If you’re struggling to get your kids to eat something other than mac and cheese or chicken nuggets, you’re not alone!
It can be challenging to find meals that the whole family will enjoy, especially when you’re short on time.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of 35 easy kid-friendly dinner recipes that will make dinnertime more enjoyable and less stressful. These recipes are simple, delicious, and customizable, so you can make them your own.
35 Easy Kid-Friendly Dinners
1. Homemade Pizza
Let your kids help assemble their own individual pizzas with their favorite toppings. It’s a fun activity and they’ll be more likely to eat their creation.
2. Baked Chicken Parmesan
This classic Italian dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Serve with pasta and a side of roasted veggies.
3. Tacos
Put out a variety of toppings and let everyone assemble their own tacos. It’s a customizable meal that everyone will love.
4. Meatball Subs
Serve up these hearty sandwiches with a side of chips or veggies. They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
5. Sheet Pan Fajitas
Simply chop up chicken or steak, peppers, and onions, toss them with some spices and oil, and bake on a sheet pan for an easy and flavorful meal.
6. One Pan Chicken and Veggies
Chop up chicken, potatoes, and veggies, toss them in oil and spices, and bake on a sheet pan for a low-maintenance meal.
7. Fried Rice
Make this classic Asian dish at home with some rice, veggies, and your choice of protein. It’s a delicious and easy way to switch up your dinner routine.
8. Pasta with Meat Sauce
Brown ground beef or turkey, add some marinara sauce, and serve over pasta for a filling and tasty meal.
9. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Let your slow cooker do the work with this easy recipe. Serve on buns with a side of coleslaw.
10. Chicken Quesadillas
Saute chicken, peppers, and onions, and place them in between tortillas with some cheese for a simple and delicious quesadilla.
11. Sloppy Joes
This classic sandwich is sure to be a hit with kids. Serve on buns with a side of veggies or chips.
12. Chicken Stir Fry
Saute chicken and veggies with some soy sauce and serve over rice for an easy and flavorful meal.
13. Baked Potatoes
Serve up baked potatoes with a variety of toppings and let your kids assemble their own meal.
14. Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
This comforting meal is a classic for a reason. Serve up some grilled cheese and a bowl of tomato soup for a delicious and kid-approved dinner.
15. Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Saute shrimp with butter, garlic, and lemon for a quick and zesty meal. Serve with a side of roasted veggies.
16. Cheesy Chicken Casserole
This casserole is easy to make and packs in plenty of protein and flavor. It’s a great way to switch up your dinner routine.
17. Turkey Burgers
Serve homemade turkey burgers on buns with a side of sweet potato fries for a healthy and delicious meal.
18. Chicken Tenders
Make your own chicken tenders at home with a simple breading and plenty of flavor. Serve with a side of veggies or fries.
19. Baked Salmon
Enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal with this easy baked salmon recipe. Serve with a side of rice and veggies.
20. Turkey Chili
Make a big pot of turkey chili for an easy and filling meal. Serve with some cornbread for a delicious and cozy dinner.
21. Spaghetti and Meatballs
This classic Italian dish is always a favorite with kids. Serve up some spaghetti and meatballs for a comforting and tasty meal.
22. Homemade Mac and Cheese
Craft a irresistibly creamy and cheesy macaroni and cheese that captures the hearts of both kids and adults alike.
23. Chicken and Rice Soup
Indulge in the warmth of a comforting soup featuring tender chicken, hearty rice, and flavorful vegetables—a perfect choice for a cozy dinner.
24. Mini Meatball Sliders
Elevate your sliders game by serving mini meatball sliders on small rolls with oozing melted cheese, adding a playful twist to a classic favorite.
25. Vegetable Fried Rice
Transform ordinary fried rice into a delightful dish that encourages kids to enjoy their veggies, offering a tasty and nutritious side.
26. Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Experience the satisfaction of a dinner featuring a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce paired with succulent grilled chicken and perfectly cooked pasta.
27. Mini Corn Dog Muffins
Bake up a batch of mini corn dogs in muffin tins for a fun and portable meal that combines the best of comfort food and convenience.
28. Honey Glazed Chicken
Savor the sweetness and stickiness of honey-glazed chicken served alongside your choice of rice or mashed potatoes—a delectable treat for your taste buds.
29. BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Enjoy the flavors of slow-cooked pulled chicken drenched in barbecue sauce, sandwiched between buns and topped with crisp coleslaw for a mouthwatering experience.
30. Mini Meatball Pizzas
Create a kid-friendly pizza night by combining mini meatballs with classic pizza toppings, offering a delightful twist on a family favorite.
31. Veggie-loaded Quesadillas
Give quesadillas a healthier spin by loading them with a variety of fresh veggies, making it a delicious and nutritious choice for both kids and adults.
32. Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Casserole
Transform the classic chicken and broccoli Alfredo into a hearty casserole that’s easy to prepare and satisfies the whole family.
33. Tater Tot Casserole
Experience the ultimate comfort with a casserole featuring tater tots, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese—a hearty and satisfying dish for any occasion.
34. Hawaiian Pizza
Take a culinary journey to the tropics by topping your pizza with ham and pineapple, creating a Hawaiian-inspired twist on this beloved classic.
35. Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas
Roll up seasoned chicken and cheese in tortillas, bake with flavorful enchilada sauce, and savor the deliciousness of homemade enchiladas that the whole family will love.
Final Thoughts,
Getting your kids to eat can be a challenge, but with these 35 easy kid-friendly dinner ideas, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.
Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, tacos, stir fry, or pasta, there’s a recipe here for you. These meals are simple, delicious, and customizable, so you can make them your own.
So next time you’re stuck in a dinner rut, try one of these recipes and watch as your kids clean their plates!
