The holiday season brings the magic of family traditions, gatherings, and feasts. However, for busy parents, balancing work, family, and holiday responsibilities can make life feel more chaotic than cheerful. Here are 8 tips to help busy parents navigate mealtime during the holidays: 

1. Keep it merry and manageable
First and foremost, set realistic expectations. Life is busier than ever and cooking elaborate holiday meals is not required. When planning your meals, create a meal plan that suits your family with dishes that are simple favorites.

2. Prepare, chill, and pass the eggnog
Opt for dishes that can be prepared in advance. Casseroles, soups, and sauces can be made days ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer.

3. Use Santa’s little helpers (but only if it makes things easier)
Cooking can be a fun family activity, IF you have the time. Assign age-appropriate tasks to your kids like washing vegetables, stirring ingredients, or planning meals. This can add a special touch to your holiday dishes and give children ownership of the dinner.

4. Set it and forget it
Take advantage of our favorite kitchen gadgets: slow cookers and pressure cookers. Get dinner cooking so you can run to meetings, recitals, and class parties worry free.

5. Sleigh with simple dishes
Not everything needs to be made from scratch. Things like rotisserie chicken or pre-cut vegetables make a big difference without compromising taste.

6. One-Pot wonders
Save time on cleanup with meals that cook in a single pot or on a sheet pan. Dishes like Citrus Pear Ranch Chicken & Potatoes Sheet Pan Dinner or baked pasta are perfect to save time and pack plenty of flavor without the mess.

7. Keep eats festive and fuss free
With holiday activities and guests, easy-to-grab snacks and simple breakfast options like muffins or fruit platters can keep everyone happy and nourished for long fun-filled days.

8. Cook less, celebrate more
Holiday cooking can be demanding, so remember to take breaks, put your feet up, and enjoy moments with your family by using Citrus Pear dinners. The goal is to make memories, not just meals.

With these holiday tips parents can plan, prepare, and be present in the moments that make the season special.

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