Back-to-school season is upon us, which means homework, sports, and after-school activities, and that usually results in a busy new schedule shift. And when dinner time hits and the kids are tired, homework is piling up, and you’re juggling 100 things. If weeknight meals feel like chaos, you’re not alone. But good news: it doesn’t have to be that way.
These 12 back-to-school dinners are quick, low-fuss, and kid-friendly. Whether you're feeding picky eaters, tackling dinner solo, or looking for something you can prep ahead, this list has you covered. Let’s bring a little calm to your evening routine.
1. Sheet pan chicken fajitas
Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
Ready in: 35 minutes
Pro tip: Use pre-sliced peppers and/or fajita seasoning to save time.
2. Sausage baked ziti
Cheesy and saucy Italian pasta bake.
Ready in: 45 minutes
Pro-Tip: Sneak in spinach, zucchini, or even riced cauliflower.
3. Blackened broiled salmon or white fish
Seasoned to perfection and perfect with any side.
Ready in: 14 minutes
Pro-Tip: Serve with rice, potatoes, and veggies or a salad.
4. Teriyaki chicken
Kid-approved and meal-prep friendly.
Ready in: 20 minutes
Pro-Tip: Serve with microwaveable rice and frozen broccoli for a quick meal.
5. Sheet pan mini meatloaves
One-pan, freezer-friendly, and meal-prep suitable.
Ready in: 45 minutes
Pro-Tip: Kids love anything mini, and they reheat beautifully.
6. Penne alla vodka
A classic, crowd favorite pasta.
Ready in: 20 minutes
Pro-Tip: You can always leave out the vodka. Add some protein like chicken or Italian Sausage.
7. Chicken quesadillas
Warm, cheesy, done in 20 minutes.
Ready in: 20 minutes
Pro-Tip: Use rotisserie chicken for zero prep.
8. Instant Pot creole chicken and sausage
Dump, stir, and cook - a hands-off dinner packed with creole flavor.
Ready in: 30 minutes
Bonus: It’s freezer-friendly and great for leftovers.
9. Baked chicken tenders with honey mustard
Better than fast food—and way healthier.
Ready in: 30 minutes
Pro-Tip: Serve with carrot sticks and apples for a fast, kid-friendly plate.
10. French bread pizzas
Pizzas in a flash and customizable.
Ready in: 15 minutes
Pro-Tip: Use store-bought sauce and whatever toppings your heart desires.
11. Breakfast-for-dinner: Sheet pan eggs, sausage, and hashbrowns
Simple, filling, and fun.
Ready in: 20 minutes
Pro-Tip: Feel free to add bacon, frozen waffles or pancakes, or fresh fruit to the meal.
12. DIY Build-your-own nacho night
Let everyone customize their nachos.
Ready in: 25 minutes
How-To: Bake the nachos and set out fresh toppings like guacamole and salsa for an easy assembly line.