Sticking to a paleo diet while juggling a busy schedule might seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! The trick is to find meals that are not only healthy but also simple to prepare and full of flavor. These 15 quick and easy meals will have you covered for those hectic weeknights when time is tight.
1. Lemon Herb Chicken with Zoodles
Bright and zesty, this lemon herb chicken served over zucchini noodles is a refreshing take on dinner.
Lightly seasoned with a blend of herbs and a squeeze of lemon, the tender chicken pairs perfectly with the slightly crunchy zoodles. It’s a low-carb, paleo-friendly dish that’s ready in under 20 minutes, making it a perfect midweek lifesaver.
2. Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet
This one-pan meal is a hearty and satisfying option packed with protein and complex carbs. Ground beef is browned with onions and spices, then mixed with sweet potatoes until tender.
Finished off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, it’s a comforting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl, perfect for a post-work pick-me-up.
3. Garlic Shrimp and Cauliflower Rice
In the mood for seafood? This garlic shrimp dish paired with fluffy cauliflower rice is a savory, paleo-friendly version of a classic shrimp scampi.
The shrimp are sautéed with garlic, olive oil, and a hint of lemon, served over a bed of cauliflower rice that soaks up all the delicious juices. You’ll feel like you’re indulging in a fancy meal, but it only takes 15 minutes!
4. Spaghetti Squash Bolognese
For those pasta cravings, spaghetti squash bolognese is a paleo-approved alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The squash acts as the perfect vehicle for a rich, slow-simmered meat sauce infused with tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs.
This meal is easy to prepare ahead of time and reheats beautifully for those nights when you need a quick and delicious dinner.
5. Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs
These crispy baked chicken thighs are a foolproof option for crispy, juicy chicken without the frying. Seasoned with a blend of paprika, garlic powder, and salt, they develop a delightful golden crust in the oven.
Pair them with a side of roasted veggies, and you have a hands-off dinner that’s ready in 30 minutes.
6. Salmon with Mango Avocado Salsa
Brighten up your dinner table with this fresh and vibrant salmon dish. The salmon is simply seared to perfection and topped with a chunky mango avocado salsa that balances sweet and tangy flavors. It’s light yet satisfying and comes together in under 20 minutes, giving you a tropical escape on a plate.
7. Cauliflower Crust Pizza
Who says pizza night is off-limits on paleo? This cauliflower crust pizza is topped with a classic tomato sauce, fresh basil, and your favorite veggies. Customize it with paleo-friendly toppings like prosciutto, olives, and mushrooms for a guilt-free treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
8. Coconut Curry Chicken
Warm and comforting, coconut curry chicken is a creamy, flavor-packed dish that feels gourmet but is deceptively easy to whip up.
Tender pieces of chicken are simmered in coconut milk with curry powder, ginger, and garlic, creating a rich sauce that pairs beautifully with cauliflower rice or sautéed greens. It’s perfect for those nights when you crave something bold and hearty.
9. Egg Roll in a Bowl
All the flavors of your favorite takeout egg roll, minus the wrapper! This quick and easy meal combines ground pork or chicken with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy ginger-soy sauce (paleo-friendly version, of course).
Cooked in a single skillet, this dish is ready in under 15 minutes and satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
10. Steak and Sweet Potato Hash
Juicy bites of steak combined with tender sweet potatoes and sautéed onions make for a hearty and protein-rich dinner. This steak and sweet potato hash is simple yet full of flavor, with a hint of smokiness from paprika and garlic.
It’s perfect for when you want a filling, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
11. Zesty Lime Grilled Chicken Salad
This zesty lime grilled chicken salad is as simple as it is delicious. The chicken is marinated in a tangy lime and herb mixture and grilled to perfection. Toss it over a bed of fresh greens with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of paleo-approved dressing for a dinner that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
12. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a family favorite that packs a flavorful punch. These peppers are loaded with seasoned ground turkey, cauliflower rice, and a touch of tomato sauce for a juicy and satisfying filling. Baked until the peppers are tender, this meal is colorful, nutritious, and perfect for leftovers the next day.
13. Pan-Seared Pork Chops with Apple Cider Glaze
Nothing says fall like pork chops with an apple cider glaze. Pan-seared to create a beautiful crust, these pork chops are drizzled with a sweet and tangy apple cider reduction. Ready in 25 minutes, this dish pairs perfectly with sautéed green beans or a simple side salad for a balanced, paleo-approved meal.
14. Tomato Basil Soup with Chicken
This creamy tomato basil soup is not only paleo but also dairy-free and packed with flavor. Fresh tomatoes and basil are blended into a smooth soup base and paired with shredded chicken for extra protein. Serve it with a side of paleo garlic bread or roasted veggies for a cozy and nourishing meal.
15. Sautéed Lemon Garlic Cod
Cod is a mild fish that takes on flavors beautifully, making it a great base for this lemon garlic dish. Sautéed in a skillet with garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs, this dish is light, flaky, and on your table in 15 minutes flat. Serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or a crisp salad to complete the meal.
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