What types of meals are best suited for busy parents with limited time?

Creating Simple, Delicious Family Meals: Quick and Easy Recipes for Busy Parents

Recipe 1: One-Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner? This one-pot chicken alfredo pasta is a go-to recipe for busy parents. It requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 2 cups fettuccine noodles
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and garlic, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is browned.
2. Add the fettuccine noodles, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is cooked.
3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Serve hot.

Recipe 2: Mini Meatball Sliders

These mini meatball sliders are perfect for a quick and easy family dinner. They are not only delicious but also fun to eat, making them a hit with kids!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 egg
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Slider buns
• Marinara sauce
• Sliced mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Cook the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until evenly browned and cooked through.
3. Preheat the oven to broil. Place the slider buns on a baking sheet, cut-side up. Place a meatball on each bun, top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
4. Broil the sliders in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot.

Recipe 3: Sheet Pan Teriyaki Salmon

For a healthy and hassle-free meal, try this sheet pan teriyaki salmon recipe. It requires minimal prep and cleanup, making it the perfect choice for busy parents.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the teriyaki sauce over the salmon, reserving some for later.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Remove from the oven and brush with the remaining teriyaki sauce. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve with steamed rice or vegetables.