10 Dad-Approved Dinners That Are Easier Than They Look
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When it comes to Father’s Day dinner, there’s a sweet spot between “frozen pizza” and “five-hour roast” – and that’s exactly where these recipes live. Whether Dad’s into bold flavors, grilled things, or just a solid home-cooked meal, you don’t need to spend all day in the kitchen to make it happen.
This list is full of low-effort, high-reward dinners that look and taste impressive, but won’t leave you buried in dishes. Perfect if you’re planning to cook for Dad – or even with him (bonus points if someone else handles the clean-up). Let’s make dinner easy, tasty, and just the tiniest bit show-offy.
Teriyaki Salmon Bowls
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If Dad’s into takeout-style meals but you’re trying to keep it a little lighter, these teriyaki salmon bowls are perfect. You’ve got tender, baked salmon brushed with homemade teriyaki sauce, served up with fluffy rice and fresh veggies. Full recipe: Teriyaki Salmon Bowls
Baked Chicken with Lemon and Thyme
This one’s for the dad who appreciates a classic meat-and-potatoes dinner. Bone-in chicken and baby potatoes get roasted until crispy and golden, with garlic, lemon, and fresh thyme for simple, cozy flavor. Full recipe: Baked Chicken with Lemon and Thyme
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Sticky, savory-sweet, and slightly smoky from the grill – these chicken skewers are exactly what backyard Father’s Day dinners were made for. They’re marinated in a quick homemade teriyaki sauce and cook up fast, so you can spend less time grilling and more time hanging out. Full recipe: Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Top Round Roast Beef
Want to go classic but keep it low effort? This roast beef looks fancy but it’s actually super straightforward. You just rub it with garlic and Dijon, roast it to medium rare, and serve with a quick homemade gravy. Sunday dinner vibes, with barely any stress. Full recipe: Top Round Roast Beef
Chicken and Potato Curry
If your Father’s Day plans involve something cozy and comforting, this one’s hard to beat. It’s made with tender chicken, potatoes, and green peas in a creamy tomato-based curry sauce that’s spiced but not too spicy. Great with rice, naan, or straight from the bowl! Full recipe: Chicken and Potato Curry
Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
Dads who love big flavor will definitely appreciate this one. Chicken thighs get grilled and slathered with a bright, herby chimichurri that packs a punch. It’s fast, bold, and totally backyard-dinner-worthy! Full recipe: Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa
For the dad who likes a little zing, these fish tacos are just the thing! They’re topped with a fresh mango-peach salsa and a drizzle of lime crema, and they come together fast. Bonus: they look like they took way more effort than they actually did. Full recipe: Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa
Thai Red Curry Chicken
For something a little different but still comfort-food-y, this red curry is a solid pick. Chicken and veggies simmer in a creamy coconut curry sauce that’s full of flavor but not fussy to make. Great with jasmine rice and a refreshing drink on the side! Full recipe: Thai Red Curry Chicken
Maple Glazed Pork Chops
These pork chops are seared and glazed in a sweet-and-salty maple-soy-Dijon sauce that comes together in a flash. It’s the kind of dish that looks restaurant-y but takes 20 minutes start to finish. If dad’s a fan of bold flavor and quick meals, this one’s a no-brainer. Full recipe: Maple Glazed Pork Chops
Easy Cajun Blackened Fish
A little smoky, a little spicy, and a whole lot of flavor. This blackened fish is coated in a homemade Cajun spice blend and seared until crispy on the outside and flaky inside. Pair it with something cool and fresh (like coleslaw or a tomato salad) and dinner’s done. Full recipe: Easy Cajun Blackened Fish
