As the school year begins, planning nutritious and fun dinners for children becomes a priority. At Early Days Foods, as a team of parents, we fully understand the challenges of getting back into routine and also coming up with a varied, wholesome and easy batch of recipes to fill the busy evening mealtimes. So we asked our team to put together 10 of their favourite kid-friendly dinner ideas with links to easy-to-follow recipes from trusted sites like BBC Good Food, Super Health Kids, and Ella’s Kitchen.
1. DIY Taco Night
Turn dinner into a fun, hands-on activity by setting up a taco bar where kids can make their own creations. You can use lean ground turkey or chicken, along with healthy toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and cheese. Here’s a kid-friendly taco recipe from Kids Spot https://www.kidspot.com.au/kitchen/recipes/tasty-tacos/8n2h5dga
2. Easy Chicken Stir-Fry
Stir-frying is a great way to introduce kids to a variety of vegetables. This colourful easy chicken stir-fry recipe from Super Health Kids features simple, healthy ingredients like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers, making it a nutritious option for busy school nights. https://www.superhealthykids.com/easy-weeknight-stir-fry-recipe/
3. Baked Chicken Tenders
Instead of frying, bake these chicken fingers for a healthier option. Pair them with sweet potato fries for added nutrients. Yummy Toddler Food offers an excellent recipe for Baked Chicken Tenders, which are perfect for picky eaters. https://www.yummytoddlerfood.com/baked-chicken-tenders/
4. Spaghetti Bolognese
For a nutritious twist on a classic, try a spaghetti bolognese that sneaks in plenty of hidden veggies. BBC Good Food offers a child-friendly recipe for Hidden Veg Bolognese, ensuring your kids get extra nutrients without even noticing. https://www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/spaghetti_bolognese_with_23409
5. Pita Pizzas
Making pizzas on whole wheat pitas is a fun and nutritious dinner option. Let your child choose their own toppings like cheese, mushrooms, and spinach. Check out Little Dish’s version of a quick and healthy Pita Pizza recipe. https://www.littledish.co.uk/recipes/easy-pitta-pizzas
6. Salmon Fish Fingers and ChunkyChips
A perfect twist on a classic family favorite! . BBC Good Food has an easy recipe for Salmon Fish Fingers with Chunky Chips that kids will love. https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/toddler-recipe-salmon-fish-fingers-chunky-chips
7. Turkey Meatballs
Switch out beef for leaner turkey or chicken in this meatball recipe. Serve over veggie noodles or whole wheat spaghetti for a balanced dinner. Healthy Little Foodies offers a Turkey Meatballs recipe that works perfectly for a wholesome meal. https://www.healthylittlefoodies.com/turkey-meatballs/
8. Mini Shepherd’s Pies
This kid-sized version of shepherd’s pie is packed with veggies and lean meat. MJ and Hundryman has a wonderful recipe for Kids’ Mini Shepherd’s Pies, perfect for individual servings that kids will find fun and filling. https://www.mjandhungryman.com/mini-shepherds-pie-muffins/
9. Chicken and Veggie Skewers
Grilled chicken and veggies on skewers make dinner both nutritious and fun to eat. Serve with a side of whole grains like quinoa or couscous. BBC Good Food offers a great recipe for Kids’ Chicken Skewers that’s easy to prepare. https://www.thespruceeats.com/chicken-kabob-recipe-for-kids-2097842
10. Vegetable Lasagna
For a veggie-packed lasagna, use layers of zucchini or eggplant instead of traditional pasta. My Kids Lick The Bowl has a nutritious recipe for Vegetable Lasagne that is perfect for ensuring your child gets their daily dose of vegetables in a comforting, hearty dish. https://mykidslickthebowl.com/hidden-vegetable-lasgane/
