25 Chinese Recipes I Make When I Want Takeout At Home

Cravings for takeout often strike at the most random times, but staying home doesn’t mean missing out. With 25 Chinese classics in rotation, eating in feels just as good as ordering out. Each one brings the familiar comfort you expect, only without delivery fees. Who knew the sofa could double as the best restaurant seat?

A bowl of rice topped with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with cucumber slices, lime wedge, cilantro, and sliced green onions.
Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Chicken Fried Rice

Close-up of chicken fried rice with peas, carrots, sliced green onions, and chopsticks.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Fluffy rice mixed with tender chicken makes it a quick, pleasing meal. Chicken Fried Rice is great for using up leftovers while making something fresh. Perfect for a one-dish meal or a side option. A reliable choice for delivering bold flavor with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Egg Drop Soup

A comforting bowl of egg drop soup elegantly garnished with fresh cilantro, vibrant chives, and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Egg Drop Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Light broth combined with silky strands creates a comforting appetizer. Egg Drop Soup pairs well with heartier mains or stands alone as a simple starter. It’s warm and easy to make in large or small batches. Always a crowd-pleaser at the table.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

Chicken Chow Mein

Stir-fried noodles with vegetables and chicken in a pan, featuring carrots, cabbage, and green onions.
Chicken Chow Mein. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Stir-fried noodles coated in rich sauce make every bite flavorful. Chicken Chow Mein brings a mix of tender chicken and chewy noodles in one dish. Perfect when you want both a carb fix and protein. A takeout classic that feels just as good at home.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chow Mein

Tofu Fried Rice

A bowl of fried rice with grilled tofu, diced carrots, peas, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of dark sauce, served on a red cloth.
Tofu Fried Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Crispy tofu pieces mixed into fried rice create a light yet filling option. Tofu Fried Rice offers a satisfying choice without relying on meat. Great for blending hearty texture with simplicity. Adds variety to any at-home menu.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

Cashew Chicken

Close-up of Cashew Chicken featuring tender chicken, broccoli, edamame, cashews, and red bell peppers. This delightful dish is topped with sesame seeds and served over a bed of rice.
Cashew Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Tender chicken mixed with crunchy bits offers great texture in every bite. Cashew Chicken gives a nice mix of savory and nutty flavors. Perfect for pairing with steamed rice or simple sides. A solid option for balanced meals.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Shrimp Fried Rice

A red plate of shrimp fried rice garnished with chopped green onions, with black chopsticks resting on the side.
Shrimp Fried Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Juicy shrimp mixed with seasoned rice creates a dish packed with flavor. Shrimp Fried Rice makes for a simple, complete meal in one plate. It combines texture and protein beautifully. Great for quick meals when craving takeout.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Fried Rice

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

A bowl of white rice topped with glazed chicken and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet flavors combined with tender glazed pieces make this dish a favorite. Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is always a hit on any at-home menu. Perfect for serving alongside veggies or rice for a full meal. A go-to choice for recreating takeout.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Sweet and Sour Sauce

A spoon rests inside a glass jar filled with a thick, brown liquid.
Sweet and Sour Sauce. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Balanced flavors of sweet and tangy make it perfect for dipping or drizzling. Sweet and Sour Sauce pairs easily with fried dishes or even fresh veggies. It’s versatile and simple to pair with a variety of meals. Always a must when recreating Chinese favorites.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce

Kung Pao Chicken

A close-up of a stir-fry dish featuring pieces of chicken, snap peas, red bell peppers, scallions, and black sesame seeds.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spicy chicken tossed with crispy bits gives this dish a punch. Kung Pao Chicken offers bold flavors balanced by a slight crunch. Great for fans of heat in their dishes. Perfect for serving over rice or as a stand-alone dish.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Sweet and Sour Pork

Close-up of sweet and sour pork with chunks of bell peppers, onions, and pineapple, garnished with sesame seeds and chives.
Sweet and Sour Pork. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crispy pork pieces coated in a tangy glaze stand out. Sweet and Sour Pork balances crunchy textures with a bold, sweet element. Perfect alongside steamed rice or noodle dishes. A perfect recreation of takeout at home.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork

Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

A colorful salad with shredded carrots, zucchini, chicken, orange slices, and sesame seeds on a brown plate, garnished with fresh herbs.
Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Shredded chicken coated with fresh citrus flavors creates a light option. Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken is perfect for those who like a touch of sweetness with their protein. It pairs well with clean sides like steamed greens or rice. Great for something refreshing yet filling.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

Spicy Cucumber Salad

Close-up of sliced cucumbers garnished with chopped scallions, sesame seeds, and red chili flakes.
Spicy Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Crisp cucumber slices tossed with bold spices make a refreshing side. Spicy Cucumber Salad balances heat and coolness in a simple dish. Great for pairing with main dishes or eating on its own. A quick option to add depth to the table.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Close-up of a stir-fry dish with chicken, broccoli, mushrooms, and sesame seeds, coated in a soy-based sauce.
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Tender bites paired with greens make for a healthy, flavorful option. Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is easy to prepare while still packing a punch. Perfect for serving over rice or noodles. Always a clean choice for home takeout meals.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Shrimp Toast

Close-up of open-faced sandwiches topped with avocado, shredded carrot, microgreens, and pieces of cooked salmon on whole-grain bread.
Shrimp Toast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crunchy toast topped with shrimp paste creates a rich appetizer. Shrimp Toast works perfectly as a light snack or side dish. A great way to start any meal while keeping it flavorful. Adds variety while staying simple.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

Egg Rolls

Vegan egg rolls in a wooden tray.
Egg Rolls. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Crispy shells stuffed with savory fillings make this a hand-held favorite. Egg Rolls pair perfectly with dipping sauces like sweet chili or soy. Great for appetizers or casual snacking during meals. A classic addition to Chinese-inspired dishes.
Get the Recipe: Egg Rolls

Orange Chicken

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce.
Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Juicy pieces coated in a sweet, tangy glaze bring boldness to the plate. Orange Chicken blends crisp textures with a citrus kick for an unforgettable flavor. Pairs easily with rice or stands alone as the main attraction. A classic recreation that’s always a winner.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Easy Chow Mein

A close-up view of a plate of chow mein stir-fried noodles with vegetables and black sesame seeds, with chopsticks visibly picking up a portion.
Easy Chow Mein. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Soft stir-fried noodles tossed with seasoning create a quick, hearty dish. Easy Chow Mein makes for a great base or side for classic Chinese mains. Simple to whip up for a complete yet balanced option. Always reliable when craving comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Close-up of sweet and sour chicken with bell peppers and pineapple chunks in a thick sauce.
Sweet and Sour Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Striking the perfect balance of soft yet crispy, this dish is a must. Sweet and Sour Chicken pairs tang perfectly with savory chicken for satisfying bites. Works well with plain rice or veggie sides. A tried-and-true recipe for at-home takeout nights.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crisp mixed veggies cooked just right make it light and flavorful. Vegetable Stir Fry is perfect for adding some fresh options to a richer meal. Blends easily with any side dishes like fried rice or noodles. Always a healthy and quick option.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

General Tso’s Chicken

Stir-fried chicken pieces in a spicy sauce, garnished with chopped green onions, served in a round metal dish on an orange placemat.
General Tso’s Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sticky sauce coating tender chicken creates a rich, bold experience. General Tso’s Chicken is perfect for those who enjoy savory with a little sweetness. Pairs well with plain rice or broccoli on the side. Ideal for recreating that authentic takeout feel.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

Hot and Sour Soup

Bowl of hot and sour soup with mushrooms, tofu, and sliced green onions, with a spoon on the side.
Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A flavorful broth with a spicy kick makes a soup memorable every time. Hot and Sour Soup combines warmth and tang into one comforting dish. Perfect before a big meal or as its own lighter option. Great for a quick recreation at home.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

Fried Banana

A close up of a plate of fried bananas with sauce.
Fried Banana. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crisp coating around a soft banana creates an easy dessert option. Fried Banana adds sweetness to the end of your meal without much fuss. Pairs perfectly with a scoop of ice cream if desired. Always a simple way to enjoy something sweet.
Get the Recipe: Fried Banana

Sesame Chicken

A close-up of glazed chicken pieces with sesame seeds and chopped scallions on a bed of rice.
Sesame Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Nutty sesame flavors combined with a crispy coating are a favorite. Sesame Chicken brings both texture and bold flavors that everyone loves. Works perfectly over rice to balance out the richness. A go-to for an at-home menu.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

Tanghulu

Skewers of grapes and strawberries coated in a shiny glaze are arranged on a light surface with loose fruit pieces nearby.
Tanghulu. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Shiny candied fruits on sticks bring sweetness with a crunchy twist. Tanghulu is fun to eat and perfect for dessert or snacking. Its glossy shell makes it stand out on any table. A quick and playful treat for all ages.
Get the Recipe: Tanghulu

Bang Bang Shrimp

A bowl of rice topped with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with cucumber slices, lime wedge, cilantro, and sliced green onions.
Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Tender shrimp with a hint of creamy heat brings exciting flavors to the plate. Bang Bang Shrimp works well as an appetizer or part of the main meal. Perfect for those wanting something bold yet not overwhelming. Always a fun addition to the spread.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *