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15 Dinners So Simple, They Practically Cook Themselves—And Taste Amazing

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Sometimes the idea of making dinner feels like preparing for a Michelin-starred competition. But with 15 simple dinners that practically cook themselves, weeknight chaos just got a whole lot easier. These meals prove that dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to impress.

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A close-up of a hand using chopsticks to lift cooked noodles from a black pan. The noodles are mixed with vegetables and sauce. A small dish is visible in the background.
Garlic Chili Oil Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps

Closeup of a chicken shawarma wrap.
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you're craving Middle Eastern flavors, these wraps are a go-to. Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps combine effortless cooking and deliver rich spices. They're perfect for a quick meal without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps

Bombay Sandwiches

Bombay Sandwiches layered with potato, tomato, cucumbers, and an herb chutney sauce.
Bombay Sandwiches. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a twist on your regular sandwich, try Bombay Sandwiches. They offer a punch of flavors with a hint of heat. Ideal for lunch or a light dinner, they’re bound to mix up your routine.
Get the Recipe: Bombay Sandwiches

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When you need something simple yet hearty, a Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake is your answer. It requires minimal effort but offers rich, comforting flavors. Great for a family night when time is short.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Szechuan Shrimp

Low angle shot of szechuan shrimp in a wok.
Szechuan Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you're in the mood for something spicy, consider making Szechuan Shrimp. It's a quick dish that offers an exciting combination of flavors. Perfect for those who enjoy a little kick in their meals.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp

Kimchi Fried Noodles

A bowl of saucy noodles is being lifted with chopsticks over a marble countertop. A carrot is partially visible in the background.
Kimchi Fried Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

A fusion of flavors awaits with Kimchi Fried Noodles. This dish combines traditional ingredients with a modern twist. It's a satisfying way to enjoy something different with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Fried Noodles

Miso Glazed Salmon

Miso glazed salmon on a plate with rice and spinach.
Miso Glazed Salmon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a taste of the ocean with Asian influence, try Miso Glazed Salmon. It's an incredibly simple way to enjoy seafood with a touch of umami. Ideal for a straightforward yet flavorful dinner.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Salmon

Harissa Chicken

Harissa chicken in a baking pan with a plate of it over rice with yogurt and herbs on the side.
Harissa Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Add a bit of spice to your dinner lineup with Harissa Chicken. It's an easy way to enjoy bold flavors without spending much time in the kitchen. A great option when you're in a hurry but need something delicious.
Get the Recipe: Harissa Chicken

Instant Pot Pork Lo Mein

A bowl of stir-fried noodles with beef, carrots, red bell peppers, and greens. Hand using chopsticks to pick up noodles.
Instant Pot Pork Lo Mein. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

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Fast-track your way to a delicious meal with Instant Pot Pork Lo Mein. It's a convenient dish that offers a mix of savory notes without the usual hustle. Perfect for when time is tight but flavor can't be compromised.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Pork Lo Mein

Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Fish tacos on a small baking sheet with limes.
Air Fryer Fish Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you need a quick and easy dinner, these Air Fryer Fish Tacos are a great option. They come together quickly, making busy weeknights a bit simpler. Perfect for a hassle-free meal that still packs a lot of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Pork Fried Rice

Pork fried rice in a blue and white striped bowl.
Pork Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you're craving something hearty and delicious, Pork Fried Rice is the way to go. This dish is quick to prepare and great for using up leftovers. It's a versatile meal that suits any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice

Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

A close-up of a hand using chopsticks to lift cooked noodles from a black pan. The noodles are mixed with vegetables and sauce. A small dish is visible in the background.
Garlic Chili Oil Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

Looking for something with a kick? Garlic Chili Oil Noodles have you covered. It's an easy dish that's big on flavor without requiring much effort in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma

Low angle shot of chicken shawarma on a white platter with harissa paste and tomatoes and cucumbers in the background.
Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Love bold flavors but short on time? Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma is perfect for you. This dish is packed with spices, making dinner something to look forward to with minimal hands-on cooking.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma

Cajun Shrimp and Grits

A bowl of grits topped with cajun shrimp.
Cajun Shrimp and Grits. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Need a meal with a bit of Southern flair? Cajun Shrimp and Grits are a fantastic option. It's a comforting dish that’s ready in a snap, bringing a bit of spice to your evening.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Pad See Ew with Chicken

A plate of stir-fried rice noodles with beef slices, broccoli, and green onions. The dish is garnished with thinly sliced scallions, creating a colorful and appetizing presentation.
Pad See Ew with Chicken. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

For a quick and easy takeout favorite at home, try Pad See Ew with Chicken. This dish is straightforward to make and hits all the marks for a satisfying dinner. It's perfect for a weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Pad See Ew with Chicken

Avocado Toast with Grated Egg

Avocado toast on a wooden cutting board.
Avocado Toast with Grated Egg. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

Breakfast or lunch doesn't have to be complicated with Avocado Toast with Grated Egg. It’s a simple, nutritious, and filling option that you can whip up in minutes. Great for when you need something quick and balanced.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Toast with Grated Egg

By on December 9th, 2024
Photo of Robin Donovan

About Robin Donovan

Robin Donovan is the creative force behind All Ways Delicious. She’s an Associated Press syndicated food and travel writer and the bestselling author of more than 40 cookbooks, including Ramen for Beginners, Ramen Obsession, and Campfire Cuisine. Her work has been featured in major publications including Chicago Sun-Times, Huffington Post, MSN, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, Seattle Times, Food & Wine, Cooking Light, PopSugar, Fitness, Mercury News, and many others. More about Robin

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