19 Quick Dinner Ideas for When You’re Too Tired to Cook

Bacon-Wrapped Chicken

“Opt for chicken breasts that are uniformly sized, around 7 to 8 ounces each, to ensure even cooking.” —Sara Haas, Simply Recipes Contributor

One-Pan Beef and Chickpeas

“I love pairing this with steamed jasmine or basmati rice, which you should start first to have everything ready simultaneously—perfect for a busy evening.” —Devan Grimsrud, Simply Recipes Contributor

Thai-Style Chicken Fried Rice

“For a speedy dinner, prep your onion, carrot, and garlic up to a day early and keep them chilled until you’re ready to use them.” —Laurel Randolph, Simply Recipes Senior Editor

Brown Butter Cacio e Pepe

“Keep a close eye on your brown butter; it can quickly go from golden to burned. If it starts to burn, swiftly transfer it to a heat-proof bowl to prevent further cooking.” —Sharon Lehman, Simply Recipes Contributor

Sheet Pan Salmon with Feta Sauce

“Feel free to swap broccolini for broccoli florets, green beans, asparagus, or zucchini. For tomatoes, grape tomatoes work well, or chop regular tomatoes into 1-inch pieces.” —Theodora Kaloudis, Simply Recipes Contributor

Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry

“Chicken bouillon powder adds a savory depth with just the right amount of salt. I recommend Lee Kum Lee’s Premium Chicken Bouillon, which already includes salt, so no need to add more.” —Frank Tiu, Simply Recipes Contributor

Skillet Pizza Chicken

“For extra browning and bubbly cheese, briefly broil your skillet in the oven after cooking.” —Sara

Quick Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese

“To prevent cheddar cheese from becoming too stringy when melted, lightly dust it with flour or cornstarch.” —Elise Bauer, Simply Recipes Founder

Copycat Ronto Wraps

“Simplify this recipe with store-bought sauces, dressings, and coleslaw mix. Opt for ranch, sriracha mayo, aioli, or any zesty cream-based dressing, and use your favorite vinaigrette or coleslaw dressing for the slaw.” —Coco Morante, Simply Recipes Contributor

Creamy White Beans and Greens

“Any canned white bean works well here, but I find that cannellini or butter beans have a particularly nice, creamy texture that’s perfect for this dish.” —Devan

Garlic Knot Salmon

“Make sure to fully thaw frozen salmon fillets, ideally overnight in the refrigerator, and pat them dry before seasoning and baking.” —Laurel

Fried Egg Tacos

“Consider adding more substantial toppings like crispy bacon, sautéed onions, some guacamole, or a dollop of crema sauce.” —Nick Evans, Simply Recipes Contributor

Honey Soy Chicken