Easy Sunday Dinner Ideas

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Discover simple and delicious dinner ideas for a relaxing Sunday evening.

Noelle Chambers

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-01-04T11:52:08.710Z

Sunday dinners are a cherished tradition, a time to gather with family and friends. These easy dinner ideas will help you create memorable meals without a lot of fuss. Enjoy the flavors of home-cooked comfort food that everyone will love!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Effortless recipes that anyone can master
  • Perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night in
  • Comforting flavors that bring everyone to the table

Simple Comfort Food

When it comes to Sunday dinners, comfort food reigns supreme. This easy chicken and vegetable dish hits all the right notes, providing warmth and satisfaction without requiring hours of preparation. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels both hearty and wholesome, perfect for a relaxing evening at home or a small family gathering.

The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy rice not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the body. Each bite is infused with comforting flavors that evoke memories of home-cooked meals, making it a delightful option for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. Plus, the simplicity of the recipe allows you to spend more time with your loved ones rather than in the kitchen.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this chicken and vegetable recipe is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Zucchini, asparagus, or green beans can easily replace mixed vegetables, allowing you to tailor the dish to your family’s preferences. This adaptability not only keeps the meal exciting but also ensures you’re making the most of your grocery budget.

Additionally, you can experiment with different spices and herbs to give the dish a unique twist. Adding Italian seasoning, paprika, or even a splash of soy sauce can elevate the flavors and keep your Sunday dinners fresh and interesting. This recipe encourages creativity, inviting you to make it your own every time you prepare it.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking to simplify your week, this chicken and vegetable recipe is also a fantastic option for meal prepping. You can cook a larger batch and store leftovers in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making the leftovers just as delicious as the original meal.

To meal prep, simply divide the cooked chicken, vegetables, and rice into individual containers. This way, you can grab a balanced meal on busy days, helping you maintain a healthy eating routine without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s an efficient way to reduce food waste and ensure you’re enjoying wholesome meals even on your busiest days.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your easy Sunday dinner.

Main Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 2 cups of mixed vegetables (carrots, broccoli, bell peppers)
  • 1 cup of rice
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Sunday dinner.

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Cook the Vegetables

Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and sauté for another 5 minutes until they are tender.

Prepare the Rice

Cook the rice according to package instructions. Usually, this takes about 15-20 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Once everything is cooked, serve the chicken thighs over a bed of rice with the vegetables on the side. Enjoy your meal!

Enjoy your delicious and easy Sunday dinner!

Tips for Success

To achieve perfectly cooked chicken thighs, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This allows for even cooking and helps get that lovely golden-brown crust. If your pan is too crowded, the chicken may steam instead of sear, resulting in a less desirable texture. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain the quality of the dish.

When seasoning, taste as you go! Everyone’s palate is different, so adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences. You can always add more salt and pepper, but it’s harder to fix a dish that’s too salty or heavily seasoned. Start with the recommended amounts and tweak them based on your taste.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread, which can help soak up any delicious juices from the chicken. Consider adding a light vinaigrette to the salad for a refreshing contrast to the warm, comforting chicken and rice.

For added richness, you can also serve the chicken with a dollop of pesto or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. These toppings can elevate the dish further, making it feel even more indulgent without much effort.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken instead?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts will work well in this recipe.

→ What if I don't have rice?

You can substitute rice with quinoa, couscous, or even pasta.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and vegetables in advance and store them in the fridge until you're ready to cook.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you check that your rice is gluten-free, this meal is suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Easy Sunday Dinner Ideas

Discover simple and delicious dinner ideas for a relaxing Sunday evening.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration60 minutes
Overall Time75 minutes

Created by: Noelle Chambers

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 4 chicken thighs
  2. 2 cups of mixed vegetables (carrots, broccoli, bell peppers)
  3. 1 cup of rice
  4. 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  5. 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  6. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

Season the chicken thighs with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 02

Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and sauté for another 5 minutes until they are tender.

Step 03

Cook the rice according to package instructions. Usually, this takes about 15-20 minutes.

Step 04

Once everything is cooked, serve the chicken thighs over a bed of rice with the vegetables on the side. Enjoy your meal!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 30g