Are you tired of cooking up a storm only to have your kids turn their noses up at what you’ve prepared? Do you wish you had more time to cook, but don’t know where to start with meal planning and prep? Look no further! As a busy parent, it can be overwhelming to come up with healthy, kid-friendly recipes that are also quick and easy to make. But fear not – we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’re sharing 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes that your kids will love. From cheesy baked chicken tenders to mini pizza bagels, peanut butter banana roll-ups to rainbow fruit skewers, there’s something on this list for every picky eater in the family. And the best part? These recipes are all kid-tested and approved, so you can trust that they’ll be a hit with your little ones.
Cheesy Baked Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and savory recipe! Crispy chicken tenders smothered in melted cheese and baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the tenders and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top each tender with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Pizza Bagels
Mini Pizza Bagels: A Bite-Sized Twist on Classic Pizzas!
These adorable mini pizzas are perfect for parties, snacks, or even a quick lunch. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious and easy-to-eat treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 mini bagels
– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the mini bagels in half and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Spread a small amount of pizza sauce on each bagel half, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Add your desired toppings.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Roll-Ups
A sweet and satisfying snack that’s perfect for a quick pick-me-up. These bite-sized treats combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of bananas.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 6-8 whole wheat tortillas
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Slice the bananas into 1-inch pieces.
3. Lay out a tortilla and spread about 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
4. Place a banana piece on top of the peanut butter mixture.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up into a neat cylinder.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! These roll-ups are ready in just a few minutes.
Rainbow Fruit Skewers
Add a pop of color and flavor to your snack or dessert game with these vibrant Rainbow Fruit Skewers! Perfect for kids’ parties, potlucks, or just a quick and easy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed fruit (grapes, strawberries, pineapple, kiwi, orange slices)
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Optional: honey or yogurt dip
Instructions:
1. Cut the fruit into bite-sized pieces.
2. Thread 3-4 pieces of each color onto a skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Repeat the process until all the fruit is used up, using a new skewer for each color combination.
4. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None! These skewers are ready straight away.
Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese
A creamy macaroni and cheese recipe packed with hidden veggies, perfect for sneaking nutrients into your meals.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked zucchini, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup cooked carrot, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour, paprika, and garlic powder. Whisk until smooth.
5. Gradually add grated cheese, whisking until melted and smooth.
6. Stir in cooked zucchini and carrot. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
7. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and stir until coated.
8. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Pinwheels
A delicious and easy-to-make snack or lunch option that combines the flavors of turkey, cheese, and veggies. Perfect for on-the-go or a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sliced deli turkey breast
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup cream cheese softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 large flour tortilla (about 10-12 inches)
– Lettuce leaves for wrapping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese until well combined.
3. Spread the mixture evenly onto the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Top with chopped parsley and lettuce leaves.
5. Roll the tortilla tightly but gently into a pinwheel shape.
6. Wrap in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Slice into pinwheels and serve.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an assembled snack or lunch option.
Homemade Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and juicy homemade chicken nuggets that are surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, then into the beaten egg, and finally into the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the coated chicken pieces for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, including prep time.
Yogurt Parfait with Granola
Yogurt Parfait with Granola Recipe
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A refreshing and healthy dessert that’s perfect for warm weather, this yogurt parfait with granola is a simple yet satisfying treat. Layered with creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and sweet fresh berries, it’s a delightful combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
————
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup granola
– 1 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
————–
1. In a small bowl, mix together the honey and vanilla extract.
2. Spoon the yogurt into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top the yogurt with the mixed berries.
4. Sprinkle the granola over the berries.
5. Drizzle the honey-vanilla mixture over the granola.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time:
————
None! This recipe is quick and easy, requiring no cooking at all.
Apple Sandwiches with Peanut Butter
A classic combination that’s both delicious and satisfying, this recipe is perfect for a quick snack or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 apples, sliced
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– Optional: honey, chopped nuts, or cinnamon for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Lay out the bread slices.
2. Spread 1 tablespoon of peanut butter on each slice.
3. Arrange the apple slices on top of the peanut butter.
4. Add any optional toppings, if desired (honey, chopped nuts, or cinnamon).
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing one slice on top of the other.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-bake, quick-fix snack that’s ready in just 2-3 minutes.
Cheesy Quesadilla Triangles
Experience the magic of quesadillas in a new and exciting way with these crispy, cheesy triangles! Perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked chicken (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut each tortilla into three equal triangles.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
4. Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture onto the center of each triangle.
5. Add chopped chicken (if using) on top of the cheese.
6. Fold each triangle in half to form a triangle shape, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush tops with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pancake Muffins with Berries
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying treat that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. These moist pancake muffins are packed with juicy berries and topped with a crispy oat crumble.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Pinch of cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Gently fold in the mixed berries.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Mix the rolled oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle over the muffins.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spaghetti and Meatball Cups
A creative twist on a classic comfort food, these individual spaghetti and meatball cups are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-14 mini muffin cups
– Spaghetti (about 1 cup per cup)
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place each meatball into a mini muffin cup.
4. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Fill each meatball cup with cooked spaghetti, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top.
6. Spoon marinara sauce over the spaghetti.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and the spaghetti is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Veggie-Packed Smoothie Pops
Stay cool and nourished with these refreshing smoothie pops packed with veggies!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen spinach
– 1/2 cup frozen carrots
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine spinach, carrots, yogurt, honey, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
2. Add almond milk and blend until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds or small ice cube trays.
4. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. To unmold, run the popsicles under warm water for a few seconds.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (freezing time: 4+ hours)
Enjoy your veggie-packed smoothie pops as a healthy snack or post-workout treat!
Ham and Cheese Sliders
A classic comfort food, Ham and Cheese Sliders are perfect for a quick snack or easy meal. This simple recipe brings together the flavors of juicy ham, melted cheese, and soft buns.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of slider buns
– 6 slices of cooked ham
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon of butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each slider bun.
3. Place two slices of ham on the unbuttered side of each bun.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the ham.
5. Place the buns, butter-side down, in the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip the sliders over and cook for an additional minute.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Sweet Potato Tater Tots
Get ready to revolutionize your snack game with these crispy and delicious Sweet Potato Tater Tots! Made with mashed sweet potatoes, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional tater tots.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix in the beaten egg until a sticky dough forms.
4. Shape the dough into small tots, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) long.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the tater tots in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
7. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 20 minutes total, including frying time.
Mini Corn Dog Muffins
A sweet twist on the classic corn dog, these bite-sized muffins are perfect for a quick snack or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 cup cornmeal
– Mini hot dogs (about 20-25), cut into 1-inch pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in cornmeal and mini hot dog pieces.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Strawberry Banana Yogurt Bites
These bite-sized treats are a refreshing twist on traditional yogurt snacks. With the sweetness of strawberries and bananas, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup mashed banana
– 1/4 cup sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 10-12 mini muffin liners
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the yogurt, mashed banana, and honey until smooth.
2. Stir in the sliced strawberries and vanilla extract.
3. Spoon the mixture into the mini muffin liners, filling each about 3/4 of the way full.
4. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! These bites are ready in just a few minutes.
Cheesy Broccoli Bites
Transform broccoli into a crispy, cheesy delight with these bite-sized treats. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of broccoli (about 4 cups), steamed until tender
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together steamed broccoli, shredded cheese, and breadcrumbs.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
5. Place the broccoli bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
A delicious twist on traditional chocolate chip cookies, these oatmeal treats are perfect for a sweet snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ants on a Log (Celery with Peanut Butter and Raisins)
A classic childhood treat that’s perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy snack option.
Ingredients:
– 1 large stalk of celery, cleaned and trimmed
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup raisins
– Optional: salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the celery stalk into bite-sized pieces (about 3-4 inches long).
2. Spread a generous amount of peanut butter onto each piece of celery.
3. Top the peanut butter with raisins, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle with salt to taste, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This snack is ready in just minutes.
Summary
Get ready to delight your little ones with these 20 easy and delicious kid-friendly recipes! From classic comfort food like mac and cheese to healthier options like veggie-packed smoothie pops, there’s something for every tiny taste bud. Try making cheesy baked chicken tenders, mini pizza bagels, or peanut butter banana roll-ups for a snack that’s sure to please. Or, go all out with spaghetti and meatball cups or homemade chicken nuggets. Whatever you choose, your kids will be begging for more!
