Mealtime can sometimes be a challenge, especially when it comes to pleasing picky eaters.
You want to provide your children with healthy and nutritious meals, but that doesn’t mean it has to be complicated or time-consuming.
In this blog post, I’ve rounded up 35 easy kid-friendly meals that are sure to satisfy the whole family. These meals are simple to make, use common ingredients, and are perfect for busy weeknights.
From classics like mac and cheese to creative takes on pizza, you’ll find a variety of options that will make your life easier.
35 Easy Kid-Friendly Meals
1. Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
A simple and flavorful stir fry that will please even the pickiest eaters. Serve over rice for a complete meal.
2. Taco Bar
Set up a taco bar with all the fixings for a fun and interactive meal. Let kids choose their toppings to customize their tacos.
3. Baked Potato Bar
Another interactive meal that lets kids top their own baked potatoes. Serve with toppings like cheese, sour cream, bacon bits, and chives.
4. Grilled Cheese
A childhood classic that never gets old. Use different types of cheese and bread for a twist on the traditional sandwich.
5. Pizza Quesadillas
Combine two kid-friendly favorites into one delicious meal. Fill a tortilla with pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings like pepperoni or olives. Cook in a skillet until crispy.
6. Chicken Fajitas
Another fun and interactive meal. Serve grilled chicken strips with sautéed peppers and onions, along with toppings like sour cream and guacamole.
7. Spaghetti and Meatballs
A classic meal that’s easy to make and always a hit. Serve with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
8. Easy Baked Flautas
Easy Baked Flautas are a healthier twist on the classic fried taquito!
These crispy rolls are packed with flavorful fillings like beans, veggies, or chicken, then baked to golden perfection.
9. Sloppy Joes
A messy but delicious sandwich that kids love. Serve on buns with coleslaw or potato salad on the side.
10. Ham and Cheese Roll-Ups
A fun and easy snack or meal that kids can help make. Roll ham and cheese together in a tortilla and slice into pinwheels.
11. Chicken Nuggets
Skip the fast food and make your own chicken nuggets at home. Coat chicken breast in seasoned breadcrumbs and bake until crispy.
12. Fish Sticks
Another healthier alternative to fast food. Coat fish fillets in seasoned breadcrumbs and bake until golden brown.
13. Mac and Cheese
A classic comfort food that’s perfect for picky eaters. Add broccoli or diced ham for a more complete meal.
14. Meatball Subs
A hearty sandwich that’s simple to make. Serve on hoagie rolls with marinara sauce and cheese.
15. BLT Wraps
A twist on the classic sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Roll bacon, lettuce, and tomato in a tortilla and add ranch dressing for extra flavor.
16. Ham and Pineapple Pizza
A tropical take on pizza that’s sure to be a hit. Top a pre-made pizza crust with ham, pineapple, and cheese, then bake until bubbly.
17. Chicken Tenders
A healthier alternative to fried chicken. Coat chicken breast in seasoned breadcrumbs and bake until crispy.
18. Tuna Melts
A quick and easy sandwich that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Top English muffins with tuna salad and cheese, then broil until melted.
19. Chicken and Rice
A comforting meal that’s perfect for cold winter nights. Cook chicken and rice together in a flavorful broth.
20. Loaded Veggie Nachos
Another fun and interactive meal that lets kids customize their own plates. Top tortilla chips with cheese, beans, and meat, then bake until melted.
21. Mini Corn Dogs
Bite-sized corn dogs that are perfect for dipping in ketchup or mustard.
22. Pasta with Butter and Parmesan
It is a simple and satisfying pasta dish with melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese.
23. Mini Pizzas
Let kids make their own mini pizzas by providing toppings like pepperoni, cheese, and veggies.
24. Chicken Pot Pie
A comforting and flavorful chicken and vegetable filling in a flaky pastry crust.
25. Breakfast for Dinner
Sometimes, the simplest meals are the best. Serve scrambled eggs, bacon, and toast for a comforting and easy dinner.
26. Hot Dogs
Classic hot dogs with all the fixings, like ketchup, mustard, relish, and onions.
27. Chicken and Cheese Quesadillas
Simple and cheesy quesadillas with diced chicken for extra protein.
28. Mini Meatloaves
Make individual meatloaves that are fun for kids to eat. Serve with mashed potatoes and gravy.
29. Pancakes
Fluffy pancakes with toppings like maple syrup, chocolate chips, or fresh fruit.
30. Mini Tacos
Use small tortillas for these kid-sized tacos, with ground beef or chicken and toppings of their choice.
31. Homemade Chicken Tenders
Coat chicken strips in breadcrumbs and bake for crispy and healthier chicken tenders.
32. Mini Sliders
Serve up mini burgers with small buns and various toppings for customizing.
33. Pita Pockets
Let kids stuff their own pita pockets with ingredients like grilled chicken, veggies, and sauce.
34. Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo
Creamy Alfredo sauce, chicken, and broccoli served over pasta.
35. Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
A sweet and savory chicken and pineapple dish served over rice.
Final Thoughts,
Mealtime doesn’t have to be a struggle when you have a few easy and kid-friendly recipes in your arsenal. These 35 meals can be customized to your family’s tastes and are perfect for picky eaters.
From classic comfort food like mac and cheese to creative takes on pizza, you’ll find a variety of options to please the whole family.
So, next time you’re struggling to come up with a meal idea, turn to this list for inspiration. Your life just got a little easier!
