35 Recipes That Will Get A Thumbs Up From Your Kids

Finding meals that make the whole family happy can feel like a daily challenge. That’s why we’ve pulled together a list of go-to recipes that are simple to make, full of familiar flavors, and have a strong track record of being cleared off the plate without a fuss. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or something fun for the kids to help with, these options are practical and kid-approved. No fancy ingredients or complicated steps, just straightforward meals that work for real life.

Creamy Chicken Thighs Skillet

Seasoned chicken thighs cooked in tomato sauce with bell peppers and herbs, served in a cast-iron skillet. Fresh parsley, garlic, and a tomato are nearby. — Creamy Chicken Thighs Skillet. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This one-pan dinner comes together quickly and makes cleanup easy, which is great on a weeknight. The rich, creamy sauce helps mellow the flavors so even picky eaters tend to go for seconds. Chicken thighs stay juicy and are less likely to dry out while cooking. It’s a warm and filling option that doesn’t require much time at the stove.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Thighs Skillet

Air Fryer Steak Tips

A bowl of seasoned meat cubes garnished with chopped herbs, with a fork resting on the side. — Air Fryer Steak Tips. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

These steak bites cook fast in the air fryer and come out tender without much effort. They’re a good choice when you want to keep things simple but still serve something that feels a little special. Their bite-sized pieces are easy for kids to handle and usually go over well. Serve them with a side of rice or veggies for a well-rounded dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Steak Tips

Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

Baked macaroni and cheese topped with breadcrumbs and bacon in a white dish, with a serving on a plate beside it. — Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This creamy mac and cheese is a comfort food classic that’s rich enough for adults but familiar enough for kids to enjoy. Inspired by the restaurant version, it brings bold flavors without being too intense. It’s ready in under an hour and works well as a main dish or a hearty side. Kids tend to like the familiar texture and cheesy sauce.
Get the Recipe: Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

Taco Spaghetti Skillet

A plate of spaghetti with ground meat, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped green onions. A black skillet containing more of the dish is partially visible in the background. — Taco Spaghetti Skillet. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

Combining tacos and spaghetti into one meal makes this a fun and practical weeknight dinner. It’s cooked in one pan, which saves time and cuts down on dishes. The flavors are bold but not too strong for younger eaters, making it easy for the whole family to enjoy. Plus, the mix of noodles and seasoned beef is a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Taco Spaghetti Skillet

Chicken Roll Ups

A wooden spoon holds a piece of cheesy lasagna above a glass baking dish, garnished with fresh parsley. — Chicken Roll Ups. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

These roll ups are easy to prepare and can be made ahead, which helps on busy evenings. The creamy filling and soft tortilla make them approachable for kids. They bake in under 30 minutes and pair well with salad or fruit. You can even customize the filling to suit different preferences.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Roll Ups

Tomato Egg Drop Soup

This light and simple soup cooks fast and uses a short list of ingredients. The silky egg ribbons and mild tomato flavor appeal to younger taste buds. It works as a starter or a light meal, especially on cooler days. The soup is ready in under 20 minutes, making it an easy win for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Egg Drop Soup

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken

Sliced grilled chicken breast in a white dish, with whole pieces on another plate in the background, next to a fork and dark cloth napkin. — Air Fryer BBQ Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This BBQ chicken gets a nice crisp on the outside while staying juicy inside thanks to the air fryer. It’s quick to prep and perfect for a weeknight dinner. The familiar BBQ flavor is usually a big hit with kids. Serve with a side of corn or potatoes for a full plate.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken

Beef Pot Pie

With a flaky crust and hearty filling, this pot pie makes a full meal in one dish. The familiar combination of beef, veggies, and gravy works well for kids who like traditional meals. It reheats easily, so leftovers don’t go to waste. Though it takes a bit longer to bake, the hands-on prep is minimal.
Get the Recipe: Beef Pot Pie

Individual Lasagna

Lasagna for One in small 10-ounce square baking pan. — Individual Lasagna. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These mini lasagnas are fun to serve and give everyone their own portion. They bake faster than a full tray and are easier to freeze if needed. Layers of pasta, meat, and cheese are familiar flavors that kids are often happy to eat. Great for dinner when you want something filling but don’t want a big cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Individual Lasagna

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Fried chicken tenders on a plate with dipping sauce. — Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These cook up crispy without the need for deep frying, making them a quick, low-mess option. Chicken tenders are a favorite among kids for their shape and mild flavor. They pair well with all kinds of dips and sides. You can have them ready in about 15 minutes from start to finish.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Crock Pot Tomato Soup

Top view of a bowl of creamy tomato soup garnished with basil, served with a spoon and sunglasses on the side. — Crock Pot Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This tomato soup simmers slowly in the crock pot, which brings out its mellow flavor. It’s a reliable option when you need something hands-off but still warm and comforting. Kids often enjoy dipping grilled cheese or crackers into it. The prep is minimal and the ingredients are pantry-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Tomato Soup

Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Panko pork chop on plate with greens. — Breaded Panko Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These pork chops get a nice crunch from panko breadcrumbs and bake up quickly. They offer a different protein choice without being too strong in flavor. Their familiar shape and coating make them easier for kids to warm up to. Serve with mashed potatoes or rice for a complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Meatball Pasta Bake

A casserole dish with meatballs and pasta. — Meatball Pasta Bake. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

This baked pasta uses meatballs to add flavor and make it more filling. The melted cheese and simple sauce are familiar to most kids. It bakes in under an hour and can be made ahead to save time. Leftovers store well for another day’s lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Pasta Bake

Penne Pasta Bake

This dish combines pasta, cheese, and tomato sauce in a way that’s easy to love. It works well for dinner and makes plenty for leftovers. Kids often go for the cheesy, saucy texture without much fuss. You can prep it ahead and just pop it in the oven when ready.
Get the Recipe: Penne Pasta Bake

Frito Chili Pie

A plate of Fritos topped with ground beef, cheese, tomatoes, beans, and green onions. — Frito Chili Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crunchy corn chips, chili, and cheese come together in this quick, crowd-pleasing meal. The mix of textures makes it fun to eat, especially for younger kids. It’s ready in about 30 minutes and uses common pantry items. Great for casual dinners or weekends.
Get the Recipe: Frito Chili Pie

Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

A single barbecued chicken skewer on a white plate, with a small bowl of barbecue sauce and a parsley garnish, next to a plate of additional chicken skewers. — Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These skewers cook fast and are easy to portion out for different ages. The bite-sized pieces make them approachable for kids who prefer smaller portions. You can season them simply or add dipping sauces on the side. A great option when you want something hands-on but quick.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

Pancit Bihon Guisado

A fork lifting a portion of chicken and noodles from a bowl of stir-fry. — Pancit Bihon Guisado. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This noodle dish is quick to prepare and works well as a complete meal. Its mix of vegetables, noodles, and meat offers familiar flavors in a new form. Kids tend to enjoy the noodles and the balanced seasoning. It’s ready in about 30 minutes and reheats well.
Get the Recipe: Pancit Bihon Guisado

Beef Quesadillas

A stack of quesadillas filled with cheese and steak served with a side of red salsa on a white plate. — Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These are easy to make with just a few ingredients and come together in under 20 minutes. The crispy tortilla and cheesy beef filling are often a hit with younger eaters. They work well for lunch or dinner and can be customized with different fillings. Quick to prep, easy to eat, and hard to turn down.
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

A blue bowl of cooked chicken breasts garnished with chopped herbs on a light fabric backdrop. — Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These chicken thighs cook low and slow, which makes them extra tender. The flavor stays mild, so it’s easy to serve to kids without complaints. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal that’s perfect for busy weekdays. You can serve it with rice, potatoes, or steamed veggies.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

Sloppy Joe Casserole

Cheesy hashbrown topped casserole in baking pan. — Sloppy Joe Casserole. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This casserole version of a classic sandwich keeps all the familiar flavors in a less messy format. It bakes in one dish, which means fewer pots to clean after dinner. The ground beef and soft biscuit topping make it easy for kids to enjoy. It’s a practical option for busy evenings when you want something warm and filling.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Popcorn Chicken

These small, crispy bites are quick to cook and fun to eat. They’re a dependable option for kids who prefer simple flavors and familiar textures. You can serve them with fruit, fries, or vegetables for a full meal. Made in under 30 minutes, they also reheat well for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Popcorn Chicken

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

This dish blends familiar flavors that tend to go over well with most kids. It’s baked in one dish and includes chicken, bacon, and a creamy sauce. It can be made ahead and popped into the oven when needed. It works for a weeknight dinner that feels filling without being time-consuming.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Personal Pizza

Close-up of a pepperoni pizza slice being lifted, showing melted cheese and tomato sauce. — Personal Pizza. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These small pizzas are great because everyone can have their own, which is helpful for picky eaters. They’re quick to make and let kids choose their own toppings. Bake time is short, so they’re ready in under 20 minutes. It’s a fun way to do pizza night without ordering out.
Get the Recipe: Personal Pizza

Chicken Lasagna with Broccoli

A slice of lasagna on a white plate, garnished with basil leaves, and a fork beside it. — Chicken Lasagna with Broccoli. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This version of lasagna includes broccoli, which blends in well with the creamy sauce. The layers of chicken, pasta, and cheese make it hearty enough for dinner. Kids who already like lasagna usually go for this one too. It can be made in advance and baked when needed.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lasagna with Broccoli

Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

One-pan meals like this save time and clean-up, especially on weeknights. Ground beef and pasta are a solid combo that tends to be kid-friendly. The flavors are balanced and not too bold, making it easy for younger palates. You can have it on the table in under 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Cream Cheese Chicken

A plate with chicken and green beans on it. — Cream Cheese Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This dish uses simple ingredients and cooks into a creamy, comforting meal. The smooth texture and mild flavor make it approachable for kids. It goes well with rice or pasta and comes together in about 30 minutes. A practical pick for when you need dinner without a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

Chicken Pot Pie

This classic dish wraps vegetables and chicken in a buttery crust, making it familiar and easy to eat. It’s baked in one pan and offers everything you need for dinner in a single dish. The soft filling and crisp crust make it popular with younger eaters. Great for cooler days or when you need a full meal that’s ready to reheat.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham

Sliced ham with orange slices and grapes, garnished with parsley on a platter. — Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This ham gets a light sweetness from the glaze and cooks quickly in the air fryer. It’s a nice option when you want something different but still simple to make. The flavor is mild and often goes well with kids’ taste preferences. It works as a main dish and pairs easily with potatoes or vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham

Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Close-up of a crispy air fried chicken drumstick on a white plate garnished with parsley, with hot sauce in the background. — Air Fryer Chicken Legs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken legs crisp up nicely in the air fryer while staying moist inside. They’re easy to hold and eat, which tends to work well for kids. The prep is simple, and they’re done in under 25 minutes. Add a quick side, and dinner is ready with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

A bowl of macaroni and cheese in front of a slow cooker. — Crock Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This version of mac and cheese cooks slowly and stays creamy without needing much attention. It’s a familiar favorite for kids and doesn’t require any special steps. Set it in the morning, and it’s ready by dinner with hardly any effort. It also works well for potlucks or side dishes.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

Alfredo Steak Pasta

This pasta combines creamy Alfredo sauce with steak slices for a filling main dish. The rich flavor isn’t too bold, making it easier for kids to enjoy. It’s ready in about 30 minutes and works well for both weeknights and special dinners. The combination of pasta and meat is usually a safe bet.
Get the Recipe: Alfredo Steak Pasta

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Meatloaf on a white plate with a fork. — Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Inspired by the restaurant favorite, this meatloaf has a soft texture and familiar flavor. It bakes in about an hour and slices easily for serving. Kids tend to like the simplicity and the sweet topping. Serve with mashed potatoes or green beans for a well-rounded meal.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

A bowl of chicken and spinach soup with a spoon. — Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This soup is hearty without being too heavy, using gnocchi and chicken in a creamy broth. It’s a good option for dinner when you want something warm and filling. The small gnocchi pieces and mild flavor make it approachable for kids. It can be made in one pot and reheats well.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Whole Chicken in Air Fryer

Roasted chicken with potatoes and carrots on a white plate. — Whole Chicken in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Cooking a whole chicken in the air fryer saves time and makes cleanup easier. The skin gets crisp, and the meat stays juicy without extra effort. You can serve it in pieces or shred it for sandwiches or salads. It’s a flexible meal that works well for feeding the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Whole Chicken in Air Fryer

Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Hand dipping a breaded nugget into a bowl of ketchup. — Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These nuggets get crispy without needing oil and are ready in under 20 minutes. Their bite-size shape and mild flavor make them a strong choice for kids. They pair well with dipping sauces, fruit, or fries. You can batch cook them and freeze extras for later.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets