back to school

The Kitchn Collective Shares Their Best Back-to-School Dinner Recipes

published Aug 13, 2021
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The sight of a back-to-school display at a big-box store stopped me in my tracks this week. What do they mean back-to-school? Summer just started! Then I looked at the date, did a little bit of math, and realized the first day of school is only a few weeks away. 

Fall is coming, and it’s always a busy season. School is about to be back in session, which means there are forms to fill out, books to read, laundry to do, and lunches to make. Soon, it’ll be time to start planning Halloween decorations (I know, I know). And while you’re handling all that, you still need to make dinner. It’s a great time to turn to quick, easy comfort food recipes that everyone in the family will enjoy. Need some inspiration? We asked our trusty Kitchn Collective to share their favorite back-to-school dinner recipes — here’s what they had to say.

Chicken Broccoli Stir-Fry

“My chicken broccoli stir-fry is perfect for a back-to-school weeknight dinners. It’s delicious, easy to make, easily customizable, and it freezes well, too. This is the perfect recipe for meal planning!” — Alice Choi from Hip Foodie Mom 

Get the recipe: Chicken Broccoli Stir-Fry from Hip Foodie Mom

Orange Honey BBQ Wings

“My baby girl loves chicken wings, and lucky for me, these orange honey BBQ wings are her fave. They’re so easy and fast to make! I can make them in the air fryer, on the grill, or in the oven based on my preference, which is great for parent convenience during a busy school week! The flavor is incredible, and kids and adults love this simple meal” — Jocelyn Delk Adams from Grandbaby Cakes

Get the recipe: Orange Honey BBQ Wings from Grandbaby Cakes

4-Ingredient Sausage Pasta with Broccoli

“With just a few ingredients and a quick cooking time, this versatile recipe is flavorful and filling enough for parents, but still pleasing to the kids.” — Amy Palanjian from Yummy Toddler Food

Get the recipe: 4-Ingredient Sausage Pasta with Broccoli from Yummy Toddler Food

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

“Comfort food at its finest! Let those kids help and then dig into the best dinner I can think of.” —  Becky Hardin from The Cookie Rookie

Get the recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken from The Cookie Rookie

What’s your favorite back-to-school dinner recipe? Tell us in the comments!