37 Melt-in-your-mouth meaty mains

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From succulent cuts of beef to mouthwatering chicken creations, these 37 meaty main dishes promise an unforgettable indulgence that might just make it hard to enjoy anything else.

sliced char siu pork with lettuce leaves.
Char Siu. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Roasted Lamb Breast

Side view of lamb breast on a white platter with thyme.
Roasted Lamb Breast. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Elevate your dining experience with these succulent roasted lamb breasts, seasoned with Dijon mustard, garlic, and rosemary. Roasted to perfection, they offer a tender interior and a lightly crisp exterior that will undoubtedly impress. These lamb breasts are a remarkable example of delightful meaty mains, perfect for special occasions or a memorable weeknight feast.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Lamb Breast

Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas

A baking dish full of chicken enchiladas is surrounded by cut limes, a halved avocado, and a green linen.
Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Prepare to be delighted by these slow cooker chicken enchiladas, a symphony of flavors featuring tender chicken, bold enchilada sauce, chewy tortillas, and melty cheese. These enchiladas redefine comfort as exemplary meaty mains, suitable for both weeknight indulgence and gatherings with friends. Effortlessly cooked in the slow cooker, they ensure maximum flavor and convenience in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas

Char Siu

sliced char siu pork with lettuce leaves.
Char Siu. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Experience the art of char siu, achieved by pressure cooking and finishing on the grill or in the air fryer. This method preserves tenderness and flavor, making it an appealing choice for meaty mains. Serve immediately or use the leftovers for irresistible char siu bao. The balance of flavors and textures in char siu underscores the charm of Asian-inspired cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu

Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas

A baking dish full of chicken enchiladas is surrounded by cut limes, a halved avocado, and a green linen.
Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Prepare to be delighted by these slow cooker chicken enchiladas, a symphony of flavors featuring tender chicken, bold enchilada sauce, chewy tortillas, and melty cheese. These enchiladas redefine comfort as exemplary meaty mains, suitable for both weeknight indulgence and gatherings with friends. Effortlessly cooked in the slow cooker, they ensure maximum flavor and convenience in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas

Turkey Burger Lettuce Wraps

A turkey burger lettuce wrap with tomato and onion on a white plate.
Turkey Burger Lettuce Wraps. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Delight in these juicy turkey burger lettuce wraps, a lighter take on a classic favorite. Succulent turkey patties are served on crisp lettuce instead of buns, providing a satisfying and healthier alternative. These wraps showcase the versatility of meaty mains, offering a delicious option for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, and gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Burger Lettuce Wraps

Jewish Brisket

Low angle shot of sliced brisket on a white platter with dried apricots and salt in the background.
Jewish Brisket. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Embark on a flavorful journey with this Jewish brisket recipe, blending dried fruits, aromatics, and spices for an exquisite taste. The meat is braised to tender perfection, then chilled, sliced, and reheated in its flavorful sauce. This brisket showcases the artistry of meaty mains, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that embodies the essence of celebration and togetherness.
Get the Recipe: Jewish Brisket

Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Chicken

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Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Chicken. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Savor the comfort of slow cooker cheesy ranch chicken, where tender chicken breasts are cocooned in a creamy and flavorful ranch sauce, crowned with melted cheese and crispy bacon. This dish exemplifies the indulgence of meaty mains, a blend of savory richness that’s easy to prepare and impossible to resist.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Chicken

Grilled Garlic Lime Chicken with Cilantro Crema

Grilled chicken with cilantro crema on a white plate surrounded by limes, cilantro, and a glass of beer.
Grilled Garlic Lime Chicken with Cilantro Crema. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Celebrate the season with this grilled garlic lime chicken, complemented by a tangy cilantro crema. The marriage of flavors and textures in this dish defines the allure of meaty mains, delivering a delightful medley of marinated chicken, zesty lime, and creamy cilantro. Whether for weeknight enjoyment or a summer cookout, it’s a culinary masterpiece.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Garlic Lime Chicken with Cilantro Crema

Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Hot honey lemon pepper wings on a dark blue plate surrounded by lemon pepper, lemons, a white linen, and lemonade.
Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Wings. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Enjoy the delectable flavors of hot honey lemon pepper wings, a perfect balance of crispiness, sweetness, and tanginess. These wings embody the essence of irresistible meaty mains, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Whether for gatherings or personal indulgence, they’re bound to become a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops

Pork chop topped with onion gravy on a white plate.
Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Delight in these tender pork chops smothered in a rich, creamy mushroom and onion gravy, a comfort dish that captures the essence of hearty meaty mains. Whether enjoyed on a weeknight or a leisurely Sunday, this meal offers a delightful medley of flavors and textures that evoke warmth and nostalgia.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops

Roasted Herbes de Provence Chicken

Roasted herbes de provence chicken with thyme and lemon slices on a white plate.
Roasted Herbes de Provence Chicken. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Transport your palate to the Mediterranean with this roasted Herbes de Provence chicken, featuring crispy skin and succulent meat. The aromatic blend of herbs in this dish embodies the artistry of meaty mains, offering a delightful interplay of taste and aroma. Whether for a special occasion or a quiet dinner, it promises an unforgettable experience.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Herbes de Provence Chicken

Blackened Pork Chops

Blackened pork chops on a plate.
Blackened Pork Chops. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Delight in these perfectly crispy blackened pork chops, expertly cooked to a tender and juicy interior. Their versatile preparation, whether in a cast iron skillet or on the grill, showcases the versatility of meaty mains. In just 15 minutes, you can create a satisfying weeknight dinner that the entire family will relish.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Pork Chops

Italian Chicken Cutlets

Breaded italian chicken cutlets on a black plate with sliced lemon.
Italian Chicken Cutlets. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Revel in the easy pleasures of Italian chicken cutlets, achieving the perfect balance of saltiness, crispiness, and savoriness. These cutlets capture the allure of meaty mains, offering a satisfying and delightful experience in every bite. Their versatility makes them perfect for a variety of meals and occasions.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken Cutlets

Mongolian Chicken

Overhead shot of a bowl of mongolian chicken.
Mongolian Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Embark on a culinary journey with Mongolian chicken, where tender pieces are fried to a golden-brown crisp and enveloped in a sweet-savory hoisin-based sauce. This dish exemplifies the harmonious blend of flavors and textures found in exquisite meaty mains. The interplay of succulence, crispness, and aroma makes it a restaurant favorite for good reason.
Get the Recipe: Mongolian Chicken

Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

A closeup side view is shown of an air fryer turkey burger on a light blue plate.
Air Fryer Turkey Burgers. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Enjoy the convenience of air fryer turkey burgers, featuring perfectly seasoned, juicy patties served on a crispy toasted bun. These burgers redefine the notion of meaty mains, providing a flavorful and healthier option for quick weeknight dinners and gatherings with friends and family.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

Cast Iron Chicken Thighs

Closeup overhead shot of 3 crispy chicken thighs in a black cast iron skillet.
Cast Iron Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Immerse yourself in the unmatched perfection of cast iron chicken thighs, boasting a beautifully crisp, savory, and salty exterior, paired with a tender and juicy interior. These thighs epitomize the art of meaty mains, offering a delightful contrast of textures and a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Chicken Thighs

Crispy Beef

Low angle shot of crispy beef on a plate.
Crispy Beef. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Relish the beloved Chinese restaurant dish of crispy beef at home, where tender strips of beef are fried to a perfect crisp and coated in a sticky, sweet, and spicy sauce. This dish exemplifies the magic of meaty mains, balancing the crispiness of the beef with the boldness of the sauce, all while offering a delightful explosion of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Beef

Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Recipe

Cheesy stuffed chicken on a white plate.
Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Recipe. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Treat yourself to an indulgent cheesy stuffed chicken recipe that features a blend of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, dry Ranch seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce. Baked to golden perfection, this dish exemplifies the essence of decadent meaty mains. Whether for a casual family dinner or a cozy gathering, it offers a symphony of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Recipe

Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Casserole

Chicken alfredo casserole in a casserole dish.
Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Experience the comfort of chicken Alfredo broccoli casserole, a convenient all-in-one meal for the family. Layered with chicken, broccoli, Alfredo sauce, and mozzarella cheese, this dish embodies the essence of hearty meaty mains. Baked to perfection in a casserole dish, it offers a satisfying and delicious dinner option that’s ready in 30 minutes or less.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Casserole

Carne Asada

Sliced carne asada sits on a light blue plate surrounded by sliced oranges, limes, a bunch of cilantro, tortillas, and a glass of beer.
Carne Asada. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Embark on a journey of smoky, citrusy, and savory flavors with this Carne Asada marinade. It elevates the appeal of meaty mains, capturing the essence of authentic Mexican cuisine. Whether enjoyed in burritos or as a standalone plate, the flavor profile of this dish promises a culinary adventure that rivals your favorite Mexican restaurant.
Get the Recipe: Carne Asada

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

two slices of meatloaf on a plate with mashed potatoes and carrots.
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Delight in the classic comfort of Cracker Barrel meatloaf, a hearty and flavorful dish that’s reminiscent of home-cooked meals. With perfectly seasoned and moist meat, this meatloaf embodies the essence of traditional meaty mains. Whether for a comforting weeknight dinner or a nostalgic family gathering, it offers a warm and satisfying experience.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Chicken and Cabbage Soup with Ginger

A bowl of chicken and cabbage soup is shown on a rustic wooden cutting board with parsley and a red linen.
Chicken and Cabbage Soup with Ginger. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Indulge in the heartiness of this chicken and cabbage soup, boasting tender chicken thighs, potatoes, vegetables, ginger, garlic, and aromatic spices. A warm and comforting broth envelops the ingredients, creating a nourishing and flavorful experience. This soup stands as a testament to the wonders of meaty mains, providing comfort and nutrition in every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Cabbage Soup with Ginger

Beef Yakisoba

Beef yakisoba noodles with veggies and pickled ginger.
Beef Yakisoba. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Immerse yourself in the harmonious flavors of beef yakisoba, a delectable fusion of tender beef, cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, onions, scallions, and chewy noodles. This dish showcases the artistry of meaty mains, providing a medley of textures and tastes that’s both satisfying and quick to make. Perfect for weeknights, it captures the essence of comfort and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Beef Yakisoba

Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken

Hot honey chicken on a bed of rice.
Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Prepare to be captivated by the delectable combination of crispy chicken coated in a flavorful blend of spices, air-fried to perfection, and drizzled with sticky, spicy honey sauce. These hot honey chicken bites redefine the appeal of meaty mains, offering a perfect balance of heat and sweetness in every bite. Juicy, tender, and irresistibly flavorful, they’re an instant favorite for all occasions.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken

Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Beef bulgogi in a bowl with rice and cucumbers.
Beef Bulgogi Bowls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Indulge in the flavors of beef bulgogi bowls, a one-bowl wonder featuring marinated, thinly sliced beef served over a bed of rice. This dish showcases the fusion of textures and tastes found in remarkable meaty mains. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, it offers an explosion of umami and a harmonious blend of ingredients that will leave you satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Beef Yaki Udon

A bowl of beef yaki udon with chopsticks is shown beside a wok full of yaki udon, scallions, and a green linen.
Beef Yaki Udon. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Enjoy the hearty delight of beef yaki udon, a savory stir-fry dish laden with vegetables, ginger, garlic, soy, and tender slices of beef. This dish epitomizes the allure of meaty mains, offering a delightful combination of tastes and textures. Whether enjoyed during a busy weeknight or a relaxed meal, it promises a burst of umami and texture.
Get the Recipe: Beef Yaki Udon

Soy Garlic Wings

Soy garlic wings on a blue plate surrounded by a white linen, a glass of bear, soy ginger sauce, and cloves of garlic.
Soy Garlic Wings. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Savor the crispy, juicy, sweet, and savory goodness of soy garlic wings. With a simple trick, you can achieve consistently crispy wings without deep frying. These wings embody the essence of delectable meaty mains, offering an irresistible balance of textures and flavors. Perfect for gatherings or solo indulgence, they’re sure to satisfy any craving.
Get the Recipe: Soy Garlic Wings

Kalua Pork

Low angle shot of kalua pork on a white plate with pineapple and pepper chunks.
Kalua Pork. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Enjoy the classic Hawaiian dish of Kalua pork made effortlessly in your Instant Pot. This dish captures the essence of tropical comfort and is a prime example of exceptional meaty mains. Perfect for busy weeknights, it promises tender and flavorful pork that transports your taste buds to the shores of Hawaii.
Get the Recipe: Kalua Pork

Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs

Slow cooker country style ribs on a tray on top of mashed potatoes with corn.
Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Delight in these tender and juicy slow cooker country style ribs, cooked to perfection and smothered in a tangy and sweet barbecue sauce. These ribs showcase the heartiness of meaty mains, offering a combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to please both family and friends. Whether for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, they’re a guaranteed hit.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs

Tandoori Chicken

A plate of tandoori chicken with a side dish of cooked rice, shot from a low angle.
Tandoori Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Immerse yourself in the flavors of tandoori chicken, a dish that’s rich in taste and easy to prepare. Whether cooked in the oven, on the grill, or in the air fryer, this dish showcases the versatility of meaty mains. The tender and well-marinated chicken promises a burst of aromatic spices that transport you to the streets of India.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Chicken

Air Fryer Steak Bites

air fried steak bites on a white plate.
Air Fryer Steak Bites. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Fire up the air fryer and enjoy the incredible flavor of air fryer steak bites. These perfectly cooked bites offer a seared exterior and a juicy, tender interior, showcasing the appeal of succulent meaty mains. With a rapid cooking time, you can savor restaurant-quality steak bites in the comfort of your home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Steak Bites

BLT with Chicken

BLT with Chicken on a white plate.
BLT with Chicken. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Indulge in the ultimate summer treat with a BLT featuring marinated tomatoes, crisp lettuce, salty bacon, and tender chicken. This sandwich encapsulates the essence of mouthwatering meaty mains, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for picnics, cookouts, or a satisfying day at home, it’s a classic reimagined for your enjoyment.
Get the Recipe: BLT with Chicken

Chicken Marsala

A chicken breast topped with marsala mushroom sauce atop mashed potatoes and served with buttered peas and carrots.
Chicken Marsala. Photo credit: Sage Alpha Gal.

Delight in the harmony of tender chicken breast served in a buttery mushroom and Marsala wine sauce. This dish captures the elegance of meaty mains, delivering a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Whether shared with loved ones or savored during a special occasion, it promises a culinary experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marsala

Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu

a plate of slow cooker lamb ragu over pappardelle pasta surrounded by a block of parmesan, a white linen, and torn baguette.
Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Experience the unparalleled comfort of slow cooker lamb ragu, where braised lamb creates a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta. This dish embodies the essence of hearty meaty mains, offering a satisfying blend of textures and tastes. Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or during a leisurely meal, it promises a touch of Italian authenticity.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu

Grilled Chile Lime Chicken

Sliced Tajín Grilled Chicken sits on a white plate surrounded by Tajín seasoning, a sliced lime, a white linen, and a small glass of beer.
Grilled Chile Lime Chicken. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Celebrate summer with the enticing flavors of grilled chile lime chicken. This dish showcases the perfect marriage of zesty lime, fiery chile, and succulent grilled chicken—a true embodiment of meaty mains. Whether shared at a cookout or enjoyed on a weeknight, it offers a burst of seasonal flavors that linger on the palate.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chile Lime Chicken

Chicken Yaki Udon

chicken yaki udon in a white bowl with chopsticks beside a wok.
Chicken Yaki Udon. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Revel in the satisfaction of chicken yaki udon, a flavorful stir-fry dish brimming with chicken, vegetables, udon noodles, and savory soy. This dish epitomizes the beauty of meaty mains, offering a delightful combination of tastes and textures. Whether enjoyed during a busy weeknight or a relaxed meal, it promises a burst of umami and texture.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Yaki Udon

Linguine Bolognese

linguine bolognese on a white plate topped with parsley and parmesan.
Linguine Bolognese. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Savor the classic richness of linguine Bolognese, where al dente pasta is lavishly coated in a hearty meat sauce that’s simmered to perfection. This dish captures the essence of timeless Italian cuisine and stands as a shining example of comforting and flavorful meaty mains. Whether enjoyed for a cozy family dinner or a celebratory occasion, it’s sure to satisfy cravings.
Get the Recipe: Linguine Bolognese

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