These 15 Gen X Recipes Will Earn You Mad Respect From Your Gen Z & Alpha Kids

Make meal times a blast from the past with a twist that will impress the younger ones. These old-school dishes are making a comeback in a big way. Gen X parents will love the nostalgia, and kids will enjoy the modern spin. Simple steps turn classic bites into trendy favorites. It’s a fun way to bring everyone to the table.

4 ingredient slow cooker chicken on a black platter.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Kids will love this blend of flavors and textures. Combining tangy cranberries with crunchy walnuts creates a perfect balance. The protein-packed chicken makes it a filling meal. Gear up for unanimous thumbs-ups whenever you serve this. It’s one standout option that is both nutritious and fun to eat. Gen Z and Alpha kids are sure to appreciate this classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Tacos Dorados

Tacos Dorados on a plate.
Tacos Dorados. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Your kids are in for a treat with these crispy wonders. Made with a seasoning blend that kids will find irresistible, these tacos offer plenty of crunch. Serve them for lunch or dinner, and they’ll disappear fast. They’re a surefire way to make your kids smile. Enjoy a family favorite that stands the test of time. Watch them devour every last bite while asking for more.
Get the Recipe: Tacos Dorados

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Parents and kids both win with this healthier take on a classic dish. Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Featuring ham, cheese, and chicken, it’s a flavor combination kids love. Plus, the air fryer cuts down on the mess and hassle. Serve it alongside a simple side dish for a complete meal. Gen Z and Alpha kids will want this in regular rotation.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Brisket Fried Rice

Brisket fried rice in black serving dish on white background.
Brisket Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mixing BBQ flavors with fried rice is a genius idea. Not only will kids find it fun, but it’s also a good way to use leftovers. It’s a simple yet loaded dish that makes you look like a pro in the kitchen. Great for family dinners, and they’ll love the smoky flavor. Add in some veggies to make it a balanced meal. Perfect for impressing a younger audience.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Fried Rice

Steak & Pasta Salad

A black bowl filled with a pasta salad containing farfalle, steak slices, radishes, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, nuts, and crumbled blue cheese, garnished with parsley, on a wooden board next to a spoon.
Steak & Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Kids can be picky, but this one hits the mark. The steak combined with pasta offers comfort and familiarity. It’s hearty enough to win over any skeptical eater. With easy-to-add veggies, it turns into a balanced meal. Serve it cold for a refreshing twist on dinner. It’s a hit that’s here to stay.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

Cuban Sandwich Casserole

A piece of Cuban sandwich casserole on a plate with potato chips.
Cuban Sandwich Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

All the favorite elements of a Cuban sandwich now in an easy-to-eat form. Perfect for feeding a crowd or a big family dinner. Kids will love the blend of flavors, and you’ll appreciate the simplicity. It’s an excellent make-ahead option that stays delicious. Serve a big piece and watch them come back for seconds. This is a dish that brings everyone to the table.
Get the Recipe: Cuban Sandwich Casserole

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

2 Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwiches on a black plate.
Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Combining grilled chicken with fresh ingredients makes for a tasty, light meal. Ideal for lunch, this sandwich goes well with many sides. Kids will enjoy the familiar grilled chicken, and the mix of flavors keeps it interesting. It’s a convenient option for packed lunches or quick dinners. Easy to make and easier to eat. A family favorite that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp skewers on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

These are perfect for a quick and healthy meal. The light seasoning brings out the flavor without overwhelming it. Serve them with some simple sides. Perfect for a summer meal or grill night. Your Gen Z and Alpha kids are bound to love this one. They’re not only delicious but also a great way to introduce seafood.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Chicken Stir Fry

A white plate with chicken and mushrooms in a sauce.
Chicken Stir Fry. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

A versatile dish that everyone in the family can enjoy. Quick to prepare and packed with protein and veggies. The colorful mix is not only nutritious but also visually appealing. Serve it over some rice for a satisfying meal. Kids will love picking their favorites from the mix. It’s an easy way to get them to eat more veggies.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stir Fry

Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

A bowl of skillet gnocchi with sausage and broccoli rabe.
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This mix brings together some fantastic flavors. Opt for this one when you need a quick and filling meal. The sausage adds a savory kick that balances out the dish. Broccoli rabe gives it a hint of bitterness, which complements the gnocchi. Easy to cook and even easier to clean up. Your kids will get hooked on this combination.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

Chicken Piccata

Two chicken piccata on a white plate with parsley and lemon wedges.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tender pieces of chicken in a tangy sauce make this a go-to option. Simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for a special meal. A little different from the usual chicken recipe, it keeps things interesting. Serve it with a simple side dish to round out the meal. Your kids will ask for seconds, guaranteed. A classic recipe that’s both easy and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Light and refreshing, this salad is perfect for warmer days. Orzo and shrimp make for a satisfying and nutritious combo. Great for lunchboxes or as a main course at dinner. The Mediterranean flavors are mild enough for kids to enjoy. Serve it chilled for a cool, refreshing meal. It’s a good way to introduce new tastes to the younger crowd.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Al pastor chicken quesadillas pulled apart.
Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Highlighting a meaty and rich filling, these quesadillas are hard to resist. Simple to make and quick to cook, they’re ideal for busy nights. The filling mix brings a burst of flavor that kids will love. Grill them up crispy and serve warm for the best experience. These are bound to become a new favorite. A bit out of the ordinary, but they’ll definitely impress.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Baja Fish Tacos

Baja fish tacos on a white plate.
Baja Fish Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Make meal times exciting with these tasty fish tacos. They’re not only quick to prepare but also a healthier option. Kids will love the change from standard taco fillings. Serve them with some fresh sides for a complete meal. They’re perfect for introducing more seafood into diets. Gen Z and Alpha kids will find them irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos

4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

4 ingredient slow cooker chicken on a black platter.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

All you need is minimal ingredients and some patience for this easy meal. Perfect for busy days, just set it and forget it. The chicken comes out tender and flavorful. Pair it with a variety of sides for a full meal. Great for meal prepping too. Younger generations will appreciate how easy and delicious this can be.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

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