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    Home » Trending

    Too Busy To Cook? These 19 Filipino Ideas Help

    Published: Jun 12, 2025 by Kristen Wood · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    We’ve all been there—too tired and busy from work to find time to cook. Here’s something that could help you. Filipino cuisine offers clever and delicious ways to prepare meals quickly and effortlessly. With these 19 ideas, bold flavors and easy cooking come together perfectly. No more hectic routine!

    Garlic Fried Rice

    Garlic Fried Rice. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Short on time in the mornings? Transform leftover rice into Garlic Fried Rice, a Filipino classic that’s simple to make with garlic and oil. It’s quick to prepare, pairs perfectly with eggs or protein, and gives you a flavorful start to your busy day.
    Get the Recipe: Garlic Fried Rice

    Beef Giniling

    Beef Giniling. Photo credit: Somebody Feed Seb.

    Ground beef cooked with peas, carrots, and tomato sauce results in Beef Giniling, an easy Filipino favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's both flavorful and quick to make in one pot. Serve it with steamed rice and enjoy a satisfying meal even when you're short on time.
    Get the Recipe: Beef Giniling

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    Ginisang Munggo

    Ginisang Munggo. Photo credit: Cinnamon Snail.

    A quick sauté of mung beans with tomatoes and garlic makes Ginisang Munggo a nutrient-rich Filipino dish well-suited for tight schedules. Pair it with rice and optional toppings such as pork or shrimp for a complete meal. Its wholesome flavors come together simply, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious meal without the fuss.
    Get the Recipe: Ginisang Munggo

    Pancit Bihon Recipe with Chicken and Veggies

    Pancit Bihon Recipe with Chicken and Veggies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    Perfect for quick weeknight meals, this noodle dish is loaded with tender chicken and colorful veggies. Pancit Bihon uses rice noodles that cook fast and soak up flavorful seasonings for a satisfying bite. Ideal for busy days when you need a hearty dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
    Get the Recipe: Pancit Bihon Recipe with Chicken and Veggies

    Filipino Lumpia in Air Fryer

    Filipino Lumpia in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Wrapping and frying can be simplified with Filipino Lumpia in Air Fryer, making this classic spring roll easy to prepare. Filled with ground pork, vegetables, and a thin wrapper, it’s a quick appetizer or snack that doesn’t require much time. Air frying offers a faster, healthier approach for busy individuals looking for a tasty bite.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Lumpia in Air Fryer

    Filipino Leche Flan

    Filipino Leche Flan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    There's always room for a simple dessert even on hectic days, and Filipino Leche Flan is an excellent choice. With basic ingredients like eggs, milk, and sugar, it’s a sweet treat that’s achievable without much hassle. Just steam it for a refined dessert that's ready with minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Leche Flan

    Chicken and Rice Soup

    Chicken and Rice Soup. Photo credit: The Forked Spoon.

    When pressed for time, Chicken and Rice Soup provides a comforting and easy option bursting with flavor. Using chicken, rice, and aromatic seasonings, it’s perfect for rapid meal preparation that doesn’t compromise on taste. Add vegetables like carrots or celery for a hearty twist in just a few minutes.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Soup

    Ginataang Langka (Filipino Jackfruit in Coconut Milk)

    Ginataang Langka (Filipino Jackfruit in Coconut Milk). Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Stirring jackfruit and coconut milk into a creamy dish is surprisingly easy, even when time slips away, with Ginataang Langka. This dish offers bold flavors with minimal ingredients and preparation, creating a delightful meal in no time. Serve it over rice for an option that's both fast and flavorful.
    Get the Recipe: Ginataang Langka (Filipino Jackfruit in Coconut Milk)

    Jollibee Spaghetti (Filipino-Style Spaghetti)

    Jollibee Spaghetti (Filipino-Style Spaghetti). Photo credit: Urban Bliss Life.

    Combining sweetness with savory meat sauce, Jollibee Spaghetti recreates the classic Filipino favorite with ease. Quick to prepare and topped generously with grated cheese, this dish is perfect for days when time is limited but homemade comfort food is a must. Great for busy schedules and family dinners alike.
    Get the Recipe: Jollibee Spaghetti (Filipino-Style Spaghetti)

    Pancit Bihon

    Pancit noodles on a plate with veggies and chicken.
    Pancit Bihon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    Light and flavorful, Pancit Bihon combines rice noodles, chicken, and veggies for a fast, easy meal. A dish that’s perfect for those too busy to cook but unwilling to compromise on quality. Whipping up a Filipino favorite has never been quicker.
    Get the Recipe: Pancit Bihon

    Easy Chicken Adobo with Coconut Milk

    Easy Chicken Adobo with Coconut Milk. Photo credit: Kitchen Divas.

    A delicious twist on the Filipino classic, Chicken Adobo with Coconut Milk pairs tender chicken with a creamy, rich sauce. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for hectic weekdays when you still crave bold flavors. Perfect with rice and ready to impress with minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Adobo with Coconut Milk

    Banana Lumpia Recipe (Banana Spring Rolls)

    Banana Lumpia Recipe (Banana Spring Rolls). Photo credit: Kitchen Divas.

    Perfect for an on-the-go snack or fast dessert, Banana Lumpia features bananas wrapped in crispy spring roll wrappers. With minimal prep and quick frying, this sweet treat fits perfectly into busy days. Add syrup or sugar for an extra touch without adding time to your schedule.
    Get the Recipe: Banana Lumpia Recipe (Banana Spring Rolls)

    Tofu Sisig

    Tofu Sisig. Photo credit: Cinnamon Snail.

    For plant-based eaters, Tofu Sisig offers a flavorful protein-packed meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. Tangy, spicy flavors pair well with soft tofu, making this dish ideal when you need dinner options fast. Whether served with rice or as a standalone dish, it’s perfect for your packed day.
    Get the Recipe: Tofu Sisig

    Peach Mango Pie - Jollibee Recipe Copycat

    Peach Mango Pie - Jollibee Recipe Copycat. Photo credit: Chenée Today.

    Filled with sweet mango and peach goodness, Peach Mango Pie recreates a beloved Filipino dessert quickly and easily. Perfect for busy days, the buttery crust and tropical filling come together with minimal effort. Treat yourself to this homemade snack in no time.
    Get the Recipe: Peach Mango Pie - Jollibee Recipe Copycat

    Easy Biko Recipe (Filipino Sticky Rice Cake Dessert)

    Easy Biko Recipe (Filipino Sticky Rice Cake Dessert). Photo credit: Basics with Bails.

    Busy schedules don’t mean skipping out on desserts—this sweet sticky rice is quick to whip up and satisfy your sweet tooth. Made with glutinous rice and coconut milk, the Easy Biko Recipe offers indulgence without complicated steps. Only three main ingredients make this a practical dessert option that doesn't compromise on flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Biko Recipe (Filipino Sticky Rice Cake Dessert)

    Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

    Instant Pot Chicken Adobo. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

    Get that signature adobo flavor fast with Instant Pot Chicken Adobo, thanks to pressure cooking that saves precious time. Tender chicken infused with vinegar, soy sauce, and spices makes this an easy go-to for busy cooks. Simplify meal prep without sacrificing the authentic Filipino taste you love.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

    Purple Pancakes

    Purple Pancakes. Photo credit: Thriving in Parenting.

    Adding color and delicious warmth to your mornings, Purple Pancakes feature ube for a unique breakfast twist. Easy to whip up, this recipe is great for busy mornings when you want something special without complexity. Perfect for breaking the monotony of your rushed routine.
    Get the Recipe: Purple Pancakes

    Arroz Caldo

    Arroz Caldo. Photo credit: The Forked Spoon.

    Perfect for busy days, this Filipino chicken and rice porridge combines easily with ginger and garlic to create a comforting meal. Arroz Caldo is great when you need quick comfort food that's simple to prepare and deliciously warming. Enjoy adding toppings like boiled eggs, green onions, and calamansi juice for extra depth in just a few steps.
    Get the Recipe: Arroz Caldo

    Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

    Fried Filipino banana turon lumpia on a white plate.
    Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A sweet and crunchy Filipino snack, Banana Turon Lumpia combines bananas and jackfruit wrapped in golden, fried perfection. This quick recipe works wonders for those looking for easy treats during a busy schedule. Pair with caramel drizzle for added flavor in a snap.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

    About Kristen Wood

    Kristen Wood is a writer, photographer, world traveler and cookbook author. Her work has been featured in various publications both online and in print, including Elle, Forbes, NBC, Chicago Sun-Times, Martha Stewart, Food Drink Life, Arizona Highways Magazine, New York Daily News, and more. She is also a syndicated writer for The Associated Press.

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