Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be loud or complicated to feel special. A relaxed night in with food you trust can set the tone for an evening that feels steady and unforced. I always appreciate recipes that let me cook without hovering over the stove or second-guessing every step. With 17 easy options to choose from, you can make dinner feel settled and still leave space for what matters most.
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.
Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets
Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets are baked until the pastry turns golden and crisp around the filling. Store-bought dough keeps prep easy and predictable. This recipe suits relaxed evenings when you want something comforting but manageable. Seal the edges well so the filling stays inside.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets
Maple-Dijon Instant Pot Pot Roast with Potatoes
Maple-Dijon Instant Pot Pot Roast with Potatoes is pressure cooked until the beef is tender and the potatoes are soft. The Instant Pot shortens cook time while keeping flavors steady. This recipe works well for a relaxed night when hands-off cooking helps. Slice the roast against the grain for the best texture.
Get the Recipe: Maple-Dijon Instant Pot Pot Roast with Potatoes
30 Minute Caprese Chicken
30 Minute Caprese Chicken is cooked until the chicken is done and topped near the end with tomatoes and cheese. The short cook time makes it easy to fit into a relaxed evening. This dish works well when you want something fresh without added effort. Add the toppings late so they keep their shape.
Get the Recipe: 30 Minute Caprese Chicken
Cast Iron Pan-Roasted Chicken Breasts
Cast Iron Pan-Roasted Chicken Breasts are seared on the stovetop, then finished in the oven until tender and lightly golden. The cast iron pan keeps cooking simple and cleanup minimal. This recipe works well when you want a relaxed dinner that still feels intentional. Let the chicken rest briefly so it stays juicy when sliced.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Pan-Roasted Chicken Breasts
Chicken Butternut Squash Casserole
Chicken Butternut Squash Casserole is baked until the chicken is cooked through and the topping turns lightly crisp. The oven does most of the work, making this a low-effort meal. This recipe fits cozy nights when you want something steady and filling. Let it cool slightly so the layers hold together when serving.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Butternut Squash Casserole
Chicken Cutlets with Gravy
Chicken Cutlets with Gravy are pan-fried until crisp, then served with smooth, savory gravy. The cutlets cook quickly, making this an easy option on a calm night in. I like pairing it with mashed potatoes so dinner feels settled and complete. Spoon the gravy over just before serving to keep the coating crisp.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cutlets with Gravy
Bacon Wrapped BBQ Crock Pot Chicken
Bacon Wrapped BBQ Crock Pot Chicken is slow cooked until the chicken is tender and the bacon cooks through. The slow cooker keeps prep simple and hands-off. This recipe fits nights when dinner needs to take care of itself. Finish under the broiler if you want the bacon lightly crisp.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped BBQ Crock Pot Chicken
Easy Weeknight Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara
Easy Weeknight Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara is slow cooked until the chicken becomes tender and easy to shred. The slow cooker handles the work, which helps on full days. I like setting this up early so dinner is ready when the evening slows down. Keep the lid on so the sauce stays thick and balanced.
Get the Recipe: Easy Weeknight Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara
Hasselback Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil
Hasselback Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil is baked until the chicken is tender and the cheese melts into each slice. The simple cutting method helps everything cook evenly without extra prep. This dish fits nights when you want something comforting that still looks put together. Cut shallow slits so the chicken stays intact while baking.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil
Skillet Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits
Skillet Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits is baked until the filling bubbles and the biscuits are lightly browned. The skillet keeps everything in one dish for easier cleanup. I reach for this recipe when comfort food feels right. Let it stand briefly so the filling sets before serving.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits
One Pan Chicken and Potatoes
One Pan Chicken and Potatoes is roasted together until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are soft. Using one pan keeps the process simple and manageable. This meal fits nights when you want dinner finished without juggling dishes. Spread everything evenly so it cooks at the same pace.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Chicken and Potatoes
Cast Iron Steak with Easy Marinade
Cast Iron Steak with Easy Marinade is seared until browned outside and tender inside. Cooking indoors keeps the evening calm and contained. I like this recipe when grilling is not part of the plan. Let the steak rest before slicing so it stays juicy.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Steak with Easy Marinade
Rich Turkey Bolognese
Rich Turkey Bolognese is simmered slowly until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta evenly. Simmering on the stovetop allows the flavors to settle without rushing. This meal works well when dinner is meant to linger a bit. Stir occasionally so the sauce cooks evenly.
Get the Recipe: Rich Turkey Bolognese
Dutch Oven Whole Chicken
Dutch Oven Whole Chicken is roasted until the skin turns golden and the meat stays tender. Cooking everything in one pot keeps prep and cleanup easy. I like this recipe for slow evenings when staying in feels like the best plan. Let the chicken rest before carving so the juices settle.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Whole Chicken
Monterey Chicken Pasta Recipe
Monterey Chicken Pasta Recipe is cooked on the stovetop until the pasta is tender and coated in a creamy sauce. The chicken stays moist while everything comes together quickly. This is a helpful option when dinner needs to feel filling without extra steps. Cook the pasta just until tender to keep the texture right.
Get the Recipe: Monterey Chicken Pasta Recipe
Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast
Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast is baked until the chicken cooks through and the filling turns soft and creamy. The cheese helps keep the chicken moist with very little effort. This recipe works well when you want a simple dinner that still feels thoughtful. Secure the opening so the filling stays inside while cooking.
Get the Recipe: Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast
Heart Shaped Pizza
Heart Shaped Pizza is baked until the crust is lightly crisp and the cheese is fully melted. Shaping the dough adds a Valentine’s touch without changing the process. This is an easy way to keep dinner relaxed and familiar. Use parchment paper so transferring the pizza is stress free.
Get the Recipe: Heart Shaped Pizza
Comments
No Comments