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    Home » Roundups

    No Energy to Cook? 11 Dinners You Can Make When Running on Empty

    Published: Jun 2, 2025 by bobbieblue

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    Sometimes making dinner can seem like an insurmountable task, as if the stove is on a ledge of a mountain. Eliminating the drudgery of cooking the same thing(s) over and over again will always improve the situation. Check out these recipes that are perfect when short on time, energy and motivation. Remember that the smell of yummy food in the kitchen is the ultimate motivator for everyone. And when the family is inspired to RUN to the dinner table, you will feel one hundred percent better!

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    Crispy Orange Chicken

    Crispy Orange Chicken served over a bowl of warm rice.
    Photo Credit: Evolving Table

    Save yourself from the stress of mealtime decisions with this delicious and satisfying dish. Crispy Orange Chicken is the perfect way to enjoy your favorite takeout flavors at home—and the best part? It's ready in just 30 minutes. This quick and easy recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings bold flavor and comforting crunch to your table. Give it a try and treat yourself and your family to a homemade meal that's as effortless as it is delicious!

    Get the Recipe: Crispy Orange Chicken

    Blackened Fish Tacos with Avocado Sauce

    Blackened Fish Tacos with Avocado Sauce
    Photo Credit: Evolving Table

    Give your traditional Taco Tuesday a flavorful twist with these Blackened Fish Tacos with Avocado Sauce. In just 30 minutes, you'll have a spicy, creamy, and satisfying meal that turns any weeknight into a mini celebration. The bold seasoning of the blackened fish paired with the smooth avocado sauce creates a delicious balance that's sure to impress. Check out the recipe—you might just discover your new favorite taco night staple!

    Get the Recipe: Blackened Fish Tacos with Avocado Sauce

    Chili Garlic Lime Shrimp

    Chili Garlic Lime Shrimp
    Photo Credit: Evolving Table

    Enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal in just 20 minutes with this Chili Garlic Lime Shrimp recipe. It's a simple yet impressive dish that's bursting with bold, smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors—perfect for treating yourself after a long, tiring day. This versatile shrimp pairs beautifully with tacos, rice bowls, or fresh guacamole, making it a quick and delicious option for any night of the week. Give this easy recipe a try and enjoy the well-deserved meal you've been craving!

    Get the Recipe: Chili Garlic Lime Shrimp

    Ground Beef Taco Skillet

    Ground Beef Taco Skillet
    Photo Credit: Evolving Table

    One-pot wonders are your true friend on those lazy yet hungry nights. This easy-to-make dish brings bold and delicious Mexican flavors straight to your table—all in just 30 minutes. Once you try it, it's bound to become a staple in your kitchen rotation. Perfect for busy evenings, this satisfying meal is one the whole family will love. Check out the recipe and make dinner both effortless and flavorful!

    Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Taco Skillet

    Taco Burger

    A serving of Taco Burger.
    Photo Credit: Amanda's Cookin'

    Why choose when you have the best of both worlds? This easy and delicious Taco Burger recipe combines all the bold, savory goodness of tacos with the classic comfort of a juicy burger. Think seasoned patties, zesty toppings, and a soft buttery bun—it's a fun twist everyone will love. Check out the recipe, give it a try, and don't forget the fries on the side!

    Get the Recipe: Taco Burger

    Tuscan Salmon

    Tuscan Salmon in a pan.
    Photo Credit: Amanda's Cookin'

    Enjoy a rich and flavorful meal with this Tuscan Salmon, featuring a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach—all perfectly paired with tender, pan-seared salmon. All ready in just 3 minutes, this brings a quality-restaurant flavored dish with minimal effort. Serve it with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a truly satisfying and delicious meal!

    Get the Recipe: Tuscan Salmon

    Chicken Pot Pie Pasta

    Chicken Pot Pie Pasta in a pot.
    Photo Credit: Amanda's Cookin'

    Savor classic, hearty flavors with a delicious twist in this Chicken Pot Pie Pasta. In just 30 minutes, you can have a warm, comforting plate of savory goodness that puts a fresh spin on a beloved favorite. This easy-to-make recipe brings all the familiar comfort of chicken pot pie in a fun and satisfying pasta form. Give it a try today and let the whole family relish a new take on a timeless dish!

    Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Pasta

    Chicken Meatballs

    Chicken Meatballs served with marinara dip.
    Photo Credit: Amanda's Cookin'

    These Chicken Meatballs are a protein-packed, tasty dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. Tender, lean, and incredibly versatile, they're sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Serve them in a bun, over al dente pasta, or any way you like—these delicious meatballs are perfect for satisfying your hunger and cravings with less fuss. Check out this recipe, and try it today!

    Get the Recipe: Chicken Meatballs

    Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe

    A serving of Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps.
    Photo Credit: Princess Pinky Girl

    Treat yourself to a balanced and flavorful meal with this Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps recipe—ready to eat in just 30 minutes. This dish combines seasoned ground chicken with crisp vegetables, all wrapped in a refreshing piece of crunchy lettuce. It's a healthy, delicious option that's perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner the whole family will love. Check out this easy recipe and give it a try today!

    Get the Recipe: Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe

    Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

    Bruschetta Chicken Pasta in a pan.
    Photo Credit: Princess Pinky Girl

    Savor the taste of classic bruschetta in just under 30 minutes with this Bruschetta Chicken Pasta recipe. It's the perfect combination of textures and vibrant flavors—from juicy, marinated chicken with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of garlic, all tossed with al dente spaghetti. Make this easy recipe and bring a little taste of Italy to your table!

    Get the Recipe: Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

    Skillet Enchiladas

    Skillet Enchiladas in a cast iron skillet.
    Photo Credit: Princess Pinky Girl

    Too tired to make Enchiladas but still craving the delicious flavor? Try this Skillet Enchiladas recipe! It delivers all the rich, bold, and cheesy goodness you love in a simplified, deconstructed form—perfect for a satisfying meal with less hassle. Check out the recipe and try it today!

    Get the Recipe: Skillet Enchiladas

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    Hi, I'm Bobbie! Welcome to Blue's Best Life. I'm a self-taught cook that loves to cook wholesome meals while still enjoying a truly decadent dessert, because there is always room for a little something sweet!

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