This cowboy chicken recipe is packed with bold flavors. The chicken is seared with lots of vibrant seasonings, surrounded by corn, black beans, and fire-roasted tomatoes, all smothered in melty cheese. Your family will love this quick meal that is ready in just 35 minutes!

Ingredients You Need to Make Cowboy Chicken

The ingredients list might look long, but it is mostly the seasonings you need. Most of the items you probably already have. Scroll down to the recipe card for exact measurements!

• Chicken Breast: This crowd-pleasing protein is great for absorbing the flavors and gives the best texture.
• Paprika: Adds a hint of smokey sweetness.
• Cumin: Cumin really adds to the southwest flavors in this dish.
• Oregano: Provides a robust herbal flavor with a hint of bitterness, which is a great balance to all of the other flavors.
• Garlic Powder: Adds the best savory flavor that complements all of the other ingredients.
• Salt and Pepper: Enhances all of the flavors in the dish.
• Onion Powder: Gives a blast of robust, savory flavor.
• Chili Powder: Adds a slight kick of heat and balances out the other savory flavors.
• Olive Oil: Acts as a fat to seal in the flavor of the chicken.
• Yellow Onion: Sauteed onion gives a sweet, caramelized flavor and soft texture.
• Cloves Garlic: This gives a punch of that wonderful savory flavor you can only get from fresh garlic.
• Can of Corn: Adds a sweet, juicy pop of yellow color.
• Can of Black Beans: Not only does this add a fabulous texture, the fiber you get from beans is so good for you!
• Can of Fire Roasted Tomatoes: I feel like this is the secret ingredient for making it taste smokey and southwest cowboy style.
• Fresh Lime Juice: The acidity in the limes balances out the savory, smokey and sweet flavors completing the entire dish.
• Shredded Mexican Cheese: Adds a creamy, melty topping that keeps in moisture and locks in flavor.
• Fresh Cilantro: The kiss of freshness to any Mexican dish.

Cowboy Chicken Recipe Instructions

This cowboy chicken is a breeze to whip up, making it a go-to for your busy weeknights. The hearty chicken and bold flavors are sure to be a hit with your kids. Just follow my simple step-by-step instructions below, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!

1. Prep: Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. In a small bowl, whisk together the paprika, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chili powder, then divide this mixture in half.
2. Coat Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with half of the spice mixture. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear Chicken: Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side in the skillet, then remove and set the chicken aside.
4. Saute Onion and Add Ingredients: Add the onion to the skillet and saute until the onion is tender. Once tender, add in the garlic, corn, black beans, and tomatoes with their juice, lime juice, and remaining seasoning, and blend in the pan.
5. Simmer: Stir and cook until the mixture comes to a gentile boil. Once it boils, remove from heat then add the chicken breasts back to the skillet and sprinkle the cheese over the chicken.
6. Bake: Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes until they reach a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.
7. Serve: Top with the fresh cilantro and serve on its own or over rice.

More Cowboy-Inspired Dishes to Try

If you are like me, then you will love all things cowboy! The combination of bowl flavors and simple, hearty ingredients just makes me and my tummy happy! Here are some of my top cowboy recipes that I know you’ll love.

Side Dishes

Amazing Cowboy Beans

55 mins

Dinner

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

50 mins

Dressings, Sauces, and Dips

Mouthwatering Cowboy Caviar

20 mins

Dinner

Cowboy Hamburger Soup

30 mins

Print

Cowboy Chicken

This cowboy chicken recipe is packed with bold flavors. The hearty chicken is seared with lots of vibrant seasonings, surrounded by corn, black beans, and fire-roasted tomatoes, all smothered in melty cheese.

Course Dinner, lunch, Main Course

Cuisine American, Tex Mex

Keyword cowboy, cowboy chicken

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Servings 4 people

Calories 990kcal

Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts, about 2 pounds
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• ½ yellow onion, chopped, about 1/3 cup
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 1 15-ounce can corn, drained
• 1 15-ounce can black beans, drained
• 1 15-ounce can fire-roasted tomatoes,
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese,
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. In a small bowl whisk together the paprika, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Divide this mixture in half.
• Rub the chicken breasts with half of the spice mixture. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side in the skillet. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
• Add the onion to the skillet and saute until tender. Add in the garlic, corn, black beans, tomatoes with their juice, lime juice, and remaining seasoning blend.
• Stir and cook until the mixture comes to a gentile boil. Remove from heat and add the chicken breasts back to the skillet. Sprinkle the cheese over the chicken.
• Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes until it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.
• Top with the fresh cilantro and serve on its own or over rice.

Nutrition

Calories: 990kcal | Carbohydrates: 132g | Protein: 63g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 172mg | Sodium: 1936mg | Potassium: 1340mg | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 98g | Vitamin A: 1712IU | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 310mg | Iron: 5mg

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs take classic meatballs to the next level! Tender and juicy with melty cheese on the inside. Serve these meatballs as a party appetizer or over spaghetti noodles for a hearty meal!

Ingredients to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

The meatball base uses staple ingredients, just make sure to have your cheese on hand because it’s the BEST part of this recipe! Follow the recipe card below for exact measurements.

• Ground Beef: I prefer lean ground beef for this recipe!
• Italian Breadcrumbs: Give the texture and structure of the meatballs.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a delicious cheesy flavor to the meatball mixture!
• Egg: The egg helps add structure and bind the meatball mixture together.
• Onion: Finely minced onion for added flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic always.
• Oregano and Basil: Add delicious flavor using Italian seasonings.
• Salt and Pepper: Helps balance and enhance the flavors.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Cubed fresh mozzarella gives the best melty results but I list other options below!
• Homemade Marinara: Use jarred marinara or try my homemade recipe because it is fantastic!
• Spaghetti Noodles: For serving, but use any kind of noodles you like!

How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Homemade meatballs are so easy and fun to make! Who wouldn’t love melty cheese oozing out of their meatballs? The best part is that you pop them in the oven and then warm them in your favorite sauce. Easy peasy and the whole family will want these meatballs on the weekly dinner rotation!

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, add the ground beef, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, egg, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until everything is just combined.
3. Take about 1 ½ tablespoons of meatball mixture in your hand and start forming it into a ball. Take one piece of the diced mozzarella, pop it into the center of the meatball, and continue to form a ball around the cheese. The meatballs should be 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the finished meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet pan. Once the meatballs are all formed, place them in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, cook the noodles according to the package directions. Remove the cooked meatballs from the oven.
6. In a large saucepan or pot, add the meatballs and marinara sauce. Cook over medium-high heat until the sauce is heated evenly and the meatballs are all coated in sauce. Remove the meatballs and sauce from the heat and serve with the cooked pasta.

More Meatball Recipes You’ll LOVE!

Appetizers

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

30 mins

Dinner

Saucy Asian Meatballs

22 mins

Dinner

Hawaiian Meatballs

40 mins

Dinner

Crockpot BBQ Meatballs

2 hrs 5 mins

Print

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs take classic meatballs to the next level! Tender and juicy with melty cheese on the inside. Serve these meatballs as a party appetizer or over spaghetti noodles for a hearty meal!

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Italian American

Keyword mozzarella meatballs, mozzarells stuffed meatballs recipe, stuffed meatballs

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 45 minutes minutes

Servings 6 people

Calories 270kcal

Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• ¼ cup Italian bread crumbs
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese pre-grated from the jar
• ¼ cup yellow onion minced, about ¼ small onion
• 2 teaspoons garlic minced, about 2 cloves
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese diced into ½ inch pieces
• Marinara sauce
• Spaghetti noodles for serving

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, add the ground beef, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, egg, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is just combined.
• Take about 1 ½ tablespoons of meatball mixture in your hand and start forming it into a ball. Take one piece of the diced mozzarella, pop it into the center of the meatball, and continue to form a ball around the cheese. The meatballs should be 1 inch in diameter.
• Place the finished meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet. Once the meatballs are all formed, place them in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• While the meatballs are baking, cook the noodles according to the package directions. Remove the cooked meatballs from the oven.
• In a large saucepan or pot, add the meatballs and marinara sauce. Cook over medium-high heat until the sauce is heated evenly and the meatballs are all coated in sauce.
• Remove the meatballs and sauce from the heat and serve with the cooked pasta.

Notes

Originally Posted December 12, 2016 

Updated on September 24, 2024

Nutrition

Calories: 270kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 108mg | Sodium: 825mg | Potassium: 344mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 349IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 261mg | Iron: 3mg

This delicious Louisiana Casserole has become an instant favorite in our house! It has all of the delicious flavors of a jambalaya in an easy-to-make casserole. Tasty andouille sausage, shrimp, veggies, rice, and cajun seasoning come together for a complete meal on the table in just 40 minutes!

Ingredients Needed for Louisiana Casserole

The ingredients needed to make this Louisiana casserole recipe are classic cajun ingredients that come together for major flavor and texture. This meal is similar to a traditional jambalaya, but everything is cooked together in one dish. It’s savory and hearty, with warm spices that make this casserole irresistible. Check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

• Shrimp: For convenience, buy your shrimp peeled and deveined.
• Andouille Sausage: A smoked sausage commonly used in Cajun cuisine.
• Cooked Rice: I used minute rice for this recipe, but you can make regular rice with a rice maker.
• Yellow Onion: Adds a sweet, savory flavor and a bit of texture.
• Red Bell Pepper: Gives the dish a beautiful color and a slightly sweet crunch.
• Green Bell Pepper: Provides a green color, which adds contrast, making the dish look appetizing and tastes amazing!
• Canned Fire Roasted Tomatoes: Adds the most delicious smoky flavor.
• Butter: Cooking the vegetables in butter adds a rich, deep flavor.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is one of the best ingredients to pair with shrimp (just ask this brown butter spicy shrimp), and along with the other veggies, it adds depth and complexity.
• Salt and Pepper: To enhance all of the flavors.
• Cajun Seasoning: You can use a store-bought spice blend or try this homemade cajun seasoning.

Breadcrumb topping

• Parmesan Cheese: For sharp cheesy flavor.
• Bread Crumbs: Adds golden, crispy texture on top of the casserole.
• Salt and Pepper: For extra flavor.

How to Make Louisiana Casserole

Trust me when I say this is an easy recipe to follow. Most of the ingredients are ready to go! You just need to sauté the veggies, heat the sausage, and cook the shrimp, and dinner is served! The whole family will love this one. Here’s how everything comes together:

1. Prep: Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Sauté Veggies: Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Then add the onion, red, and green pepper to the skillet and sauté until the vegetables become tender.
3. Sauté Sausage and Shrimp: Add the garlic, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, sauté until the shrimp are mostly pink.
4. Combine All Ingredients: Add the vegetables and meat to the baking dish along with the rice, tomatoes, and cajun seasoning. Stir everything together.
5. Mix the Topping: Mix the parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper, in a small bowl. Then sprinkle the top of the casserole with this mixture.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the rice has had time to soak in any excess juice.
7. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

More Casserole Recipes

Casseroles make some of the best meals. They are usually super easy to throw together and taste amazing. Try out some of my other family favorites! For more dinner inspiration, find my full list of casseroles here!

Dinner

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

1 hr

Dinner

Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole

40 mins

Dinner

Swedish Meatball Casserole

45 mins

Dinner

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

50 mins

Print

Louisiana Casserole

This delicious Louisiana Casserole has become an instant favorite in our house! It has all of the delicious flavors of a jambalaya in an easy-to-make casserole. Tasty andouille sausage, shrimp, veggies, rice and cajun seasoning come together for a complete meal on the table in just 40 minutes!

Course Dinner, Main Course, main dish

Cuisine American, cajun, Southern

Keyword casserole, louisiana, louisiana casserole recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 40 minutes minutes

Servings 8 people

Calories 348kcal

Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ¼ cup butter, salted
• ½ yellow onion, minced, about 1/3 cup
• 1 green bell pepper, diced, about 1 cup
• 1 red bell pepper, diced, about 1 cup
• 2 cloves garlic, minced, about 2 teaspoons
• 14 ounces andouille sausage, cut into ¼ inch rounds
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 3 cups cooked rice, white or brown
• 1 14.5-ounce can fire-roasted tomatoes,
• 2 tablespoons cajun seasoning

Breadcrumb topping

• ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
• ⅓ cup plain bread crumbs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
• Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, red, and green pepper to the skillet and saute until the vegetables become tender.
• Add the garlic, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, saute until the shrimp mostly pink.
• Add the vegetables and meat to the baking dish along with the rice, tomatoes, and cajun seasoning. Stir everything well.
• In a small bowl mix together the parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper. Top the casserole with the breadcrumb mixture.
• Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the rice has had time to soak in any excess juice.
• Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

If you are using frozen shrimp, thaw it before cooking. 

 

You can use jumbo or mini shrimps in this recipe, the shrimp I used was a medium-sized, standard shrimp fresh at the deli of my local grocery store. 

 

I used minute rice for this recipe but you can make regular rice with a rice maker.  To get 3 cups of cooked rice you will need to cook about 1 cup of dry rice.

Nutrition

Calories: 348kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 62mg | Sodium: 1022mg | Potassium: 320mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1631IU | Vitamin C: 32mg | Calcium: 105mg | Iron: 2mg

Learn how to make the perfect homemade Graham Cracker Crust! It comes together in just 10 minutes with 3 simple ingredients for the right amount of buttery sweetness and crunch! You’ll never buy one from the store again!

Graham Cracker Crust Recipe

Every baker needs a reliable graham cracker crust recipe to have in their arsenal. This one is simple to make and so delicious! It’s my go-to recipe, from cream cheese pie to my key lime tart. While you can always use a store-bought crust, homemade tastes so much better, and it has a much better texture than a packaged crust from the store.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of my favorite things about this pie crust recipe is that the ingredient list is short and sweet. You need only three simple ingredients to make it! Exact measurements of the ingredients can be found below in the recipe card.

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: You can purchase graham cracker crumbs in a box down the baking aisle or make the crumbs yourself by crushing about 12 sheets of graham crackers.
• Granulated Sugar: For wonderful sweetness without overwhelming the graham cracker flavor.
• Salted Butter: Melted butter is what will bind the tiny crumbs and sugar together. It also will give the crust an incredibly rich and buttery flavor. 

How to Make a Graham Cracker Crust

This recipe only takes about 10 minutes to make! Then, you can chill the crust for 30 minutes or bake it for 12 minutes before adding your filling.

1. Mix Ingredients: Add the graham cracker crumbs and sugar to a medium bowl and mix. Add the melted butter and mix evenly until the crumbs resemble wet sand.
2. Press into the Pie Dish: Pour the crumb mixture into a 9-inch pie dish and use your hands or a flat-bottomed measuring cup or glass to press the crumbs evenly into the sides and bottom of the pan. Set it in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare your chosen filling, or at least 30 minutes before adding the filling.

Ways to Use a Graham Cracker Crust

Graham cracker crust can be used to make so many fabulous pies! It’s definitely a favorite of mine, and it’s way easier than a regular pastry pie crust. Here are some delicious pie recipes to use your perfect graham cracker crust!

Desserts

No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie

3 hrs 15 mins

Peach

No-Bake Fresh Peach Pie

4 hrs 20 mins

Desserts

No Bake S’mores Pie

Cheesecake

No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

3 hrs 45 mins

Print

Graham Cracker Crust

Learn how to make the perfect homemade Graham Cracker Crust! It comes together in just 10 minutes with 3 simple ingredients for the right amount of buttery sweetness and crunch! You’ll never buy one from the store again!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword graham cracker crust, graham cracker pie crust, homemade graham cracker crust, how to make graham cracker crust, no-bake graham cracker crust

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

chill time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 40 minutes minutes

Servings 1 9-inch crust

Calories 1605kcal

Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup salted butter melted

Instructions

• Add the graham cracker crumbs, and sugar to a medium bowl and mix. Add the melted butter and mix evenly until the crumbs resemble wet sand.
• Pour the crumb mixture into a 9-inch pie dish and use your hands or a flat-bottomed measuring cup or glass to press the crumbs evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the dish. Set it in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare your chosen filling, or at least 30 minutes before adding the filling.

Notes

Baked graham cracker crust:

Mix 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ⅓ cup granulated sugar, and 5 tablespoons of melted salted butter. Press it into a 9-inch pie pan and bake at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 minutes. Let it cool completely before adding your filling of choice.

Nutrition

Calories: 1605kcal | Carbohydrates: 162g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 105g | Saturated Fat: 60g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 28g | Trans Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 244mg | Sodium: 1561mg | Potassium: 252mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 96g | Vitamin A: 2836IU | Calcium: 127mg | Iron: 5mg

Homemade Sweet Corn Tamale Cakes are an explosion of delicious flavor in every bite! With this easy recipe, you can bring this Cheesecake Factory favorite right to your own kitchen. Add the signature topping to really take these to the next level!

What are Sweet Corn Tamale Cakes?

The sweet corn tamale cakes are my family’s favorite appetizer to order when we eat at Cheesecake Factory. If you’ve never had them or don’t have a Cheesecake Factory in your area, you’re in for a real treat with this homemade tamale cake recipe!

These start with a simple batter that includes corn and masa flour (or cornmeal), which is formed into patties and pan-fried until crispy golden brown. Then, mix together a southwest-seasoned mayo and garnish the cakes with all your favorite Mexican-style toppings. Not only does this dish taste amazing, but the presentation is colorful and vibrant!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These corn cakes have the perfect crispy texture on the outside, and then they get a ton of fresh flavor from the sauce and toppings! Here are all of the ingredients that you need. Check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for all of the exact measurements!

Corn Cakes

• Corn: For this recipe, we’re processing some of the corn in a food processor and then keeping some of it in whole kernels.
• Butter: This will help bind the ingredients, add richness, and make these super crispy when fried.
• Sugar: For a hint of sweetness.
• Salt: To enhance all the flavors.
• Flour: All-purpose flour and Masa Harina flour (or cornmeal) form the base for these corn cakes.
• Olive Oil: For frying the cakes.

Tamale Cake Toppings

• For the Sauce: Combine mayonnaise with Southwest seasoning or taco seasoning for extra spiced flavor.
• Salsa Verde: Use store-bought or homemade salsa verde for serving.
• Pico de Gallo: Pico de Gallo, also called salsa fresca, is made with fresh tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, lime, and cilantro. For convenience, you can buy it pre-made from the store.
• Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a tangy taste to the cakes.
• Avocado: Provides the topping with extra creaminess and flavor.
• Cilantro: Garnish with fresh cilantro!

How to Make Tamale Cakes

This sweet corn tamale cake recipe is easy to make and so incredibly tasty. These will be a hit no matter if you serve them for a light meal or a fun appetizer!

Corn Cakes

1. Prep Corn: Thaw and drain the frozen corn. Pulse 1 cup of corn in a food processor until smooth. Add the pulsed corn to a large bowl, with the remaining 1/2 cup whole corn kernels.
2. Make the Batter: Add the all-purpose flour, masa flour, salt, butter, and sugar. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to mix the butter into the rest of the ingredients until the batter forms. Add one teaspoon of additional masa flour at a time if the batter is too sticky.
3. Form into Patties: Shape 1/2 cup of the batter into a small patty measuring about 3 inches in diameter. 
4. Fry: Heat a large skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the corn cakes and cook for 5 minutes until golden brown. Carefully flip each cake and cook for 5 minutes on the other side. Alternatively, you can bake the corn cakes in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through the baking time.
5. Make the Sauce: Mix the mayonnaise and Southwest seasoning in a small bowl.
6. Sauce in Bag: Spoon the mixture into a small Ziplock bag. Snip a small corner of the bag using scissors to drizzle on top of the corn cakes.
7. Plate the Corn Cakes: Pour the salsa verde on the bottom of a large plate, and then place the corn cakes on top of the salsa verde. Garnish the top of each cake with sour cream, avocado, pico de Gallo, a drizzle of the seasoned mayonnaise mixture, and chopped cilantro. Enjoy!

More Cheesecake Factory Copycat Recipes

If you love Cheesecake Factory as much as I do, you need to add these copycat recipes to your menu! They’re all tried and true and family favorites that I make all the time. They might even be tastier than the restaurant version!

Appetizers

The Best Avocado Egg Rolls (Cheesecake Factory Copycat)

20 mins

Dinner

Chicken Madeira (Cheesecake Factory Copycat)

30 mins

Bread

Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread

2 hrs 25 mins

Dinner

Louisiana Chicken Pasta (Cheesecake Factory Copycat)

40 mins

Print

Sweet Corn Tamale Cakes

Homemade Sweet Corn Tamale Cakes are an explosion of delicious flavor in every bite! With this easy recipe you can bring this Cheesecake Factory favorite right to your own kitchen. Add the signature topping to really take these to the next level!

Course Appetizer, Dinner

Cuisine Mexican American

Keyword cheesecake factory copycat, sweet tamale corn cakes recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 4 cakes

Calories 696kcal

Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

Corn Cakes

• 1 ½ cups thawed frozen corn, divided
• ½ cup softened butter, (1 stick)
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup masa harina flour, or cornmeal
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, for frying

Toppings

• ⅓ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Southwest seasoning, or taco seasoning (storebought or homemade)
• 1 cup salsa verde, divided (storebought or homemade)
• ½ cup pico de gallo, divided (storebought or homemade)
• ¼ cup sour cream, divided
• 1 avocado, deseeded and chopped
• 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro

Instructions

Corn Cakes

• Thaw and drain the frozen corn. Pulse 1 cup of corn in a food processor until smooth. Add the pulsed corn to a large bowl, along with the remaining 1/2 cup whole corn kernels.
• Add the all-purpose flour, masa flour, salt, butter, and sugar. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to mix the butter into the rest of the ingredients until the batter forms. Add 1 teaspoon of additional masa flour at a time if the batter is too sticky.
• Shape 1/2 cup of the batter into a small patty measuring about 3 inches in diameter.
• Heat a large skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the corn cakes and cook for 5 minutes until golden brown. Carefully flip each cake and cook for 5 minutes on the other side. Alternatively, you can bake the corn cakes in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through the baking time.

Toppings

• Mix the mayonnaise and Southwest seasoning in a small bowl.
• Spoon the mixture into a small Ziplock bag. Snip a small corner of the bag using scissors to drizzle on top of the corn cakes.
• Pour the salsa verde on the bottom of a large plate then place the corn cakes on top of the salsa verde. Garnish the top of each cake with sour cream, avocado, pico de Gallo, a drizzle of the seasoned mayonnaise mixture, and chopped cilantro. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 696kcal | Carbohydrates: 55g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 53g | Saturated Fat: 20g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 11g | Monounsaturated Fat: 18g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 77mg | Sodium: 1308mg | Potassium: 561mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 22g | Vitamin A: 1690IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 52mg | Iron: 2mg

Using a slow cooker is the best way to have meals ready to go at dinner time without putting in a lot of work! Check out the coconut curry chicken— Everyone goes CRAZY for it!

What’s for Dinner?

I LOVE using my slow cooker. Slow cooker meals are so easy to throw together and then you just let the crockpot do all the work! These meals are full of delicious flavor, the coconut curry chicken is a viral recipe for a reason! Check out all of my other meal plans here.

• Monday: Coconut Curry Chicken
• Tuesday: Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
• Wednesday: Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken with Pasta
• Thursday: Crockpot Salsa Chicken
• Friday: Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Chops

Coconut Curry Chicken

4.84 from 6 votes

Coconut curry chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a blend of aromatic spices, all simmered in a luscious coconut milk sauce. Serve it up with naan and basmati rice for a meal your family won’t be able to get enough of!

View Recipe

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

4.77 from 135 votes

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon has crazy tender melt in your mouth beef and hearty veggies slow cooked to perfection in a rich sauce. This meal is comforting and perfect for the cold months ahead!

View Recipe

Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken

3.96 from 70 votes

This Olive Garden crockpot chicken is to die for! The juicy and tender chicken cooked with some pasta is insanely delicious! Plus, it's super easy which is a total win-win!

View Recipe

Crockpot Salsa Chicken

Weeknight dinner made easy with this crockpot salsa chicken! Tender and flavorful chicken that only takes 5 ingredients to make. It's a versatile recipe the whole family will love!

View Recipe

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Chops

These slow cooker honey garlic pork chops are incredibly tender, they practically melt in your mouth! Cooked in a sweet and savory sauce, you won't be able to stop after one bite. This is the perfect weeknight dinner that's both easy and unbelievably delicious!

View Recipe

Side Dishes for Dinner

Side Dishes

Smashed Brussels Sprouts

1 hr 10 mins

Side Dishes

Garlic Butter Rice

25 mins

Bread

Croissant Bread

4 hrs

Helpful Tips

How to Boil Corn on the Cob

15 mins

My weekly meal plans always include a printable shopping list that is measured out and ready to go. It makes things so easy!

Crispy, flavorful Fried Calamari is a delicious appetizer that tastes like something you would order in a fancy restaurant. The calamari is tenderized, breaded, and then fried to golden brown, crunchy perfection. Take it to the next level with marinara sauce for dipping!

What is Fried Calamari?

You’ll find fresh calamari in the seafood department at most grocery stores. We love it so much that we always have to order it, if we see it on the menu! It’s also easy to make at home.

You can find fresh calamari at most grocery stores in the seafood department. You can also find frozen squid in the freezer aisle. The key to making sure your calamari is tender is to first soak it in a milk and lemon juice mixture. Then, you’ll bread it with a simple mix of flour, cornstarch, and seasonings. Fry it up in just minutes to a perfect golden brown. Its crispy goodness will have you coming back for seconds and thirds!

Ingredients You’ll Need For Crispy Fried Calamari

The ingredients for this calamari recipe are simple. Other than the calamari, you probably already have what you need! It’s all about the ratio of flour to cornstarch to get that delicious crispiness. Exact measurements can all be found below in the recipe card.

• Calamari Rings: You can use either calamari rings that are sold already cleaned (seen below) or whole squid, which you cut into tubes before use.
• Milk and Lemon Juice: Soaking the calamari in a mix of whole milk and lemon juice will make it tender and also help the breading adhere to it.
• Flour/Cornstarch: For the breading, you’ll need a mix of all-purpose flour and cornstarch for golden brown crispiness. The flour is what will fry up golden brown and the cornstarch will give the exterior that crispy crunch.
•  Dried Dill: Gives the perfect complimentary flavor to the squid.
• Paprika: Adds a nice peppery flavor that gives a bit of heat.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste!
• Oil: Vegetable oil for frying.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges to squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the top for brightness in every bite.

How to Make Fried Calamari

Frying crispy calamari is much easier to make at home than you might think! The steps are simple, and the calamari only takes about 3 minutes to fry!

1. Prep: Prepare the calamari rings by thawing them if they are frozen. Pat the rings dry and place them into a bowl.
2. Coat with Milk and Lemon Juice: Pour the milk and lemon juice over the rings and stir to combine and coat the rings evenly in the milk mixture.
3. Mix: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, dill, paprika, and pepper.
4. Dredge in Flour Mixture: Remove the rings from the milk mixture, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Then, toss them in the flour mixture. Next, place the breaded calamari rings onto a plate or sheet pan. Meanwhile, prepare a second plate or sheet pan by lining it with paper towels.
5. Fry: Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot carefully place the battered calamari into the hot oil and fry them for about 3 minutes until they are golden brown.
6. Finish Frying and Serve: Once you finish frying the calamari, place them onto a paper towel-lined plate or sheet pan. Work in batches until you’ve cooked all the calamari, then serve it fresh with lemon wedges.

More Delicious Appetizers

If you are like me, then you’ll agree that appetizers are the best part of the meal! They’re great for parties and entertaining, too! Below, you’ll find some of my most popular appetizer recipes that everyone loves.  

Appetizers

Jalapeño Poppers with Bacon

30 mins

Appetizers

Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip

25 mins

Appetizers

Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball

15 mins

Appetizers

Little Smokies Recipe

2 hrs 5 mins

Print

Fried Calamari

Crispy, flavorful Fried Calamari is a delicious appetizer that tastes like something you would order in a fancy restaurant. The calamari is tenderized, breaded and then fried to golden brown, crunchy perfection. Take it to the next level with marinara sauce for dipping!

Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine Greek, Italian American, Mediterranean

Keyword Calamari, Fried Calamari

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 50 minutes minutes

Servings 4 people

Calories 345kcal

Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

• 1 pound calamari rings
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• vegetable oil for frying
• lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

• Prepare the calamari rings by thawing them if they are frozen. Pat the rings dry and place them into a bowl.
• Pour the milk and lemon juice over the rings and stir to combine and coat the rings evenly in the milk mixture.
• In a separate bowl whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, dill, paprika, and pepper. Remove the rings from the milk mixture, allowing excess liquid to drip off, and toss them in the flour mixture.
• Place the breaded calamari rings onto a plate or sheet pan and prepare a second plate or sheet pan by lining it with paper towels.
• Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot carefully place the battered calamari into the hot oil and fry them for about 3 minutes until they are golden brown.
• When the calamari is finished frying place them onto the paper towel-lined plate or sheet pan. Work in batches until all the calamari is finished and serve fresh with lemon wedges.

Notes

If you can’t find calamari rings, you can use squid tubes and cut them into rings. You can also use a mix with tentacles. 

 

To air fry, follow the steps up until you fry them. Instead, spray the breaded calamari with oil and place them into your air fryer basket. Air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 4-5 minutes. 

Nutrition

Calories: 345kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 272mg | Sodium: 366mg | Potassium: 442mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 276IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 125mg | Iron: 3mg

Crispy outside with a warm, flavorful filling, these Shrimp Egg Rolls are beyond delicious! They’re packed with a mix of vermicelli noodles, sautéed veggies, shrimp and plenty of flavorings, then fried till crunchy and golden brown. Serve them as an appetizer, a light main or party side dish!

Ingredients Needed to Make Shrimp Egg Rolls

This shrimp egg roll recipe is made with fresh ingredients and loaded with authentic Asian flavors. The filling consists of sautéed vegetables, shrimp and plenty of flavorings. Serve them as appetizers or as the main course with fried rice, vegetable stir fry and/or this asian cucumber salad. They’re always a hit! Check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

• Vermicelli Noodles: Soft, thin rice noodles add heartiness to the filling.
• Sesame Oil: For tossing the noodles, sautéing the vegetables and adding rich flavor.
• Green Cabbage: Shredded cabbage adds crunch and a nice texture.
• Carrots: Shredded carrots for additional crunch and hint of sweetness.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a mild onion flavor.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic for extra flavor.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a slightly peppery, yet sweet taste.
• Oyster Sauce: For a complex taste that is earthy, slightly sweet and salty.
• Soy Sauce: Creates wonderful umami flavor.
• Shrimp: The star protein of the recipe and what makes them super satisfying.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste!
• Egg Roll Wrappers: To hold all of the filling ingredients together and become crispy and golden brown on the outside when fried!

How to Make Shrimp Egg Rolls

Don’t be intimidated to roll the egg rolls, check out the visual guide below for step-by-step instructions. It’s actually super easy! Here’s how everything comes together:

1. Cook the Vermicelli: Cook the vermicelli according to the package directions, rinse under cold water, then lightly toss in a little sesame oil to keep them from sticking together. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Veggies: In a large skillet heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. To the skillet add the cabbage, carrots, and green onions. Saute the vegetables until they become tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Remaining Ingredients: Add garlic, ginger, oyster sauce, soy sauce, shrimp, salt, and pepper. Saute everything together until the shrimp has turned pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp and vegetable filling from the heat and set aside.
4. Prep Work Station: Meanwhile, prepare a clean work surface with egg roll wrappers, a small bowl of water, the filling, and the vermicelli noodles.
5. Fill the Paper Wrappers: Working one at a time, place a wrapper with a corner facing you, then add some of the shrimp and vegetable filling along with some vermicelli noodles into the lower ⅓ of the wrapper.
6. Roll: Roll the corner up over the filling, fold the sides in, and continue rolling using a little water on the edge of the wrapper to seal it closed. While the egg rolls are being filled, heat 2 inches of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Fry: Once all the egg rolls are filled, start frying them in batches. There should be space between all the egg rolls while they fry. Fry the egg rolls for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Cool: Remove the fried shrimp egg rolls from the pan, and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate to cool while you fry the rest of the rolls.

More Delicious Egg Rolls to Try

Homemade egg rolls can seem intimidating, but once you get the hang of using egg roll wrappers, you’ll how easy they are to make! Plus, there are so many variations! From dessert cheesecake egg rolls to buffalo chicken egg rolls and even breakfast egg rolls, there are endless options! Here are some of our favorite recipes to try!

Appetizers

Cheeseburger Eggrolls

35 mins

Appetizers

Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls

25 mins

Appetizers

The Best Avocado Egg Rolls (Cheesecake Factory Copycat)

20 mins

Dinner

Crispy Air Fryer Egg Rolls

32 mins

Print

Shrimp Egg Rolls

Crispy outside with a warm, flavorful filling, these Shrimp Egg Rolls are beyond delicious! They're packed with a mix of vermicelli noodles, sautéed veggies, shrimp and plenty of flavorings; then fried till crunchy and golden brown. Serve them as an appetizer, a light main or party side dish!

Course Appetizer, Dinner, Side Dish

Cuisine Asian, Asian American, Chinese, chinese american

Keyword Egg Rolls, Shrimp Egg Rolls

Prep Time 30 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 50 minutes minutes

Servings 15 egg rolls

Calories 41kcal

Ingredients

• ½ pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1.5 ounces vermicelli noodles
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil, plus more for noodles
• 2 cups green cabbage, shredded, about 1/3 cabbage
• 1 cup carrots, shredded, about 1 large carrot
• ½ cup green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced, 3 cloves
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated, 1 small knob
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Egg roll wrappers

Instructions

• Cook the vermicelli according to the package directions, rinse under cold water, and lightly toss in a little sesame oil to keep them from sticking together. Set aside.
• In a large skillet heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. To the skillet add the cabbage, carrots, and green onions. Saute the vegetables until they become tender, about 5 minutes.
• Add garlic, ginger, oyster sauce, soy sauce, shrimp, salt, and pepper. Saute everything together until the shrimp has turned pink and cooked through.
• Remove the shrimp and vegetable filling from the heat and set aside. Meanwhile, prepare your rolling station.
• Prepare a clean work surface with egg roll wrappers, a small bowl of water, the filling, and the vermicelli noodles.
• Working one at a time, place a wrapper with a corner facing you. Place some of the shrimp and vegetable filling along with some vermicelli noodles into the lower ⅓ of the wrapper.
• Roll the corner up over the filling, fold the sides in, and continue rolling the wrapper the rest of the way using a little water on the edge of the wrapper to seal it closed.
• While the egg rolls are being filled, heat 2 inches of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Once all the egg rolls are filled, start frying them in batches. There should be space between all the egg rolls while they fry. Fry the egg rolls for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown.
• Remove the fried egg rolls from the pan, and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate to cool while you fry the rest of the rolls.

Notes

I like to use smaller shrimp for this recipe so they fit into the wrappers better. 

Nutrition

Calories: 41kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Trans Fat: 0.001g | Cholesterol: 24mg | Sodium: 131mg | Potassium: 99mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1468IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 21mg | Iron: 0.3mg

This mouthwatering Monterey chicken is slathered in tangy barbecue sauce, covered in melty cheese, and topped with crisp bacon and sweet tomatoes. The combination of all these flavors creates a satisfying dish your family will want on repeat!

Easy Monterey Chicken Recipe Ingredients

The ingredients needed for this Chili’s copycat recipe are simple and work so well together. Scroll to the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Chicken is my favorite protein for recipes like this. It absorbs the flavor so well and is so tender and juicy when it’s baked!
• Honey: This adds the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors happening in this dish.
• Soy Sauce: I feel like no marinade is complete without soy sauce! it just gives the perfect amount of flavor and saltinesss.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Provides a complex depth of flavor you can’t get anywhere else.
• Minced Garlic: Garlic is one of those ingredients you can measure with your heart! It adds so much delicious savory flavor.
• Salt: Enhances everything in the marinade.
• Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and enhances the other flavors in the dish.
• Applewood Smoked Bacon: Provides a rich, smokey flavor and a delightful texture to this Monterey chicken.
• Barbeque Sauce: Use your favorite barbecue sauce. It adds so much moisture and flavor.
• Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese: With the name Monterey in the title you know this cheese is perfect for this recipe! It gives the perfect salty, cheesy goodness on top of the chicken breasts.
• Diced Roma Tomatoes: Add a burst of freshness with a tangy flavor and a hint of sweetness
• Chopped Green Onions: This gives the dish a pop of color and a punch of onion flavor.

Chili’s Copycat Monterey Chicken

This Monterey chicken dish is so easy to put together. You make the marinade, bake the chicken, then broil the cheese and sauce, and dinner is served! Just make sure to give yourself enough time to let the chicken marinate.

1. Make Marinade: Mix the honey, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large sealable bag or bowl.
2. Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and marinate for at least an hour or overnight.
3. Bake Chicken: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, then place the marinated chicken into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-40 minutes, until the chicken has fully cooked.
4. Cook Bacon: While the chicken is baking, fry the bacon, roughly chop it, and set it aside.
5. Top Chicken: Take the chicken out of the oven, then remove the foil, and top each breast with BBQ sauce, shredded Monterey jack cheese, and cooked bacon.
6. Broil Chicken: Set the broiler to high and broil the chicken until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Garnish with the diced tomato and green onion. Serve fresh, and enjoy!

More Cheese, Bacon, and Chicken Recipes

I absolutely love the combination of chicken, cheese, and bacon! They are all just meant to go together. The salty, crispy bacon and melty cheese complement the tender chicken in the recipes below!

Dinner

Crack Chicken Casserole

35 mins

Dinner

Slow Cooker Crack Chicken (Cheddar Ranch Chicken)

6 hrs 10 mins

Dinner

Jalapeño Popper Chicken

1 hr

Dinner

Alice Springs Chicken

45 mins

Print

Monterey Chicken

This mouthwatering Monterey chicken is slathered in tangy barbecue sauce, covered in melty cheese, and topped with smoky bacon and sweet tomatoes.

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword chicken recipes, monterey chicken

Prep Time 1 hour hour

Cook Time 45 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 45 minutes minutes

Servings 4 Servings

Calories 700kcal

Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts boneless skinless
• ¼ cup honey
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 8 slices applewood smoked bacon
• ½ cup barbecue sauce
• 1 cup Monterey jack cheese shredded
• 2 Roma tomatoes diced
• ¼ cup green onions chopped

Instructions

• Mix the honey, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large sealable bag or bowl.
• Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and marinate for at least an hour or overnight.
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the marinated chicken into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-40 minutes, until the chicken has fully cooked.
• While the chicken is baking, fry the bacon, roughly chop it, and set it aside.
• Pull the chicken out of the oven, remove the foil, top each chicken cutlet with barbecue sauce, cooked bacon, and shredded Monterey jack cheese.
• Set the broiler to high and broil the chicken until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Garnish with the tomatoes and green onion. Serve fresh, and enjoy!

Notes

Originally Posted on December 28, 2012

Updated on September 13, 2024

Nutrition

Calories: 700kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 63g | Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 199mg | Sodium: 2361mg | Potassium: 1270mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 32g | Vitamin A: 713IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 264mg | Iron: 3mg

I love a meal plan with easy meals. This one has one of my kids all time favorites, the Taco Ring! These recipes are so delicious, you will love them!

What’s on the Menu?

This week’s menu is full of variety and flavor, making it one you’ll love! Each meal is unique, with comforting dishes and bold flavors that the whole family will enjoy. You can mix things up with easy sides like fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to make your dinners complete. It’s all about keeping things delicious, simple, and fun—plus, there will be plenty of leftovers to save you time later in the week!

• Monday: Creamy Chicken Marsala
• Tuesday: Taco Ring
• Wednesday: Nashville Hot Chicken
• Thursday: Orange Beef
• Friday: Easy BBQ Chicken Pizza

Creamy Chicken Marsala

4.77 from 96 votes

Creamy Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian dish that is ready in under 30 minutes! Marsala wine is made into a creamy sauce paired with mushrooms for the ultimate savory bite. It's simple and easy to whip up and sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

View Recipe

Taco Ring

This taco ring is the easiest, cheesiest dinner. I know your family will love it as much as mine does! All you need is a can of crescent rolls, shredded Colby Jack cheese, some taco seasoning, and your favorite fixings to bring it to life!

View Recipe

Nashville Hot Chicken Recipe

Nashville Hot Chicken is everything the name promises- it's sticky, juicy, and the perfect amount of spice that lights up your taste buds. This delicious air-fried chicken is smothered in Nashville hot sauce that is spoon-licking good!

View Recipe

Orange Beef

5 from 2 votes

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside beef strips coated in a tangy orange glaze. This orange beef recipe is the perfect weeknight dinner and sure to become a new family favorite! It may even rival your favorite takeout spot.

View Recipe

Easy BBQ Chicken Pizza

5 from 1 vote

Jam-packed with onions, cilantro, cheese, BBQ sauce, and chicken, this pizza will be a hit with your family! Using a pre-made crust makes this recipe easy and delicious! 

View Recipe

Side Dishes for Dinner

Side Dishes

Parmesan Garlic Roasted Potatoes

40 mins

Side Dishes

Perfectly Soft Buttery Rolls

1 hr 45 mins

Salads

Wedge Salad

10 mins

Side Dishes

Super Easy Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

5 hrs 15 mins

My weekly meal plans always include a printable shopping list that is measured out and ready to go. It makes things so easy!