Top 10 Easy Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Did you know the average person spends over 200 hours cooking yearly? For busy weeknights, finding quick, easy meals is essential to save time and energy. A few simple recipes can turn stressful evenings into relaxed, delicious dinners. In this article, discover 10 easy recipes to help you cook smarter, eat better, and enjoy your evenings.

1. BBQ chicken burgers

Here\u2019s a simple recipe to make delicious BBQ chicken burgers at home:

Ingredients:

1 lb (450g) ground chicken
1/3 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for topping)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
4 burger buns
Lettuce, tomato slices, onion rings, and cheese (optional toppings)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the mixture:

In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, BBQ sauce, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.

2. Shape the patties:

Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape into burger patties.

3. Preheat the grill or pan:

Heat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly grease with oil to prevent sticking.

4. Cook the patties:

Place the patties on the grill or skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165\u00b0F or 74\u00b0C). Brush extra BBQ sauce on the patties during the last few minutes for added flavor.

5. Toast the buns:

Lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster for extra crunch.

6. Assemble the burgers:

Layer the bottom bun with lettuce, a BBQ chicken patty, tomato slices, onion rings, and cheese if desired. Add more BBQ sauce on top and finish with the top bun.

7. Serve:

Serve your BBQ chicken burgers hot with a side of fries, salad, or coleslaw.

Enjoy your homemade BBQ chicken burgers!

2. Thai prawn fried rice

Here’s an easy recipe to make flavorful Thai prawn fried rice:

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked jasmine rice (day-old rice works best)
12-15 large prawns, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp vegetable oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, chopped
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, or corn)
3 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp ground white pepper (optional)
2 green onions, sliced
Lime wedges and fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the rice:

Break up the cooked jasmine rice with a spoon or fork to remove any clumps.

2. Cook the prawns:

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the prawns and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until pink and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

3. Suat\u00e9 the aromatics:

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the wok. Stir-fry the garlic and onion until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

4. Scramble the eggs:

Push the garlic and onion to the side of the wok. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until just set.

5. Combine ingredients:

Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for another minute. Toss in the cooked rice, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and white pepper. Mix everything well, ensuring the rice is evenly coated.

6. Add prawns and green onions:

Return the prawns to the wok and toss everything together. Stir in the green onions and cook for another minute.

7. Serve:

Plate the fried rice and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Squeeze lime juice over the top before eating for a zesty flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Thai prawn fried rice!

3. Tuna, zucchini and rice salad

Here’s a simple recipe for a healthy and delicious tuna, zucchini, and rice salad:

Ingredients:

1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or basmati)
1 can tuna in water or oil, drained
1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced or grated
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice:

If you haven’t already, cook the rice according to the package instructions. Let it cool to room temperature.

2. Prepare the zucchini:

If using raw zucchini, grate it or slice it thinly. For a softer texture, saut\u00e9 the zucchini in a little olive oil for 2-3 minutes until tender.

3. Mix the dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.

4. Combine the ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, tuna, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh parsley or basil.

5. Add the dressing:

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to combine. Adjust seasoning if needed.

6. Chill and serve:

Let the salad chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Enjoy this refreshing tuna, zucchini, and rice salad as a light lunch or dinner!

4. 10-minute Thai beef salad

Here’s a quick and easy recipe for a delicious 10-minute Thai beef salad:

Ingredients:

300g (10 oz) beef steak (sirloin or ribeye works best)
1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
For the Dressing:
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sugar
1 red chili, finely chopped (optional)
1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Prepare the beef:

Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear for 2-3 minutes per side (medium-rare) or to your preferred doneness. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

2. Make the dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, chili, and garlic until the sugar dissolves.

3. Assemble the salad:

In a large bowl, combine salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, mint, and cilantro.

4. Add the beef and dressing:

Place the sliced beef on top of the salad. Drizzle the dressing over everything and toss gently to combine.

5. Serve:

Plate the salad immediately and enjoy its fresh, tangy flavors.

This Thai beef salad is perfect for a light, flavorful meal in just 10 minutes!

5. Sandwich

Here’s a simple recipe to make a classic sandwich at home:

Ingredients:

2 slices of bread (white, whole wheat, or sourdough)
2-3 slices of deli meat (turkey, ham, or chicken)
1 slice of cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or your favorite)
Lettuce leaves
2-3 slices of tomato
1-2 slices of cucumber (optional)
1-2 tsp mayonnaise or mustard (or both)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the bread:

Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise, mustard, or your preferred spread on one side of each slice of bread.

2. Layer the fillings:

Place lettuce on one slice of bread. Add the deli meat, cheese, tomato slices, and cucumber if using.

3. Top it off:

Place the second slice of bread on top, spread-side down.

4. Cut and serve:

Use a sharp knife to cut the sandwich in half or quarters. Serve it with chips, a pickle, or a side salad. This quick and customizable sandwich is perfect for lunch or a light meal!

6. Pan-cooked pizza

Here’s a simple recipe for a delicious pan-cooked pizza you can make at home:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp instant yeast
½ tsp salt
½ cup warm water
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Toppings:

1/2 cup pizza sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Your favorite toppings (pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:

In a bowl, mix flour, yeast, and salt. Add warm water and olive oil, then knead until smooth. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes.

2. Prepare the Pan:

Lightly oil a non-stick frying pan or skillet and preheat it on medium heat.

3. Roll the Dough:

Roll out the dough into a circle slightly smaller than your pan. Place the dough in the pan and cook on one side for 2-3 minutes, until lightly golden.

4. Add Toppings:

Flip the dough. Spread pizza sauce on the cooked side. Add cheese and your preferred toppings.

5. Cook the Pizza:

Cover the pan with a lid to trap the heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes on low heat until the cheese melts and the crust is golden and crispy.

6. Serve:

Remove the pizza from the pan, slice, and enjoy your homemade pan-cooked pizza!

This method gives you a crispy crust and is perfect when you don’t have an oven!

7. Chicken and beetroot wrap

Here’s a simple recipe to make a delicious chicken and beetroot wrap:

Ingredients:

2 large tortilla wraps
1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or sliced)
1/2 cup cooked or pickled beetroot (thinly sliced or grated)
1/2 cup lettuce leaves (shredded)
1/4 cup grated carrot
2 tbsp hummus or mayonnaise
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the base:

Spread hummus or mayonnaise evenly over each tortilla wrap.

2. Layer the fillings:

Add lettuce, chicken, beetroot, and grated carrot on top of the spread. Sprinkle it with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

3. Wrap it up:

Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it tightly from one end to the other to secure the fillings.

4. Slice and serve:

Cut the wrap in half for easy eating. Serve immediately or wrap in foil for later.

This chicken and beetroot wrap is a healthy, colorful, and quick meal option!

8. Cheese and tomato omelette

Here’s an easy recipe for a delicious cheese and tomato omelette:

Ingredients:

2 large eggs
2 tbsp milk (optional, for fluffiness)
1/4 cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
1/4 cup diced tomatoes
1 tbsp butter or oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (optional, like parsley or chives)

Instructions:

1. Whisk the eggs:

In a bowl, beat the eggs with milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.

2. Prepare the pan:

Heat butter or oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.

3. Cook the eggs:

Pour the egg mixture into the pan and let it cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges start to set.

4. Add the fillings:

Sprinkle cheese and tomatoes evenly over one half of the omelette.

5. Fold the omelette:

Using a spatula, gently fold the omelette in half to cover the fillings. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts.

6. Serve:

Slide the omelette onto a plate and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm.

Enjoy your quick and tasty cheese and tomato omelette! Perfect for breakfast or a light meal.

9. Veg noodles

Here’s a quick and simple recipe for delicious veg noodles:

Ingredients:

200g (7 oz) noodles (any type, like Hakka or instant)
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, cabbage, broccoli, etc.), thinly sliced
2 tbsp oil
2-3 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp chili sauce (optional)
1 tbsp vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the noodles:

Boil the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and toss with a little oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the vegetables:

Heat oil in a wok or large pan over high heat. Add garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds. Add onions and cook until slightly translucent.

3. Add the vegetables:

Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. Keep them crunchy.

4. Add sauces and noodles:

Add soy sauce, chili sauce, and vinegar to the pan. Mix well. Add the cooked noodles and toss everything together to coat evenly.

5. Season and serve:

Adjust salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

This veg noodles recipe is quick, flavorful, and perfect for a light meal or snack!

10. Mexican black bean salad

Here’s a quick and easy recipe for a flavorful Mexican black bean salad:

Ingredients:

1 can (400g) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (canned, frozen, or fresh)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 small avocado, diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Dressing:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the vegetables:

In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and cilantro.

2. Make the dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Toss the salad:

Pour the dressing over the salad. Gently toss everything together to coat evenly.

4. Chill and serve:

Refrigerate the salad for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.

This Mexican black bean salad is refreshing, nutritious, and perfect as a side dish or light meal!

FAQs about Recipes for Busy Weeknights:

1. How can I meal prep for weeknight dinners?

Chop vegetables, marinate proteins, or cook staples like rice and pasta in advance to save time.

2. What are healthy recipes I can make in under 30 minutes?

Try grilled chicken salads, veggie wraps, quinoa bowls, or quick soups with pre-cut ingredients.

3. What kitchen tools make cooking faster on weeknights?

Use tools like slow cookers, pressure cookers, or air fryers to speed up meal preparation.

4. How can I make weeknight meals kid-friendly?

Opt for simple dishes like spaghetti, homemade pizzas, or quesadillas with customizable toppings.

5. What are some vegetarian recipes for busy nights?

Consider stir-fried veggies with tofu, lentil curries, vegetable fajitas, or pasta with marinara sauce.

Conclusion:

Did you know most home cooks spend over an hour deciding dinner? These 10 easy recipes save time and reduce stress while delivering delicious meals. Busy weeknights don’t have to mean boring food. Explore these quick options, and enjoy flavorful dishes with minimal effort. Start cooking smarter today and transform your evenings into a breeze!