10 Quick and Tasty Skillet Dinners You Can Make in Under 30 Minutes

Looking for quick dinner ideas that won’t leave you stuck in the kitchen? Check out these 10 skillet dinners, each ready in under 30 minutes! With simple ingredients and easy prep, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time, making weeknight cooking a breeze.

Teriyaki Salmon with Vegetables

Teriyaki Salmon with Vegetables is a delightful dish that brings together tender salmon fillets and an array of colorful veggies, all coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing.

This recipe is simple to make, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. In just under 30 minutes, you can serve a wholesome dinner that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1/4 cup red onion, sliced
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet, skin-side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy.
3. Gently flip the salmon and add the broccoli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Pour teriyaki sauce over the salmon and vegetables, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately, enjoying the delicious combination of flavors.

One-Pan Pesto Pasta

This One-Pan Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish that combines fresh flavors and simplicity in every bite. The vibrant pesto sauce adds a burst of basil goodness, while the juicy cherry tomatoes and toasted pine nuts bring a satisfying crunch to the meal. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or a laid-back weekend dinner.

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, this recipe makes cooking feel effortless. Toss everything in one pan, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time!

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or any pasta of choice
• 1 cup basil pesto
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large skillet, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Combine Ingredients: Return the drained pasta to the skillet. Stir in the basil pesto, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve the desired creaminess.
3. Add the Tomatoes: Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and mix well to combine. Heat for a few minutes until the tomatoes are warmed through.
4. Finish It Off: Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts and grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Season with salt and pepper, and give it a gentle toss.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and enjoy your One-Pan Pesto Pasta!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus

Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus is a delightful dish that packs a punch of flavor while remaining light and refreshing. The combination of tender shrimp and crisp asparagus creates a perfect balance, enhanced by the bright notes of lemon and the aromatic essence of garlic. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also offers a nutritious option for busy weeknights.

In under 30 minutes, you can serve up a meal that feels elevated yet effortless. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this dish brings restaurant-quality flair to your dinner table. So, grab your skillet and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it starts to become tender.
3. Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
4. Cook the shrimp for 3-5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque, stirring occasionally.
5. Once cooked, remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Caprese Chicken Skillet

Caprese Chicken Skillet is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with the classic flavors of a Caprese salad. This quick meal balances juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, all drizzled with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness. It’s simple to prepare and sure to impress.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it not only satisfying but also appealing to the eyes!

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze, for drizzling

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing them to soften slightly.
3. Top each chicken breast with slices of fresh mozzarella. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
4. Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh basil over the top. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

This beef and broccoli stir-fry is a classic dish that brings together tender beef, vibrant green broccoli, and a savory sauce for a quick weeknight meal. With just the right balance of flavors, it’s both satisfying and nutritious, making it an excellent choice for busy nights.

Not only is this dish simple to prepare, but it also cooks in under 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a homemade dinner without the hassle. Serve it over rice or noodles, and you’ve got a complete meal in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 cup onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup water
• Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and water until well combined. Set aside.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the Veggies: In the same skillet, add broccoli, bell pepper, onion, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Combine: Return the beef to the skillet and pour the sauce over. Stir well to combine, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
5. Serve: Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.

Chickpea and Spinach Curry

This chickpea and spinach curry is a delightful dish that brings together the earthy flavors of chickpeas with the fresh taste of spinach. It’s warm, comforting, and has just the right amount of spice to make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner.

The creamy coconut milk adds richness while the spices bring depth to the dish, creating a satisfying meal that pairs wonderfully with rice or naan. In just under 30 minutes, you can enjoy a hearty and flavorful curry that’s both filling and nutritious.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the cumin, coriander, and turmeric, allowing the spices to bloom for about 30 seconds.
4. Add the chickpeas and coconut milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Once it simmers, add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside rice or naan.

Garlic Butter Mushroom Risotto

Garlic Butter Mushroom Risotto is a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The buttery flavor combined with the earthy taste of mushrooms creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. Plus, it’s easy to whip up in under 30 minutes!

This risotto is not only quick but also incredibly satisfying. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with sautéed mushrooms, making it an ideal meal for mushroom lovers. You’ll find that this dish is simple enough for a beginner but impressive enough to serve to guests.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable broth in a saucepan over low heat, keeping it warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are golden brown, about 5 minutes. Remove mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the Arborio rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring often.
5. Begin adding the warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the broth is mostly absorbed before adding more.
6. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18-20 minutes.
7. Stir in the remaining butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Add the cooked mushrooms back into the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Spicy Chicken Fajitas

Spicy chicken fajitas are a delightful one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor and comes together in no time. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and zesty spices creates a dish that’s not only satisfying but also full of life. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, these fajitas are easy to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser.

With the savory aroma of sizzling spices and fresh veggies, you’ll have everyone gathered around the table in no time. Serve them with warm tortillas, and you have a delicious meal that feels like a treat without the fuss. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Flour or corn tortillas, for serving

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken strips with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until they are tender but still crisp.
4. Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the veggies. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
5. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot with tortillas.

Egg Fried Rice with Peas

Egg fried rice with peas is a delightful dish that combines fluffy rice with vibrant green peas and savory eggs. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that delivers a burst of flavor with each bite. The sweetness of the peas pairs perfectly with the subtle richness of the eggs, creating a simple yet tasty dinner option.

This recipe is not only easy to make but can also be customized to include your favorite vegetables or proteins. In under 30 minutes, you can whip up a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a side dish for more elaborate dinners.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced carrot and cook for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
2. Push the carrots to the side of the skillet and crack the eggs into the pan. Scramble them gently until fully cooked, then mix with the carrots.
3. Add the cooked rice and frozen peas to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring to combine all the ingredients well.
4. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Zucchini Noodles with Marinara

Zucchini noodles, often referred to as zoodles, offer a fresh and light alternative to traditional pasta. This dish combines the crunch of zucchini with a rich, savory marinara sauce, creating a satisfying meal that doesn’t weigh you down. Plus, it’s super easy to whip together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.

The flavors of the marinara sauce really shine, elevating the simple zucchini noodles. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a lovely touch and enhances the overall taste. This recipe is not only quick but also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. Spiralize the Zucchini: Using a spiralizer, create noodles from the zucchinis. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a vegetable peeler to make thin strips.
2. Cook the Sauce: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
3. Combine: Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet with the marinara sauce and toss to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the zoodles are tender but still firm.
4. Serve: Plate the zucchini noodles with marinara and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your quick and healthy dinner!