😋3 Budget Friendly Meals

🐝 1️⃣ Cheesy Chicken & Rice Skillet

(One pan, big win)

🛒 Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
  
  

• 1–1½ cups cooked chicken (rotisserie = budget hero)
  
  

• 1 cup frozen peas or broccoli
  
  

• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Colby-Jack
  
  

• ½ cup milk
  
  

• Salt & pepper
  
  

👩‍🍳 How

1. Add everything to a skillet over medium heat.
   
   

2. Stir until warm and melty.
   
   

3. Serve immediately.
   
   

💡 Why kids love it: cheesy + familiar
💰 Budget tip: use leftovers or bulk rice

🐝 2️⃣ Baked Taco Casserole

(Taco night without the mess)

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  
  

• 1 packet taco seasoning
  
  

• 1 can black beans (drained)
  
  

• 1 cup frozen corn
  
  

• 2 cups crushed tortilla chips or cooked rice
  
  

• 1–1½ cups shredded cheese
  
  

👩‍🍳 How

1. Brown meat, add seasoning.
   
   

2. Stir in beans & corn.
   
   

3. Layer meat, chips/rice, and cheese in a baking dish.
   
   

4. Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes.
   
   

💡 Why kids love it: tacos, but easier
💰 Budget tip: stretch meat with beans

🐝 3️⃣ Honey Butter Pasta with Chicken

(Sweet, simple, surprisingly loved)

🛒 Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (any shape)
  
  

• 1 cup cooked chicken
  
  

• 2 tbsp butter
  
  

• 1 tbsp honey 🍯
  
  

• Salt to taste
  
  

• Optional: peas or carrots
  
  

👩‍🍳 How

1. Cook pasta and drain.
   
   

2. Toss with butter and honey until coated.
   
   

3. Stir in chicken and veggies.
   
   

💡 Why kids love it: mild, slightly sweet
💰 Budget tip: pantry staples save the day