Wednesday, January 8, 2025

5 Quick and Easy Weeknight Meals from The Kitchen Wife

 Welcome to my West Virginia Kitchen!  When the week gets busy, finding time to cook a delicious and nutritious dinner can feel like an impossible task.  That's why I've rounded up five, quick and easy weeknight meal from the blog, that I know the entire family will love.  




These recipes are designed to save you time without sacrificing flavor, making them perfect for those hectic evenings.  I can't wait to share them with you so...


Let's Get Started! 











1.  Alice Springs Chicken:




Bring the taste of your favorite restaurant home with this Alice Springs Chicken Recipe.  Juicy, seasoned chicken breasts are topped with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms,  and a gooey layer of melted cheese.  Drizzle it with honey mustard sauce for the perfect finishing touch.  Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a baked potato for a meal that's sure to impress.  

Why It's Great:

  • Restaurant quality meal at home.
  • Packed with protein and bold flavors.
  • Easy to customize with your favorite toppings.







2.  Simple One Pot Garlic Parmesan Steak and Tortellini:







This One Pot Garlic Parmesan Steak and Tortellini is a weeknight game changer.  Tender bites of steak and cheese filled tortellini are cooked together in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce that's bursting with flavor.  It's an indulgent dish that comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for satisfying your comfort food cravings.  

Why It's Great:

  • All-in-one meal with minimal clean-up.
  • Rich, creamy sauce packed with flavor. 
  • Perfect for steak lovers and pasta enthusiasts.  





3.  Easy Chicken and Noodles (No Canned Soup Required)






Skip the canned soup and enjoy this homemade version of Chicken and Noodles.  Tender Chicken and egg noodles are cooked in a rich, savory broth that's thickened to perfection.  This comfort classic takes only 30 minutes to make and it a hit with kids and adults alike.  Serve with steamed vegetables or salad for a complete meal.

Why It's Great:

  • Made with wholesome, fresh ingredients.
  • Easy to customize with additional veggies.  
  • Perfect for meal prepping or freezing leftovers.  






4.  Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs:





Transform your weeknight dinner with these crockpot Mississippi Meatballs.  Juicy meatballs are slow-cooked in a savory blend of au jus mix, ranch seasoning, and pepperoncini for a tangy, flavor-packed dish.  Serve them over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for an easy and satisfying meal.  

Why It's Great:

  • Minimal Prep with the help of your slow-cooker.
  • Packed with bold, tangy flavors.
  • Great for leftovers.  





5.  Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup:





On mornings when you have a few minutes to prep, set up this delicious Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup and let it simmer all day.  By dinnertime, you'll have a flavorful, hearty soup loaded with beans, chicken and taco spices.  Topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips for a meal that the whole family will love!

Why It's Great:

  • Hands off cooking.
  • Freezer friendly for future meals. 
  • A crowd pleaser with customizable toppings.  



Yield: 6-8
Author:

Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Discover the ultimate Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe! Easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights. Learn how to make this delicious soup with our step-by-step guide.
prep time: 10 Mcook time: 6 hourtotal time: 6 H & 10 M

Ingredients:

  • 2 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
  • 1 Onion, diced
  • 1 Tbsp Garlic, minced
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth
  • 2 cups Water
  • 1 15 oz can of Black Beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 15 oz can of Kidney Beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 24 oz jar of Salsa
  • 1 1 oz packet of Taco Seasoning (or 3 Tbsp)
  • 1 8 oz Block of Cream Cheese
  • 1 16 oz carton of Heavy Whipping Cream
  • 1 12 oz bag of Frozen Corn
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste
  • Optional Toppings:  Shredded Cheese, Sour Cream, Avocado, Jalapeños, cilantro, and lime wedges

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:  Dice the onion, mince the garlic, drain and rinse the black beans and kidney beans. Measure out the corn and spices.  
  2. Assemble in the Crockpot:  Place the chicken in the bottom of the crockpot along with the onion, garlic, salsa, beans, chicken broth, water, and cream cheese.  
  3. Season the Soup:  Add the taco seasoning, salt, and pepper to the soup.  Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.  
  4. Cook the Soup:  Place the lid on the crockpot and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.  The chicken should be tender and easily shreddable.
  5. Shred the Chicken:  Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred them using two forks.  
  6. Final Touches:  Whisk the cream cheese unto the broth until smooth.  Return the chicken to the crockpot along with the heavy cream and frozen corn.  Stir and taste for seasoning.  Make and adjustments you feel it needs.  
  7. Garnish and Serve:  Add the toppings of your choice,  and enjoy!  
Created using The Recipes Generator







Pro Tips for Quick Weeknight Meals:

  • Plan Ahead:  Batch prep ingredients like chopped veggies and cooked proteins at the start of the week. 
  • Use Kitchen Tools:  Instant Pots, slow cookers, and sheet pans are your best friends for effortless meals.
  • Double Up:  Make extra portions for lunches for freeze for busy nights. 






These five recipes from the blog prove that you don't need hours in the kitchen to whip up a satisfying meal.  Whether you're cooking for one or feeding a family, these dishes will make your weeknights easier and tastier.  Try one tonight and let me know your favorite in the comments below.

And as always...

Happy Eatin' Y'all,
~The Kitchen Wife 






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