As we head towards Christmas, I find myself leaning into comfort more than ever – not in an over-the-top way, but in the simple, steady rhythm of feeding the people I love. When everything feels loud, expensive, heavy or just a bit too much, making dinner is one thing I’m grateful to be able to do. This meal plan is about that kind of comfort – warm, familiar, generous meals like Homemade Chicken Stew and Creamy Chicken and Leek Pot Pie, reliable family favourites like Hidden Veggie Bolognese and Chicken Schnitzel with Creamy Mushroom Sauce and a few fun dinners like Peking-style Beef and Korean Chicken Bao to keep things feeling joyful. These are meals made with real ingredients, real care and zero pressure – designed to ease the mental load, keep within the budget, and help you show up at the table, even on the days that feel harder than others.
This comforting Homemade Chicken Stew tastes like it’s been cooking for hours, but is actually quick, easy and all made in one pan. It’s a full meal in a bowl, so no extra sides are needed.
A dreamy pot pie with a deliciously creamy filling, crispy golden top, tender chicken and that classic chicken-and-leek flavour everyone loves. No pastry base to fuss with – just top with puff pastry and bake. This Creamy Chicken and Leek Pot Pie recipe is make-ahead friendly and perfect for busy nights when you still want something special.
This Hidden Veggie Bolognese is a fast, flavour-packed dinner loaded with hidden vegetables that melt into the sauce (ideal for fussy kids). With simple steps that build rich flavour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep Sundays or freezer-stash building.
Golden chicken schnitzels topped with a creamy mushroom sauce you can make in the same pan – what’s not to love? Chicken Schnitzel with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is freezer-friendly, weeknight-worthy, and feels like a hug on a plate. Perfect for when you want something cosy without the fuss.
This Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad recipe features creamy avocado, budget-friendly canned tuna, and fresh vegetables tossed with a tangy sesame-soy dressing. Easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining!
These Korean Chicken Bao taste like something you’d order out, but they’re surprisingly doable at home and also family-friendly. Crispy chicken, sticky glaze, soft bao and fresh toppings – the perfect build-your-own dinner for Friday nights or fun weekends in. Mild, customisable and outrageously delicious
My new book, Simple Dinners Every Day, is here! Click through to find a copy at your preferred retailer.
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Cepe says:
I love you and love your recipes. Thanks from Argentina.
Nicole says:
Thanks for your lovely comment, Cepe! 🥰 So glad you are enjoying the recipes, Nic x