What to Cook When When You're Disgusted With Cooking: The Lazy Gourmet Guide

We've all been there: the thought of cooking dinner feels about as appealing as doing taxes. But before you reach for the takeout menu, remember that not all meals require a Herculean effort. Here’s a lineup of five delicious, no-fuss meals to satisfy your hunger without exhausting your energy reserves. These dishes are all about convenience, flavor, and minimal effort, perfect for when you're just not in the mood to cook.

1. Rotisserie Chicken Lasagna: The Lazy Layered Delight

Rotisserie chicken is the MVP of lazy cooking. For a quick lasagna, shred a store-bought rotisserie chicken and layer it with no-boil lasagna noodles, alfredo or marinara sauce, and ricotta cheese. Add some spinach or pre-cooked veggies for a nutritional boost. Top with shredded mozzarella, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F for 30-40 minutes. You've just made a comforting, hearty lasagna with half the usual effort.

2. Elevated Leftovers Ramen: The Gourmet Quick Fix

Instant ramen gets a major upgrade with just a few tweaks. Start with your favorite instant ramen pack and cook according to the instructions. While the noodles are boiling, raid your fridge for any leftover meats or veggies. Think roasted chicken, steak, or even last night’s stir-fry. Add these to the broth, along with a dash of soy sauce, a splash of sesame oil, and a handful of fresh greens. Top with a boiled egg, some scallions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that makes leftovers feel brand new.

3. Avocado Toast: The Effortlessly Chic Choice

When you're too tired to deal with a stove, avocado toast is your best friend. Toast a couple of slices of your favorite bread. While it’s toasting, mash an avocado with a fork, adding a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lime juice. Spread the avocado generously on the toast and top with anything you have on hand—sliced tomatoes, radishes, a sprinkle of feta, or a drizzle of sriracha. For a protein boost, add a fried egg or some smoked salmon. It’s a meal that’s as versatile as it is tasty. I used some leftover jerk chicken, with fresh mango and serrano peppers…sooo good.

4. Oven Smothered Chicken: The Set-and-Forget Wonder

This dish is perfect for when you want a home-cooked meal without hovering over the stove. Place chicken thighs in a baking dish and cover them with a mixture of cream of mushroom soup, a packet of roasted chicken seasoning mix, and a cup (or two) of white wine. Toss in some baby potatoes and carrots for a complete meal. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about an hour. The result? Tender, flavorful chicken that practically cooks itself while you relax.

5. Store-Bought BBQ Ribs Pizza: The Ultimate Cheat Meal

When you want something indulgent with zero hassle, turn store-bought BBQ ribs into a pizza topping. Buy a ready-made pizza crust and slather it with your favorite BBQ sauce. Remove the meat from the ribs and shred it over the crust. Add pickled onions, cilantro, and some shredded mozzarella. Bake according to the crust's package instructions until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’s a smoky, savory pizza that tastes gourmet without the gourmet effort.

Feeling too tired to cook doesn’t mean you have to settle for boring or bland meals. With these five easy and delicious recipes, you can enjoy a variety of flavors and textures without spending hours in the kitchen. Embrace the convenience of store-bought ingredients and leftovers, and transform them into meals that are both satisfying and effortless. Happy lazy cooking!