie. You can skip the nuts if your crew isn’t into them, and you’ll end up with a melt-in-your-mouth cookie either way. 

Oreo Bonbons

Several oreo bonbon cookie balls are dusted in candy cane pieces
Love & Risotto

Oreo cookies are already delicious, but these bonbons from Love & Risotto transform them into something special. Let your whole crew get involved in rolling up the bonbons and dipping them in chocolate—the final product will be super satisfying. 

Jam Thumbprint Cookies

About a half dozen round white cookies each with a jam thumbprint in the middle
The View from Great Island

These cookies from The View from Great Island are super easy to make using your favorite flavor of jam. Let the kids get involved in mixing the batter and topping them with the jam before popping the cookies in the oven. 

Soft & Chewy Molasses Cookies

A stack of molasses cookies topped with M&Ms
Crazy for Crust

Get your gingerbread fix with these tasty Christmas cookies from Crazy for Crust. They’re filled with warm spices and molasses and are perfectly chewy. Topped off with M&Ms, you’ve got a dessert that’ll wow your whole crew. 

Related: 29 Kid-Friendly Baking Recipes Perfect for the Holidays

Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies

Several Christmas cookies on a plate are shaped and decorated like reindeer
Bakergirl

We guarantee that the little ones will love helping you decorate these adorable cookies from Bakergirl. Plus, you can swap out the peanut butter cookie for your favorite sugar cookie or gingerbread recipe if that’s more your speed. 

Nutella Cookies with Filling (Nutellotti)

A few rows of brown, round Christmas cookies that are made with nutella and topped with nuts
Italian Recipe Book

Made with just four ingredients, these cookies from Italian Recipe Book are super easy to whip up. And since everyone loves Nutella, they’re bound to be crowd-pleasers. 

Cranberry Orange Cookies

Cranberry orange cookies sit on a white plate on a table scattered with cranberries
Cooking with Bliss

Brighten up your dessert table with these simple cookies from Cooking with Bliss. With a tangy mix of fresh cranberries and orange zest, they’re bound to be a family favorite. 

 

Sugar-Free Chunky Monkey Cookies

A stack of chunky, sugar free cookies sit on a napkin in front of a yellow bowl filled with more cookies
Veggies Don't Bite

If your kids are cookie obsessed, then make these cookies that you can feel good about sneaking in a second, third, maybe even fourth helping. Sophia from Veggies Don’t Bite created this recipe that is sugar-free (her solution is date paste!) and combines crispy oat edges with the sweet delicious flavor of chocolate chips. 

Hazelnut Spread-Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

A bite is taken out of a nutella cookie that sits next to another cookie
Ambitious Kitchen

It'll be tough to go back to regular old cookies after making these stuffed chocolate chip cookies. And, be sure to save a couple for yourself, because these ooey-gooey treats will be gobbled up in no time.

Soft Ginger Cookies

A white tray filled with little round soft ginger cookies
Veggie and the Beast

If you love the taste of gingerbread but are looking for a more kid-pleasing version, Veggie and the Beast‘s recipe for soft cookies should fit the bill. Rolled in a bit of white sugar, these little guys are a perfect balance of spiced and sweet. 

Peanut Butter Blossoms

A plate of Christmas peanut butter blossom cookies with chocolate kisses in the middle of each cookie
House of Nash Eats

Peanut butter and chocolate fans, take note: this classic recipe from House of Nash Eats is a must. Basic peanut butter cookies are taken to the next level with a chocolate kiss placed on top after baking.

No-Bake Beauties

A bowl full of round, powdered no-bake cookies surrounded by a scattering of more powdered cookies
The 52 New Foods Challenge

These nut-free cookies make a perfect lunchbox treat or after-school snack. Little ones and adults alike will love the combo of oats, sunflower butter, honey, coconut, and dried cranberries.

Homemade Thin Mints

Brown and white house made thin mints are cut in half and placed on a green plate
Averie Cooks

Unfortunately, we don’t usually see Girl Scouts selling their addictive cookies during the holiday season, but luckily there’s a way to get your Thin Mint fix with minimum effort. This recipe from Averie Cooks will be done in no time, and the cookies will disappear even faster.

Starry-Eyed Christmas Cookies

Chocolate kisses are melted on top of pretzels and topped with M&Ms
The Wicked Noodle

These little cookies from The Wicked Noodle couldn’t be easier—just melt some chocolate kisses on top of pretzels, and then the kiddos can help you decorate with festive M&Ms. 

Sicilian Fig Cookies (Cuccidati)

A round, powdered Sicilian fig cookie with rainbow sprinkles on a green plate
iStock

Former editor Amber Guetebier shares this recipe and tells us, “I made these for my Sicilian friend for Christmas. They are totally time-consuming (over two hours from start to finish) but perfect if you want something autentico for the holidays, and if your kids are tenacious and into baking and getting covered in flour and honey." 

Raspberry Ribbon Cookies

Five bar-shaped raspberry ribbon cookies sit on a table topped with raspberry jam
Scott Wardell

There’s something about shortbread that screams holidays, so these raspberry ribbon cookies are a perfect choice. The little ones will love the delicious raspberry jam on top, too. 

Related: All the Pie Recipes You’ll Ever Need for the Holidays

Four-Ingredient Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

A stack of peanut butter chocolate chip cookies are on a table next to a checkered napkin
Mom’s Kitchen Handbook

It’s not news that peanut butter and chocolate go great together, which is why you shouldn’t be surprised when these four-ingredient cookies from Mom’s Kitchen Handbook disappear shortly after pulling them from the oven. Believe it or not, they really do have just four ingredients and take less than ten minutes to prep! Waiting is truly the hardest part.

Sprinkle Fortune Cookies

A stack of chocolate-dipped, colorfully sprinkled fortune cookies
Leah Nolan

This year, make these colorful fortune cookies from Glitter and Bubbles for Santa—he’s sure to gobble them up. Kids will love dipping the cookies in different types of sprinkles.

Chewy Oatmeal Coconut Cookies

A decorative bowl is filled with Chewy Oatmeal Coconut Cookies
¡Hola! Jalapeno

If you've got a lactose-intolerant little one, these oatmeal coconut cookies from ¡Hola! Jalapeno are a lifesaver. Plus, you can adjust them to fit your family's taste by adding mix-ins like peanut butter or chocolate chips. 

Magical Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

A Christmas cookie is cut in half to show that its stuffed with candy
Leah’s Thoughts

These awesome candy cane kiss cookies have (you guessed it!) a tasty surprise inside. The best part? They're a cinch to make. 

Cream Cheese Christmas Tree Cookies

Colorful Christmas cookies are shaped and decorated to look like trees
Luna Hu via Unsplash

Dig out your cookie cutters to make these cute little trees topped with a delicious vanilla frosting. The cream cheese added to the cookie batter gives them a special touch, too. 

Lemon Cookies

A cute little girl smiles after biting into lemon cookies
Brandi McWade

When you’re in dire need of a cookie fix or just don’t have the time to scour your pantry for all of the ingredients, try out this lemon cookie recipe courtesy of our former Digital Media Manager, Brandi McWade. The cookies are actually made from a box of lemon cake mix, which makes this as convenient as it can get. 

Peppermint Brownies

Four dark brown and bright green peppermint brownies
Leah Singer

Even though these are technically brownies, we couldn't resist including them in our roundup of must-have holiday sweets. This recipe from Leah's Thoughts is the perfect holiday combination of rich chocolate with icy, cool peppermint. 

 

Make your kid the star of the lunchroom with these school lunch ideas

Ready to branch out from PB&J? It’s easy to shake up your lunch ideas for kids with these recipes! From homemade chicken nuggets to cobb salad, there are tons of ways to give sandwiches a break. Lunchtime is about to get way more interesting!

Lunch Box Art

Check out this adorable lunchbox idea! Use these eyeball spears to hold the food down and make cute creatures, if you’re so inclined.

Meatballs and Veggies

lunch ideas for kids
One Lovely Life

This protein-packed lunch doesn't take too much time to pull together in the morning. Simply warm up meatballs (store-bought or homemade both work) and add their favorite veggies to the other spots in the bento box. See more great lunch ideas from One Lovely Life.

Deep Dish Mini Pizzas

One Little Project

Pizza lovers, rejoice! With this idea from One Little Project, you can have itty bitty deep dish pizzas that are the perfect size for lunchboxes. Customize with your fave toppings for a truly magical lunch.

Peanut Butter and Banana Roll Ups

lunch ideas for kids
Damn Delicious

You can’t get more colorful (or yummy!) than this lunchbox idea from Damn Delicious! It’s packed with strawberries, pretzels, tangerines, and celery sticks, along with quick wraps that are—you guessed it—super quick to make.

Baked Chicken Nuggets

Load up their lunch boxes with a healthy and homemade version of a fast food staple! These lunch ideas for kids will go over like gangbusters with kids who crave nuggets 24/7—and you’ll be surprised how easy they are to make. Snag the recipe here.

Homemade Lunchables

Snap. Eat. Run.

Step away from the store-bought Lunchables! You can totally whip up your own version of this lunchbox classic—and even add some healthy additions (hello, fruit!) while you’re at it. Get inspired to make your own over at Snap. Eat. Run.

Skip the juice and pair it with Creative Roots! This plant-powered coconut water beverage has a taste kids love. With one gram of sugar, it’s a happy hydration solution for all.

Turkey Spinach Pinwheels Lunch Box

lunch ideas for kids
Damn Delicious

More pinwheels, please! These super healthy bites—along with a hefty dose of fruits and veggies—are customizable, easy to make, and utterly delicious. Plus, you can make them ahead of time and have lunch for the whole week. Get the recipe from Damn Delicious.

Taco Salad Lunch Bowl

Kristine's Kitchen

Turn your lunch into a fiesta with this creative idea from Kristine’s Kitchen! Filled with taco beef, lettuce, cheese, black beans, corn and salsa, these lunch bowls are bursting with flavor and are healthy to boot.

Pepperoni Pizza Bites

A Taste of Madness

Got thirty minutes? That’s how long it takes to make these four-ingredient bites from A Taste of Madness! Sporting some pepperoni and your fave cheese, they’ve got all the flavors of pizza and will fit just right in a lunchbox.

Mini Bagels with Cream Cheese

Chelsea's Messy Apron

Bagels with cream cheese are a classic at any time! Let your kids pick their favorite flavor and fill a small container with cream cheese. They'll have fun slathering their bagels, and you can throw in cheese and fruit or veggies to round out their lunch. See the details and get other lunch ideas for kids over at Chelseas' Messy Apron

Fruit and Cream Cheese Wraps

lunch ideas for kids
Healthy Seasonal Recipes

For a sweet but still healthy lunch idea for kids, you’ve got to try these wraps from Healthy Seasonal Recipes. Pair them with fresh veggies for a light and delicious meal.

Kiddie Cobb Salad

this kiddie cobb salad is a great cold dinner idea
Mom's Kitchen Handbook

Turn veggie-averse kids into salad eaters with this genius take on cobb salad from Mom’s Kitchen Handbook. You can customize it with toppings your littles will like, but we figure avocados, turkey and hard-boiled eggs are a delicious place to start.

Homemade Kraft Easy Mac

lunch ideas for kids
Food Fanatic

Mac and cheese is a surefire win for our kids, which is why we love this take on easy mac from Food Fanatic. The best part? It’s made entirely in the microwave and comes together in a flash.

Sweetie Pie Quesadilla

Jennifer Martine

Sneak veggies into your kid’s diet with these delish quesadillas by Katie Sullivan. In addition to being tot-approved, they’re also easy to make ahead and quickly reheat.

Pizza Pasta Salad

lunch ideas for kids
Veggie Quest

Pasta salad is always a great lunch idea for kids, and this pizza-inspired version from Veggie Quest is bound to be a hit with the little ones. With good-for-you ingredients like beans and veggies, it’s a win for health, too.

Don't forget the Creative Roots to make this meal even more fun! This plant-powered coconut water beverage has a taste kids love. With one gram of sugar, you can feel good about it, too.

 —with additional reporting by Taylor Clifton and Susie Foresman

 

If your little one’s favorite food group is chicken, you’re in luck! From green chicken chili to chicken parm to chicken tacos, we’ve rounded up the ultimate list of Crock Pot chicken recipes that even the pickiest of eaters will love. So put down the chicken nuggets and start clicking through the gallery to find your next easy meal. 

Crock Pot Spicy Chicken Drumsticks

A Taste of Madness

This spicy chicken drumstick recipe from A Taste of Madness will be a crowd pleaser for the whole family. Try this recipe on a weeknight and you may be surprised by how easy it is.

Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Domestic Superhero

We love this lightened-up version of classic buffalo wings from Domestic Superhero. Shredded chicken is bathed in a mouthwatering sauce, then wrapped in butter lettuce. 

Mushroom Chicken

CookingwithKaryn

For a simple but comforting meal, try this quick recipe, adapted from Easy Crock Pot Recipes:

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 can cream of mushroom soup

1/4 c flour (swap cornstarch for flour to make it gluten-free)

1 box of sliced mushrooms

Salt, pepper and paprika

Method:

1. Rinse chicken breasts. Sprinkle salt, pepper and paprika on BOTH sides. Place in crock pot.

2. Mix other ingredients together. Add to crock pot. Cook on LOW 6-8 hours.

3. Serve over pasta or rice if desired.

Butter Chicken

One Lovely Life

Your littles will love this dairy-free butter chicken from One Lovely Life. The creamy, flavorful sauce, paired with rice or quinoa, is sure to have the whole fam asking for seconds. 

Chicken Tacos

Alexander Mils via Unsplash

Make any night Taco Night! This recipe is foolproof, and kiddos can choose their own toppings, from sour cream to salsa to shredded cheese. 

Chicken Parmesan

Baking & Creating with Avril

This simplified take on chicken parm from Baking & Creating with Avril is bound to be a hit with picky kiddos. It skips the breading process, making it a healthier and quicker version than the original.

Tuscan Chicken and Beans

Moms with Crockpots

Served over rice or pasta, this recipe adapted from Moms with Crockpots makes for a lightning-fast weeknight meal. It’s a smart way to use those cans of beans and tomatoes hanging out at the back of your pantry, too.

Honey Soy Chicken

Shared Appetite

For an instant family fave, make this Asian-inspired recipe from Shared Appetite. Savory soy sauce and tart pineapple juice come together to make a super tasty sauce for the chicken. Drooling yet?

Rosemary Chicken with Butternut Squash

GI 365

There's nothing quite like the combo of butternut squash and rosemary to make a meal seem less than ordinary. The secret to making this savory dish from GI 365, is adding a can of soup to make it both creamy and satisfying without a lot of extra work.

Green Chicken Chili

Slow Cooker Gourmet

For a fun twist on chili, try this fantastic recipe from Slow Cooker Gourmet. With salsa verde, fresh corn and white beans, it’s super hearty and delicious topped with sour cream or tortilla chips. 

Chicken and Gravy

Sarah Olson’s The Magical Slow Cooker: Recipes for Busy Moms

This filling dish is more prep than fuss thanks to this foolproof recipe from Sarah Olson’s cookbook. Served on top of mashed potatoes and bread, it doesn’t get much more comfort food than this. 

Chicken Ragu

Whitney Bond

Switch up your usual pasta dish by making this delish ragu from Whitney Bond. The sauce gets better and better as it simmers, making it the perfect slow cooker meal.

Chicken with Balsamic and Tomatoes

Mom’s Kitchen Handbook

Pop some tomatoes, balsamic vinegar and chicken in the crockpot with a few herbs and you’ll come home to an amazingly hearty meal. We love this recipe from Mom’s Kitchen Handbook, and chances are your family will feel the same way. 

Chicken with Grapes

Dash

Chicken and grapes might sound like a strange combination, but this recipe from Dash marries the two perfectly. Add simmered tomatoes, chickpeas and butternut squash to the cumin-spiced chicken, and you’ve got a complex and delicious meal.

Lemon Chicken Pitas

Leah’s Thoughts

Put anything in a pita, and our kids are on board. This Greek-inspired recipe from Leah’s Thoughts is bound to be a hit. Topped with tzatziki sauce, tomatoes and onion, you’ll be happy to come home to this meal. 

 

— Taylor Clifton & Susie Foresman

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Apple season is upon us, which means you might find yourself with an abundance of apples. We love the idea of doing some at-home apple science with the kids, but we also love to eat them! So we’ve gathered up a bunch of sweet and savory recipes that make use of fall’s best fruit, from apple pie to chicken salad to apple crisp. Grab a bag of Galas and read on to get this party started. Oh, and don’t forget your apple peeler

Apple Slaw

Salt & Lavender

We love the idea of adding apples to coleslaw, courtesy of Salt & Lavender. The apple adds a punch of tartness, and the slaw goes great with pork, tacos and sandwiches. Click here to get the recipe.

Apple and Kale Chicken Salad

The Gluten Free Gathering

Chicken salad is one of our favorite easy lunches, and this version from The Gluten Free Gathering is a total winner. It’s got the perfect mix of sweet, savory and crunchy elements, and it’s good for you too! To see the recipe, click here.

Apple Chicken Cheddar Galette

apple recipe
iStock

Good news: Honey and Birch has your new fave dinner recipe. It looks fancy, but it's super simple, and the kiddos will love that it’s cheesy too. And if you don’t have the time to make your own pie dough? Try store-bought … we won't tell. 

Apple Chips

The Viet Vegan

Give your after-school snack an apple upgrade! These apple chips from The Viet Vegan are a healthy way to fuel up and way better than the store-bought version. Plus, they’re easy to make and will disappear in a blink. 

Peanut Butter Apple Toast

Food Banjo

Sometimes the simplest ideas are the tastiest—like this twist on toast from Food Banjo. It’s got peanut butter, a spread of apple slices, and a drizzle of honey that takes things up a notch. Perfect for breakfast or a truly memorable snack. 

Baked Breakfast Apples

The View from Great Island

Your breakfast never looked so good! The View from Great Island combines baked apples with oatmeal, and tops it all with a drizzle of maple syrup and a dollop of yogurt! The result is hearty and oh-so-delicious. 

Apple Cake Sundae

Honey and Birch

What do you get when you combine apple cake, vanilla ice cream and caramel drizzle? You get this delicious recipe from Honey and Birch. The cake is a snap to make, and you can even use store-bought caramel. 

Apple Pie Breakfast Cookies

Kristine’s Kitchen Blog

Cookies for breakfast? Yep, you can totally pull it off thanks to this recipe from Kristine’s Kitchen. These little bites are loaded with whole grain oats, apples and cinnamon and make a delicious quick breakfast or healthy snack. 

Apple Cinnamon Sticky Buns

A Taste of Madness

Get ready for the easiest, most apple sticky buns ever! A Taste of Madness uses Pillsbury cinnamon rolls, apples and some extra cinnamon goodness to make the most delicious and decadent dish your brunch menu has ever seen. 

Apple Sandwiches

The Merry Thought

Here’s a quick and easy snack that kids of all ages will gobble up. Fill ‘em up with peanut butter, granola or whatever else your littles prefer. 

Applesauce Cake

Perchance to Cook

How cute is this cake from Perchance to Cook? Get the little ones involved in stirring together the batter and arranging the apple slices on top. An added bonus: it’s gluten free for sensitive tummies and paleo for diet-minded parents. 

Toffee Apple Chocolate Bark

Scrummy Lane

Everybody loves chocolate bark, and this version from Scrummy Lane goes above and beyond with dried apples and honeycomb sprinkled on top. It’s not just a great dessert—it also makes an impressive gift! Did we mention it’s easy to make? 

Grilled Cheese with Apple & Jam

Garlic My Soul

Take your grilled cheese to the next level by sneaking thinly sliced apples and blueberry jam inside—the little ones will love the salty-sweet combo. Pair it with a bowl of tomato soup for a zero-fuss weeknight meal. Click here to see the full recipe.

Crock Pot Apple Cider

Timothy Krause via flickr

We love how this simple cider recipe from Baker Bettie uses a Crock Pot for extra simplicity—and how it makes the whole house smell like yummy cinnamon, nutmeg and other fun fall spices. 

Roast Chops with Apples, Spuds and Cider

Kerry Altiero

Warm up with a hearty combination of seared pork chops, mashed potatoes and kale, all tied together with an apple cider glaze. To grab the recipe, click here.

Granny Smith’s Thick & Fluffy Apple Flapjacks

The Cozy Apron

When boxed pancake mix just won’t cut it, try these impossibly fluffy and spice-filled pancakes. For extra credit, mix up some apple cider syrup to drizzle on top. Hop over to The Cozy Apron to snag the recipe.

Juice Box Applesauce

Stacy Spensley via Flickr

This recipe from one of our favorite food bloggers, Katie Sullivan Morford of Mom's Kitchen Handbook, is surprisingly simple—you don't need to peel the apples before cooking (the skin provides added fiber!) and the ingredient list is short and sweet. Find the recipe here.

Apple Stuffin' Muffins

Playful Pantry

Put that homemade applesauce to good use! These tasty muffins from Chef Jen Carden of Playful Pantry are guaranteed to put a smile on your kiddo's face. You can rest easy, too, knowing that the treats are chock full of nutrients. 

Apple Turnovers

Vegan Baking via flickr

Can you keep a secret about these delicious apple turnovers? They’re a breeze to put together thanks to frozen puff pastry. Check out the full recipe by clicking here.

Ham, Brie, and Apple Paninis

The Viet Vegan

No one can resist a hot ham and cheese sandwich—but why not add a little extra flair by throwing some apple slices into the mix? Eclectic Recipes dreamed this one up, and we can't wait to try it out for our next family lunch! 

Strawberry Apple Crisp

Whitney via flickr

Pair your fresh apples with frozen strawberries for a fun twist on the usual apple crisp. Mini chefs can get involved in hand-mixing the crumble topping and sprinkling it on the fruit. To get the recipe, click here.

Slow Cooker Bacon-Wrapped Barbecue Chicken

Moms Who Think

We can’t resist a good slow cooker recipe, and this yummy chicken dish is no exception. Barbecue sauce, apples and bacon come together to make an awesome dish that the whole family will love. Click here to get the full recipe.

Apple Pie Fruit Leathers

My Whole Food Life

Skip the sugar-laden boxed fruit snacks, and make your own fruit leathers with an applesauce base. They're the perfect on-the-go treat! Get the full instructions by clicking here.

Caramel Apple Oatmeal Bites

A Simple Pantry

The littles will go crazy for these delicious bites from A Simple Pantry. Stuffed with apples and oats and topped with a mouthwatering caramel glaze, they’ll be gobbled up in minutes.

Apple & Cheese Soup

Frugal Mom Eh

Warm up with a bowl of this soup from Frugal Mom Eh. The tart McIntosh apples make for a perfect contrast with creamy cheese and hearty veggies. Take it a step further, and toss a bit of crumbled bacon sprinkled on top. Bon appétit!

Johnny Appleseed Bars

Eats Well With Others

If you want the essence of fresh apple pie without the struggle of making that impossibly flaky crust, these Johnny Appleseed bars from Eats Well With Others are for you. The moist, delicious cake-pie hybrid will have everybody begging for seconds.

Slow Cooker Apple Butter

My Baking Addiction

Pop some apples, cinnamon and nutmeg in a slow cooker, and by the end of the day, your house will smell heavenly. Even better? You'll have some tasty apple butter to slather on toast, mix into yogurt or eat by the spoonful. Hop over to My Baking Addiction to get the recipe.

Apple Pie Granola

The Balanced Berry

Whip up a batch of this granola from The Balanced Berry on a Sunday afternoon to make busy weekday mornings a breeze. Serve this crunchy combo of nuts, apples and spices on top of yogurt and head out the door in no time. 

Apple Pie Mini Cheesecake Bites

Baking Beauty

These cute cheesecake bites from Baking Beauty come together in no time at all, and they’re sure to be an instant hit with the whole fam. \

Spinach Quinoa Salad with Apple

Kristine’s Kitchen Blog

Just say yes to salad! This idea from Kristine’s Kitchen Blog includes quinoa, pecans and spinach—but we think it’s the apples that really give it that extra delicious kick. 

 

 

 

If you’re having slow cooker envy, it ends here. From Cream of Mushroom chicken crockpot to chicken parmesan crock pot, we have easy, executable chicken crockpot recipes that you can brag about later. Consider us, and your crock pot, your best friends for making family meals that everyone will devour. Scroll through the below chicken crock pot recipes recipes to get your next meal plan.

Honey Garlic Chicken

A bowl of honey garlic chicken made in a slow cooker
Hello Spoonful

Hello Spoonful's slow-cooker chicken takes just six ingredients and is pretty much fail-proof when you follow these simple instructions

Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken

Weelicious

Cook up some tropical flavors to get you through the holidays with this sweet and sour chicken dish. Soy, honey and ginger are just some of the ingredients that go into creating a meal that keeps its flavor and works great for lunch and dinner. Head to Weelicious for the recipe.

Slow-Cooker Corn Chowder

The Seasoned Mom

There’s nothing better than a bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this corn chowder from The Seasoned Mom totally fits the bill. Filled with chicken, bacon and potato, it’s delicious and hearty enough to satisfy everyone in your crew. Click here for the full recipe. 

Classic Chicken Stew

Mindy's Cooking Obsession

There's something about the word "stew" that invokes chilly autumn nights and full tummies. This classic chicken stew recipe will is definitely on the top of the comfort foods list. Get the full recipe here

Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Mozzarella stuffed chicken is served on a plate after being cooked in a crock pot
Queen of My Kitchen

Get something fancy and protein-packed on the table with as little effort as possible with this delicious recipe from Queen of My Kitchen. Find out how to pull this off yourself here

Crock Pot Seasoned Chicken with Peppers & Onions

The Seasoned Mom

This slow cooker recipe from The Seasoned Mom is sure to find a place in your meal rotation. There are lots of ways to remix it—serve it with pasta or rice, or make it into a cheesy sandwich. Plus, if you’re an Instant Pot fan, it can be put to use with this recipe

Get the whole recipe here

Honey Crispy Chicken

Crockpot Gourmet

Skip the takeout the next time you’re craving Chinese food—this crispy chicken recipe from Crockpot Gourmet is much healthier, and it’s sure to be a hit with even picky kiddos.

Mushroom Chicken

CookingwithKaryn

For a simple but comforting meal, try this quick recipe, adapted from Easy Crock Pot Recipes:

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 can cream of mushroom soup

1/4 c flour (swap cornstarch for flour to make it gluten-free)

1 box of sliced mushrooms

Salt, pepper and paprika

Method:

1. Rinse chicken breasts. Sprinkle salt, pepper and paprika on BOTH sides. Place in crock pot.

2. Mix other ingredients together. Add to crock pot. Cook on LOW 6-8 hours.

3. Serve over pasta or rice if desired.

Crock Pot Chicken from Heaven

crock pot chicken recipe
Stock the Crock

For an easy dinner, nothing beats relying on your crock pot. This crock pot dinner recipe—from Phyllis Good’s new book, Stock the Crock—is truly a slice of heaven. Convenient, delicious and adaptable to Paleo diets, we’re betting this recipe will soon become a part of your nightly rotation. Grab the recipe by clicking here.

Soy Sauce Chicken

Sodanie Chea via Flickr

This soy sauce chicken recipe couldn’t be simpler—you’ll only need five ingredients. Served with a side of rice and some broccoli, a delicious dinner will be on the table in the blink of an eye. Grab the recipe by clicking here.

Roasted Chicken

joerandazzo.com via Flickr

Believe it or not, you can roast an entire chicken in the crock pot, and it’s actually pretty easy. This recipe from Our Family Eats makes for a delicious and juicy chicken. Get the recipe by clicking here.

Chicken Posole

James Cohen via Flickr

Treat the family's taste buds to a yummy batch of posole. The best part? The leftovers get better and better over the next few days (so making lunches will be a breeze!). To get the recipe, click here.

Chicken Teriyaki

alanagkelly via Flickr

Teriyaki is always a kid favorite, and this recipe from Our Little Acre is no exception. Made with just five ingredients, it’s easy to throw together in the crock pot. Snag the recipe by clicking here.

Lemon Chicken Pitas

Leah’s Thoughts

Put anything in a pita, and our kids are on board. This Greek-inspired recipe from Leah’s Thoughts is bound to be a hit. Topped with tzatziki sauce, tomatoes and onion, you’ll be happy to come home to this meal. To get the recipe, click here.

Butter Chicken

One Lovely Life

Your littles will love this dairy-free butter chicken from One Lovely Life. The creamy, flavorful sauce, paired with rice or quinoa, is sure to have the whole fam asking for seconds. To snag the recipe, click here.

Taco Soup

Elsie Hui via Flickr

Skip the tortillas and make this tasty taco soup to switch things up. Beans, veggies and chicken make up the base of the soup, and you can top it off with shredded cheese, chips or guacamole. To grab the recipe, click here.

Chicken and Dumplings

Robert Judge via Flickr

Southern-inspired chicken and dumplings make the perfect comfort food. This version is super easy to throw together, thanks to a refrigerated biscuit shortcut. To grab the recipe, click here.

Bacon-Wrapped Apple Barbecue Chicken

MomsWhoThink

Just in case barbecue chicken wasn’t tasty enough already, this recipe from MomsWhoThink ups the ante by wrapping it in bacon and pairing it with apples. This one is bound to become a weeknight favorite. Click here to get the recipe.

Chicken Tacos

Erin Lem

Make any night Taco Night! This recipe is foolproof, and kiddos can choose their own toppings, from sour cream to salsa to shredded cheese. Snag the recipe by clicking here.

Rosemary Chicken with Butternut Squash

GI 365

There's nothing quite like the combo of butternut squash and rosemary to make a meal seem less than ordinary. The secret to making this savory dish from GI 365, is adding a can of soup to make it both creamy and satisfying without a lot of extra work. Click here to get the recipe.

Chicken Parmesan

Baking & Creating with Avril

This simplified take on chicken parm from Baking & Creating with Avril is bound to be a hit with picky kiddos. It skips the breading process, making it a healthier and quicker version than the original. To find out how it’s made, click here.

Honey Soy Chicken

Shared Appetite

For an instant family fave, make this Asian-inspired recipe from Shared Appetite. Savory soy sauce and tart pineapple juice come together to make a super tasty sauce for the chicken. Drooling yet? Grab the recipe by clicking here.

Tuscan Chicken and Beans

Served over rice or pasta, this recipe adapted from Moms with Crockpots makes for a lightning-fast weeknight meal. It’s a smart way to use those cans of beans and tomatoes hanging out at the back of your pantry, too. Click here to get the recipe.

Chicken Verde

the little red house via Flickr

For a Mexican-inspired dish that comes together in no time, you’ve got to try this chicken verde from A Little Yumminess. Tomatillo salsa is the secret ingredient here to add a hint of spiciness and give the chicken its green color. To grab the recipe, click here.

Gluten-Free Sweet and Sour Chicken

Melissa Doroquez via Flickr

Instead of ordering takeout, try out The Family Chef’s gluten-free take on a favorite Chinese dish. There are veggies in the mix too, so you can just make a side of rice for a balanced and tasty meal. Get the recipe by clicking here.

Green Chicken Chili

Slow Cooker Gourmet

For a fun twist on chili, try this fantastic recipe from Slow Cooker Gourmet. With salsa verde, fresh corn and white beans, it’s super hearty and delicious topped with sour cream or tortilla chips. Grab the recipe by clicking here.

Chicken and Gravy

Sarah Olson’s The Magical Slow Cooker: Recipes for Busy Moms

This filling dish is more prep than fuss thanks to this foolproof recipe from Sarah Olson’s cookbook. Served on top of mashed potatoes and bread, it doesn’t get much more comfort food than this. Find out how it’s made by clicking here.

Chicken Ragu

Whitney Bond

Switch up your usual pasta dish by making this delish ragu from Whitney Bond. The sauce gets better and better as it simmers, making it the perfect slow cooker meal. Click here to get the recipe.

Chicken Pot Pie Stew

If you’re craving chicken pot pie but don’t have the time to whip up a pie crust, this genius recipe from Paper/Plates Blog is your solution. Filled with all the good stuff (think chicken thighs, veggies and lots of gravy), comfort food has never tasted better. To get the recipe, click here.

Chicken with Balsamic and Tomatoes

Mom’s Kitchen Handbook

Pop some tomatoes, balsamic vinegar and chicken in the crockpot with a few herbs and you’ll come home to an amazingly hearty meal. We love this recipe from Mom’s Kitchen Handbook, and chances are your family will feel the same way. Click here to get all the details.

Chicken with Grapes

thebittenword.com via Flickr

Chicken and grapes might sound like a strange combination, but this recipe from Dash marries the two perfectly. Add simmered tomatoes, chickpeas and butternut squash to the cumin-spiced chicken, and you’ve got a complex and delicious meal. Get the recipe by clicking here.

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