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27 Budget-Friendly Meals Your Family Will Fall In Love With

Looking for something new to cook? Whether you’re after an easy weeknight meal, a meal-prep staple, or a dish worthy of a dinner party, this collection has it all. From rich braised meats to quick air fryer recipes and smoky grilled favorites, there’s a flavor-packed option for every craving.

You’ll find comforting classics, fresh takes on familiar favorites, and time-saving methods that help you cook smarter, not harder. Whether you love bold spices, creamy sauces, or crispy textures, there’s something here to add to your rotation.

Scroll through and pick your next meal! With so many easy and delicious choices, you might just find a new favorite.

Braised Pork Shanks

Braised Pork Shanks. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Slow-cooked pork shanks turn fall-off-the-bone tender in a rich, flavorful broth. A classic, no-fuss dish that brings deep, comforting flavors with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Braised Pork Shanks

Meal Prep Chicken Teriyaki Bowls

Meal Prep Chicken Teriyaki Bowls. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

These meal prep bowls are packed with juicy teriyaki chicken, stir-fried green beans, and steamed rice. A simple way to get a balanced, flavorful meal ready for the week!
Get the Recipe: Meal Prep Chicken Teriyaki Bowls

Meal Prep Air Fryer Chicken Breasts

Meal Prep Air Fryer Chicken Breasts. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Juicy, well-seasoned chicken breasts cooked in the air fryer for a quick and easy protein option. Perfect for salads, sandwiches, or a ready-to-go meal prep staple.
Get the Recipe: Meal Prep Air Fryer Chicken Breasts

Steamed Pork Dumplings

Steamed Pork Dumplings. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

These dumplings are filled with a savory pork mixture and steamed to tender perfection. A delicious, homemade take on a takeout favorite!
Get the Recipe: Steamed Pork Dumplings

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A creamy, one-pan dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and orzo pasta in a rich, cheesy sauce. Comfort food made simple!
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo

Buffalo Chicken Bites

Buffalo Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Spicy, tangy, and full of flavor! These bite-sized chicken pieces are coated in buffalo sauce, making them the perfect appetizer or quick snack.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Bites

Pesto Chicken Pasta

Pesto Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A fresh and easy pasta dish with juicy chicken, basil pesto, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Simple ingredients, big flavor!
Get the Recipe: Pesto Chicken Pasta

Blackstone Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Blackstone Chicken Parmesan Meatballs. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A crispy, cheesy twist on chicken Parmesan! These seasoned chicken meatballs are pan-seared and topped with marinara and melted mozzarella—great over pasta or on their own.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Best Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwiches

Best Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwiches. Photo credit: Vanilla Bean Cuisine.

A delicious mix of tender chicken, crisp apples, pecans, and juicy grapes, all tucked into a flaky croissant. A fresh take on classic chicken salad!
Get the Recipe: Best Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwiches

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Walking On Sunshine Recipes.

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—these air fryer chicken thighs cook in a fraction of the time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Crock Pot

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Crock Pot. Photo credit: Walking On Sunshine Recipes.

A slow-cooked version of the restaurant favorite! Creamy, comforting, and loaded with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a rich, flavorful broth.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Crock Pot

Grilled Lemongrass Pork Tenderloin

Grilled Lemongrass Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Marinated in a fragrant blend of lemongrass and citrus, this grilled pork tenderloin is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for outdoor cooking.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lemongrass Pork Tenderloin

Stuffed Pork Loin

Stuffed Pork Loin. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

A show-stopping dish that’s easier than it looks! This pork loin is stuffed with a flavorful filling and roasted to juicy perfection—perfect for special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pork Loin

Smoked Chicken Tacos

Smoked Chicken Tacos. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Smoky, juicy chicken wrapped in crispy tortillas and topped with melted cheddar. A delicious way to switch up taco night!
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tacos

Blackstone Smashed Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

Blackstone Smashed Chicken Parmesan Sandwich. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A handheld twist on chicken Parmesan! Crispy smashed chicken, marinara, and gooey cheese come together in a toasted sandwich that’s perfect for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Smashed Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

Blackstone Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

Blackstone Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli, all cooked on the griddle for a quick, flavorful meal with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits

Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits. Photo credit: Walking On Sunshine Recipes.

A shortcut version of the classic! Pillsbury biscuits make the perfect flaky topping for this creamy, comforting chicken pot pie.
Get the Recipe: Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits

Italian Marinated Grilled Chicken

Italian Marinated Grilled Chicken. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This juicy grilled chicken gets its bold Mediterranean flavor from a simple herb and garlic marinade. Great on its own or paired with salads and pasta.
Get the Recipe: Italian Marinated Grilled Chicken

Brined Smoked and Fried Chicken

Brined Smoked and Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This three-step cooking method creates unbelievably juicy, crispy chicken. Brined, smoked, and then fried—perfect for gatherings or an indulgent dinner.
Get the Recipe: Brined Smoked and Fried Chicken

Sous Vide Pork Tenderloin

Sous Vide Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Say goodbye to dry pork! This sous vide method guarantees tender, juicy pork every time, making it a foolproof centerpiece for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Sous Vide Pork Tenderloin

Grilled Greek Chicken

Grilled Greek Chicken. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Bright, zesty flavors shine in this Greek-inspired grilled chicken. Marinated in lemon, garlic, and herbs, it’s perfect for wraps, salads, or serving with roasted veggies.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Greek Chicken

Skillet Lemon Chicken

Skillet Lemon Chicken. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

A quick and flavorful skillet chicken with a zesty lemon sauce. Perfect for busy nights when you need a delicious meal fast!
Get the Recipe: Skillet Lemon Chicken

Grilled Ground Pork Burgers with Hatch Chiles

Grilled Ground Pork Burgers with Hatch Chiles. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Juicy pork burgers with a kick of Hatch chiles and bold seasonings. A great alternative to beef for your next burger night!
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ground Pork Burgers with Hatch Chiles

Breaded Smoked and Fried Chicken Wings

Breaded Smoked and Fried Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Crispy, smoky, and packed with flavor! These wings are breaded, smoked, and then fried for the ultimate game-day snack.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Smoked and Fried Chicken Wings

Hasselback Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil

Hasselback Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil. Photo credit: Walking On Sunshine Recipes.

Sliced and stuffed with gooey mozzarella, fresh tomato, and basil, this Hasselback chicken is a simple way to add big flavor to your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil

Instant Pot Pulled Chicken

Instant Pot Pulled Chicken. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Juicy, shredded chicken in just 30 minutes! This Instant Pot recipe is packed with flavor and perfect for tacos, sandwiches, or meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Pulled Chicken

Sheet Pan Chicken

Sheet Pan Chicken. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

One pan, easy cleanup, and juicy, flavorful chicken every time! This simple sheet pan recipe is a weeknight lifesaver.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken