How to Prep 3 Easy Dinners in Advance (Without Going Crazy)
I share 3 simple tips in this video — one of them (prepping 3 dinners) is explained in detail on the blog. The other two are quick habits that save me time and stress — watch the video!
Intro:
We’ve all had those weeks where 5 p.m. hits and the last thing we want to do is cook. The day has flown by, the kids (or pets!) are hungry, and the thought of standing over a hot stove feels… well, exhausting. But don’t worry — with just a little prep, you can have three dinners ready to roll without turning into a full-blown meal-prep fanatic. I promise it’s easier than you think!
Monday9-15-25 by Dana
Dinner #1: Cook Once, Eat Twice
The easiest way to save time is to cook a meal that doubles as tomorrow’s lunch or dinner. Think: chili, soup, pasta sauce, or a casserole.
How to do it:
- Make a double batch. Freeze or refrigerate half for later in the week.
- Label containers with the date so you know exactly what’s what.
Pro tip: Using a slow cooker or Instant Pot makes this even easier — you can prep ingredients in the morning and come home to a ready-to-eat dinner.
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Dinner #2: The Rotisserie Chicken Rescue
If you need a “super easy” dinner that feels homemade, rotisserie chicken is your friend.
How to do it:
- Buy one pre-cooked chicken (or roast your own).
- Use it in multiple ways: tacos, chicken salad, quick soup — all with minimal effort.
- Add some pre-chopped veggies or a simple side salad, and dinner is done.
Pro tip: Shredding the chicken right after you get it home makes it easy to grab for any meal that week.
Dinner #3: The No-Cook Night
Not every meal needs to be hot — and sometimes, a no-cook option is the easiest.
Ideas:
- Pre-washed bagged salad + protein (beans, tuna, or leftover chicken).
- Sandwich night with a twist: try paninis, wraps, or open-faced sandwiches.
- Quick pasta salads or grain bowls that mix pantry staples with whatever’s in the fridge.
Pro tip: Even a no-cook meal can feel special if you set it out nicely — a fun plate, some dressing drizzled over, or a sprinkle of herbs goes a long way.
Quick Tips to Make It Work
- Do a little prep on Sunday: 15–30 minutes is usually enough to wash, chop, or portion ingredients.
- Use clear containers: You’ll see what’s inside at a glance and reduce stress.
- Involve the family: Kids can pick sides, partners can chop — it doesn’t all have to fall on you.
Conclusion:
Meal prep doesn’t have to be an all-day event or a source of stress. Even a little planning — cooking once, using rotisserie chicken, or creating a no-cook night — gives you breathing room during the week.
If you want more simple hacks to save time and feel organized, my 52-Week Challenge Journal is a perfect companion to track meals, tasks, and small wins. And of course, you can always subscribe to my weekly newsletter — every Monday I share tips like these, plus product favorites and seasonal ideas.
xoxo, Dana
P.S. I’d love to hear YOUR tips for making the week go smoother. Leave a comment or reach out on social media.
