Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinners from Maja

Introduction

Weeknight dinners can often feel like a daunting task after a long day. Luckily, with a little planning and the right recipes, you can make delicious meals that don’t take hours to prepare. Maja’s Recipes offers a selection of quick and easy dinners that will satisfy your family and make your evenings more enjoyable.

Each recipe is designed to be straightforward, requiring minimal prep and cook time without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re looking for something healthy, comforting, or a blend of both, these five dinners will become staples in your weeknight repertoire.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless chicken breasts
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz pasta of choice
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions & Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Place the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet and surround it with broccoli and cherry tomatoes.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the vegetables are tender.
5. While the chicken and vegetables are baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and slice it. Toss the cooked pasta with the chicken, vegetables, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan until combined.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

FAQs

What if I have leftover chicken from this recipe?

Leftover chicken can be shredded and used in salads, wraps, or even sandwiches.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite melting cheese such as cheddar or gouda.

What if my chicken breasts are too thick?

If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness for more uniform cooking.

Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus would work great.

What can I do if the dish turns out too dry?

If the pasta feels dry, add a splash of olive oil or some reserved pasta cooking water to moisten it.

Can I scale this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, simply multiply the ingredients based on the number of servings you need.

Conclusion

These quick and easy weeknight dinners from Maja are perfect for those busy evenings. They are not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavors that your family will love.

As you build your confidence in the kitchen, feel free to experiment with the ingredients and adjust the flavors to suit your preferences. Enjoy your cooking journey!

Recipe Card

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls for Home Cooks

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls made approachable with clear cues, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups stuffing mix
• 1 cup cranberries fresh or dried
• 1/2 cup onion finely chopped
• 1/2 cup celery finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg beaten
• 1/4 cup chicken broth

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, stuffing mix, cranberries, onion, celery, garlic, thyme, sage, salt, and black pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and chicken broth together until well combined.
4. Pour the egg mixture into the turkey mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Using your hands, form the mixture into golf ball-sized balls and place them on a greased baking sheet.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Allow the stuffing balls to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.