When you’re not feeling well, preparing dinner can seem like a daunting task. Whether you’re battling a cold, suffering from the flu, dealing with nausea, or simply feeling exhausted, cooking is often the last thing on your mind. However, nourishing your body with the right foods can make a significant difference in your recovery. But figuring out what to make for dinner when not feeling well can be overwhelming.
This guide offers a range of easy, comforting, and nutrient-rich meal ideas that are gentle on the stomach and quick to prepare. Whether you’re craving something warm, need to keep things light, or want to boost your immune system, these recipes will help you decide what to make for dinner when not feeling well. We’ll also include internal links from Aeria Recipes to guide you to even more helpful and delicious options.
Why Comforting Meals Are Essential When You’re Unwell
Before diving into meal ideas, it’s important to understand why certain foods are better when you’re feeling under the weather. Comforting meals aren’t just about warmth and taste; they are often easier to digest, rich in hydration, and loaded with immune-boosting ingredients. When you’re unwell, your body uses more energy to fight off illness, and simple, nourishing foods can help you recover faster.
Eating the right meals when you’re sick can:
- Provide essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals to aid recovery.
- Keep you hydrated, especially if you’ve been losing fluids through sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Be gentle on the stomach, minimizing irritation and nausea.
Let’s dive into some specific meal ideas that are perfect for those days when you don’t feel well enough to cook.
What to Make for Dinner When Not Feeling Well: Simple and Nourishing Meals
1. Chicken Soup: A Classic Remedy for When You’re Not Feeling Well
When you think about what to make for dinner when not feeling well, chicken soup is likely one of the first things that comes to mind—and for good reason. The warmth and hydration from the broth help soothe sore throats, while the chicken provides essential protein to help your body recover. The vegetables in the soup, such as carrots, celery, and onions, offer a range of vitamins that can boost your immune system.
If you’re looking for a new twist on chicken soup, check out the Italian Penicillin Soup from Aeria Recipes. This version uses healing herbs like garlic and parsley, which have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Fresh parsley and thyme for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large pot, sauté garlic, onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the chicken and cook until tender, about 20 minutes.
- Shred the chicken and return it to the pot.
- Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs before serving.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Comforting and Easy on the Stomach
Another ideal choice when deciding what to make for dinner when not feeling well is mashed potatoes. They’re soft, easy to digest, and provide carbohydrates for energy. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, you can add garlic or cheese for extra flavor without upsetting your stomach.
For a complete meal, consider serving mashed potatoes with Rosemary Bread, which is light and complements the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes perfectly.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and mash the potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed, and serve warm.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Quick and Nutritious Dinner When Feeling Under the Weather
Eggs are a versatile and nutritious option for what to make for dinner when not feeling well. They’re easy to prepare, light on the stomach, and packed with protein. Scrambled eggs take just a few minutes to make and can be paired with toast or a light salad if you’re feeling up for it.
For an added treat, you can pair your scrambled eggs with Mini Pancakes for a comforting breakfast-for-dinner experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Cheese or spinach
Instructions:
- Whisk the eggs in a bowl with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat, then pour in the eggs.
- Stir gently until the eggs are softly scrambled, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add cheese or spinach if desired, and serve immediately.
What to Make for Dinner When Not Feeling Well: Gentle Meals for an Upset Stomach
When your stomach is unsettled, bland, easy-to-digest foods are often the best option. Here are some simple meals that can soothe your digestive system while still providing nutrition.
1. Oatmeal: A Soothing and Nutritious Dinner Option for When You Feel Sick
Oatmeal is a comforting option for what to make for dinner when not feeling well, especially if you’re experiencing nausea or stomach discomfort. It’s gentle on the stomach and provides fiber to help regulate digestion. You can add honey or cinnamon for flavor without upsetting your system.
If you’re craving something sweet but still light, try the Banana Banana Bread from Aeria Recipes. It’s a gentle treat that won’t overwhelm your digestive system.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups water or milk
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1 banana, mashed (optional)
Instructions:
- Bring the water or milk to a boil and stir in the oats.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Add honey or mashed banana for sweetness, and serve warm.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Comforting and Easy on the Stomach When You’re Sick
Plain rice is another great option when considering what to make for dinner when not feeling well. It’s bland, easy to digest, and can be paired with steamed or boiled vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or spinach. This simple meal provides essential vitamins while being light on the stomach.
For a heartier meal that still feels light, try browsing Quick & Easy Lazy Dinner Ideas on Aeria Recipes for more inspiration.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups water
- Steamed or boiled vegetables (carrots, zucchini, spinach)
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil, then stir in the rice.
- Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender, about 18-20 minutes.
- Serve with steamed vegetables.
What to Make for Dinner When Not Feeling Well: Quick and Easy Meals for Exhaustion
When you’re too tired to cook but still need to eat, these quick and easy meal ideas require minimal effort and ingredients.
1. Avocado Toast: Simple and Satisfying
If you’re low on energy but still wondering what to make for dinner when not feeling well, avocado toast is a quick and healthy option. Avocados are rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nourishing choice for when your energy is low.
For a more filling version, use Lavash Bread as the base for your toast instead of traditional bread.
Ingredients:
- 1 slice of bread or lavash
- 1 ripe avocado
- Salt, pepper, and olive oil
Instructions:
- Toast the bread until golden brown.
- Mash the avocado and spread it over the toast.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
2. Bone Broth: Hydrating and Nourishing
Bone broth is rich in vitamins, minerals, and collagen, which can help support your immune system and provide hydration. It’s light, easy to sip, and full of essential nutrients. You can drink it on its own or add it to soups or stews for added richness.
Bone broth is an ideal solution when you’re deciding what to make for dinner when not feeling well because it’s easy to prepare and gentle on your digestive system. Try pairing it with some light bread for a more filling meal.
Hydrating Beverages to Support Recovery
When you’re not feeling well, staying hydrated is just as important as eating the right foods. Here are a few beverages that will help you stay hydrated and nourish your body at the same time.
1. Herbal Tea with Honey
Herbal teas, such as ginger, chamomile, or peppermint, are excellent for soothing nausea, aiding digestion, and calming your nerves. Adding a teaspoon of honey not only sweetens the tea but also provides antibacterial properties that can help soothe a sore throat.
Pairing a cup of herbal tea with a small snack like the Ultimate Zucchini Bread can create a comforting combination.
2. Water with Lemon and Honey
If you’re struggling to drink plain water, add lemon and honey to your glass. The lemon provides vitamin C to boost your immune system, and the honey can help soothe your throat. Sip it throughout the day to stay hydrated without overwhelming your system.
Conclusion: Simple Comfort Foods for When You’re Not Feeling Well
When deciding what to make for dinner when not feeling well, the key is to focus on simple, comforting meals that nourish your body while requiring minimal effort. Whether it’s a warm bowl of chicken soup, a plate of mashed potatoes, or a slice of avocado toast, these meals will help you feel better without overcomplicating the cooking process.
For more ideas on what to make for dinner when not feeling well, explore Aeria Recipes, where you’ll find plenty of easy, soothing recipes to help you through your recovery.