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?

Chicken Fried Rice

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.
