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Dinner ideas

10 dinner recipes your kids are guaranteed to love

By Chef Emily Carter

Published: 23 May 2025

My kids? Picky eaters, to say the least. Anyone else feel that pain? Getting them to eat anything beyond chicken nuggets and fries felt like a Herculean task. But I'm a chef, darn it! I decided to wage war on picky eating... with deliciousness. So, I embarked on a mission to create dinners that even my most discerning little critics would devour. After countless experiments (and a few epic failures!), I've compiled a list of 10 dinner recipes that are now staples in our household. These aren't just meals; they're sanity savers. And I'm sharing them with you!

frustrated parent trying to feed a child | Image: Supplied

1. Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bowls

Query: cheesy chicken broccoli rice bowl

Okay, this one's a sneaky veggie win! I chop the broccoli super small so they barely notice it, and the cheesy sauce? Forget about it. They lap it up. It's basically comfort food with a healthy twist. And seriously, who doesn't love cheese? Feel free to sub in cauliflower if broccoli isnt' your thing. My youngest once said, 'Mom, this is better than mac and cheese!', which, let me tell you, is high praise indeed.

cheesy chicken broccoli rice bowl | Image: Supplied

2. Mini Meatball Subs

Query: kids eating mini meatball subs

These are always a hit! I use pre-made meatballs (shhh, don't tell!) to save time, and the kids love assembling their own subs. It's interactive, fun, and...relatively mess-free (okay, maybe not). I usually put out a bunch of different toppings like sliced bell peppers, olives, and shredded lettuce. Get creative and let 'em build their own masterpiece! Add a side of carrot sticks, and boom, you've got a balanced meal.

kids eating mini meatball subs | Image: Supplied

3. Taco Tuesday… Every Night!

Query: family taco night

Who says tacos are just for Tuesdays? Ground beef (or turkey!) seasoned with taco seasoning, all the fixings (cheese, lettuce, tomato, sour cream - the works!), and soft or hard shells. It's a customizable dream! And honestly, even the pickiest eaters can usually get behind tacos. I like to sneak in some finely diced zucchini or carrots into the meat mixture. It's our little secret!

family taco night | Image: Supplied

4. Pizza Quesadillas

Query: pizza quesadilla

Pizza + quesadilla = pure genius, if I do say so myself. Tortillas, pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and your kid's favorite pizza toppings. Grill 'em up until the cheese is melty and gooey. Cut into wedges, and watch 'em disappear! They are so good! My oldest adds pepperoni and mushrooms. I'll let ya'll know a little something: these are super easy and quick to make, which is great for a weeknight meal.

pizza quesadilla | Image: Supplied

5. Spaghetti & Meat Sauce with Hidden Veggies

Query: spaghetti meat sauce hidden veggies

The ultimate comfort food, elevated! This is my go-to when I need a guaranteed win. But here's the secret: I blend a bunch of veggies (carrots, spinach, zucchini) into the sauce. They'll never know! Serve with a side of garlic bread for extra deliciousness. I swear, you can throw almost any veggies in the sauce! It's the perfect way to get in their nutrition.

spaghetti meat sauce hidden veggies | Image: Supplied

6. Chicken Stir-Fry with Noodles

Query: kids eating chicken stir-fry with noodles

A healthy and flavorful option that's surprisingly easy to make. Chicken, veggies (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers), and noodles tossed in a sweet and savory sauce. I often use pre-cut veggies to save time, and the kids love the chewy noodles. Serve it over rice for a complete meal. Sometimes, I'll skip the noodles and add rice for something different.

kids eating chicken stir-fry with noodles | Image: Supplied

7. Baked Chicken Nuggets (Healthier!)

Query: homemade baked chicken nuggets

Okay, I know what you're thinking: chicken nuggets? But these are homemade and baked, not fried! I cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, coat them in breadcrumbs and seasonings, and bake them until golden brown and crispy. Way healthier than the store-bought version, and just as delicious. Serve with their favorite dipping sauce (ketchup, BBQ sauce, honey mustard) and some sweet potato fries. Sometimes, I'll add Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for a more cheesy flavor. The kids love it!

homemade baked chicken nuggets | Image: Supplied

8. Corn Dog Muffins

Query: corn dog muffins

These are a fun twist on a classic! Simply cut hot dogs into pieces and bake them in muffin tins with cornmeal batter. They're easy to make, portable, and the kids think they're awesome. Serve with ketchup and mustard for dipping. I've also added cheese to the batter for a little extra flavor. These are perfect for lunchboxes, too!

corn dog muffins | Image: Supplied

9. Mac & Cheese with a Twist

Query: kids eating mac and cheese

Mac & cheese is always a winner, but let's elevate it! I add shredded chicken or broccoli to the mac & cheese for extra protein and nutrients. You can also try adding different cheeses, like cheddar, Gruyère, or even a little bit of blue cheese for a more sophisticated flavor. Bake it in the oven with a breadcrumb topping for a crispy, golden crust. So good, I tell you!

kids eating mac and cheese | Image: Supplied

10. Breakfast for Dinner!

Query: breakfast for dinner family

Pancakes, waffles, eggs, bacon, sausage...who doesn't love breakfast for dinner? It's a fun and easy way to switch things up. I usually let the kids help me make the pancakes or waffles, which makes it even more special. Serve with fresh fruit and syrup for a complete meal. Sometimes, I get fancy and make French toast or breakfast burritos. Its all up to my mood!

breakfast for dinner family | Image: Supplied

These 10 recipes have been game-changers in our house, and I hope they'll be in yours too! Remember, don't be afraid to experiment and have fun in the kitchen. The most important thing is to create meals that your family will enjoy. And if all else fails, there's always pizza! Just kidding...mostly. Bon appétit! Tell me what you think!