Busy nights don’t leave much room for guesswork, especially when everyone’s hungry and tired. Old-fashioned dinners offer a sense of rhythm that makes the evening feel more manageable. I often turn to meals like these when I need something I know will work, and you’ll find that same dependability in all 17 recipes. They’re built to keep comfort close when the day runs long.

Want to Save This Recipe?
Enter your email & I'll send it to your inbox. Plus, get great new recipes from me every week!
By submitting this form, you consent to receive emails from Walking on Sunshine Recipes.
Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast
Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast is baked until the chicken stays juicy and the cheese melts inside. A spoonful of marinara adds familiar flavor the whole family enjoys. This is an easy oven dinner that feels special without extra work. Let the chicken rest before slicing so the filling stays in place.
Get the Recipe: Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie is baked until golden with a creamy filling that feels comforting and filling. Making individual portions keeps serving simple and helps with portion control. I often use leftover chicken or turkey to save time. Let the pies cool slightly so the filling sets before serving.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
Cast Iron Pan-Roasted Chicken Breasts

Cast Iron Pan-Roasted Chicken Breasts are seared on the stovetop and finished in the oven for juicy results. This method uses one pan and keeps cleanup easy. I rely on this recipe for dependable weeknight dinners. Rest the chicken before slicing to help it stay moist.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Pan-Roasted Chicken Breasts
Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets
Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets are baked until flaky with a creamy chicken filling tucked inside. They’re simple to assemble and work well when you want something a little different. I like making these on nights when handheld dinners make things easier. Serve with a simple salad to round out the meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets
Sheet Pan Chicken Breast – Dinner for Two!
Sheet Pan Chicken Breast – Dinner for Two! roasts chicken, potatoes, and carrots together until tender and lightly browned. Everything cooks on one pan, which keeps cleanup manageable. This recipe works well for smaller households or quieter evenings. Cut the vegetables evenly so they cook at the same pace as the chicken.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Breast – Dinner for Two!
One Pan Chicken and Potatoes

One Pan Chicken and Potatoes roast together until the chicken is tender and the potatoes turn lightly crisp. A lemon marinade adds familiar flavor without extra steps. This is helpful on busy nights when everything needs to cook at once. Line the pan with foil to make cleanup quicker.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Chicken and Potatoes
Baked Chicken Cutlets
Baked Chicken Cutlets cook in the oven until golden and juicy using simple pantry ingredients. Baking keeps the process easy while still giving good texture. I make these often for family dinners that don’t take much time. Pair them with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Chicken Cutlets
Mayonnaise Chicken Recipe
Mayonnaise Chicken Recipe is baked until lightly crisp on the outside while staying tender inside. The mayonnaise coating helps keep the chicken from drying out. This is a reliable weeknight dinner made with everyday ingredients. Use a thermometer to avoid overbaking.
Get the Recipe: Mayonnaise Chicken Recipe
Italian Chicken Cutlets
Italian Chicken Cutlets are pan-fried until golden with a seasoned coating that cooks quickly. The thin cutlets help keep dinner moving on busy nights. I like serving them with pasta or a simple salad. Pound the chicken evenly so it cooks at the same speed.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken Cutlets
Chicken with Mozzarella and Tomato

Chicken with Mozzarella and Tomato is baked until the chicken is tender and the cheese melts smoothly on top. Fresh tomatoes keep the flavors simple and familiar. This is a quick homemade dinner that works well on busy evenings. Let the chicken rest briefly before serving.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Mozzarella and Tomato
Crock Pot Chili – Easy and Delicious!
Crock Pot Chili – Easy and Delicious! simmers slowly until the meat becomes tender and the flavors come together. The slow cooker makes this a hands-off family meal. I like starting it in the morning so dinner is ready by evening. Set out simple toppings so everyone can serve themselves.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chili – Easy and Delicious!
Crock Pot Brisket – Beth’s Brisket Recipe

Crock Pot Brisket – Beth’s Brisket Recipe slow cooks until fork-tender and easy to slice. This works well for family dinners and planned leftovers. I make it when I need a steady meal with very little hands-on time. Slice against the grain for the best texture.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Brisket – Beth’s Brisket Recipe
Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce with Meatballs
Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce with Meatballs cooks low and slow until the meatballs turn tender and the sauce thickens. Using the slow cooker keeps everything simple and hands-off. I like making a large batch for easy pasta dinners during the week. Freeze leftovers in smaller portions for later meals.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce with Meatballs
Oven-Baked Barbecue Ribs
Oven-Baked Barbecue Ribs bake until tender with a lightly sticky sauce. This oven method makes ribs possible year-round without outdoor cooking. I use this recipe when grilling isn’t an option. Cover the pan tightly so the ribs stay moist while baking.
Get the Recipe: Oven-Baked Barbecue Ribs
Homemade Matzo Ball Soup
Homemade Matzo Ball Soup simmers gently until the matzo balls turn soft and the broth stays clear. This classic soup works well for family dinners or quieter weekends. I like making it ahead so everything settles before serving. Keep the heat low so the matzo balls stay light.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Matzo Ball Soup
Dutch Oven Whole Chicken

Dutch Oven Whole Chicken roasts until the skin turns golden and the meat stays juicy. Cooking in a Dutch oven helps hold in moisture with very little effort. I often make this for Sunday dinners with leftovers for the week. Save the bones to make broth later.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Whole Chicken
Chicken Sancocho
Chicken Sancocho is a one-pot meal simmered until the chicken becomes tender and the vegetables soften. Everything cooks together using simple ingredients. I like making it for family dinners when keeping things straightforward matters. Cut the vegetables into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Sancocho


Comments
No Comments