5 Easy Delicious Recipes for Busy Cooks

With the hustle and bustle of modern life, many of us find ourselves pressed for time, especially when it comes to preparing meals. However, eating well does not need to be a time-consuming affair. Here, we present 5 easy and delicious recipes tailored for busy cooks. These meals are quick to make, yet satisfyingly flavorful, perfect for those evenings when time is at a premium.

1. One-Pot Lemon Herb Chicken

This dish is as simple as it gets - everything cooked in one pot means less cleanup and more time for you. Here’s what you need:

• 4 chicken thighs (skin-on, bone-in)
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, smashed
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)

To prepare:

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme.
2. Heat a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat and sear the chicken skin side down until golden brown.
3. Flip the chicken, add garlic and lemon slices, and pour in the chicken stock and wine. Let it come to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.

The result is juicy chicken with a bright, tangy flavor from the lemon and herbs. Serve with rice or a quick salad for a complete meal.

💡 Note: If you're avoiding alcohol, substitute the white wine with chicken stock for a non-alcoholic version.

2. Instant Pot Chili

For those days when you crave something hearty, the Instant Pot comes to the rescue with this straightforward chili recipe:

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 can (15 oz) of kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) of tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

To cook:

1. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode, brown the meat, and drain the fat.
2. Add all ingredients to the pot, mix well.
3. Close the lid, seal, and set on high pressure for 25 minutes. Natural release for 10 minutes.
4. Open the pot and stir before serving.

Top with cheese, sour cream, or avocado for added flavor. It's a warm, filling dish that requires minimal effort but provides maximum satisfaction.

3. Avocado and Egg Breakfast Sandwich

Start your day right with a quick and nutritious breakfast sandwich:

• 2 slices of whole-grain bread
• 1 avocado, mashed
• 2 eggs
• 1 slice of cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper

To assemble:

1. Toast the bread slices.
2. While bread toasts, scramble or fry the eggs in a pan.
3. Spread avocado on one slice of toasted bread, place eggs on top, add cheese if using, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Close the sandwich with the second slice of bread and serve immediately.

It's a heart-healthy option that keeps you full and energized.

🌱 Note: For an extra boost of flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mashed avocado.

4. Quick Veggie Fried Rice

Transform leftover rice into a fresh, flavorful meal:

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper

To make:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add garlic, stir-fry for 1 minute, then add vegetables and cook until just heated through.
3. Push the veggies to one side, pour in the egg, and scramble.
4. Mix in the rice, breaking up any clumps, then add soy sauce, green onions, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and heated.

This is an excellent way to repurpose leftovers and have a new meal in minutes.

5. No-Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bites

For a quick dessert or snack, try these no-bake bites:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

To prepare:

1. In a large bowl, mix together all ingredients until well combined.
2. Chill the mixture in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up.
3. Roll into 1-inch balls and store in the refrigerator.

These bites are perfect for a healthy treat on the go or as an energy booster.

In wrapping up this culinary journey, it’s clear that preparing tasty meals in a rush is not only possible but also delightful. These recipes are designed to fit into busy schedules, offering quick prep times with maximal flavor. The secret lies in using versatile ingredients, employing smart cooking techniques like one-pot meals or pressure cooking, and always having a few make-ahead options like the peanut butter bites.

With these dishes, you can keep your kitchen time short but your enjoyment long, ensuring that even the busiest cook can enjoy home-cooked meals without sacrificing quality or taste.

Can I prepare these recipes in advance?

+

Yes, many of these recipes can be prepared in advance or have components that can be made ahead. The Lemon Herb Chicken can be cooked and refrigerated for up to three days, reheating well for a quick meal. The Chili can also be made ahead and tastes even better the next day. No-Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bites are essentially ready to eat as soon as they’re made, perfect for snacks or dessert throughout the week.

What are some healthier ingredient swaps I can make?

+

For the Chili, consider using ground turkey instead of beef or skip the meat altogether for a vegetarian version. In the Avocado and Egg Sandwich, opt for whole-grain or gluten-free bread, and choose low-fat cheese. For the Oatmeal Bites, you can use natural peanut or almond butter instead of commercial peanut butter, and reduce or replace honey with dates or raisins for sweetness.

How can I modify the recipes to suit dietary restrictions?

+

These recipes are quite versatile. For gluten-free, use gluten-free oats and tamari instead of soy sauce. If you’re vegan, replace the eggs with a vegan substitute or omit them where possible, use flax eggs for binding in recipes like the Oatmeal Bites. For dairy-free, skip the cheese in the sandwiches or use vegan cheese. The chili is naturally dairy-free, just ensure your tomato products are as well.