15+ One Pot Meals Easy Recipes for Delicious Weeknight Dinners

One pot meals are a great solution for busy days when you want to enjoy delicious food without spending hours in the kitchen. These easy recipes not only save you time on cooking but also help reduce cleanup, making mealtime less stressful. Whether you are cooking for yourself or your family, one pot meals can fit into any schedule.

With a variety of flavors and ingredients, you can create satisfying dishes that everyone will love. From hearty stews to light stir-fries, these recipes are designed to be simple and enjoyable.

Using just one pot means you can focus more on enjoying your meal and less on the kitchen mess.

1) Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice is a flavorful one-pot meal that’s easy to make. You can cook the chicken and rice together, allowing all the flavors to blend perfectly.

The lemon adds a bright taste while the spices like oregano and paprika enhance the dish. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare this hearty meal.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 cup rice (preferably long-grain)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 lemon (juiced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh spinach (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika, then brown in the pot.
3. Remove chicken and set it aside.
4. Add rice, chicken broth, and lemon juice to the pot.
5. Place the chicken back into the pot, cover, and reduce heat to low (275°F/135°C).
6. Cook for about 20-25 minutes until rice is tender.
7. Stir in fresh spinach before serving, if desired.

2) Sausage Bake with Potatoes and Gravy

Sausage Bake with Potatoes and Gravy is a comforting one-pot meal. This dish combines juicy sausages, tender potatoes, and flavorful gravy, all cooked together for an easy dinner.

You will only need one pan, making clean-up a breeze. The sausages cook alongside potatoes, carrots, and onions. Everything is smothered in rich gravy that adds great flavor.

This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty without much fuss.

Ingredients:

• 4 sausages
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe pan, arrange the sausages, potatoes, carrots, and onion.
3. In a bowl, mix flour with broth, then pour over the sausage and veggies.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until everything is cooked through. Enjoy!

3) Creamy Baked Risotto with Lemon Pepper Chicken

This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner. You can enjoy a creamy risotto alongside tender lemon pepper chicken, all made in one pot. It’s easy to prepare and cleanup is a breeze.

Start by cooking onion and garlic in the pot until they are soft. Then, add rice, white wine, and broth. Stir until the rice cooks and absorbs the flavors.

For the chicken, season it with lemon pepper. Bake it until golden. Serve the chicken over the risotto for a delightful meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 pound chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Sauté onion and garlic in a pot until soft.
3. Add Arborio rice and stir for 2 minutes.
4. Pour in white wine and stir until absorbed.
5. Gradually add chicken broth, stirring until rice is tender.
6. Season chicken with lemon pepper.
7. Place chicken on top of risotto in the pot.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

4) One Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice with Vegetables

One Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice with Vegetables is a quick and tasty meal. You can make it in about 30 minutes, which is perfect for busy weeknights.

This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and has colorful vegetables like broccoli and carrots. The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce adds a delicious flavor that everyone will love.

You only need one pan for cooking, so cleanup is easy. This meal is great for families or anyone who wants a simple but satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup (150 g) broccoli florets
• 1 cup (130 g) carrots, sliced
• 1 cup (190 g) rice
• 2 cups (475 ml) chicken broth
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) vegetable oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
3. Stir in rice, broth, and teriyaki sauce.
4. Add broccoli and carrots to the pan.
5. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes until rice is cooked.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

5) Potato Soup with Onions and Garlic

Potato soup with onions and garlic is a comforting dish that is easy to prepare. The combination of creamy potatoes, aromatic onions, and flavorful garlic makes this soup a favorite.

Start by sautéing chopped onions and minced garlic until they are soft and fragrant. Then add diced potatoes and enough broth to cover them. Cook until the potatoes are tender.

Once the potatoes are soft, blend the soup for a smooth texture. You can leave some chunks for a heartier feel. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This soup is delicious and satisfying, perfect for any day.

Ingredients

• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until soft.
3. Add diced potatoes and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Blend to your desired consistency.
6. Stir in milk and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot.

6) Chicken in a Pot

Chicken in a pot is a comforting and simple dish. It cooks all in one pot, making cleanup easy. You’ll enjoy the flavors that come from using fresh herbs and vegetables.

To make this meal, you will combine chicken pieces with onions, garlic, and your choice of veggies. Cooking everything together allows the chicken to become tender and juicy.

Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add a little oil and brown the chicken on all sides.
3. Remove chicken and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
4. Add carrots, potatoes, and chicken broth.
5. Return chicken to the pot and season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Cover and simmer for 30-35 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until chicken is cooked through.

7) Italian Chicken Skillet

The Italian Chicken Skillet is a simple and tasty one-pot meal. It combines chicken with fresh vegetables, making it a healthy choice. You can have this dish ready in about 30 minutes.

Start by cooking chicken pieces in a skillet until they are browned. Add garlic, tomatoes, and mushrooms for extra flavor. You can also include spinach or bell peppers for more color and nutrition.

This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. It uses just one pan, which means less clean-up for you afterward. Serve it with pasta or rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Tomatoes
• Mushrooms
• Spinach (optional)
• Bell peppers (optional)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned.
3. Stir in garlic, tomatoes, and mushrooms.
4. Cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Add spinach if using and cook until wilted.
7. Serve warm.

8) Lemon Parmesan Chicken and Rice Bowl

This Lemon Parmesan Chicken and Rice Bowl is a simple and delicious one-pot meal. You only need a few ingredients, and it comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

Start with juicy chicken breasts cooked to perfection. The rice absorbs the lovely flavors of lemon and Parmesan cheese, creating a tasty combination. Fresh broccoli offers a nice crunch and adds color to your dish.

You’ll love how easy it is to make this meal without any extra dishes to wash!

Ingredients

• 1 cup rice
• 5 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cups hot water
• 1 (8-ounce) package frozen broccoli
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
3. Stir in rice, hot water, and broccoli.
4. Add salt, pepper, lemon juice, and zest.
5. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy!

9) Asian Beef Stir Fry

Asian Beef Stir Fry is a quick and tasty one-pot meal. You can prepare it in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners. The colors and flavors of this dish are vibrant and satisfying.

Start by marinating your beef with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. This adds wonderful flavor to your dish. Then, toss in a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots for a healthy boost.

Cook everything in a hot skillet until the beef is browned and the veggies are tender. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy the delicious, savory taste of this easy dish.

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef, sliced thin
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Cooked rice or noodles

Cooking Instructions

1. Marinate beef with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for 15 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add marinated beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until tender.
5. Serve over rice or noodles. Enjoy!

10) Spaghetti Bolognese with Hidden Veggies

You can make a delicious Spaghetti Bolognese that’s also healthy. This recipe hides tasty veggies in the sauce, making it a great meal for the whole family.

Start by finely chopping vegetables like onions, carrots, and zucchini. These add nutrition without changing the flavor.

Cook your ground beef or turkey in a pan and then add the chopped veggies. Next, pour in some crushed tomatoes and let it simmer.

Serve the sauce over your favorite pasta. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and kids often love it!

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef or turkey
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 carrot, finely diced
• 1 zucchini, finely diced
• 2 cups (500ml) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 12 ounces (340g) spaghetti

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pan, brown the ground meat over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrot, and zucchini, cooking until soft.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste.
4. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Let simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Cook spaghetti according to package directions.
7. Serve sauce over spaghetti and enjoy!

11) Mushroom Stroganoff

Mushroom Stroganoff is a creamy and delicious one-pot meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to make, packed with mushrooms and pasta.

To start, use your favorite type of pasta. Cook it in a pot with some broth, adding fresh mushrooms for flavor. You can make it vegan or keep it traditional with sour cream for a rich taste.

This recipe is great for busy evenings. You’ll have a warm, satisfying meal ready in just 20 minutes. Serve it with a sprinkle of parsley on top for a nice touch.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream or plant-based cream
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and cook until soft.
3. Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook until tender.
4. Add broth and pasta, cooking until the pasta is al dente.
5. Mix in sour cream and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

12) Spanish Chicken and Rice

Spanish Chicken and Rice is a flavorful and easy one-pot meal. You can prepare it in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. The dish combines tender chicken with spices, rice, and vegetables for a satisfying meal.

To start, season your chicken with a mix of spices to enhance the flavor. Use a large pot or skillet to cook everything together. As the chicken cooks, the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors, creating a hearty dish you’ll love.

This recipe often includes bell peppers, onions, and sometimes chorizo for an extra kick. It’s a great way to enjoy a taste of Spain in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of rice
• 1 pound of chicken thighs
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Season and add chicken thighs. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and bell pepper. Sauté until soft, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in rice, diced tomatoes, and smoked paprika.
5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes until rice is cooked.
7. Fluff with a fork and serve. Enjoy!

13) Vegetable Curry with Chickpeas

You can enjoy a delicious, healthy dinner with Vegetable Curry with Chickpeas. This meal is easy to make in one pot and is packed with nutrients.

To start, gather colorful vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and spinach. Chickpeas add protein and a hearty texture. The creamy coconut milk gives it a rich taste while spices like curry powder and turmeric enhance the flavor.

This dish cooks quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can serve it with rice or bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 can coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add bell peppers and carrots; cook for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in chickpeas, spinach, coconut milk, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Serve with rice or bread.

14) Red Beans and Rice

Red Beans and Rice is a classic dish that’s hearty and flavorful. It’s also easy to make in just one pot, which saves you time and effort. You can have this tasty meal on the table in about 30 to 40 minutes.

To make this dish, you typically use kidney beans, rice, and some kind of sausage. The spices give it that signature flavor. You can also customize it by adding vegetables or using different types of sausage.

This meal is great for busy nights or a cozy dinner with family. Plus, it’s filling and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 cup red kidney beans (canned or cooked)
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 sausage ( kielbasa or smoked)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft.
2. Add sausage and cook for a few minutes.
3. Stir in the red beans, rice, and chicken broth.
4. Season with Cajun spices, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.
6. Stir occasionally until the rice is cooked and the dish is thickened.

15) Barbecue Pulled Pork Chili

Barbecue pulled pork chili is a delicious and hearty dish. It combines the rich flavors of pulled pork with classic chili ingredients. You can prepare it all in one pot, making cleanup easy.

To start, gather your pulled pork. You can use leftovers or make it fresh. Add in canned tomatoes, beans, and your favorite spices.

Let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend nicely. You can serve it with cornbread or on its own.

This chili is perfect for a cozy night in or game day gatherings.

Ingredients

• 3-4 pounds pulled pork
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 can chili beans
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot, add the onion and cook until soft.
2. Stir in the pulled pork and cook for a few minutes.
3. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and chili beans.
4. Then, mix in the barbecue sauce, chili powder, and cumin.
5. Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.