Tuesday, August 29, 2017

7 Simple Weeknight Dinner Ideas

I do not know about you, but for me, the first weeks of school are hectic and I need my evenings to be a simple as possible.  Although I love a yummy, creative dinner, some nights, I just need simple! If you are looking for Cornish game hens served with seared Brussel sprouts or step-by step directions, this is not the post for you.  However, if you need some ideas other than cereal, maybe I can help out!






Breakfast
Who doesn't love breakfast for dinner? Keep it simple with pancakes and sausage or add omelets. Either way, you can make dinner with only your griddle to clean up and have happy, full kids!






Crock Pot Chicken Fajita Tacos
Throw some chicken breasts with taco seasoning in your crock pot before you head out the door  and by dinner you will have moist shredded chicken.  I like to add peppers and onion in the crock pot, but you do not have to. To stay with our simple theme, keep your fixin's easy. Sour cream, Cheese, shredded lettuce and salsa can be served right out of the container for easy clean up and you can add beans or rice if you have a few extra minutes.






Grilled Cheese
I know this seems like lunch, but use 2-3 types of cheese in your sandwich and add tomato soup and it can feel more hearty.  If you feel the need for additional protein, get fancy, make it a hot ham and cheese!





Chicken and Broccoli
I know this seems less than simple, but hear me out.  You can use chicken tenderloins, frozen broccoli and Kikkoman stir fry sauce to whip up homemade Chinese in no time. To reduce your efforts, Innovasian makes a great sticky rice that you can find in the frozen section of most grocery stores.




Italian Sausage and Peppers
Again, I show my love for a crock pot!  In the morning, put sausage in the crock pot with sliced peppers and onions and cover with your favorite sauce.  Remember that the pepper and onion will add to the flavor so no need for homemade if you do not have any handy.  When you get home, serve with rolls or pasta.  You can add a simple salad if you want to add some freshness.





Buffalo Chicken Wrap, Salad or served over Rice
I know...more crock pot...but 5 minutes in the morning can be so worth it. For this meal, add buffalo sauce and a package of dry ranch dressing to chicken and it will shred into moist goodness by dinner time.  You can make wraps, salad or serve over rice.



Soup


Okay, so if you make your grandmother's chicken soup, turn away now as this WILL upset you.  If you are willing to take the simple way out, grab yourself a couple of cans of your favorite canned soup and serve with biscuits or crackers.  Sometimes we just need this level of simple to make it through. :-)