Looking for quick and delicious meal ideas? These 16 main course recipes are perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time. Each dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes or less, without sacrificing flavor or variety. From hearty pasta dishes to flavorful stir-fries, there’s something here to satisfy every craving and keep dinnertime stress-free!

Crispy Chicken with Garlic Panko Crust

Crispy Chicken with Garlic Panko Crust. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Juicy chicken coated in golden, crunchy garlic panko crumbs that deliver both texture and flavor. Serve it with a simple side salad or steamed veggies for an easy, wholesome meal.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chicken with Garlic Panko Crust

30-Minute Creamy Chicken Corn and Pasta

Creamy Chicken And Corn Pasta closeup partial of finished dish cropped horizontal.
30-Minute Creamy Chicken Corn and Pasta. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

This creamy pasta dish combines tender chicken, sweet corn, and a silky sauce for pure comfort in every bite. It’s hearty, filling, and ready faster than you think.
Get the Recipe: 30-Minute Creamy Chicken Corn and Pasta

Air Fryer Brats

Air fryer brats on buns with potato chips on the side.
Air Fryer Brats. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These air fryer brats cook up quickly with a crisp exterior and juicy center. Pair with sautéed onions or your favorite toppings for a casual yet tasty dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brats

Bacon Wrapped Salmon

Plate of salmon with bacon.
Bacon Wrapped Salmon. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Succulent salmon filets wrapped in crispy, smoky bacon for an irresistible combination of flavors. Pair it with roasted veggies or rice to round out the meal.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon

Baked Skillet Gnocchi

Gnocchi with ground pork, tomatoes, mozzarella and spinach in a cast iron skillet.
Baked Skillet Gnocchi. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Soft, pillowy gnocchi baked in a rich, cheesy tomato sauce that melts into every bite. Ultimate comfort food that’s so simple to make.
Get the Recipe: Baked Skillet Gnocchi

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Eggplant

Cheesy chicken stuffed eggplant on a baking sheet.
Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Eggplant. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Eggplant boats loaded with seasoned chicken, gooey cheese, and a blend of spices. It’s filling, satisfying, and brimming with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Eggplant

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Poblano peppers stuffed with chicken and cheese.
Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These poblano peppers are filled with smoky, cheesy, chicken goodness, offering the perfect creative twist on stuffed peppers.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Chicken Francese

A skillet filled with chicken francese garnished with chopped herbs, being stirred with a wooden spoon.
Chicken Francese. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Chicken breasts coated in a light, lemony sauce with a buttery note that feels fancy yet effortless. This Italian classic is perfect for a simple, elegant dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Francese

Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken (With Vegetables)

A white plate with rice topped with peanut chicken, garnished with chopped nuts and green onions, and a side of mixed vegetables including red peppers, carrots, and edamame. Chopsticks are on the side.
Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken (With Vegetables). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

This sweet and savory fusion dish pairs tender chicken and fresh veggies with a creamy peanut butter sauce, all tossed together for a satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken (With Vegetables)

Grilled Rockfish Tacos

Grilled rockfish tacos assembled on a blue board.
Grilled Rockfish Tacos. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Fresh rockfish with a hint of smoky char tucked into warm tortillas. Add tangy slaw or avocado for the perfect finishing touch.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Rockfish Tacos

Grilled Scallops with Lemon, Mint, and Pinot Grigio Sauce

Grilled scallops with a lemon, mint, and Pinot Grigio sauce.
Grilled Scallops with Lemon, Mint, and Pinot Grigio Sauce. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Seared scallops topped with a bright, citrusy sauce that’s perfect for making any day feel special. It’s a light yet satisfying seafood option.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Scallops with Lemon, Mint, and Pinot Grigio Sauce

Shrimp Lo Mein

Shrimp lo mein in a skillet with chopped green onions in a white bowl on the side.
Shrimp Lo Mein. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Juicy shrimp stir-fried with fresh veggies and saucy noodles in this takeout favorite that’s simple to recreate at home.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Lo Mein

Szechuan Beef

A bowl of rice topped with stir-fried beef and vegetables, with chopsticks. Green onions, a pot, and condiments are in the background.
Szechuan Beef. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Spicy, savory, and delightfully tingly, this Szechuan beef will wake up your taste buds in no time. Tender slices of beef pair beautifully with steamed rice.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Beef

Teriyaki Steak Bites

A bowl of rice topped with cubed steak bites in a brown sauce, garnished with sliced green onions and zucchini.
Teriyaki Steak Bites. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Small, caramelized bites of steak in a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze. These are perfect for pairing with rice or veggies for a satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Steak Bites

Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

This creamy walnut sauce coats pasta beautifully, giving you a nutty, rich flavor that’s perfect for quick Italian-inspired meals.
Get the Recipe: Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

Easy Hibachi Salmon Recipe -Japanese Steakhouse Style

Flavorful hibachi-style salmon on a plate with vegetables and lemon slices.
Easy Hibachi Salmon Recipe -Japanese Steakhouse Style. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Experience hibachi-style salmon at home with this buttery, flavorful recipe! Pair it with fried rice for a touch of steakhouse magic in under half an hour.
Get the Recipe: Easy Hibachi Salmon Recipe -Japanese Steakhouse Style

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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