What To Make For Dinner This Week

Today I’m sharing a small list of recipes I’ve had on my “to-make” list.

Many of these were shared with me by other moms in my family and community. These meals passed the test of being simple to make and enjoyed by their families. I’ve also added a few new favorites I’ve personally tried.

I hope this list makes your meal planning much easier this week - I used it for my own family’s plan!

We’re starting to have some warm days here in Chicago, but the general trend is still cool. Here’s a few warming recipes for chilly spring days.

Buffalo white chicken chili - This recipe has been recommended to me several times, and I finally got to try it when a friend made it for a recent gathering. It immediately earned a spot on my “to-make” list. The only potential challenge for families might be the spice level, but you can easily adjust that by using less hot sauce.

The best chicken soup - my girlfriends swear by this chicken soup recipe. With ginger and turmeric, it’s perfect when you are trying to kick a cold.

Turkey sweet potato chili - a favorite of mine that I’ve been making lately. It comes together so quickly and it’s fun for the family to choose their own toppings. I did the Instant Pot version and it’s the easiest meal I’ve made in awhile!

We all need more omega-3’s in our lives. Here are three flavorful ways to get it:

The best baked salmon - this is my sister-in-laws favorite salmon recipe. I recently tried it and agree that it’s a keeper. We served it with roasted potatoes and an avocado salad. With a slightly sweet breadcrumb topping, this salmon recipe is perfect for families. I also found it to be very quick to make.

Honey glazed salmon bowls - my other sister-in-law shared this recipe and says it’s a win in her house. Dial down the sriracha if needed.

Chipotle salmon with orange salsa - the salsa and sauce in this recipe look so good, and I love all the color! Another spicy one though, reduce or omit jalapeno as needed.

Sheet pan Greek chicken - this came together very quickly and was awesome served with noodles.

Southwest chopped chicken salad - keep the elements separate and have everyone choose what they want. Be aware of the chipotle pepper in the dressing and adjust as needed. I usually omit chipotle when a recipe calls for it. They usually come in a can that I never finish and its one more thing to figure out how to store.

Herby chicken thighs with potatoes - this recipe has become a new family favorite of ours! The sauce is amazing. We usually pair this recipe with steamed broccoli to get some more greens in. Smashed potatoes are great, but they are time intensive. To make this recipe easier, just chop and roast the potatoes in olive oil and salt.

Citrus chicken stir-fry - orange chicken vibes. I know my kids will like this because the sauce calls for sweet ingredients. I also love all the colorful vegetables the recipe calls for.

Creamy cajun chicken pasta - a one pot meal that looks flavorful, creamy, and comforting. To balance this dish out, I would pair it with a vegetable side like green peas or a salad.

Greek lemon chicken with potatoes - a long-standing family favorite of ours! Simple ingredients but a slightly longer cooking time - perfect for a Sunday dinner. We usually serve this with a salad or broccoli. Great for hosting too!

Almond butter cups - my friend has been trying to reduce the amount of processed foods in her house and has been using this recipe for a sweet treat. I’ve tried it several times subbing a granola butter by Oat Haus for our nut-allergy, and it was a family hit.

Meals I’ve saved or made recently just for me:)

Green curry soup - I can’t wait to try this one. It’s missing a protein so I think I’ll add in some tofu cubes, chicken, or if I’m really short on time, some unflavored whey protein.

Jennifer Anniston Salad - an all-in-one quinoa salad that feeds me several meals through the week. Sharing it here as a reminder to make for myself again soon.

Texas caviar - this delicious bean salad makes a big portion that works for several meals. I like to serve it with sloppy joes, enjoy as a snack, or serve some eggs on it for breakfast. If you want an easy way to increase your fiber and vegetable intake, this is it. Four out of five of my family members like this recipe too so its a win all around.

I love everything about nutrition, food, and cooking, but even I get tired of the constant chore of feeding others.

Those of you who send me recipes (you know who you are) - I’m so grateful for you! When I hit a lull, your suggestions keep me inspired and motivated.

In my experience as a mom, having a group (or groups) of women you can rely on is key to survival on all fronts.

Find the women who can share meal ideas, keep you motivated at the gym, or surprise you with a coffee after a tough week. Because mothering is so much easier when you’re not doing it alone.

Save a few of these recipes for the week ahead, and let it take one thing off your plate.

Until next time,

Natalie