There’s a special place in our hearts for parents of picky eaters. Mealtimes prove extra challenging, but no surprise to anyone, Trader Joe’s is here to save the day. We’ve rounded up tasty snacks and meal ideas that are so delicious that even your most discerning eaters will chow down. Keep reading to see our favorite things at Trader Joe’s for picky eaters.

Pizza Dough

 

Whether your little is anti-topping or even anti-cheese, Trader Joe’s pizza dough will come in super handy. Choose from regular or garlic dough, then have a pizza night where everyone can make their pie the way they want. At $1.49 each, this makes family dinner not only easy but cheap, too.

Banana Chips

 

It’s hard to turn down these sweet and crunchy banana chips. Made with minimal ingredients, even a picky eater will think these are a treat, rather than a healthy snack.

Trader Joe’s Colorful Carrot Coins

 

Ok here us out: not only do carrots become super sweet when roasted (which makes them more kid-friendly), but we’re pretty sure your picky eater will love that these “coins” also come in fun colors!

PB & J Bar

 

When it seems like all you’re making is PB & J, give yourself a break with these TJ’s bars. Each one packs 8 grams of whole grain, is gluten free and way less messy than your regular sandwich. They’re also great for on the go!

Bamba Peanut Snack

Trader Joe's Bamba Snacks

Trader Joe's version of the popular Israeli snack food, Bamba is a feast for the senses. Made with corn grits, peanut paste, palm oil and salt, the snack is light and airy and oh so delicious. Think: cheese puff but with peanut butter!

Can you believe it's only $.99 for a bag? Time to stock up on some Bamba!

Organic Popcorn with Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Trader Joe's organic popcorn
Karly Wood

What kid doesn't enjoy a handful of popcorn? While not your standard movie theater version, this organic popped corn with accompanying organic extra virgin olive oil is a fancy snack that's perfect for adults or kids. Pack in a lunch or take on the go––there's nowhere this popcorn can't go.

A large bag is only $1.99 in the snack section at Trader Joe's.

Original Savory Thin Crackers

trader joe's savory thin crackers
Karly Wood

Enjoyed a la mode, with cheese or in a dip, there's nothing these original Savory Thin Crackers can't go. The gluten-free snack is a great size for kids' lunches and perfect for portion control.

A pack of these tasty crackers is only $1.69 in the cracker and snack aisle.

Trader Joe's Contemplates Inner Peas

trader joe's inner peas

These baked pea snacks couldn't get much simpler! Made from actual peas and shaped like a pea pod with a touch of salt, your picky eater most likely won't even realize they're getting their dose of green veggies in this tasty snack.

A bag of these is only $1.49!

Organic Lowfat Organic Squishers

Trader Joe's Yogurt Squishers
Karly Wood

Sneak in that healthy dairy to your picky eater's palette with cherry or strawberry yogurt squishes. The low-fat snack packs calcium in an ideal on-the-go squeeze package that kids find equally fun as they are delicious. You can even freeze them for a cold treat! 

An 8-pack of squishes is only $3.19 in the refrigerated dairy section at TJ's.

Organic Fruit Wraps

trader joe's fruit wraps

Oh, hello $.49 snack foods! These Trader Joe's organic fruit wraps (or fruit leathers, as they are also known) come in four fruity flavors and are finger-licking good. Plus, they're ideal for packed lunches and snacks because they don't get smashed!

Stock up on these $.49 wraps near the cash register or snack aisle.

Hummus & Pita Chip Snack Pack

This package of two, four-ounce trays is filled with TJ's popular Mediterranean hummus and their own pita chips on the other. Easy to slip into a lunchbox or grab for an on-the-go snack on the way to after-school activities. 

Gluten Free Mac & Cheese

Move over gluten-free Mac & Cheese, TJ's has just released a brand new Gluten-Free Mac & Cheese, and it's SO MUCH BETTER. Made from a blend of Havarti, Swiss, Cheddar and Gouda, this frozen dinner heats up like it was made fresh. It's creamy, flavorful and way better than other boxed versions.

Pack your freezer with several boxes of these for just $3.49.

Turkey Corn Dogs

Trader Joe's turkey corn dogs

One of our favorite things from Trader Joe's is their Turkey Corn Dog. Made from an all-turkey dog with no added nitrates, and then dipped in a savory batter, good luck stopping your littles from eating them with gusto.

A pack of 4 is only $2.99 in the freezer section.

Mandarin Orange Chicken

It's no secret that Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken is a real crowd pleaser––it wins for most popular product year after year for the retailer. The sweet and savory frozen dinner is a fan favorite for both adults and kids, even picky ones. Plump chicken is covered in crispy breading and then coated in a delicious sauce.

Pick up this easy dinner for $4.99 in the freezer section.

Ramen Soups

The subtle yet unique flavors in two of Trader Joe's newest products, make these Miso soups perfect for picky eaters. Noodles and savory spices plus a packet of sesame oil make this stand out from other ramen cups and make all the difference.

Choose from either Chicken or Miso Ramen cups for just $1.29 a piece.

Bean & Rice Burritos

trader joe's products for picky eaters

Picky meat eaters will chow down on these bean and rice burritos. Made with just the basics, no artificial flavors or preservatives, AND 99% fat free, everyone wins when these burritos are for dinner.

A pack of 2 is only $2.99 in the freezer section.

If you think adding salmon to your weeknight dinner rotation will be a bust (kids won’t eat it, don’t know how to cook it, too fancy for weekdays), think again. Not only is it a great source of Omega-3s, but it’s a fish a lot of kids like or are willing to try; you can make it with all sorts of seasonings and sauces, and the best part is that it usually takes no longer than 30 minutes from start to finish. To help you decide which salmon meal ideas you want to try with your family, we found—and tested a few—of the best recipes for busy nights. Try one or all of them, and be prepared to want to make a version of this popular seafood once a week. 

Check out our favorite sheet pan chicken recipes, one-pot meals, and our best 30-minute meals for more quick dinner recipes.

Restaurant-Style Pan Seared Salmon

a picture of pan seared salmon, one of our favorite salmon meal ideas
Once Upon a Chef

This salmon meal idea from Once Upon a Chef is perfect for weeknights because it only uses olive oil, salt, and pepper and is finished in 15 minutes. Pair it with a sauce, your family’s favorite veggies, and a side, and dinner is done.  

Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce

It wouldn’t be a round-up of amazing salmon recipes if we didn’t include one with a lemon-dill sauce! This recipe from Vikalinka has all the flavors of the popular combo but is a bit healthier since she cuts down on the amount of butter used.

Baked Teriyaki Salmon

a picture of teriyaki salmon, one of our favorite salmon meal ideas.
Erin Clarke at Well Plated

We’ve decided that teriyaki anything is a kid-favorite dinner, and this teriyaki salmon from Erin Clarke at Well Plated is near perfection. 

Easy Oven Baked Salmon

picture of easy oven baked salmon
Kristine's Kitchen

This recipe is perfect for busy families looking for easy weeknight dinner ideas. Be sure to use parchment paper or tin foil when making this easy oven-baked salmon from Kristine’s Kitchen to eliminate a step when cleaning up. 

Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Salmon

a picture of baked salmon with honey mustard crust
Once Upon a Chef

Don’t be turned away by the fancy crust on this salmon from Once Upon a Chef. It takes a few minutes to prep and is a great way to get picky eaters to try new things, like fish! You can omit the nuts if necessary; the whole meal is ready in 20 minutes.

Honey Garlic Salmon

a picture of honey garlic soy salmon
Sally’s Baking Addiction

Two of our favorite flavors come together in one of our favorite salmon meal ideas from Sally’s Baking Addiction. It only uses six ingredients, the marinade becomes a glaze, and you bake it on a sheet pan, so it’s the perfect family dinner—in our opinion, anyway. 

Tuscan Salmon

tuscan salmon from carlsbad cravings is one of the best salmon meal ideas
Carlsbad Cravings

Heavy cream, parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic combine to make a wow-worthy sauce with this salmon recipe from Carlsbad Cravings. Made in one skillet, you can leave the sauce on the side for picky eaters. 

Lemon Brown Butter Salmon

Getting the butter just brown enough is the most challenging part of this fantastic salmon recipe from How Sweet Eats. You have to watch it closely, and when it’s ready for the fish, it takes almost no time after that. Plus, the flavor is so good that your family will want this dish regularly.

Salmon Tacos

a picture of salmon tacos
Chelsea’s Messy Apron

You know and love your regular fish tacos, so mix it up with these fantastic salmon tacos from Chelsea’s Messy Apron. The prep work and marinating time might throw you off if it’s a busy weeknight, so make things in advance (like the salsa) or save this dish for a weekend. It’s worth it.

Coconut Curry Salmon

picture of coconut curry salmon which is a good salmon meal idea
Pinch of Yum

You might think “hot” when you think of curry, but this salmon meal idea from Pinch of Yum has a sauce that is sweet more than spicy. Serve it over a bed of rice for a perfect dinner bowl!

Air Fryer Salmon

Raise your hand if you love your air fryer. The must-have appliance of busy families everywhere is perfect for salmon, too. This recipe from Feel Good Foodie is complete in 10 minutes, which leaves you time to do one of the other hundreds of things on your list. Or to do nothing at all! 

Baked Salmon in Foil

a picture of baked salmon in foil
Erin Clarke at Well Plated

This collection of our favorite salmon meal ideas wouldn’t be complete without at least one made in foil! A classic cooking method for fish, you can easily throw in vegetables for a complete foil-packet dinner. Plus, there are many different ways to season it: butter and lemon, dill, pesto, teriyaki, and more. Get the recipe from Erin Clarke at Well Plated

Poached Salmon

Another classic way to cook salmon is to poach it. This might bring back memories of Sunday brunches, and it’s popular for a reason. This recipe from Downshiftology calls for a little wine mixed with the water, but you can skip it if you like. 

As parents, all too often, one day blurs right into the next. There are the endless to-dos, the steadfast routines, the mindless scrolling—and somehow, without noticing, joy just falls by the wayside. But we refuse to let that happen. 

Instead, we’re doubling down on the bright spots in your day: the silly smiles, ridiculous poses, and awestruck expressions of your favorite littles, which make it all worthwhile. Whether you’re revisiting those super-early days in calendar view, adding fun filters and stickers to your favorite memories, or kicking back and letting auto recaps and smart curation do the organizing for you, our private photo-sharing app allows you to re-live the magic. Helping parents capture and safely share those “blink-and-you’ll-miss-them” moments with friends and family near and far is the best job in the world, and it just so happens to be ours.

That’s why we’ve changed the vibe around here to better match the joy we deliver. Whether you’re uploading memories on the Tinybeans app or checking out the latest advice in our newsletters, you’ll experience a beautiful new Tinybeans (with more exciting changes to come!). While our look is a little more playful, we’re more dedicated than ever to the things we believe in:

More love, not likes

In our digital world, authentic connections matter more than ever. Our families should not be social currency; their experiences are not performances. Our kids are the reason we get out of bed (so, so early) in the morning, and the special memories we create together should be shared with the people who really know and love them.

Families being unapologetically themselves

The truth is, every family is just a little bit weird. Lean into it, we say! It’s the quirky traditions, random nicknames, and inside jokes that make your crew who they are. Life is way less fun when you’re trying to fit the mold.

Privacy as a top priority

It’s almost instinctual to post, post, post for all the world to see. We’re rewarded with attention and dopamine bursts for our efforts. But who ends up accessing and owning our images and videos? That murkiness keeps us up at night, and it’s why we believe every parent should be able to protect their family’s privacy from the start.     

Giving you time back and extra reasons to smile

The less time you spend hunting down dinner recipes, parenting hacks, and holiday gifts, the more you can actually be present in the moment. That’s why we’re going to do the legwork for you, delivering expert advice on how to fast-forward through tantrums, easy meal ideas for when you’re feeling burned out, and activities and vacation destinations that won’t earn you an eye roll. We’re even gonna throw in some awesome alone-time recommendations (because parents are people, too!).

The bottom line? If there’s a way for us to make your day better and brighter, we’re going to make it happen.      

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? 

 

 

We’re trying the baked honey mustard chicken ASAP

Every family knows that chicken breasts are the weeknight hero of the kitchen. They can be baked, sauteed, shredded, or thin-sliced, as long as the recipe isn’t too complicated. We’ve rounded up 18 kid friendly chicken breast recipes that are go-to for families who want a stress-free dinner that’s far from basic. Need more easy dinner ideas? Check out these quick meal ideas that take just 30 minutes or less.

Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken

Weelicious

Our love for Crock Pot dinners runs deep, and this Hawaiian Chicken from Weelicious tops the list. The sauce is a perfect mix of sweet and savory, while the star of the show—the chicken—stays tender and juicy. When the afterschool schedule is hectic and you want something warm and tasty ready when you get home, this dinner recipe is perfect for you.

Buddy’s Crispy Chicken

If you want your kids to love what’s for dinner—get them involved in cooking it. Bashing the chicken in this Jamie Oliver recipe before you coat it in flavored crumbs makes it more tender, and it’s a task kiddos love. Pair with your favorite side dish for a guaranteed hit.

Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms

mushroom, spinach, pepper jack cheese chicken breast recipe
Julia's Album

If you love stuffed chicken breasts, you’ll love this easier “smothered” version of the stuffed chicken. The assembly is straightforward: just put the creamed spinach, bacon, mushrooms, and Pepper Jack cheese on top of seasoned chicken breasts and bake everything uncovered to perfection. This kid friendly chicken breast recipe from Julia’s Album is anything but boring!

Bruschetta Chicken

Customize this bruschetta chicken with your family’s favorites, like avocado, bacon, or minced olives. Also, the balsamic marinated chicken can be used in any meal prep dishes and is great as leftovers. Hop over to One Lovely Life for all the scrumptious details.

One Pan Chicken Pizzaiola

Scrummy Lane

A quick, easy Italian dish that’s sure to be a mid-weeknight favorite. Bonus: It only gets one pot dirty! Get the how-to at Scrummy Lane. 

Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

Chicken breasts, a handful of other ingredients, and a sheet pan are all you need for these Chicken Fajitas from Camille Styles. For a party (or picky eaters), set out the fillings and garnishes with a stack of just-charred tortillas and let everyone dig in. It’s super easy and fun.

Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Nuggets

This one is a fast food favorite made healthier at home. Choose the air-fryer or baking options; they’re both equally delicious. Check out the full recipe from Every Day Dishes. Bonus points for whipping up some homemade dipping sauce to go with them.

Almond Crusted Chicken

This gluten-free, kid friendly chicken breast dinner checks all the boxes. It’s high in protein, packs a lot of flavor, and only takes 20 minutes from start to finish. For all the yummy details, check out Every Day Dishes.

Related: 21 Simple Dinners That Use One Pan

Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Recipe

Calling all Instant Pot lovers! This Buffalo Chicken from Boulder Locavore must be in your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s a versatile way to get the flavor of buffalo wings on anything from a sandwich or pizza to an appetizer. The buffalo sauce can be store-bought or homemade, depending on preference and time.

Chicken Fingers on a Stick

homemade chicken tenders are a good chicken breast recipe for kids.
Weelicious
They’re on a stick and it’s got dipping sauce. Sounds like a total kid-pleasing, easy dinner. Get this classic chicken breast recipe here.

Baked Honey Mustard Chicken

Let’s be honest; the best recipe is one that’s barely a recipe at all. This baked honey mustard chicken from Scrummy Lane will be on the table in a flash, and you only need three ingredients. Now, that’s a weeknight hero!

One Dish Chicken Bake

You can’t go wrong when you nestle your chicken between a bed of tomatoes and a blanket of mozzarella. Serve on top of pasta for a simple and easy Italian-inspired dinner. Click here for the recipe.

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Is there anything more comforting than tortilla soup? We don’t think so. Make it in a crock pot or stovetop and customize it with your favorite toppings. The recipe from The Cozy Cook calls for chicken breasts, but a rotisserie chicken works great, too.

Crispy Baked Chicken Schnitzel

Easy Chicken Dinner, Family Favorite Recipes

Simple Home Edit

Here’s a slight twist on the traditional German Schnitzel. Usually, the meat is pounded thin with a meat tenderizer, coated with breadcrumbs, and then lightly fried. This kid friendly chicken breast recipe from Simple Home Edit is baked instead to make it healthier and easier to clean up. Don’t miss the tips in the recipe to keep the chicken from drying out and on how to get the perfectly crispy golden skin.

Chicken Fried Rice

chicken dinners, family favorite recipes, easy weeknight dishes

Simple Home Edit

This one comes together quickly, is made with pantry staples, and tastes like an indulgent takeout dish. Yes, please! Simple Home Edit’s Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect comfort dish the whole family will enjoy.

Zesty Pineapple Chicken

Salty Pot

With BBQ sauce, pineapple, and chicken breasts, this dish is a kid favorite. It also takes minimal effort, so you’ll love it too. Visit the Salty Pot here for the recipe.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

If you’re having a few extra people at the dinner table or if you’re just craving a little comfort food mid-week, try this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole from Kristine’s Kitchen. It’s make-ahead friendly and every bite is packed with flavor. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser!

One Pot Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Sun-dried tomatoes, veggies, spinach, and chicken come together to make this one-pot pasta dish from Gimme Some Oven. The garlic basil cream sauce is one you’ll want to go back to time and again.

You’ll be amazed at what you can make with just three ingredients

If you’re anything like us, you’re always on the hunt for easy dinner recipes. The fewer ingredients we have to remember, the better (because no one likes doing a last-minute grocery store run!). To make all of our lives easier, we’ve rounded up a list of 3-ingredient recipes that will please even the pickiest of eaters. Read on to simplify your meal plan.

Cauliflower Soup

cauliflower soup is an easy 3-ingredient recipe
Just a Taste

Your whole crew is sure to fall in love with this silky soup from Just a Taste. It’s practically begging to be topped with your favorite add-ons, from a simple swirl of olive oil to crumbled bacon or crispy chickpeas. 

Blackened Chicken

blackened chicken is a good 3-ingredient recipe
Cooking with Janica

Dry, overcooked chicken will be a thing of the past once you try this 3-ingredient recipe from Cooking with Janica. Their easy method yields a juicy, well-seasoned chicken breast—perfect for pairing with rice, salad, or potatoes.

Perfect Roasted Potatoes

A Clean Bake

Our hunt for perfectly crispy roasted potatoes has finally come to an end, thanks to A Clean Bake. This foolproof method will have your whole family asking for seconds.

 

Honey Teriyaki Lime Salmon

Delicious salmon is less than a half hour away, thanks to this 3-ingredient recipe from Savory Nothings. Bonus points if you make your own teriyaki sauce (but we won’t judge if you go for the bottled stuff!).

Tomato Tortellini Soup

Honey and Birch

Grab your soup pot and make a big batch of this soup from Honey and Birch! With the homey goodness of tomato soup and tortellini (a kid fave!), we guarantee it'll disappear in no time.

Creamy Tomato Shells

Pinch of Yum

Trust us, you're gonna want to bookmark this delish recipe from Pinch of Yum. It's hearty, homey, and can be whipped up for any busy weeknight dinner. 

Related: 14 Easy Meals Kids Can Make Themselves This Summer

Ham and Cheese Freezer Sandwiches

Make-ahead-meal alert! We love how these sandwiches from A Taste of Madness can be frozen and then heated whenever you need a quick and easy school lunch. Plus, you can always customize it with your kiddo’s favorite lunch meat.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

Lanc Foodie Girl

Taco night just got way easier, thanks to this genius recipe from Lanc Foodie Girl. Set up the slow cooker in the morning, and dinner will be hot and ready by the time you get home.

 

3-Ingredient Biscuit Recipe

The Feathered Nester has an incredibly easy 3-ingredient biscuit recipe we love for weekend breakfasts. 

Grilled Ranch Pork Chop

No one likes a dry pork chop! Good news: this recipe from Gimme Some Grilling is going to be your new go-to method for the juiciest (and easiest) pork. The secret ingredient is hiding in the grocery store spice aisle.

Sweet Potato Wraps

Lemons & Basil

We’re always on the hunt for healthy snacks that the little ones will actually eat, and these sweet potato wraps from Lemons & Basil get the toddler seal of approval. You can fill them up with butter, cheese, or peanut butter for a perfectly balanced snack. 

Crock Pot BBQ Chicken Wings

A platter filled with chicken wings that were cooked in a crock pot
Intelligent Domestications

Three ingredients and a few hours in a Crock Pot and bam! Now you have killer BBQ chicken wings to feed the masses, all thanks to this recipe from Intelligent Domestications. Plus the kids will get a kick out of the “secret ingredient.”

 

Grilled Cheese Rollups

Flat sandwiches are so last year… These rollups from My Little Gourmet are perfectly sized for tiny hands to dunk into a bowl of soup.

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

Handmade Gnocchi

Get your tiny taste testers’ hands deep into potatoes when they help you make gnocchi from scratch! Pair this step-by-step tutorial from Eugenie’s Kitchen with the tomato sauce later in this roundup.

Baked Rollups

Two ham and cheese roll ups sit on a plate ready to eat by even the most picky of eaters
It's Peachy Keen

Roll up ham and cheese for a dinner that will have the little ones forgetting about their pre-boxed meat, cheese, and crackers (you know which ones we're talking about!). You and your kids can whip up this recipe from It's Peachy Keen in less than 20 minutes for a fun, fingers-only meal. 

Apple Juice Chicken

Apple Juice Chicken topped with green onions sits on a white plate garnished with lettuce
Oatmeal with a Fork

You know that stockpile of juice boxes your family has been collecting? This sweet recipe, courtesy of Oatmeal With a Fork, puts them to good use! This chicken is flavorful and easy to make—and we’re willing to bet it’ll be a hit with kids and grown-ups alike. 

Steak Pinwheels

Weary Chef

A dinner that is fun to make, fun to look at, and deliciously satisfying to eat? Please let your burgeoning kitchen master bring these pinwheels to your dinner table. Weary Chef simplifies it down so your little one can get artsy with their greens before rolling it up to bake. 

Garlic Charred Green Beans

Nyssa’s Kitchen

For the easiest (and kid-friendliest) side dish, you’ve got to try these green beans from Nyssa’s Kitchen. Her method leaves the beans perfectly tender with a little char on the outside. Drooling yet? 

 

Grilled PB&J Sandwiches

If your little one is tired of sandwiches, switch it up with this tortilla version on the stove. It’s literally as simple as spreading peanut butter and jelly on a tortilla, then heating up before devouring.

Dairy-Free Perfect Noodles

Miles Burke/Unsplash

This easy dish subs nutritional yeast for parmesan and olive oil for butter to make a simple, dairy-free alternative to your kiddo’s favorite go-to pasta dish. Just cook spaghetti or linguine noodles according to the package, toss in enough olive oil to coat, and sprinkle liberally with nutritional yeast. You can add parsley, pepper, and a pinch of salt if you’re a rule-breaker.

Black Bean Soup

The Pretty Bee

Does your kiddo feel like traveling south of the border for dinner? Try out this deliciously simple black bean soup recipe from The Pretty Bee.

 

Easy Meatballs

We know your kids can’t get enough of meatballs once they’re on the table—it’s time to teach them where those delicious things come from. Take a peek at Persnickety Plates’ recipe for three-ingredient slow cooker pineapple teriyaki meatballs and have your little sous chef’s help with all the prep.

Rich Tomato Sauce

The Honour System

This one's an easy one for momma's helper, and it's done in no time at all. The Honour System has got tomato sauce down to a two-step science: simmer and stir! 

 

Maple & Mustard Salmon

Your iron chefs-in-training may or may not be ready for handling raw salmon, but they can certainly help out with a sweet and spicy glaze from For the Love of Cooking.

 

 

Give your kids the independence they want with these meal ideas they can make without assistance

Summer mealtime can be a drag for parents as kids waffle between “I’m bored!” and “I’m hungry!” Adding meal preparation to an already busy schedule is something we’d all like to avoid. We’ve rounded up simple recipes for kids that include everything from quesadillas to pinwheels to breakfast tacos. From preschoolers to teens, kids can feel good about preparing their own meals this summer and you’ll have one less thing on your to-do list.

Easy Meals Preschoolers Can Prepare

Rainbow Fruit Kebabs

Kids of any age can whip up fruit kabobs for an easy and healthy snack. For preschoolers, keep a bowl of cut-up fruit in the fridge (or just buy a pre-chopped bowl like we do) and skewers on hand. When the hangries arrive, let your littles have fun making their own fruit skewers. Extra points for dips like yogurt or whipped cream!

 

Nutella or Peanut Butter & Banana on Bread

Volodymyr Hryshchenko/Unsplash

Little hands will be able to put together an easy snack like this. Just use any kind of bread (we like pita because it’s a little more sturdy), smear with peanut butter or Nutella, then top with sliced bananas. This is a great option for preschoolers because both the spread and bananas can be prepared using a non-sharp knife.

Related: 21 Easy Recipes That Even Picky Eaters Will Like

 

Fruit Parfaits

meals kids can make themselves

Tanaphong Toochinda

It can’t get much easier than combining yogurt, fruit, and maybe even granola (we prefer Nilla Wafers) into the easy snack that is a parfait. The great part is there’s no chopping required if you use small berries and each kid can customize their own.

 

Easy Meals Elementary School Kids Can Prepare

Quesadilla

If your kids can use the microwave, they can whip up a quesadilla! Just layer cheese between two tortillas and microwave until the cheese is melted. This is a great option if you have multiple kids in the house who might prefer their own toppings since everyone can take a turn customizing their own ‘dilla.

 

Oatmeal

meals kids can make themselves

Arianka Ibarra/Unsplash

Whether it’s a pack of instant oatmeal or you trust your elementary-age kids on the stove, oatmeal is a great breakfast, snack, or lunch option they can make on their own. Add a dollop of peanut butter, sliced fruit, or chocolate chips to give it a whole new taste.

 

Nachos

At the bare minimum, your kids can whip up a plate of nachos with just two ingredients (cheese & chips). If they want to get fancy, feel free to have them pile on the olives, pico, and anything else they want after a quick spin in the microwave.

 

Ramen

Ramen is a great meal kids can make on themselves because you can either do a Cup Noodle, and avoid the stove by heating water in a kettle, or use the brick Ramen option that cooks in just a few minutes. Either way, make sure your older kids are mature enough to handle using hot water in the kitchen.

Related: 20 Global Recipes Your Kids Should Try at Least Once

 

Easy Mac or Mac & Cheese

iStock

A picky eater’s dream, macaroni and cheese is a good meal option a kid can have in their arsenal. You can go the super easy route by buying Easy Mac, which can be made in the microwave, or teach your older kids how to safely navigate a stovetop recipe. Better yet, try out an Instant Pot version!

 

Bean & Cheese Burritos

meals kids can make themselves

Chelsea’s Messy Apron

Pop open a can of either refried or black beans, heat on the stove or microwave, then combine with cheese in a tortilla. Lunch is served!

 

Fruit Tacos

If your kids go more for the sweet than the savory, these fruit tacos might be a good DIY meal, especially for breakfast.

 

Easy Meals Teens Can Prepare

Texas Toast Garlic Bread Pizza

meals kids can make themselves

Rasa Malaysia

If there’s one meal most kids will never turn down, it’s pizza. This recipe for Texas Toast Garlic Bread Pizza lets them avoid making a mess by trying to flip and spin the dough. Just grab some of the thick bread and top with sauce, cheese, and toppings before going in the toaster oven or airfryer.

 

Turkey & Cheese Pinwheels

The last thing any kid wants during the summer is a sandwich thanks to a school year long’s worth of lunches. Skip the bread with these turkey and cheese pinwheels which just require some layering of ingredients, a quick roll up, and some slicing to give that fun shape. Not a turkey fan? Your kids can make it with ham, roast beef, hummus, veggies, or even just PB&J.

 

Old Man Bagel

Can you kids toast their own bagel and add cream cheese? Sure. But can they make an Old Man Bagel that’s even more fulfilling? YES! All you need to do is top a toasted bagel with cream cheese, avocado, and some lemon pepper seasoning to give your breakfast, lunch, or snack (because really, we could eat a bagel any time of the day) a step up.

 

Smoothies

Lemons Zest

Breakfast, snack, or lunch—a smoothie is always a good option an older kiddo can whip up. So long as you keep the ingredients on hand like spinach, banana, and other frozen fruits and you teens know how to safely operate a blender, this is a great option they can do on their own. Check out our post on some great recipes here.

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.

 

The step that takes the longest in this five-step recipe? Boiling the water!

Your busy weeknight calls for a lightning-fast dinner. Next time you need to make dinner in a pinch, check out this Pesto Chicken Pasta recipe from Regina of the food blog, Leelalicious. It takes only 20 minutes to make and offers a nice balance of carbs, protein, and greens (from the pesto).

Yields 2-3 servings

Ingredients for Pesto Chicken Pasta:

8 ounces dry pasta* (I used fusilli)
1 chicken breast, cut into thin strips
salt + pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
¼ cup pesto
chopped almonds and feta crumbles for garnish

Notes from the Chef: *use gluten-free, whole wheat, or low-glycemic pasta according to needs and preferences

Method:

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add dry pasta, and cook until al dente.

2. Cut chicken breast into small strips. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Heat olive oil in a skillet, add chicken strips and sear until fully cooked.

4. Add ¼ cup of the pasta water to the skillet with the chicken. Drain pasta, then add to chicken together with pesto and stir everything until fully combined.

5. Serve hot and garnish with chopped almonds and feta crumbles.

For more delicious meal ideas your family will love hop on over to Leelalicious. And, don’t forget to follow her on Facebook by clicking here.  

Save yourself some major time (and stress!) with these picky eater hacks!

The struggle is real when it comes to the battle of the picky eater. Even if you’ve made sure to follow all the “rules” about starting your little ones out with a variety of foods so that they have a taste for lots of different flavors or not forcing them to eat anything, it’s entirely possible you’ve still ended up with a picky eater. And that’s completely okay! You’re most definitely not alone. The good news is that you don’t have to dread every food interaction with these brilliant picky eater hacks!

There are some fabulous ideas out there to make getting your little ones to eat. Or, at least, to get the nutrition they need if they aren’t willing to eat a balanced diet. We’ve found some of the best supplements, books, tools, and of course snack and meal ideas that make eating not just easier, but also, dare we say, fun? There are lots of solutions available, and we have some of the best right here. And not to worry—lots of kiddos grow out of their picky eater stage eventually, and, quite honestly, as long as they’re actually eating, you can consider that a win, too! These picky eater hacks will just make it so much simpler!

Kabrita Junior Nutrition Goat Milk Powder

Kabrita is an easy way to get your kids the nutrition they need! It has a mild flavor that little ones love and each glass of their Junior Nutrition Goat Milk Powder is 6g of gentle A2 protein, along with prebiotics and added probiotics to help support a healthy gut! Kabrita Junior is an ideal nutritional boost for picky eaters—fortified with DHA, and vitamins C, D and E to support their immune system. And keep an eye out for Kabrita at Costo soon!

Kabrita Junior Nutrition Goat Milk Powder ($42.49)—Buy Now

Kabrita Snack Puffs with Goat Cheese

One of the many glowing reviews of the Kabrita Snack Puffs with Goat Cheese from John P. raves that the "These puffs are our son’s favorite; always a hit!". They taste fantastic and are an awesome first finger food! And keep an eye out for Kabrita at Costo soon!

Kabrita Snack Puffs with Goat Cheese ($9.99)—Buy Now

Zollipops

The "after you eat treat" is smile-friendly, thanks to ingredients that help neutralize the acidity and raise the pH level in your mouth. High acidity contributes to tooth decay, so by reducing acidity, Zollipops can help teeth re-mineralize faster and make them stronger and harder!

Zollipops ($9.95)—Buy Now

Culturelle Kids Daily Probiotic

Probiotics keep not only your kiddos' bellies happy, they also contribute to boosting their immunity! For kiddos 3+, just add a flavorless, dissolvable packet to food like yogurt or applesauce. How easy is that?

Culturelle Kids Daily Probiotic ($19.25)—Buy Now

gimme Sea Salt Roasted Seaweed Sheets

Believe it or not, kids love these seaweed sheets! They have a crispy texture that's a lot of fun to snack on for little ones. Don't believe us? Check out this review from Amazon: "My kids love it. My 18 month old baby eats seaweed like candy. My 10 year old also has claimed this as her favorite snack." It's one of almost 22K reviews, too!

gimme Sea Salt Roasted Seaweed Sheets ($16.99)—Buy Now

GoGo Squeeze Yogurtz

No spoon, no fridge, no mess! Each serving of GoGo Squeeze Yogurtz pouch provides 4g of protein and is a great source of calcium and Vitamin D.

GoGo Squeeze Yogurtz ($4.39)—Buy Now

Clif Kid ZBAR Protein Granola Bars

From soccer practice to lunchboxes, these yummy ZBARs taste like a treat and contain 5g of protein per bar!

Clif Kid ZBAR Protein Granola Bars ($26.49)—Buy Now

Hint Kids Water Boxes

hint Kids Water has no calories, sugar, diet sweeteners, calories, preservatives, animal products, dairy, MSG, nuts, or gluten and comes in 4 fruit flavors!

Hint Kids Water Boxes ($20.31)—Buy Now

Simple Mills Sweet Thins Cookies

Coconut sugar and sunflower seed flour make these sweet snacks much healthier than regular cookies, plus they're super yummy!

Simple Mills Sweet Thins Cookies ($32.44 for pack of 6)—Buy Now

Disney Princess Healthy Treats

This kid-friendly cookbook has over 50 Disney Princess-inspired recipes!

Disney Princess Healthy Treats ($14.39)—Buy Now

Mavericks Cookies

Lightning bolt-shaped, plant-based, and with 40% less sugar than other brands? Mavericks Cookies are a total win.

Mavericks Cookies ($6.49)—Buy Now

Easy Peasie Vegetable Powder Blends

Veggie up anything with these veggie sprinkles from Easy Peasie! Simply put, they're non-GMO dried vegetables that have been ground up into shakable sprinkles that you can add to everything from spaghetti to smoothies to sweets. 

Easy Peasie Vegetable Powder Blends ($39.99)—Buy Now

The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs

The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs is an Amazon #1 Best Seller and a #New York Times Best Seller and IACP Award Winner!

The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs ($10.44)—Buy Now

SpinMeal

Designed by a mom with fussy eaters of her own, the SpinMeal lets you add different foods into the fun compartments and let kiddos spin the arrow and eat from the compartment where it lands!

SpinMeal ($19.99)—Buy Now

Match UP Memory Snack Tray

Fuel their minds and their bodies with this awesome memory snack game! Kids get to test their memories and snack away. It also makes sneaking a few new foods into their game much easier!

Match UP Memory Snack Tray ($17.57)—Buy Now

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