As parents, we understand the struggles of getting our little ones to eat healthy and try new foods. It can be challenging to find kid-friendly recipes that everyone enjoys.
Dealing with picky eaters can be a frustrating task, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Check out these 35 easy picky eater recipes, your kids will love!
35 Easy Picky Eater Recipes
1. Chicken Quesadillas
Kids love anything wrapped in a tortilla, and quesadillas are no exception. Simply mix shredded chicken and cheese, spread on a tortilla, and cook on a skillet until golden brown.
2. Mac and Cheese
You can never go wrong with classic mac and cheese. Mix in a hidden vegetable puree such as carrots or squash for some added nutrition.
3. English Muffin Pizzas
Create individual pizzas with your kid’s favorite toppings. Letting them build their pizza will get them excited about the meal.
4. Chicken Nuggets
Instead of buying processed chicken nuggets, make your own with boneless chicken breasts coated in breadcrumbs and baked in the oven.
5. Fruit Smoothie
Blend together their favorite fruits and yogurt to make a delicious and nutritious smoothie.
6. Turkey and Cheese Pinwheels
Spread cream cheese on a flour tortilla, add turkey, cheese, and lettuce, roll and slice into pinwheels.
7. Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Cut sweet potatoes into fry-like shapes, drizzle with olive oil and bake until crispy in the oven.
8. Pancakes
Choose a healthy pancake recipe and add in some fruit or vanilla extract for a special touch.
9. Creamy Tomato Soup
A warm bowl of tomato soup is not only tasty but also a great way to get some extra vegetables into your picky eater’s diet.
10. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Make a grilled cheese sandwich with whole-grain bread, and add in some sliced tomatoes or avocado.
11. Chicken Wraps
Let your kids build their own chicken wraps, using tortillas and shredded chicken. Add in some veggies or hummus for extra flavor.
12. Baked Ziti
A classic Italian dish that is sure to please. Mix together ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese and bake in the oven.
13. Tacos
Set up a DIY taco bar with ground beef, cheese, lettuce, and salsa. Your picky eaters can choose what they want to add to their own tacos.
14. Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is always a hit. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables and rice.
15. Banana Bread
A sweet treat that can be a nutritious snack as well. Find a healthy banana bread recipe, and your kids will be happy to devour it.
16. Baked Potato Bar
Set up a baked potato bar with toppings like cheese, bacon, and sour cream. Kids will love building their own potato.
17. Chicken Fried Rice
A simple stir-fry that can incorporate veggies and protein into a tasty meal.
18. Veggie Chips
Roast thinly sliced veggies like carrots and kale for a crunchy and healthy snack.
19. Breakfast Burrito
Add scrambled eggs, cheese, and veggies like peppers and onions into a warm tortilla.
20. Peanut Butter and Jelly
A classic sandwich that never gets old. Use whole-grain bread and a natural peanut butter for a healthier option.
21. Minestrone Soup
A vegetable soup filled with pasta and beans, perfect for a cozy winter night.
22. Baked Chicken Tenders
Coat chicken tenders with a mixture of breadcrumbs and seasonings and bake them in the oven for a healthier alternative to fried chicken tenders.
23. Spaghetti with Hidden Veggie Sauce
Blend vegetables like carrots, spinach, or zucchini into a tomato sauce and serve over whole-grain spaghetti.
24. Fish Sticks
Make homemade fish sticks by coating fish fillets with breadcrumbs and baking for a kid-friendly and nutritious version.
25. Cucumber and Carrot Sticks with Ranch Dressing
Serve crunchy cucumber and carrot sticks with a side of ranch dressing for dipping.
26. Chili with Beans
Make a mild chili with ground beef or turkey and beans, offering a well-balanced and hearty meal.
27. Pita Pockets with Hummus
Fill whole-grain pita pockets with hummus, cucumber, and bell pepper for a delicious and healthy sandwich.
28. Oatmeal with Fresh Berries
Cook oatmeal and top it with fresh berries for a nutritious and filling breakfast or snack.
29. Baked Apples
Core and bake apples with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey for a sweet and warm dessert.
30. Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Pasta
Stuff pasta shells with a mixture of spinach and cheese, then bake with marinara sauce.
31. Potato Pancakes
Make crispy potato pancakes by shredding potatoes, adding some flour and seasonings, and frying until golden brown.
32. Veggie Quesadillas
Fill tortillas with cheese and sautéed veggies, such as bell peppers and onions, for a flavorful and colorful meal.
33. Banana Oat Muffins
Bake muffins using bananas and oats for a healthy and kid-friendly snack.
34. Roasted Cauliflower Bites
Cut cauliflower into small florets, toss with olive oil and seasonings, and roast in the oven until crispy and flavorful.
35. Chicken and Rice Soup
Cook chicken and rice in a flavorful broth with diced vegetables for a comforting and nourishing soup.
Final Thoughts,
Dealing with picky eaters can be frustrating, but with some creativity and patience, you can make mealtime more exciting. These 35 easy picky eater recipes are a great way to get your kids to try new foods and enjoy a well-balanced meal.
Remember that it may take several attempts to get your little one to like something new, but don’t give up, keep trying. Happy cooking!
