33 Chinese Recipes That Make Weeknight Cooking Feel Under Control

Some days, you just need a meal that makes everything feel simple. In this collection, 33 Chinese recipes offer ideas that suit everything from quick lunches to casual family nights. Each brings the flavors and ease you want during those packed weeknight moments. You’ll find inspiration that keeps mealtime low-stress and delicious without much effort.

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.

Pork Fried Rice

Close-up of fried rice with chunks of meat, peas, diced carrots, and bean sprouts mixed together.
Pork Fried Rice. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Nights feel more manageable when you have this Pork Fried Rice as an option. The simple rice and pork combination makes dinner easy while still keeping things interesting. It is satisfying without feeling heavy. Even if you have a busy schedule, the dish helps weeknight cooking stay under control.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice

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.

Simple meals often become unforgettable, just like this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry. The blend of flavors comes together quickly and always seems to please everyone at the table. I keep it in rotation whenever I want something familiar but never boring. Try this recipe when you need a fast, friendly dinner idea.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Scallion Pancakes

Four cooked scallion pancakes on parchment paper, garnished with sliced green onions, with a small bowl of dipping sauce and a whole scallion beside them.
Scallion Pancakes. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Something about these Scallion Pancakes always brings excitement to the table. The crispy outside and soft inside add a fun twist to easy meals at home. Simple recipes like pancakes help make weeknights less stressful. You will see everyone reaching for another piece before the plate is empty.
Get the Recipe: Scallion Pancakes

Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp

A plate of honey walnut shrimp topped with green onions.
Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Dinner feels a bit fancier with this Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp on your plate. The way the shrimp comes out light with a hint of sweetness always keeps things interesting. Even those who are unsure about seafood want a bite. Next time you want an easy meal with restaurant vibes, reach for this recipe.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp

Chinese Steamed Chicken

A bowl of steamed chicken pieces with mushrooms, garnished with chopped green onions, with chopsticks picking up a piece.
Chinese Steamed Chicken. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Home cooking feels effortless with this Chinese Steamed Chicken recipe. The steamed chicken is gentle, offering steady comfort on any weekday. You can enjoy a healthy meal without fuss. Meals like this are perfect for relaxing evenings after a long day at work or school.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Steamed Chicken

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.

The first time you try this Bang Bang Shrimp, you might see how a little heat makes it exciting. Shrimp dishes are quick and versatile, so they help take the stress out of dinner plans. Bringing out Bang Bang shrimp feels like a treat, without needing complicated steps. It is easy to keep weeknight cooking simple.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Egg Roll

A wooden tray with spring rolls and lime wedges lined with parchment paper sits next to a small bowl of dipping sauce on a light surface.
Egg Roll. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crunching into this Egg Roll always brings a sense of calm after a busy day. The familiar wrapper and flavor make dinner stress-free and approachable. Rolling and frying egg rolls at home makes meals feel easier. Even picky eaters tend to enjoy this recipe without complaint.
Get the Recipe: Egg Roll

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.

Many people look forward to this General Tso’s Chicken during weeknight meals. The sweet and spicy flavor is bold but still comforting. Serving chicken like this can make any evening feel special and under control. It is one of those dishes that never seems to go out of style at home.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

Beef and Broccoli

A plate of beef and broccoli stir-fry garnished with sesame seeds, featuring glazed beef strips and broccoli florets.
Beef and Broccoli. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Choosing meals like this Beef and Broccoli helps keep weeknight cooking flowing smoothly. The beef tastes rich, while the crunchy broccoli adds balance. It is great for anyone who wants familiarity without extra steps. Plates usually empty fast when this dish shows up for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Broccoli

Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

A close-up of a serving of shrimp garnished with chopped green onions, red chili slices, and cilantro, placed in a bowl with chopsticks on the side.
Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

You get a gentle pop from this Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp that sets it apart from routine meals. Shrimp is quick to make and always fresh. The salt and pepper combination makes dinner feel simple but not dull. It is an easy way to add interest to your weeknight menu without extra fuss.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

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.

Dinners seem less difficult with this Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe. The sauce gives you both tangy and sweet notes, making meal time brighter. Sweet and sour flavors are welcome for all ages. Whenever you serve this dish, you will see people lingering at the table a little longer.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken

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.

I like to start my meal with this Egg Drop Soup on busy nights. The soup comes together quickly and offers gentle warmth. You can rely on recipes like this to keep dinner light and manageable. Even after a full day, soup helps make mealtime feel comfortable and easy.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

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.

Weeknights become easier with this Cashew Chicken recipe. Chicken and cashews create a soft crunch that never feels overdone. It is a favorite for anyone who wants a familiar meal at home. The dish helps break up routine dinners in a pleasant way.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Wonton Soup

A ceramic bowl of clear soup containing dumplings, sliced mushrooms, broccolini, chopped green onions, and cilantro.
Wonton Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A bowl of this Wonton Soup delivers comfort and convenience in one go. The wontons feel homemade and restful, making dinner less stressful. Soup recipes are always reliable on busy evenings. You might find this dish becomes a favorite when life gets hectic.
Get the Recipe: Wonton Soup

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.

Bright citrus in this Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken gives a lively touch to weekday dinners. Shredded chicken keeps the meal light and approachable. You can enjoy something new without added stress. It is nice to have dishes that balance flavor and ease on a regular schedule.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

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.

Bringing this Sweet and Sour Sauce into your meal adds a fun twist to standard dinners. The sauce lets you boost ordinary choices without making things complicated. Sauces work well when time is tight. You’ll see how quick and simple meals look more inviting with just a dip or drizzle.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce

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.

For anyone missing restaurant noodles, this Chicken Chow Mein brings that fun home. The mix of chewy noodles and savory chicken offers dependable flavor every time. I can see people get excited when they see this come out of the kitchen. It’s the kind of meal that feels both comforting and special.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chow Mein

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Quick meals call for recipes like this Vegetable Stir Fry that handle everything at once. Colorful veggies make the plate feel fresh and inviting without much extra work. Even meat lovers find it worth including on their list. It gives everyday dinners a healthy twist that feels approachable for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Sweet Orange Chicken

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

With this Sweet Orange Chicken, you get both a fruity pop and cozy comfort. Orange flavor livens up the chicken in just the right way. It is great for anyone needing something cheerful after a long day. Dinner stays under control with recipes that don’t overcomplicate things.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Orange Chicken

Egg Fried Rice

Oval dish filled with fried rice garnished with chopped green onions.
Egg Fried Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Meals feel uncomplicated with this Egg Fried Rice at hand. Mixing rice and eggs keeps dinner light and filling. Fried rice helps use leftovers while cutting down on prep steps. It is a dependable choice for anyone looking to relax after work or school.
Get the Recipe: Egg Fried Rice

Crispy Sesame Chicken

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

The crackle from this Crispy Sesame Chicken brings energy to dinner without adding stress. Sesame seeds bring a unique texture but keep the meal approachable. Recipes like this are good for breaking up routine nights. Enjoying crispy chicken can help the evening feel more balanced and fun.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sesame 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.

Sometimes, this Spicy Cucumber Salad is just the thing to wake up a sleepy meal. The kick from spice is balanced by a cool crunch, offering freshness without hassle. It works well as a quick side to main dishes. Adding spice can be a good way to keep dinners under control but not dull.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

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.

I reach for this Chicken Fried Rice when I want familiar tastes and an easy night. Fried rice helps use up leftovers and turns them into something comforting. Chicken adds protein and keeps the meal filling. Serving this dish lets everyone unwind, knowing dinner is already handled.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Crispy Egg Rolls

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

Plates stack up quickly with these Crispy Egg Rolls once dinner starts. Each egg roll stays crunchy, making them appealing for both adults and kids. They fit in well as a snack or meal. You’ll see how a simple recipe helps control dinner chaos.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Egg Rolls

Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

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

Bringing home this Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken adds excitement without leaving the kitchen. Teriyaki glaze coats the chicken for a taste that feels both new and practical. Your dinner routine gets a little boost while still remaining easy. Recipes like this keep things under control for the whole week.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

Crispy Shrimp Toast

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

Weeknights feel more exciting with this Crispy Shrimp Toast out of the oven. Shrimp on toast gives a crunchy bite that’s easy to love. You can share it as an appetizer or a main dish. Having recipes like this helps keep home cooking interesting but not overwhelming.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shrimp Toast

Caramelized Fried Banana

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

A simple sweet end to dinner comes from this Caramelized Fried Banana. Fried banana provides gentle sweetness and a warm finish. You can enjoy dessert without extra fuss or prep. Dishes like this make weekday meals feel special while staying easy.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Fried Banana

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.

Choosing this Kung Pao Chicken brings bold flavor into weeknight meals. The mix of chicken and spice makes for an engaging bite without drama. It is perfect when you crave something different but still want to keep things simple. Kung Pao chicken turns quick dinners into happy occasions.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao 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.

Even with a packed schedule, you can count on this Shrimp Fried Rice for an easy meal. Shrimp brings a mild flavor that works well for quick dinners. Fried rice lets you enjoy leftovers in a new way. Eating this recipe keeps evenings calm and food on the table in no time.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Fried Rice

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.
Chow Mein. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Noodle fans can relax after work with this Chow Mein on their plate. Chow mein is quick to prepare and keeps weeknights free of hassle. The noodles catch sauce in every bite. Meals like this help home cooking feel easy and possible no matter the day.
Get the Recipe: Chow Mein

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.

Bringing out this Sweet and Sour Pork can make anyone’s dinner brighter. The pork is tender, and the sweet and sour blend keeps things lively. Recipes like this are perfect for busy nights or for anyone wanting a gentle lift in flavor. It helps take meals from routine to special in just a few minutes.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork

Candied Tanghulu

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

You get a crunchy, sweet treat from this Candied Tanghulu that feels out of the ordinary. Tanghulu is fun to make and easy to share after dinner. The sugar coating makes the fruit pop and gives a fresh spin to standard snacks. Having simple desserts like this keeps weekly meals interesting and upbeat.
Get the Recipe: Candied Tanghulu

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.

I enjoy turning to this Tofu Fried Rice for a lighter dinner that still fills me up. Tofu keeps things healthy and easy, while fried rice puts everything together quickly. This recipe is perfect for anyone wanting a meat-free meal with minimal effort. It makes weeknight cooking feel manageable and complete.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

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.

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