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Here’s the deal: this meal plan is for those nights when you’re just not in the mood to cook but still want a great dinner on the table. Five easy, no-fuss meals with basic ingredients and under 30 minutes of hands-on time. Nothing fancy, just straightforward meals that taste good without a lot of work.

You’ve got two grocery lists — one organized by category (produce, dairy, etc.) if you’re following the full plan, and one by recipe if you’re not planning to make all 5 meals. I’ve also included an optional prep guide with steps for prepping veggies, sauces, and proteins in advance to save time during the week. Use it if it’s helpful, but each meal is straightforward enough to skip it if needed.

These dinners serve 4-6 people (check each recipe for exact yields). Adjust the quantities up or down based on how many you’re feeding — every family’s size and appetite is different, so make it work for you.

-Bailey

DINNER #1: chicken noodle soup

Classic comfort in a bowl. This simple chicken noodle soup is everything you want: tender chicken, flavorful broth, and noodles that soak it all up. Perfect for a quick dinner and makes great leftovers.

Serve with: crusty bread, a green salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches

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DINNER #2: cheesy chicken tacos​

Crispy, cheesy, and ridiculously satisfying, these chicken tacos deliver all the best things in every bite. Shredded chicken mixed with cream cheese, sour cream, and green chiles gets stuffed into butter-crisped tortillas that stay golden and crunchy.

Serve with: salsa, guacamole, or a simple bean and corn salad on the side

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DINNER #3: swedish meatballs with mashed potatoes​

These tender, savory Swedish meatballs are smothered in a creamy, rich gravy that tastes like it simmered for hours. Quick to make in the Instant Pot, but don’t worry—there are easy stovetop instructions if you don’t have one.

Serve with: a side of roasted veggies, a green salad, or pickled cucumbers

DINNER #4: mini cheeseburger sliders​

These mini cheeseburger sliders are a quick win—tender beef, melty cheese, and a creamy burger sauce that elevates everything. Perfect for nights when you need something easy and crowd-pleasing.

Serve with: air-fried frozen French fries, fresh fruit, or veggie sticks with dip

DINNER #5: honey bourbon chicken with rice​

This honey bourbon chicken is the perfect mix of sweet and savory, with a sticky sauce that clings to every bite. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an easy, one-pan meal that’s hard to resist.

Serve with: a side of roasted broccoli or sautéed green beans