I’m trying to set myself up for success this week (the week before my first half marathon). By “success” I mean I’m trying to limit my popcorn-as-a-meal or tortilla-then-cookie-dough-dinner. I wish that last dinner option was fictional, alas. This week, I’m digging through the archives for my grocery list. My weeknight dinners are usually one-pot meals that make great leftovers. If you’re in the market for dinner inspiration, take a quick scroll. Here’s what’s for dinner this week starting with my Dad’s One-Pot Hawaiian Chicken. Salty, sweet, and yes… thousand island dressing.
• I didn’t know Cincinnati Chili was controversial until I offered a bowl to a friend who scoffed at the audacity of cinnamon in chili. I happen to LOVE it. This spiced meat chili is topped with beans, cheese, and onions and served over spaghetti. Would this make a good carb loading meal the night before my race of is this to similar to Michael Scott eating alfredo pasta five minutes before running a mile? If you have The Office memorized like I do, we’re laughing together.
• This Braised Chicken and Mushroom Ragu somehow feels romantic to me. It’s such a cozy dinner and the mushroom add an earthiness that feels super settling.
• Here me out: a can of beans and a few inches of a baguette can absolutely be dinner. Add cheese and fresh herbs and get everything toasts. White Bean Skillet Crostini. The leftovers are fantastic with a soft boiled egg in the morning!
• I have the ingredients for this Chicken Enchilada Bake in the fridge except I’m using Seemore Sausage’s Chicken Chili Verde instead of shredded chicken!
• I’ve made these One-Pot Lamb and Spinach Meatballs with Orzo with ground turkey more often than ground lamb and either way they’re easy and delicious.
• I feel like Cheeseburger Fried Rice should also come with an apology. It’s so good it’s actually a problem .
• A comforting pot of Simple and Creamy Tomato Soup makes a very nice WFH lunch or dinner and also freezes well. There is one catch – serve with a French Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich.
That’s what’s for dinner this week, friends! Have a great week. We’ve got this.
samantha campanini
So many great ideas!!
Emily
That chicken and mushroom ragu is the bomb. It’s on regular rotation at our house. It absolutely feels romantic and fancy–it has a really complex taste with the red wine and the two kinds of mushrooms and everything. We really love it. Good luck with your half marathon this week!
Caitlin
You have answered a question I sent to the universe this week! I recently received a promotion at work (yay!) but it has resulted in a significant increase in the amount of time I spend working (less yay?) so much so, I have been at a loss as to what this means for getting a good dinner on the table every night. After an exhausting day, the thought of cooking and dishes (so. many. dishes.) just seemed completely impossible and overwhelming. Please, please, more of this!
PS – I’m a native Houstonian, I’m so happy you are discovering more of our underrated city! :)
frabjuousMe
I have made the White Bean Skillet Crostini many times. It always impresses, is utterly delicious, hits numerous food wishes/fantasies/targets…the fresh herbs a MUST…..One of my go to recipes when I want something ‘Restaurant Worthy’ that I can make at home…. decadent, definitely worth the time. Now that I am a solo girl, have learned that left over bean mixture is awesome reheated on a morning topped with a poached egg, toast of choice on the side for dipping/scooping. One of my most favorite recipes of yours that I have recreated numerous times…. and there are many. Thank you, Joy @curtsy@
Sandra Bounds
Hi! What is the dish next to the chili? Looks amazing. Thanks!
joythebaker
It’s a Braised Chicken and Mushroom Ragu! The link is up there if you need!
Sandra Bounds
THANKS!
CyndiTX
Enjoy your first half marathon, run your race at your pace. Don’t get caught at someone else’s pace. If you have juice left after 7 or 10 miles pick it up, but running someone else’s race has consequences. Do You, You are fabulous!
Janet Fazio
Cheeseburger fried rice? That may be what’s for dinner tonight. Sounds amazing.
Jess Mann
JOY! I am so excited you’re going to run your first half marathon. I’ve done a couple, but they were pre-babies, so about six years ago (womp womp). Anyway, I am sure you know how to fuel your bod with all your training, but I am going to throw my hat in the ring and say, the night before the race, stick to SIMPLE carbs…potatoes and pasta are great, but maybe go easy on the beans…erm…for reasons that a lady like myself shall refrain from mentioning.
So um, yeah! You’re amazing, and you can do this! Kill that race!
Marsha Gibbons
This is the most decadent collection of recipes ever!! I can’t wait to try them all. Absolutely yummmmmmmy. Thank you. Can’t wait to get your holiday magazine!
Beth
I love your main course cooking as much as your baking! I’ve made several of your dishes in Over Easy many times (especially love the chicken salad). My husband and I really love your turkey meatloaf (website recipe). One time I accidentally added in double the amount of red pepper flakes—game changer! We won’t eat it any other way now; gave it a big kick! (And I’m not a huge spicy food lover usually.)
Brandy
Thank you for the inspiration! Wasn’t looking forward to the same old dinner ideas this week. Can’t wait to try all of your dinner recommendations!
joythebaker
The same old dinner gets old. I get it, Brandy!