10 Delicious and Easy-to-Make Recipes for Busy Weeknights

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Weeknights can often be a whirlwind of work, errands, and family activities, leaving little time for preparing elaborate meals. But just because you’re short on time doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or nutrition. These 10 easy-to-make recipes are perfect for busy weeknights—quick to prepare, satisfying, and full of delicious ingredients that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting dinner or a fresh, light meal, these recipes are here to save the day.

1. One-Pan Baked Chicken Fajitas

This one-pan wonder combines all the flavors of chicken fajitas without the fuss. Simply toss chicken strips, bell peppers, onions, and fajita seasoning in olive oil, then bake everything on a sheet pan for 25 minutes. Serve with tortillas and your favorite toppings, like guacamole, sour cream, and salsa, for an easy, flavorful dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
  • 2 bell peppers, sliced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 tbsp fajita seasoning
  • Olive oil
  • Tortillas, guacamole, and salsa (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. On a sheet pan, toss chicken, peppers, and onions with olive oil and fajita seasoning.
  3. Bake for 25 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked.
  4. Serve in warm tortillas with your choice of toppings.
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2. Quick Veggie Stir-Fry

Packed with colorful vegetables and a savory sauce, this veggie stir-fry comes together in just 15 minutes. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or add tofu, chicken, or shrimp for a protein boost. Serve over brown rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas, etc.)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp honey
  • Cooked rice or noodles

Instructions:

  1. Heat sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add vegetables and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  4. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
  5. Serve over rice or noodles.

3. 30-Minute Beef and Broccoli

This classic beef and broccoli dish is made in less time than it takes to order takeout! Thinly sliced beef cooks quickly in a savory garlic sauce, and the broccoli is perfectly tender. Serve it over steamed rice for a complete, satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and a splash of water.
  2. Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add sliced beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add broccoli and garlic, then pour in the sauce. Stir to combine.
  5. Simmer for 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens and broccoli is tender.
  6. Serve with steamed rice.