American cuisine is as diverse as its people, offering a wide array of main dishes that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage and regional flavors. From hearty comfort foods like chicken and pot pies to coastal favorites like salmon, these dishes showcase the unique blend of traditions that define American cooking. No matter what you’re craving, these 18 iconic American main dishes have something to satisfy every palate.

Baked Trout Fillets

Baked Trout Fillets. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Simple yet satisfying, these baked trout fillets highlight the natural flavors of the fish with a little seasoning and a perfect bake. Pair it with a light salad or roasted veggies for an easy, wholesome meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Trout Fillets

Chicken Peppers Onion and Rice

Chicken Peppers Onion and Rice. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

This dish brings together juicy chicken, colorful peppers, and perfectly cooked rice for a one-pan meal that’s full of flavor. A little seasoning goes a long way in making this a household favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Peppers Onion and Rice

Chicken Pie

Chicken Pie. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Think creamy, savory filling wrapped in a flaky crust that melts in your mouth. This chicken pie is the coziest dish when you’re craving something warm and hearty.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pie

Chicken with Red Wine Vinegar and Tomatoes

Chicken with Red Wine Vinegar and Tomatoes. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

A tangy twist on your typical chicken dish! This recipe combines red wine vinegar and tomatoes to create a rich, flavorful sauce that complements the tender chicken perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Red Wine Vinegar and Tomatoes

Crispy Chicken with Garlic Panko Crust

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

Crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this crispy chicken gets an upgrade with a garlicky panko crust. It’s simple, delicious, and sure to please everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chicken with Garlic Panko Crust

Air Fryer Almond Crusted Chicken

Air Fryer Almond Crusted Chicken. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Nutty, crispy, and full of flavor, this air fryer almond-crusted chicken is healthy, quick, and absolutely satisfying. Serve it with a side of veggies for a balanced meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Almond Crusted Chicken

Air Fryer Chicken Burger

Air Fryer Chicken Burger. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Juicy, flavorful chicken patties cooked to perfection in the air fryer and served on a bun with all your favorite toppings. These burgers are a fun, lighter twist on a classic.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Burger

Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

A plate of pork chops stuffed with mushrooms and cheese served with green beans.
Baked Stuffed Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These pork chops are packed with a savory stuffing that makes every bite hearty and flavorful. Bake them to tender perfection for a dinner that feels fancy but is easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

Blackened Cod

Blackened cod served with tri color quinoa.
Blackened Cod. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Seasoned with bold spices and cooked to golden perfection, blackened cod brings a kick of flavor that’s perfect for seafood lovers. Add a squeeze of lemon to really bring it to life.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Cod

Chicken Pot Pie

Small serving of chicken pot pie casserole on plate with fork.
Chicken Pot Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This classic is packed with a creamy chicken and veggie filling, all topped with a flaky crust. It’s the ultimate comfort food that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

Honey Mustard Salmon

Honey mustard salmon with a glossy glaze, garnished with herbs and served with lemon wedges on a white plate.
Honey Mustard Salmon. Photo credit: Quick Prep Recipes.

This salmon dish is a sweet and tangy masterpiece! The honey mustard glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a dish that’s as tasty as it is healthy.
Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Salmon

Oven Pulled Pork

Oven Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Slow-cooked in the oven until it’s juicy and tender, this pulled pork is full of smoky, savory flavor. Whether in a sandwich or on its own, it’s a guaranteed winner.
Get the Recipe: Oven Pulled Pork

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

One pan, endless flavors! This dish brings savory sausage and roasted veggies together for a quick, no-fuss dinner that’s perfect for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage Mac and Cheese

A bowl of macaroni and cheese with sausage and parsley.
Sausage Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Creamy mac and cheese gets a savory boost from chunks of flavorful sausage. Think comfort food leveled up!
Get the Recipe: Sausage Mac and Cheese

Veggie Burger

A homemade veggie burger in a bun, on a wooden plate, ready to eat.
Veggie Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These veggie burgers prove that plant-based doesn’t mean boring. Packed with hearty ingredients and bold flavors, they’ll satisfy even the most die-hard burger fans.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Burger

Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce

A plate with steak, tomatoes and cucumbers on it.
Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Perfectly cooked steak paired with earthy mushrooms and a tangy balsamic sauce. This dish is indulgent, rich, and downright delicious.
Get the Recipe: Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce

Instant Pot Ham

Sliced ham with oranges and mint.
Instant Pot Ham. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re looking for a savory and hassle-free way to prepare ham, this Instant Pot recipe is just the thing! Perfectly juicy with a rich glaze, this dish packs flavor into every bite without requiring hours of effort in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Ham

Lemon Garlic Scallops

Scallops with parsley and garlic in a skillet.
Lemon Garlic Scallops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These buttery Lemon Garlic Scallops are as simple as they are delicious! With a bright citrusy kick and a hint of garlic, they’re a quick yet impressive option for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Scallops

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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