Recipes • August 6, 2026

Crock Pot Italian Chicken

by Ronda Swanson

Crock Pot Italian Chicken

Busy weeknights call for meals that practically cook themselves, and this Easy Crock Pot Italian Chicken is one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again. With just a few simple ingredients and only five minutes of prep, your slow cooker transforms everyday chicken into a rich, creamy, and flavorful meal the whole family will love.

The Italian dressing seasoning adds savory herbs and spices while the cream cheese creates a smooth, velvety sauce that’s perfect tossed with tender pasta. It’s comforting, budget-friendly, and ideal for those days when you don’t have time to spend in the kitchen.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or looking for an easy dinner that everyone will enjoy, this creamy Italian chicken is always a winner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Only 5 minutes of prep.
Rich, creamy Italian flavor.
Slow cooker does all the work.
Budget-friendly ingredients.
Family-friendly comfort food.
Great for meal prep and leftovers.
Perfect for busy weeknights.

Prep Time

5 minutes

Cook Time

6–7 hours on Low or 3–4 hours on High

Servings

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 packet Italian dressing seasoning mix
8 oz cream cheese
½ cup chicken broth
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
12 oz penne pasta, cooked

Instructions

Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker.
Sprinkle the Italian dressing seasoning mix, garlic powder, and black pepper evenly over the chicken.
Pour the chicken broth around the chicken.
Place the cream cheese on top.
Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks.
Stir everything together until the cream cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.
Serve over hot cooked penne pasta and enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy Italian chicken pairs perfectly with:

Garlic bread
Steamed broccoli
Roasted asparagus
Caesar salad
Green beans
Parmesan roasted zucchini

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce thickens after chilling, stir in a splash of chicken broth or milk while reheating. You can also freeze the chicken mixture (without the pasta) for up to 3 months.

Tips for the Best Crock Pot Italian Chicken

Cut larger chicken breasts in half for more even cooking.
Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving for even more flavor.
Stir in fresh spinach during the last 15 minutes for extra vegetables.
Use rotini, bowtie, or fettuccine if you don’t have penne.
Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

This Easy Crock Pot Italian Chicken is creamy, comforting, and incredibly simple to make. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect recipe for busy families who still want a homemade meal on the table. Serve it over your favorite pasta for an easy dinner that’s guaranteed to become a regular in your weekly meal rotation.

Recipes • August 6, 2026

Easy Oven Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

by Ronda Swanson

Easy Oven Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

If you’re looking for a simple dinner that’s packed with flavor and doesn’t require a lot of prep, this Oven Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the perfect recipe. With just a handful of pantry staples and about 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a juicy, tender chicken dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

The buttery garlic coating keeps the chicken moist while the Parmesan cheese bakes into a delicious golden crust. Pair it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal the whole family will love.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, meal prepping for lunches, or simply craving an easy comfort meal, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep on repeat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in about 40 minutes.
Only 10 minutes of prep.
Uses simple pantry ingredients.
Juicy, tender chicken every time.
Rich garlic and Parmesan flavor.
Family-friendly and budget-friendly.
Great for meal prep and leftovers.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

30 minutes

Servings

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 tablespoons butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer in the prepared dish.
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the chicken.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

This garlic Parmesan chicken pairs perfectly with:

Roasted potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes
Steamed broccoli
Green beans
Buttered noodles
Caesar salad
Rice pilaf

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through. This recipe also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Pound thicker chicken breasts to an even thickness so they cook evenly.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts and browns better than the shelf-stable variety.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
For extra color, broil the chicken for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.

This Easy Oven Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is one of those dependable recipes you’ll come back to again and again. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights, flavorful enough for company, and made with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Add it to your weekly dinner rotation for a meal that’s always a hit!

Sunday Sweets • August 5, 2026

Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake

by Ronda Swanson

Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s incredibly easy to make but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, this Easy Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake is the recipe you’ve been searching for. Made with just a handful of pantry staples, this dessert combines sweet cherry pie filling, creamy cheesecake, buttery cake topping, and a golden, crisp finish that’s impossible to resist.

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, attending a potluck, celebrating the holidays, or simply craving something sweet after dinner, this dump cake is always a crowd favorite. Best of all, there’s no complicated mixing or special baking skills required—just layer the ingredients, bake, and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Only 4 simple ingredients
No mixing bowls needed
Ready in under an hour
Perfect for beginners
Great for holidays, potlucks, and family dinners
Delicious served warm with vanilla ice cream

Ingredients

2 (21-ounce) cans cherry pie filling
8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into small cubes
1 box yellow cake mix
¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish.
Scatter the cream cheese cubes evenly over the cherries.
Drizzle the vanilla extract over the cream cheese, if using.
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the entire dish.
Slowly drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, covering as much of the surface as possible.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake

Cut the cream cheese into small cubes so it melts evenly throughout the dessert.
Don’t stir the layers—simply stack them as directed for the perfect dump cake texture.
Try white cake mix or butter cake mix for a slightly different flavor.
If a few dry spots remain on top before baking, drizzle a little extra melted butter over them.

Delicious Variations

This recipe is easy to customize! Try one of these tasty variations:

Blueberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Peach Cheesecake Dump Cake
Apple Pie Dump Cake
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
Mixed Berry Dump Cake

What to Serve With It

This dessert is delicious on its own, but it’s even better topped with:

Vanilla ice cream
Fresh whipped cream
A drizzle of caramel sauce
Fresh cherries
Powdered sugar

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 20–30 seconds, or enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pie filling?

Absolutely! Blueberry, apple, peach, strawberry, blackberry, or mixed berry pie fillings all work wonderfully.

Does the cream cheese melt completely?

The cream cheese softens while baking and creates creamy cheesecake-like pockets throughout the dessert.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Bake it earlier in the day and reheat just before serving, or enjoy it cold from the refrigerator.

Do I have to use yellow cake mix?

No. White, butter, French vanilla, or even spice cake mix all make delicious variations.

This Easy Cherry Cheesecake Dump Cake is proof that simple desserts can still be incredibly delicious. With just a few ingredients and almost no prep work, you’ll have a warm, buttery dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and don’t be surprised when everyone asks for the recipe!

Recipes • August 5, 2026

Easy Baked Monterey Chicken

by Ronda Swanson

Easy Baked Monterey Chicken

If you’re looking for a simple dinner that’s packed with flavor and doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this Easy Baked Monterey Chicken is the perfect recipe. Juicy chicken breasts are seasoned, baked until tender, then topped with smoky BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and gooey Monterey Jack cheese for a meal the whole family will love.

This recipe comes together in about 40 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights. Pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in about 40 minutes
Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients
Perfect for busy weeknights
Family-friendly and kid-approved
Great for leftovers and meal prep
Pairs well with a variety of side dishes

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup BBQ sauce
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
2 green onions, sliced (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer.
Season both sides of the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the dish from the oven and brush each chicken breast with BBQ sauce.
Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the chicken, then top with the shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
Return the dish to the oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Garnish with sliced green onions, if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips for Success

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness so they cook evenly.
Use your favorite BBQ sauce to customize the flavor.
Try sharp cheddar or Colby Jack if you don’t have Monterey Jack on hand.
Add sliced mushrooms or sautéed onions before baking for extra flavor.

What to Serve with Monterey Chicken

This recipe pairs wonderfully with:

Creamy mashed potatoes
Garlic roasted potatoes
Steamed broccoli
Green beans
Buttered corn
Rice or rice pilaf
A crisp garden salad
Dinner rolls

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Monterey Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Leftovers also make a delicious sandwich or wrap for lunch the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and stay extra juicy. Adjust the cooking time as needed until they reach 165°F.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the chicken with the seasonings and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add the BBQ sauce, bacon, and cheese just before finishing it in the oven.

Can I freeze it?
Yes. Cook the chicken completely, let it cool, and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or simply looking for an easy dinner that everyone will enjoy, this Easy Baked Monterey Chicken is sure to become a regular on your weekly menu. It’s hearty, flavorful, and simple enough for even the busiest evenings.

Recipes • August 5, 2026

Easy Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken Recipe

by Ronda Swanson

Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken made with shredded chicken in a flavorful green salsa verde sauce, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Easy Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken

Need a quick, flavorful meal that can be used in countless ways? This Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken is one of the easiest recipes you’ll ever make! With just a handful of simple ingredients and only 5 minutes of prep, you’ll have tender, juicy shredded chicken that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, nachos, rice bowls, salads, and more.

The tangy salsa verde combines with garlic, cumin, and fresh lime juice to create a bold, zesty flavor that tastes like it simmered all day. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a fast family dinner, this versatile Instant Pot recipe is sure to become a regular favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in about 30 minutes
Only 5 minutes of prep
Uses just a few simple ingredients
High in protein
Perfect for meal prep
Great for tacos, burritos, bowls, and salads
Naturally gluten-free
Family-friendly and budget-friendly

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
16 ounces salsa verde
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

Place the chicken breasts into the Instant Pot.
Pour the salsa verde over the chicken.
Sprinkle in the cumin and garlic powder.
Squeeze the fresh lime juice over the top.
Secure the lid and set the valve to Sealing.
Pressure cook on High for 12 minutes.
Perform a quick release.
Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks.
Stir the shredded chicken back into the sauce before serving.

Tips for the Best Salsa Verde Chicken

Use your favorite brand of salsa verde for the flavor you love most.
Add diced green chilies or jalapeños for extra heat.
Stir in a little cream cheese after cooking for a creamy variation.
Top with fresh cilantro, avocado, shredded cheese, or sour cream.
Double the recipe for easy freezer meals.

Ways to Serve

This versatile chicken can be used in so many delicious meals:

Tacos
Burritos
Burrito bowls
Nachos
Quesadillas
Enchiladas
Taco salads
Lettuce wraps
Over cilantro lime rice
Stuffed baked potatoes

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes! Increase the pressure cooking time to 15–16 minutes and ensure the chicken pieces are separated rather than frozen together.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay extra juicy and cook in the same amount of time.

Is this recipe spicy?

Most salsa verde is mild, but the spice level depends on the brand you choose. For more heat, use a medium or hot salsa verde or add jalapeños.

What toppings go well with Salsa Verde Chicken?

Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, pico de gallo, and fresh lime wedges all pair wonderfully.

Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Servings: 6

This Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken is the perfect combination of fast, flavorful, and versatile. Whether you’re making tacos for Taco Tuesday, meal prepping lunches, or creating an easy weeknight dinner, this simple recipe delivers delicious results every time.

Recipes • August 5, 2026

Easy Crock Pot Honey Garlic Meatballs

by Ronda Swanson

Crock Pot Honey Garlic Meatballs in a slow cooker coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

Easy Crock Pot Honey Garlic Meatballs

If you’re looking for an effortless dinner that’s packed with sweet and savory flavor, these Crock Pot Honey Garlic Meatballs are about to become one of your new favorites. Made with frozen meatballs and a simple homemade honey garlic sauce, this recipe comes together in just 5 minutes of prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, game days, or family gatherings.

As the meatballs slowly cook, they soak up the rich combination of honey, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and fresh garlic, creating a delicious glaze that’s both sticky and flavorful. Serve them over fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even as an appetizer with toothpicks for an easy crowd-pleasing dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Only 5 minutes of preparation
Uses simple pantry ingredients
Perfect for busy weeknights
Great as a main dish or appetizer
Family-friendly and kid-approved
Ideal for parties and potlucks
Excellent for meal prep and leftovers

Ingredients

2 pounds frozen fully cooked meatballs
¾ cup honey
¾ cup barbecue sauce
¼ cup soy sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

Add the frozen meatballs to your slow cooker.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and minced garlic until well combined.
Pour the sauce evenly over the meatballs.
Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours, stirring once or twice if possible.
Stir well before serving to coat every meatball in the thick, flavorful sauce.
Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or enjoy as an appetizer.

Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Meatballs

Use your favorite brand of frozen meatballs for the easiest preparation.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat.
Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation.
Keep warm in the slow cooker for parties or holiday gatherings.
Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

To freeze, allow the meatballs to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Absolutely! Homemade meatballs work wonderfully. Just be sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.

Can I cook these on High?

Yes. Cook on High for 2–3 hours if you’re short on time.

What should I serve with honey garlic meatballs?

These meatballs are delicious served with rice, mashed potatoes, egg noodles, roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or a simple green salad.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Everything can be assembled in the slow cooker insert the night before and refrigerated. Simply place it into the slow cooker the next day and begin cooking.

Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Servings: 6

These Crock Pot Honey Garlic Meatballs are proof that simple ingredients can create an incredibly satisfying meal. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or bringing a dish to your next gathering, this easy slow cooker recipe delivers big flavor with almost no effort.

Recipes • August 5, 2026

Easy Instant Pot Taco Soup Recipe

by Ronda Swanson

Instant Pot Taco Soup

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8

If you’re looking for a quick, hearty dinner that’s packed with bold Tex-Mex flavor, this Instant Pot Taco Soup is the perfect recipe. Made with seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and savory beef broth, this comforting soup comes together in just 30 minutes using your pressure cooker. For an extra creamy finish, stir in cream cheese before serving—it takes this soup to the next level!

Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, this easy taco soup is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in about 30 minutes
Made with simple pantry staples
High in protein and incredibly filling
Perfect for meal prep and freezing
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
Family-friendly and budget-conscious

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef, browned
1 packet taco seasoning
1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (10 oz) can Rotel
2 cups beef broth
4 oz cream cheese (optional)

Optional Toppings

Shredded cheddar cheese
Sour cream
Crushed tortilla chips
Fresh cilantro
Diced avocado
Sliced jalapeños
Green onions

Instructions

Brown the ground beef and drain any excess grease.
Add the cooked beef to the Instant Pot.
Pour in the taco seasoning, corn, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, Rotel, and beef broth.
Stir everything together until well combined.
Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (High) for 10 minutes.
Perform a quick pressure release.
Stir in the cream cheese, if using, until completely melted and creamy.
Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, or your favorite toppings.

Tips for the Best Taco Soup

For a little extra spice, use Hot Rotel or add diced jalapeños.
Swap ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version.
Skip the cream cheese for a broth-based taco soup.
Add extra beef broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.
This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.

What to Serve with Taco Soup

This hearty soup pairs perfectly with:

Cornbread
Garlic bread
Cheese quesadillas
Mexican rice
Side salad
Tortilla chips and salsa

Recipes • August 5, 2026

Easy Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches Recipe

by Ronda Swanson

Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Servings: 6–8

If you’re looking for an effortless dinner that everyone will love, these Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are the perfect solution. With just a handful of pantry staples and only five minutes of prep, your slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day. The result is juicy, tender shredded chicken coated in a sweet and smoky barbecue sauce that’s perfect piled high on soft hamburger buns.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a casual get-together, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is always a winner. Pair it with creamy coleslaw, crunchy pickles, potato chips, or fresh fruit for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Only 5 minutes of prep
Perfect for busy weeknights
Budget-friendly ingredients
Great for parties, potlucks, and game days
Easy to make ahead and freeze
Kid-approved and family-friendly

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1½ cups barbecue sauce
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Hamburger buns

Instructions

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
In a small bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken.
Cover and cook on Low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker. Stir well to coat the chicken in the sauce.
Serve on toasted hamburger buns with coleslaw, pickles, or your favorite toppings.

Tips for Success

Toast the buns for extra flavor and to help prevent them from getting soggy.
Add sliced cheddar or pepper jack cheese for an extra indulgent sandwich.
Leftover chicken is delicious on baked potatoes, nachos, wraps, or salads.
If your barbecue sauce is very sweet, reduce the brown sugar slightly to suit your taste.

Storage

Store leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Serving Ideas

Complete your meal with:

Creamy coleslaw
Dill pickles
Potato chips or fries
Corn on the cob
Baked beans
Macaroni salad
Fresh fruit

Moving to Spokane Guide and Tips • August 4, 2026

Think You Can Solve Spokane’s Biggest Riddle?

by Ronda Swanson

Looking for a Different Kind of Spokane Adventure? Try the Spoke Too Soon Road Rally

If your idea of a great weekend includes puzzles, friendly competition, exploring Spokane, and making memories with friends or family, here’s an event you may want to put on your calendar.

The Spoke Too Soon Road Rally isn’t your typical car show or driving event. Instead, it’s a citywide scavenger hunt on wheels where teams work together to solve riddles, uncover clues, and navigate to GPS locations throughout Spokane using the official Riddler Road Rally app. It’s less about how fast your car is and more about how well your team can think, communicate, and solve problems under pressure.

How It Works

Teams travel throughout Spokane, unlocking clues and completing challenges as they race against the clock. Along the way you’ll:

Solve riddles and puzzles
Navigate to mystery locations around the city
Compete against other teams in real time
Earn points as you progress
Have a chance to win a share of the event prize pool

Whether you drive a sports car, SUV, pickup, or family sedan, every team competes on equal footing. Success comes from teamwork and problem-solving—not horsepower.

A Fun Activity for Friends, Families, and Coworkers

One of the best parts of the Road Rally is that almost anyone can participate. It’s a great choice for:

Families with older kids and teens
Groups of friends looking for something different
Couples who enjoy escape rooms or trivia nights
Coworkers wanting a unique team-building experience

Instead of sitting in one location, you’ll discover new parts of Spokane while working together to crack each clue.

Why It Sounds Like So Much Fun

Spokane already has amazing parks, restaurants, and outdoor recreation, but events like this let you experience the city from a completely different perspective. Every stop becomes part of the puzzle, and every clue keeps your team guessing about where you’ll head next.

If you enjoy scavenger hunts, escape rooms, geocaching, or Amazing Race-style adventures, this event is right up your alley.

Learn More

You can find registration details, event information, and upcoming updates by visiting:

https://riddlerroadrally.com/events/spoke-too-soon-road-rally-spokane-2026

Whether you’re in it to win or just looking for a memorable day exploring Spokane, the Spoke Too Soon Road Rally offers a unique way to experience the city while having a lot of fun with the people you’re with.

As always, event details, times, and registration information can change. Be sure to visit the official Riddler Road Rally website for the latest information before heading out.

Moving to Spokane Guide and Tips • August 4, 2026

How Second Harvest’s Bite 2 Go Program Is Making a Difference for Kids in Spokane

by Ronda Swanson

How Second Harvest’s Bite 2 Go Program Is Making a Difference for Kids in Spokane

As Spokane families get ready for another school year, many parents are shopping for backpacks, school supplies, and new shoes. But for thousands of children across the Inland Northwest, one backpack carries something even more important—a little extra food to help them get through the weekend.

That’s where Second Harvest’s Bite 2 Go program comes in.

Many students rely on free or reduced-price breakfasts and lunches during the school week. When Friday afternoon arrives, however, some children face two days without knowing where their next meal will come from. Bite 2 Go helps fill that gap by providing backpacks or bags filled with nutritious, kid-friendly, shelf-stable food that students can take home for the weekend.

Today, more than 12,700 children every week receive Bite 2 Go food bags across the Inland Northwest. It’s a simple idea that has a tremendous impact, helping ensure kids return to school on Monday ready to learn, grow, and succeed.

One of the things I love most about this program is how our community comes together to make it possible. Local businesses, churches, service clubs, schools, and generous individuals help sponsor schools, donate food, and volunteer their time packing weekend bags. It’s a wonderful reminder that when a community works together, lives are changed.

Food insecurity is closer to home than many people realize. One in five children in our region experiences food insecurity, and for those families, programs like Bite 2 Go provide more than food—they provide hope, stability, and peace of mind.

If you’d like to get involved, there are many ways to help. You can make a financial donation, volunteer your time, encourage your workplace or church to sponsor a school, or simply help spread the word about this incredible program. Every act of generosity helps ensure another child has enough to eat.

To learn more about Bite 2 Go or find out how you can support the program, visit:

https://2-harvest.org/bite2go/

Programs like Bite 2 Go remind us that some of the biggest differences come from the simplest acts of kindness. Together, we can help make sure more children in our community have the nourishment they need to thrive—not just during the school week, but all weekend long.

As always, thank you for reading Homegrown Spokane. I love sharing the organizations, people, and programs that make our community stronger. If you’re looking for more ways to connect with Spokane—or if you’re thinking about buying or selling a home—I’d be honored to be your local resource. Contact me here: