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    Home / Roundups

    21 Pork Recipes to Break the Boring Chicken Dinner Cycle

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Oct 27, 2024 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    If you're like me, it’s easy to get stuck in the routine of making chicken for dinner over and over again. That’s why I’ve put together a list of pork recipes that are sure to shake things up and add some excitement to your weeknight meals. These dishes are full of flavor, simple to make, and perfect for when you need a break from the usual.

    Sliced roasted pork tenderloin garnished with fresh herbs on a wooden cutting board.
    Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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    Slow Cooker Pork Chops

    Slow cooker pork chops with rice and sauce on a plate.
    Slow Cooker Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Slow cooker pork chops are perfect for when you want a break from chicken and need something hearty and flavorful. With minimal prep, the slow cooker does all the work, making this a stress-free meal option. The pork chops come out tender and juicy, ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner. You can easily pair them with any side dish. A great recipe to add some variety to your meal plan without much effort.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Chops

    Pancit Bihon Guisado

    A fork lifting a portion of chicken and noodles from a bowl of stir-fry.
    Pancit Bihon Guisado. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Pancit bihon guisado is a flavorful Filipino noodle dish that offers a fun change from the usual chicken dinner. It’s a great way to use pork or other meats you have on hand, and the noodles make it a filling meal that comes together quickly. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something different but easy to make. You can also customize it with your favorite veggies. A satisfying, affordable choice for a weeknight dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Pancit Bihon Guisado

    Breaded Panko Pork Chops

    Panko pork chop on plate with greens.
    Breaded Panko Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Breaded panko pork chops offer a crispy, flavorful coating that makes them a great alternative to chicken. The panko breadcrumbs add crunch, while the pork stays tender and juicy inside. This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need a quick, satisfying meal. It’s simple to prepare and bake in no time, making it a practical choice for weeknight dinners. A delicious way to switch things up from your regular chicken routine.
    Get the Recipe: Breaded Panko Pork Chops

    Ground Pork Burgers

    Close-up of  grilled pork burger patties stacked on a white plate.
    Ground Pork Burgers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Ground pork burgers are a flavorful option when you want a break from chicken dinners. The pork adds a different twist to your usual burger night, giving you a juicy and rich flavor. These burgers are easy to prepare and cook quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights or weekend cookouts. You can dress them up with your favorite toppings for a meal that’s simple yet full of flavor. A great way to change up your dinner routine.
    Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Burgers

    Ground Pork Tacos

    Two pork tacos on a white plate with lime wedges.
    Ground Pork Tacos. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Ground pork tacos are a fun and flavorful way to add some variety to your dinner menu, breaking away from the usual chicken dishes. The ground pork is seasoned to perfection and cooks quickly, making this an easy meal for busy weeknights. You can top them with your favorite ingredients to customize each taco. It’s a budget-friendly option that brings big flavor without much effort. A great go-to recipe when you want something different for dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Tacos

    Minestrone Soup with Sausage

    Minestrone Soup with Sausage in white bowl with spoonful.
    Minestrone Soup with Sausage. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Minestrone soup with sausage is a hearty and comforting meal that’s a great alternative to chicken-based soups. The sausage adds a rich, savory flavor, and the vegetables and beans make it a filling, wholesome option. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead for busy weeknights. This soup is perfect for those looking to break away from chicken and enjoy something different. A warm, satisfying dish for chilly evenings.
    Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup with Sausage

    Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites

    A basket of crispy roasted pork belly chunks garnished with parsley, served in a white paper-lined wicker basket.
    Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Air fryer pork belly bites are crispy, flavorful bites that offer a tasty break from chicken dinners. The air fryer helps achieve the perfect crunch without much oil, and the pork belly remains tender inside. These bites are great as a snack, appetizer, or main dish when you want something different and easy to prepare. A fun and affordable way to add variety to your meals. Ideal for busy nights when you want something quick but satisfying.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites

    Filipino Spaghetti

    A bowl of spaghetti topped with a rich meat sauce placed on a red and white checkered tablecloth.
    Filipino Spaghetti. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Filipino spaghetti is a sweet and savory dish that adds a unique twist to your usual dinner routine. It uses ground pork and a blend of sauces for a flavor that’s different from traditional spaghetti, making it a fun option when you want something other than chicken. This dish is easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners. You can prepare it in advance and enjoy leftovers later. A great way to change up your pasta night.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Spaghetti

    Air Fryer Lumpia

    Filipino spring rolls in a basket with dipping sauce.
    Air Fryer Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Air fryer lumpia offers a crispy and flavorful pork filling, making it a fun change from chicken appetizers. The air fryer helps create a crunchy shell without too much oil, while the pork inside stays juicy. These lumpia are great as an appetizer or a main dish, perfect for casual dinners or get-togethers. They’re quick to prepare and cook in no time, making them a practical choice. A tasty way to switch things up from the usual.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

    Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

    Bacon wrapped pineapple on a white plate.
    Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Bacon-wrapped pineapple in the air fryer combines sweet and salty flavors, offering a fun alternative to chicken appetizers. The bacon crisps up perfectly in the air fryer, while the pineapple brings a burst of sweetness. It’s a quick and easy dish to prepare, making it great for parties or casual dinners. A unique way to add variety to your meals without much effort. Perfect for when you want something simple but packed with flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

    Biscuit Breakfast Casserole

    A white bowl filled with a cheesy, layered casserole topped with melted cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.
    Biscuit Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Biscuit breakfast casserole is a hearty dish that’s great for more than just breakfast, offering a break from your usual chicken dinners. It’s made with simple ingredients like biscuits, eggs, and sausage, creating a filling meal that’s perfect for brunch or dinner. You can prepare it ahead of time and bake it when ready, making it a convenient option for busy days. A great way to add variety to your meal plan without breaking the bank.
    Get the Recipe: Biscuit Breakfast Casserole

    Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

    Bacon wrapped air fryer cabbage on white plate.
    Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Bacon wrapped air fryer cabbage offers a fun way to change up your dinner sides and break away from chicken. The crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor, while the cabbage stays tender inside. It’s easy to prepare and cooks quickly in the air fryer, making it a great option for weeknights. A simple dish that adds variety to your meals without requiring much effort. Perfect for when you want something different.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

    Ground Pork Stir Fry

    A plate with ground pork and vegetables on top of cauliflower rice.
    Ground Pork Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Ground pork stir fry is a quick and affordable option that makes a great alternative to chicken stir-fries. It’s packed with flavor and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The ground pork cooks quickly, allowing you to have dinner on the table in no time. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed as leftovers the next day. A practical choice when you want a simple yet flavorful dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Stir Fry

    Breakfast Chorizo Burrito

    A close-up image of a sliced breakfast burrito filled with seasoned meat and eggs served on a white plate with avocado slices and dipping sauce in the background.
    Breakfast Chorizo Burrito. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Breakfast chorizo burrito brings a bold, spicy flavor to your morning routine, offering a change from traditional breakfast options like chicken. The chorizo adds a rich, smoky taste, making this burrito a hearty and filling meal. It’s easy to make and great for meal prep, as you can prepare several in advance. Perfect for a quick breakfast or even a weeknight dinner. A flavorful way to break up the monotony of your usual meals.
    Get the Recipe: Breakfast Chorizo Burrito

    Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot

    Pork tenderloin on a cutting board next to a slow cooker.
    Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Slow cooker pork loin is a tender and flavorful option that gives you a break from chicken dinners. The slow cooker does all the work, resulting in a juicy pork loin that’s ready when you are. It’s a great option for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal with minimal effort. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete dinner. A perfect recipe for when you want something different without spending hours in the kitchen.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot

    Golumpki Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

    Two cabbage rolls on a plate with fork.
    Golumpki Stuffed Cabbage Rolls. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Golumpki stuffed cabbage rolls offer a hearty meal that’s a nice change from chicken dishes. The ground pork filling is wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, creating a filling and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. This recipe is great for making ahead and reheating when needed, making it a practical option for busy nights. It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can save some for later. A great way to add variety to your dinner lineup.
    Get the Recipe: Golumpki Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

    Hawaiian Roll Sliders

    A close-up image of a platter of ham and cheese slider sandwiches sprinkled with poppy seeds and garnished with chopped herbs.
    Hawaiian Roll Sliders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Hawaiian roll sliders are a fun and easy option when you want a break from chicken sliders. Made with ground pork and sweet rolls, these sliders are perfect for casual dinners or parties. They come together quickly and can be customized with your favorite toppings. This recipe is ideal for feeding a crowd without much hassle. A great way to switch up your usual dinner routine with something a little different.
    Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Roll Sliders

    Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

    A bowl of bacon-wrapped cocktail sausages served on a bed of fresh green herbs.
    Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Bacon wrapped little smokies are a fun and easy appetizer that’s perfect for when you want something different from chicken-based snacks. The smoky flavor of the bacon pairs perfectly with the sausages, creating a bite-sized treat that’s great for parties or casual dinners. These cook up quickly and require minimal prep. A simple, crowd-pleasing option that’s great for any occasion. Perfect for adding some variety to your appetizers.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

    Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

    A plate of pork chops stuffed with mushrooms and cheese served with green beans.
    Baked Stuffed Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Baked stuffed pork chops are a hearty and flavorful dinner option that’s a great break from the usual chicken dishes. These pork chops are filled with a savory stuffing, making them a complete meal on their own. They’re easy to prepare and bake up in the oven, requiring minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling and delicious. A wonderful way to change up your dinner routine with little effort.
    Get the Recipe: Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

    Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

    Close-up of an air-fried barbecued rib with charred edges over a white plate.
    Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Air fryer baby back ribs are a quick and easy way to enjoy tender, juicy ribs without having to fire up the grill. The air fryer cooks the ribs to perfection, offering a flavorful alternative to chicken dinners. These ribs are great for weeknight meals or casual get-togethers. They cook in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods, making them a convenient option. A fantastic choice when you want something different and delicious.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

    Navy Bean and Ham Soup

    A bowl of bean soup with chunks of ham and diced vegetables, served in a rustic terracotta bowl with a spoon on the side.
    Navy Bean and Ham Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Navy bean and ham soup is a hearty, warming meal that’s a great option when you want something different from chicken soups. The ham adds a rich, savory flavor to the beans, making this soup filling and comforting. It’s easy to prepare and can simmer away on the stove, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend. This soup also makes great leftovers. A practical recipe for when you want a warm, satisfying meal without too much effort.
    Get the Recipe: Navy Bean and Ham Soup

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

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