Russian Food

25 Simple Weeknight Meals for Life After Christmas Ends

25 Simple Weeknight Meals for Life After Christmas Ends

When the holiday rush finally settles, weeknight dinners need to feel steady, familiar, and easy to manage. These meals focus on simple ingredients, realistic cooking times, and flavors that don’t demand extra effort after long days. Each recipe brings comfort without heaviness and structure without stress. This lineup is built for getting back into routine while still enjoying dinner.

25 Simple Weeknight Meals for Life After Christmas Ends
Baked Creamy Salmon. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Instant Pot Chicken and Peppers

A plate of chicken stir-fry with sliced carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms, garnished with cilantro and almond slices. A fork rests on the plate, and a yellow cloth is visible in the background.
Instant Pot Chicken and Peppers. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Instant Pot Chicken and Peppers is a quick stew built for weeknights. It takes about 30 minutes and uses chicken, bell peppers, tomatoes, and spices. The sauce thickens naturally as it cooks. The taste is savory and warming.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken and Peppers

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

A plate of glazed barbecue chicken drumsticks garnished with small parsley leaves. The chicken is coated in a shiny, dark sauce, suggesting a rich, flavorful marinade. The dish is arranged to highlight the crispy, caramelized skin.
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are a quick dinner with bold flavor. They take about 35 minutes and use chicken drumsticks and barbecue sauce. The air fryer crisps the skin while keeping the meat juicy. The taste is smoky and savory.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Lemon Air Fryer Salmon

Four grilled salmon fillets garnished with fresh dill and lemon slices are arranged on a white oval platter. The fillets are seasoned with herbs and pepper. The edge of a striped cloth and a serving of broccoli are partially visible.
Lemon Air Fryer Salmon. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Lemon Air Fryer Salmon is a fast protein-focused dinner with minimal prep. It takes about 15 minutes and uses salmon, lemon, and simple seasonings. The exterior cooks lightly crisp while the inside stays tender. The taste is bright and savory.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Air Fryer Salmon

Ajiaco Colombiano (Colombian Chicken and Potato Soup Recipe)

A bowl of ajiaco colombiano soup with chicken, corn on the cob, and avocado.
Ajiaco Colombiano (Colombian Chicken and Potato Soup Recipe). Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Ajiaco Colombiano (Colombian Chicken and Potato Soup Recipe) is a hearty, one-pot soup that feels grounding after busy seasons. It takes about 90 minutes and uses chicken, potatoes, corn, and fresh herbs as the main ingredients. The broth turns rich and comforting without being heavy. The flavor is savory, slightly herbal, and deeply satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Ajiaco Colombiano (Colombian Chicken and Potato Soup Recipe)

Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaf and Veggies

A baking sheet lined with foil holds three glazed meatloaf portions, surrounded by roasted sweet potato cubes and broccoli florets. A yellow and white towel is partially visible to the left.
Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaf and Veggies. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaf and Veggies is a complete dinner with easy cleanup. It takes about 40 minutes and uses ground meat, sweet potatoes, broccoli, and seasonings. The mini loaves cook evenly on one pan. The flavor is classic and savory.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaf and Veggies

Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

One stuffed pepper on platewith pot in background.
Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers are a dependable dinner that feels balanced and complete. They take about 60 minutes and use ground turkey, rice, herbs, and bell peppers. The filling stays moist as it bakes. The taste is savory, lightly seasoned, and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Creamy Citrus Chicken With Rosemary

A creamy citrus‑rosemary chicken thigh on a white plate.
Creamy Citrus Chicken With Rosemary. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Creamy Citrus Chicken With Rosemary is a comforting dinner with balanced brightness. It takes about 45 minutes and uses chicken, citrus, cream, and rosemary. The sauce stays smooth and coats the chicken well. The taste is tangy, savory, and mellow.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Citrus Chicken With Rosemary

Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls In A Tomato-Raisin Sauce

A glass baking dish filled with cabbage rolls topped with tomato sauce and raisins, set on a textured cloth.
Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls In A Tomato-Raisin Sauce. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls In A Tomato-Raisin Sauce are a hearty dinner meant for cooler nights. They take about 90 minutes and use cabbage, rice, vegetables, raisins, and tomato sauce. The rolls hold together well once cooked. The flavor is rich, tangy, and slightly sweet.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls In A Tomato-Raisin Sauce

Roasted Salmon On A Bed Of Apples And Potatoes

A plate featuring a serving of potatoes alongside cooked salmon, arranged appetizingly.
Roasted Salmon On A Bed Of Apples And Potatoes. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Roasted Salmon On A Bed Of Apples And Potatoes is a balanced dinner with built-in sides. It takes about 45 minutes and uses salmon, apples, potatoes, and spices. The apples soften and lightly caramelize during roasting. The taste is savory with subtle sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Salmon On A Bed Of Apples And Potatoes

1-Pot Pomegranate Chicken and Rice

A close-up of a dish featuring seasoned rice topped with cooked chicken pieces. The meal is garnished with fresh parsley, pomegranate seeds, and pistachios, served on a white plate.
1-Pot Pomegranate Chicken and Rice. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

1-Pot Pomegranate Chicken and Rice is a complete dinner made with minimal effort. It takes about 60 minutes and features chicken, rice, pomegranate molasses, spices, and nuts. The rice absorbs the cooking juices fully. The taste is savory with gentle tang.
Get the Recipe: 1-Pot Pomegranate Chicken and Rice

Easy 5-ingredient Crockpot Chicken and Rice

A bowl of creamy chicken stew garnished with chopped herbs and served with a spoon.
Easy 5-ingredient Crockpot Chicken and Rice. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Easy 5-ingredient Crockpot Chicken and Rice is a no-stress dinner for long days. It takes about 4 hours and uses chicken thighs, seasoned rice, and broth. Everything cooks together without extra steps. The flavor is mild, savory, and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Easy 5-ingredient Crockpot Chicken and Rice

Ground Beef Zucchini and Rice Casserole

A baked dish in a red casserole dish featuring layers of melted cheese, zucchini slices, and a seasoned meat mixture. The surface is lightly browned, garnished with chopped herbs.
Ground Beef Zucchini and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Ground Beef Zucchini and Rice Casserole is a dependable dinner with familiar flavors. It takes about 30 minutes and uses ground beef, rice, zucchini, and cheese. The casserole stays creamy without being heavy. The taste is savory and filling.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Zucchini and Rice Casserole

Slow Cooker Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creamy soup with vegetables and herbs in a white bowl, next to a spoon and a striped towel.
Slow Cooker Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Slow Cooker Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a steady dinner that cooks while you’re busy. It takes about 4 hours and uses chicken, gnocchi, broth, cream, and vegetables. The soup turns thick and comforting. The taste is rich and familiar.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken And Potatoes

Roasted chicken with parsley and potatoes on a plate.
Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken And Potatoes. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken And Potatoes is a hands-off dinner that feels familiar. It takes about 75 minutes and uses chicken, potatoes, buttermilk, and pantry spices. The chicken stays tender while the potatoes roast fully. The taste is savory with gentle tang.
Get the Recipe: Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken And Potatoes

Baked Feta Pasta

Side view of baked feta pasta on a plate.
Baked Feta Pasta. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Baked Feta Pasta is a low-effort dinner that delivers reliable comfort. It takes about 40 minutes and relies on feta cheese, tomatoes, pasta, olive oil, and herbs. The feta melts into a creamy sauce as it bakes. The taste is tangy, salty, and familiar.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken And Veggies

Hands holding paprika chicken and vegetables on a sheet pan.
Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken And Veggies. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken And Veggies is a straightforward dinner with minimal cleanup. It takes about 40 minutes and includes chicken, paprika, vegetables, and olive oil. Everything roasts together evenly on one pan. The flavor is savory with light smokiness.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken And Veggies

Barley, Kale And Romano Beans Soup

A bowl of barley soup with lemon wedges on a wooden table.
Barley, Kale And Romano Beans Soup. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Barley, Kale And Romano Beans Soup is a filling dinner that works well on slower weeknights. It takes about 60 minutes and combines barley, kale, Romano beans, lemon, and chipotle powder. The texture is hearty with plenty of chew from the grains. The taste is earthy with gentle smoky warmth and brightness.
Get the Recipe: Barley, Kale And Romano Beans Soup

Mujadara For One

Two mujaddara for one mugs.
Mujadara For One. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Mujadara For One is a single-serving dinner meant for quiet evenings. It takes about 25 minutes and combines lentils, rice, caramelized onions, and spices. The onions add depth and richness to the dish. The flavor is earthy, savory, and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Mujadara For One

Salmon Sheet Pan Casserole Recipe

A baking tray displays roasted cauliflower florets, lemon slices, and olives alongside a piece of salmon. A small bowl of olives and another with a dark sauce are placed nearby on a burlap-covered surface.
Salmon Sheet Pan Casserole Recipe. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Salmon Sheet Pan Casserole Recipe is a one-pan dinner that reheats well. It takes about 40 minutes and includes salmon, cauliflower, and a creamy sauce. Everything bakes together evenly. The flavor is rich and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Sheet Pan Casserole Recipe

Instant Pot Fish Soup

A blue bowl contains a soup with chunks of fish, carrots, and potatoes, garnished with fresh dill. The soup appears to have a clear broth base.
Instant Pot Fish Soup. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Instant Pot Fish Soup is a fast, warming dinner for cold evenings. It takes about 30 minutes and features fish, potatoes, tomatoes, and broth. The soup stays light but filling. The flavor is savory with gentle richness.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Fish Soup

Easy Weeknight Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara

A bowl of penne pasta topped with shredded meat and garnished with fresh basil leaves. A fork is placed in the bowl. Red tomatoes and additional fresh basil leaves are on the marble surface nearby.
Easy Weeknight Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Easy Weeknight Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara is a hands-off dinner for busy days. It takes about 4 hours and uses chicken, marinara sauce, garlic, and herbs. The chicken becomes tender as it cooks slowly. The flavor is rich and familiar.
Get the Recipe: Easy Weeknight Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara

Chicken Sausage And Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe

Close-up of roasted meatballs with a mix of colorful, chopped bell peppers and zucchini slices.
Chicken Sausage And Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Chicken Sausage And Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe is built for busy weeknights. It takes under 30 minutes and uses chicken sausage, zucchini, bell peppers, olive oil, and herbs. Everything cooks together without extra steps. The flavor is savory and lightly seasoned.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Sausage And Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe

Black Bean Tacos With Sweet Pepper Salsa

Two black bean tacos on wooden board.
Black Bean Tacos With Sweet Pepper Salsa. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Black Bean Tacos With Sweet Pepper Salsa offer a meatless dinner that still feels filling. They take about 30 minutes and use black beans, sweet peppers, tortillas, and basic seasonings. The beans provide hearty texture while the salsa adds freshness. The flavor is savory with a mild sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Tacos With Sweet Pepper Salsa

Instant Pot Chicken With Sweet Peppers

Instant Pot chicken with sweet peppers, carrots, herbs, and tomatoes on a white plate.
Instant Pot Chicken With Sweet Peppers. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Instant Pot Chicken With Sweet Peppers is a fast one-pot dinner with steady flavor. It takes about 30 minutes and includes chicken, bell peppers, tomatoes, and spices. The pressure cooker keeps everything tender. The taste is savory and lightly tangy.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken With Sweet Peppers

Baked Creamy Salmon

25 Simple Weeknight Meals for Life After Christmas Ends
Baked Creamy Salmon. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Baked Creamy Salmon is a sheet pan dinner that keeps things simple without sacrificing comfort. It takes about 30 minutes and features salmon, potatoes, garlic, cream, and butter. The sauce stays smooth and coats everything evenly. The flavor is savory, lightly garlicky, and mellow.
Get the Recipe: Baked Creamy Salmon

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