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17 “Poor Man’s Meals” That Taste Like A Million Bucks

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When you’re looking for meals that are easy on the wallet but still hit the spot, these recipes have you covered. Cheap doesn’t have to mean bland or boring, and these dishes prove that with flavor-packed options that anyone can enjoy. Whether you’re feeding a family or just trying to stretch your budget, these meals bring the comfort and satisfaction you want. You won’t believe how good affordable food can taste.

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries

Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries is a sweet and savory dish with a fruity twist. In about 30 minutes, this meal combines tender pork chops with a fresh applesauce and blackberry blend. The sweetness of the apples and berries contrasts with the rich pork, creating a balanced flavor. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner is all about simplicity and bold flavors. Ready in about 40 minutes, it uses pork, garlic, bell peppers, and potatoes to create a hearty and filling dish. The garlic and pepper give it a kick, while the tender pork rounds it out. It’s a no-fuss meal that delivers comfort without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf combines tender pork chops with seafood for a hearty and rich meal. Ready in about 40 minutes, this dish includes pork, shrimp, and a few simple seasonings that balance land and sea flavors. The pork’s savory depth complements the lightness of the seafood. It’s an impressive dish that feels indulgent without being complicated.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy is all about rich, savory flavors. In just 35 minutes, the pork chops are smothered in a tangy mustard and shallot gravy, creating a deliciously hearty dish. The shallots add a touch of sweetness, while the mustard gives it a slight kick. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy

Chicken Biryani

Chicken biryani on a plate with raita.
Chicken Biryani. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Biryani is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish with layers of spices. In about an hour, chicken, basmati rice, and a blend of aromatic spices come together for a satisfying meal. The spices infuse the chicken and rice, creating a balanced and flavorful dish. It’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for when you want something a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Biryani

Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

Buttermilk chicken and potatoes on a plate.
Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes is a classic comfort dish. In about an hour, buttermilk tenderizes the chicken, while potatoes roast alongside for a hearty and flavorful meal. The buttermilk adds a slight tang, while the potatoes soak up all the juices. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s perfect for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

Chicken Shawarma Plate

Chicken Shawarma Plate. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

The Chicken Shawarma Plate is a flavorful combination of spiced chicken with tangy sides. Ready in about 45 minutes, this dish features marinated chicken, pita, and fresh vegetables, all tied together with a garlicky sauce. The spices infuse the chicken with warmth and depth, while the veggies keep it fresh. It’s a filling meal that packs in a lot of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Shawarma Plate

Chicken Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe

Close-up of roasted meatballs with a mix of colorful, chopped bell peppers and zucchini slices.
Chicken Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Chicken Sausage and Veggies is a sheet pan recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious. In just 35 minutes, chicken sausage, bell peppers, and onions roast together for a quick, flavorful meal. The sausage adds a smoky depth while the veggies caramelize for a slight sweetness. It’s a simple, one-pan dinner that’s both filling and fuss-free.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Cilantro lime chicken on a plate next to avocado and cilantro garnish.
Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice offers a bright and flavorful combo of juicy chicken with zesty lime. It comes together in about 30 minutes, with cilantro, lime, and rice giving the dish a fresh, herbaceous flavor. The rice absorbs all the citrusy goodness from the chicken, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. It’s a satisfying meal that’s light yet filling.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Close up of chicken and vegetables.
Roasted Chicken and Vegetables. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables is a simple, hearty meal that’s ready in about an hour. The dish uses chicken, root vegetables, garlic, and herbs, all roasted to perfection in one pan. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, while the vegetables caramelize and soak up all the flavors. It’s a wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare but full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Closeup of chicken pot pie in a black bowl.
Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy offers a comforting, classic taste with a twist of fresh tarragon. This dish takes about an hour to prepare, with chicken, vegetables, and a creamy tarragon gravy inside a flaky crust. The tarragon adds a fragrant note that elevates the traditional flavors. It’s the kind of meal that feels homemade and cozy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken is a sweet and savory dish that comes together quickly. Ready in about 25 minutes, this recipe combines chicken, maple syrup, and mustard for a delicious glaze that caramelizes on the grill. The sweetness from the maple balances the tangy mustard perfectly. It’s a quick meal that feels special without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

Grilled pork chops on a plate with oranges and limes.
Citrus Glazed Pork Chops. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Citrus Glazed Pork Chops combine juicy pork with a sweet and tangy glaze of citrus. This dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare, with ingredients like pork chops, oranges, and honey bringing a fresh, zesty flavor. The citrus balances the savory pork perfectly, making it both refreshing and satisfying. It’s a great option when you want a quick and flavorful meal that feels special.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes is a rustic meal packed with hearty, savory flavors. With tender pork, potatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs, this dish takes about 45 minutes to make. The potatoes soak up the pork’s rich juices, making every bite full of flavor. It’s simple yet satisfying and perfect for a family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

A serving of creamy balsamic chicken skillet next to a serving of green salad.
Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet brings together tender chicken with a rich balsamic cream sauce. This one-pan meal is ready in about 30 minutes, featuring balsamic vinegar, cream, and herbs for a deep, savory taste. The balsamic adds a bit of sweetness that balances the creamy sauce. It’s an easy, weeknight option that tastes like it took much longer to make.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup

A bowl of wonton soup with shrimp in it.
Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup is a light but satisfying soup with tender wontons filled with pork and shrimp. In about 45 minutes, this dish combines delicate wontons with a savory broth that’s rich in flavor. The pork and shrimp give the wontons a hearty bite, while the broth adds warmth and depth. It’s a comforting meal that feels both light and hearty.
Get the Recipe: Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce is all about low and slow cooking for maximum flavor. After about 8 hours, the pork becomes tender and juicy, with the mustard BBQ sauce adding a tangy kick. It uses pork shoulder, mustard, and a touch of sweetness for balance. This dish is perfect for when you want something hearty without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

About Renee N Gardner

I'm the recipe developer, food photographer, and mastermind behind Renee Nicole's Kitchen, where I help create kitchen confidence to inspire home cooks to become home chefs. No fancy fads here, just high-quality, homemade recipes featuring seasonal ingredients.

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