Is there an easy way to paint paneling?

Yes,

Of course it is possible. Use a high knap roller and a brush to fill in. BTW, drywall costs less than most paneling and it should be present under the paneling.

https://www.hunker.com/13412982/how-to-whitewash-paneling

http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/skills-and-know-how/painting/how-to-paint-over-paneling

Absolutely paneling can be painted! If you want a smooth wall, you will want to fill the grooves with spackle first. I liked the "groovy" texture, so I painted it as it was. Long ago so no pictures, but it turned out beautiful.

Yes , I've done it. Wash well with TSP. Prime with a good primer, then paint with a quality paint. Please, do your prep work as that's what going to make it not chip off.

Yes--first wash with TSP (wear gloves), rinse, dry, apply Kilz or whatever brand of stain blocking primer you wish to use (I like Kilz personally). This should seal the "knots" if knotty pine paneling. You may need 2 coats to avoid bleed through of knots. Then paint whatever color you have previously chosen.

Trust me you CAN paint paneling. I have painted my whole room of yukky paneling in my basement. I didn't bother to fill in the grooves and it gives it a bit of interest. You can't say a bead board look but what an improvement it was. Just make sure and use a plush roller when you get started especially if your paneling was a bit rough like mine was. You won't be sorry.

thanks to all