Ramadan iftar often comes with the challenge of preparing a satisfying meal quickly. Instead of juggling multiple pots and pans, these one-pan recipes bring you rich, traditional flavours with minimal cleanup. Whether you're in the mood for something tangy, creamy, or packed with spices, these dishes will make iftar both effortless and delicious.

Chicken Lemon Sauce

This zesty dish is perfect when you need something light yet packed with flavour. Chicken breasts or thighs are seared in olive oil and butter until golden, then simmered in a tangy sauce made with garlic and freshly squeezed lemon juice. A splash of cream is added to make the sauce hearty, creating a smooth, velvety texture. Served with rice or pasta, this dish is a go-to for a quick and satisfying iftar.

Kofta & Potato Tray Bake

This hearty dish combines juicy, spiced kofta with golden, roasted potatoes baked in a rich tomato sauce. The kofta is made by mixing ground beef or lamb with grated onion, black pepper, cumin, and paprika before being shaped into patties. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered around the kofta, absorbing the flavourful juices as everything bakes to perfection.

Then, halfway through, tomato sauce is added to continue cooking. Serve the one-tray wonder alongside rice, and you have an effortless iftar ready.

One-Pan Moussaka

A comforting classic, moussaka is a rich and saucy dish that comes together effortlessly in one pan. Slices of eggplant are first lightly seared, then cooked with garlic, and raw ground beef is added to simmer together for a while. Once everything is halfway done, fresh tomato sauce is added, and everything is left to cook together for a good 10 minutes. The result is a deeply flavourful, melt-in-your-mouth dish best enjoyed on its own or with freshly baked bread.

One-Pan Orzo with Chicken & Vegetables

This easy and flavorful dish is a risotto dupe. Combine tender chicken with orzo and vegetables, all cooked together in one pan. The chicken is seasoned and then seared to golden perfection; add a drizzle of honey for extra flavour. The orzo is added along with a medley of vegetables that can include bell peppers, zucchini, and sundried tomatoes, all simmered in chicken broth to infuse the dish with rich flavours.

A squeeze of lemon juice at the end adds brightness, or a splash of cooking cream will bring everything together for those looking for a filling fix. This dish is perfect for iftar when you need a quick yet delicious meal.

One-Pan Koshari

A simplified take on Egypt's most beloved street food, this one-pan koshari saves time without sacrificing flavour. Add the rice, pasta and lentils to a pot with some butter. Let them toast for a while, and then add water. Once done, top it with some tomato sauce, and you're ready to go with no fuss. A splash of vinegar enhances the depth, while crispy fried onions on top bring the signature crunch. No need for separate pots—everything cooks together, making this one easy way to enjoy a beloved classic.