10 Time-Saving and Easy Dinner Recipes for Family Meals

Planning and preparing dinner during a busy week can feel overwhelming, especially when you're short on time and energy. That’s why it helps to have a few easy dinner recipes for the family. The kind of meals that come together quickly, taste great, and keep everyone at the table happy.

These dinner ideas are simple to make, use everyday ingredients, and don’t require much prep. Whether you're cooking for picky eaters or just want something stress-free after a long day, these recipes bring both comfort and convenience.

In this post, you’ll find easy dinner recipes for family, helpful prep tips, and ways to make the most of what’s already in your kitchen without adding extra work.

1. Chicken Machboos (Emirati Spiced Chicken and Rice)

Chicken machboos is a well-loved dish known for its comforting flavours and hearty ingredients. Similar in style to chicken biryani, it features tender chicken cooked in a spiced broth, with loomi (dried lemon) adding a distinct tang. The blend of spices is rich yet familiar, and when served with basmati rice, it becomes a satisfying one-pot meal. 

It's also a simple way to explore traditional flavours in a dish that appeals to various palates, and it’s one of those easy dinner recipes for family that brings both comfort and flavour to the table.

Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs
• 2 cups basmati rice
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 dried black lime
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Directions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot; sauté onion until golden.
2. Add garlic, tomato paste, and spices. Stir well.
3. Add chicken and brown on both sides.
4. Pour in broth and add loomi. Simmer for 25 minutes.
5. Stir in rinsed rice. Cover and cook on low until rice is done (about 20 minutes).
6. Fluff rice and serve warm.

Perfect for this dish: The Elica LHOV Oven's precise heat distribution ensures your salmon and vegetables roast evenly and come out tender and flavorful every time.

2. Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Creamy garlic shrimp pasta is a flavorful dish that’s simple to prepare at home. Made with shrimp, garlic, cream, and parmesan, it comes together quickly and results in a rich, satisfying sauce. As one of those easy dinner recipes for family, it’s a popular choice for busy evenings and pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread.

Yield: Serves 3

Ingredients:

• 250g pasta (penne or linguine)
• 300g shrimp (peeled)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup cooking cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Chopped parsley

Directions:

1. Cook pasta according to package; drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a pan; sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink.
4. Pour in cream; stir in parmesan and cook until smooth.
5. Add pasta to the sauce; toss to coat.
6. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Ideal for quick cooking: The Foster 8211 000 Wok Pan heats up quickly and spreads heat evenly, making it ideal for fast stir-frying that keeps your ingredients flavorful and crisp.

3. Arabic-Style Chicken Shawarma Wraps

Homemade shawarma is a versatile and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and customise. This version features yoghurt-marinated chicken, grilled until tender, then wrapped in pita with your choice of fresh toppings. It’s one of those easy dinner recipes for family that works well for casual meals, and any leftovers can be used in salads or packed for lunch.

Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 500g boneless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup plain yoghurt
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• Salt and pepper
• 4 pita breads
• Lettuce
• Tomato and Cucumber
• Garlic sauce or tahini

Directions:

1. Mix yoghurt, lemon, garlic, and spices in a bowl.
2. Add chicken, coat well, and marinate for at least 1 hour.
3. Grill or pan-fry chicken until cooked through.
4. Slice the bread into strips and warm it.
5. Fill with chicken, fresh veggies, and sauce.
6. Serve wraps immediately.

4. Lentil Soup with Khubz

This simple and comforting soup is a popular choice during cooler months or special occasions. Made with red lentils, carrots, and a blend of warm spices, it offers a nutritious and budget-friendly meal that’s satisfying on its own. Serve it with warm Arabic bread (khubz) and a squeeze of lemon for a well-rounded and wholesome dish everyone can enjoy.

Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils
• 1 carrot (diced)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cups vegetable broth or water
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Lemon wedges 
• Khubz (Arabic bread)

Directions:

1. Heat oil in a pot; sauté onion, carrot, and garlic until softened.
2. Stir in cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add lentils and broth (bring to a boil).
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes.
5. Blend slightly for a smoother texture (optional).
6. Serve with lemon and warm khubz.

5. Baked Kofta Meatballs with Tomato Sauce

Kofta meatballs are a flavorful and comforting option that's easy to enjoy any night of the week. This oven-baked version keeps things simple and lighter without the need for frying. As one of those easy dinner recipes for family, it’s served with a rich tomato sauce and paired with rice or flatbread, a satisfying meal that brings familiar flavours to the table with minimal effort.

Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 500g minced beef or lamb
• 1 small onion (grated)
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 200°C.
2. Mix meat, onion, parsley, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Form into meatballs and place in a baking dish.
4. Pour tomato sauce over meatballs and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until cooked through.
6. Serve with rice or flatbread.

Ideal for even baking: The Foster Built-In Electric Oven's spacious interior and reliable temperature control make it perfect for baking kofta meatballs evenly, keeping them juicy while the tomato sauce simmers gently.

6. Chickpea and Potato Curry

When you want something quick, nourishing, and full of flavour, this chickpea and potato curry is a great choice. Using everyday ingredients and minimal prep, it delivers big on comfort without much effort. It’s a comforting option that fits right in with other easy dinner recipes for family, especially when served with rice or warm paratha.

Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 2 medium potatoes (cubed)
• 1 can of chickpeas (drained)
• 2 tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp chilli powder
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (for flavour)
• Fresh coriander

Directions:

1. Heat oil; sauté onion and garlic until soft.
2. Add tomatoes and cook until broken down.
3. Stir in spices, then add potatoes and chickpeas.
4. Add a splash of water and cover. Simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Garnish with coriander. Serve with rice or bread.

7. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a tasty and colourful way to put together a complete meal. Filled with a flavorful mix of minced meat, rice, and spices, then baked until tender, they’re an excellent option for a no-fuss dinner. If you’re looking for easy dinner recipes for family, this one’s a great pick. The best part? You can easily switch up the filling based on what you have on hand, making this a versatile recipe that’s easy to enjoy again and again.

Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers
• 250g ground beef or chicken
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp mixed spices
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and core.
3. Sauté onion, garlic, and meat until cooked.
4. Stir in rice and spices. Season to taste.
5. Stuff each pepper with the filling.
6. Place in a baking dish, drizzle with oil, and bake for 25–30 minutes.
7. Add cheese on top (if using) and bake for 5 more minutes.

Essential for baking: The Elica VIRTUS MULTI 90 TFT provides even heat and consistent temperatures, ideal for baking stuffed peppers until tender with slightly caramelised tops.

8. Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Bake

This creamy baked dish brings together tender chicken and mushrooms in a rich, flavorful sauce, finished with a light cheesy topping and crisp breadcrumbs. It’s hearty, easy to make, and just right for nights when you want something warm and satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. If you’re searching for easy dinner recipes for family, this one will quickly become a favourite.

Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 500g chicken breast (cubed)
• 1 cup mushrooms (sliced)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup cooking cream
• 1/2 cup grated cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C.
2. Sauté onion, garlic, and chicken until lightly browned.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until soft.
4. Stir in cream, season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer to a baking dish; top with cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

9. Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa

A quick and fun meal the whole family can get involved in, beef tacos are easy to customise with your favourite toppings. Using simple spices and ground beef, this recipe comes together fast and works well for casual dinners or taco nights. It’s also perfect if you’re after easy dinner recipes for family that everyone will enjoy.

Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 500g ground beef
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 8 small soft or hard taco shells
• Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheese, sour cream
• Fresh salsa or guacamole

Directions:

1. Sauté onion and garlic in a pan until soft.
2. Add ground beef, cook until browned, then stir in spices. Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes.
3. Warm the taco shells in the oven or on a pan.
4. Fill each taco with beef and desired toppings.
5. Serve with salsa and enjoy!

10. Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

This Asian-inspired stir-fry features tender chicken and crisp vegetables tossed in a savoury-sweet teriyaki sauce. It’s fast, healthy, and great served over rice or noodles. Perfect for using what’s already in your fridge, and ideal if you’re looking for easy dinner recipes for family that are both delicious and quick to make.

Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts (sliced thinly)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Cooked white rice (for serving)

Directions:

1. Mix soy sauce, honey, vinegar, and sesame oil to make the sauce.
2. In a hot wok, stir-fry the chicken in oil until it is cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Add more oil if needed; stir-fry vegetables until tender-crisp.
4. Return chicken to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir well. Add cornstarch (mixed with water) for a thicker glaze if desired.
5. Serve hot over rice.

Make Family Dinners Effortless with MVP Appliances

Preparing easy and delicious dinners for your family does not have to be a challenge, even on your busiest days. With the right kitchen appliances, you can simplify cooking, save time, and still serve meals that everyone loves. Whether it is roasting, baking, grilling, or stir-frying, MVP Appliances offers a wide range of high-quality equipment designed to meet your every need, making it easier than ever to create easy dinner recipes for family any night of the week.

From the precise heat control that’s perfect for roasting and baking to the versatility needed for everyday cooking, freestanding cookers and ovens combine reliability, style, and functionality, making them ideal for preparing easy dinner recipes for family and a wide range of meals in any kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I plan simple and nutritious dinners for my family during busy weekdays?

Planning simple and nutritious dinners involves choosing recipes that use common ingredients, require minimal prep, and can be cooked quickly. Meals like baked kofta meatballs, creamy pastas, and one-pot rice dishes are great options that balance flavour, health, and convenience, making weeknight cooking stress-free.

Which kitchen appliances make cooking family dinners faster and easier?

Appliances like the Elica Oven, Foster Induction Wok Pan, and Foster Grill Pan help speed up meal preparation. The Elica Oven offers even heat for roasting and baking, while the Foster Wok and Grill Pans provide quick, precise heat for stir-frying and grilling, making weeknight cooking more efficient.

How can I use my oven to make family meals more convenient?

Using an oven with precise temperature control, like the Elica Oven, lets you roast, bake, and keep meals warm without constant monitoring. You can prepare dishes like stuffed bell peppers, casseroles, and baked meatballs ahead of time, freeing you to focus on other tasks.

What are some healthy dinner ideas that kids will enjoy?

Healthy dinners that appeal to kids often include familiar flavours with a nutritious twist, such as creamy garlic shrimp pasta, chicken shawarma wraps, and lentil soup with khubz. These dishes balance taste and wholesome ingredients to keep your family happy and well-fed.

Where can I buy reliable kitchen appliances in the UAE?

MVP Appliances offers a wide selection of top-quality kitchen equipment, including freestanding cookers, ovens, induction pans, and grill pans. Their products combine modern design with durability, making them ideal for UAE households looking to upgrade their kitchens.