Sharing some of my go-to easy dinner ideas when I’m solo parenting.
Hi friends! How are ya? I hope that you’re enjoying the week so far! I have a podcast interview today, Pilates, and we’ll probably hit the pool. We’re trying to live up the last bit of summer before we’re back in school craziness.
For today’s post, I wanted to share some of my favorite easy dinner ideas when I’m solo parenting. Since the Pilot is back with the airlines, he’s back to traveling more regularly while I hold it down with the crew here. When he’s gone, meals are wayyyyy more casual. They’re things I can make in less than 20 minutes that I know we all love. Usually I’ll make something that includes leftovers so we can enjoy them the following day for lunch.
For our family, meals will include some type of protein, some type of starch, a fruit and/or vegetable. It makes it pretty plug and play, and when the kids have rounded meals like this, they’re happier (no blood sugar crash) and maybe a little less snacky? (Though let’s be real, summer is an all-day snack avalanche.)
Here are some of the things I have in the rotation when it’s just me and I want to cook something tasty, healthy, and quick.

Easy solo parenting dinner ideas
– Breakfast for dinner.
We do this at least once a week, whether the Pilot is here or not, because it’s a crowd pleaser and you can customize it based on what you have. I might make Hello Kitty gluten-free waffles, pancakes (they still love these banana pancakes after all these years), French toast, and serve it up with breakfast sausage, bacon, or eggs as the protein, and some fruit.

– Tacos, rice and beans.
I put the chicken in the Instant Pot with oregano, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and some chicken broth, and cook for 12 minutes on manual. I shred it with the mixer, and serve with tortillas, beans, Mexican rice, and guac. I’ll cut up whatever fresh fruit we have on hand and serve it on the side.
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