I Didn’t Want To Plan, So I Relied On These 19 Easy Recipes

Planning can be exhausting, especially when it feels like everything else is already on fire. These 19 easy recipes came in handy when making decisions was just not on the to-do list. No charts, no meal maps, no guessing what pairs well with what. Just simple meals that don’t ask for much and still manage to get things done.

A savory dish of French Onion Soup, topped with melted cheese and garnished with sprigs of fresh thyme.
French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Cowboy Caviar

Close-up of a mixed salad with tomatoes, feta cheese, black beans, chickpeas, corn, cucumber, red onion, and parsley, being drizzled with dressing.
Cowboy Caviar. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

With Cowboy Caviar, you get a fresh, colorful dish that’s quick to toss together. It’s a go-to option for those days when cooking feels like a chore. Whether you eat it as a dip or a salad, it’s easy to pair with other meals. This recipe keeps things simple and lets you enjoy food without much planning.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Caviar

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Two pieces of fried chicken on a gray plate, garnished with small bits of green herbs.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Buttermilk Fried Chicken offers crispy, golden goodness with less work than you’d expect. It’s one of those recipes that’s reliable and always feels homey. The outside has a lovely crunch, while the meat stays juicy. Serve it up and watch it become an instant favorite.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Leek and Potato Soup

A bowl of creamy soup garnished with sautéed green onions and herbs.
Leek and Potato Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re looking for a comforting dish without overthinking, Leek and Potato Soup is a solid choice. It’s creamy, rich, and pairs well with a slice of bread on the side. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s both filling and easy to make. You’ll appreciate how quickly this one comes together.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Roasted chicken thigh with herbs, served on a bed of roasted vegetables.
Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

With Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe, you get a complete meal without juggling multiple pots and pans. The chicken cooks up wonderfully and the flavors come together effortlessly. Sheet pan meals make cleanup easier, which is always welcome. This simple recipe is great for days when life gets busy.
Get the Recipe: Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Cheese Grits

Creamy polenta in a skillet, topped with chopped herbs and black pepper, and stirred with a wooden spoon.
Cheese Grits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A comforting bowl of Cheese Grits is an ideal choice when you want something warm and easy. It’s creamy, cheesy, and comes together faster than you’d think. Perfect for breakfast or a side dish, this recipe fits into almost any meal plan. It’s simple, enjoyable, and always hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Grits

Chicken Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad topped with grilled chicken pieces, croutons, and grated cheese on a bed of romaine lettuce. Dressing is served on the side.
Chicken Caesar Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Chicken Caesar Salad balances fresh and filling in the easiest way possible. It’s a quick and versatile option for lunch or a light dinner. The chicken adds heartiness to the classic flavors, making it more enjoyable. When you need something simple but complete, this recipe’s got you covered.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad

Cheese Quesadilla

A person lifts a cheesy quesadilla slice from a wooden board. Nearby are bowls of guacamole and salsa on a light-colored table.
Cheese Quesadilla. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Everyone loves Cheese Quesadilla for its simplicity and quick prep time. It’s perfect as a snack or part of a meal and uses just a few ingredients. With a gooey center and crispy edges, it’s hard to go wrong. This is one of those recipes that’s perfect for any time you don’t feel like cooking much.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Quesadilla

Chicken Fried Rice

Close-up of chicken fried rice with peas, carrots, sliced green onions, and chopsticks.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

You can whip up Chicken Fried Rice in no time for a flavorful meal that’s ready fast. It’s a one-pan solution to take care of dinner without hassle. The mix of textures and hearty bites makes it a dependable pick for busy days. This recipe keeps things easy while still being enjoyable to eat.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Egg Bites

Egg Bites on a board with a little parsley on top.
Egg Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Egg Bites are easy to make and surprisingly versatile for breakfast or snacks. They’re fuss-free and work well for meal prep, saving you time during hectic mornings. Their bite-sized shape makes them convenient on the go. Whether fresh or reheated, these are a great way to start your day.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Hamburger Casserole

A close-up of a spoon lifting a portion of hamburger casserole, showcasing baked macaroni and cheese layered with ground meat and topped with lettuce and creamy sauce.
Hamburger Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

With Hamburger Casserole, dinner becomes a one-dish affair that’s simple to prepare. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with comforting flavors. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for later. It’s a great solution when you need something dependable without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bring together bold flavors in a dish that’s surprisingly easy to make with Italian Pasta with Salami. The pasta and salami complement each other so well, making each bite enjoyable. It’s ideal for lunch or dinner when you’re short on time but still want a flavorful meal. This dish feels both casual and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Korean Burgers

Close-up of a hamburger with a sesame seed bun, beef patty, green onions, and rich brown sauce.
Korean Burgers. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

You’ll love how Korean Burgers pack a ton of flavor without being complicated to make. They’re a fun spin on the classic burger, bringing something a little different to your plate. Perfect for a quick meal or even impressing friends, they’re simple but memorable. Burgers don’t have to be boring with this option.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

Kung Pao Chicken

A close-up of a stir-fry dish featuring pieces of chicken, snap peas, red bell peppers, scallions, and black sesame seeds.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you’re craving something with bold flavors, Kung Pao Chicken is a solid choice. It’s surprisingly straightforward to cook and pairs well with rice or noodles. The recipe gives you all the restaurant vibes but with minimal effort. It’s perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner plan.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Cowboy Casserole

Close-up of a cowboy casserole in a white dish, showing layers of ground meat and vegetables topped with a golden-brown mashed potato crust, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cowboy Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cowboy Casserole is a hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and great for family dinners. It combines lovely ingredients in a way that feels comforting and filling. Cleanup is minimal, making it even more appealing after a busy day. It’s one of those recipes you’ll turn to again and again.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Casserole

Easy Chow Mein

A close-up view of a plate of chow mein stir-fried noodles with vegetables and black sesame seeds, with chopsticks visibly picking up a portion.
Easy Chow Mein. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For something quick and enjoyable, Easy Chow Mein fits the bill. The noodles come together with simple ingredients to create a flavorful dish that works for lunch or dinner. It’s an easy way to make a restaurant-style meal at home. This recipe proves that great food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

Mediterranean Orzo Salad

A bowl of orzo salad with mixed vegetables, including olives, tomatoes, and spinach, garnished with herbs.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Mediterranean Orzo Salad brings fresh and bright flavors to your table without much effort. It’s the kind of recipe that feels refreshing and lovely in a nice balance. Great as a side dish or a light meal, you’ll enjoy the simplicity in every bite. This is a no-hassle option that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad

Marry Me Chicken Soup

A creamy pasta dish with spinach, shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and shell pasta, garnished with herbs.
Marry Me Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

With Marry Me Chicken Soup, you’ve got a comforting dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for moments when you want something warm and filling without much work. The ingredients come together effortlessly for a bowl that’s both smooth and hearty. This recipe is easy and dependable.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup

Mango Shrimp Salad

A bowl of shrimp ceviche with diced mango, avocado, red onion, red pepper, and cilantro, with a spoon inside.
Mango Shrimp Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

There’s something refreshing about Mango Shrimp Salad that makes it great for everyday meals. It combines vibrant textures in a way that feels effortless. Quick to prepare, it works well for lunch or dinner and feels complete on its own. This salad is a light yet lovely option for any meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

French Onion Soup

A savory dish of French Onion Soup, topped with melted cheese and garnished with sprigs of fresh thyme.
French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

French Onion Soup isn’t hard to prepare and ends up feeling rich and warm. It’s a reliable recipe that works well for a starter or a main dish with some bread on the side. The flavorful broth and onions merge perfectly in every spoonful. This recipe makes a satisfying dish without too much effort.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

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