51 Asian Recipes That Make Staying In Feel Intentional
Sometimes all you want is a meal that feels special without going out, and 51 Asian recipes fit the bill perfectly. Friends or family can appreciate a dinner that feels intentional and a little different from the standard fare. Even casual nights get a boost when you bring new flavors home. It’s a simple way to make staying in more fun.

Sushi Rice

Fluffy grains with a gentle sheen make this Sushi Rice essential for homemade rolls and poke bowls. Each bite has just a hint of sweetness and tang, matching what you’d expect in your favorite spot. I use it for everything from nigiri to simple bowls with a sprinkle of sesame. There’s real comfort in every sticky, perfectly seasoned spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Rice
Udon Noodles

Thick, chewy strands in this Udon Noodles recipe turn any dinner into a slurp-worthy treat. Paired with broth or sauce, these noodles bring warmth straight from the pot. I reach for them when cozy weather calls for something more filling. Smiles always show up once steaming bowls arrive at the table.
Get the Recipe: Udon Noodles
Butter Chicken

Creamy sauce and gentle spices make this Butter Chicken a crowd-pleaser you’ll crave when the weather gets cold. Each forkful added over rice brings comfort and richness. I enjoy serving it to friends who want to try something new but not too wild. Seconds usually vanish before anyone’s finished firsts.
Get the Recipe: Butter Chicken
Vegetable Stir Fry

Bright colors and crisp textures keep this Vegetable Stir Fry feeling light, even as it fills you up. Speedy cooking means dinner lands on the table in minutes. I rotate any fresh produce that needs to go, and it always turns out beautiful. Healthy eating feels easy on nights like these.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry
Massaman Curry

Cozy up to gentle spice with this Massaman Curry, where tender vegetables meet a nutty, rich sauce. It’s the kind of meal you want when cold air sticks around. I simmer a big pot for easy leftovers all week. Hearty bites make sure no one leaves hungry.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry
Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

Bright lemon perfume and shredded bites create instant sunshine in this Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken. Tangy flavors match crisp textures for a meal that feels both fresh and soothing. I make it on nights that need a little citrus lift. The serving platter empties quickly.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken
Bibimbap

Colorful toppings and warm rice blend in this Bibimbap, inviting everyone to mix up their own bowl. Everything feels wholesome, but each bite tastes like comfort. I offer a mix of veggies, egg, and a little spice for those who want it. Bowls are always spotless after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Bibimbap
Tofu Fried Rice

Light, fluffy rice mixed with golden cubes of tofu means this Tofu Fried Rice stands out as both easy and filling. Plant-based doesn’t have to mean boring. I lean on this recipe for quick lunches or meatless suppers. Friends often ask if there’s enough for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Tender greens pair with juicy chicken, making this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry an easy weeknight win. Savory sauce ties everything together for a meal that looks as good as it tastes. I turn to this dish when everyone wants vegetables that feel like takeout. Leftovers rarely survive the night.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Vegetable Fried Rice

Every spoonful of this Vegetable Fried Rice is packed with color and a little crunch. Like restaurant takeout, but friendlier to your wallet, it cooks up before you notice. I scoop it for lunch the next day and enjoy the leftovers just as much. Seconds always sound like a good idea.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fried Rice
Bang Bang Shrimp

Crispy coating and creamy sauce make each bite of this Bang Bang Shrimp a little bit exciting. The spicy-sweet finish keeps you reaching for more. I set these out for guests whenever appetizers want to steal the show. People can’t believe how close they taste to their favorite restaurant dish.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp
Chicken Fried Rice

Fast, hot, and full of flavor, this Chicken Fried Rice brings a pleasing bite for family or friends. Grains stay fluffy while tender chicken fills you up. I rely on this quick meal after busy workdays. Empty plates always tell me it was the right call.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice
Tonkotsu Ramen

Creamy broth and wavy noodles make this Tonkotsu Ramen feel like something special on a chilly night. Each bowl offers warmth and richness with every sip. I share big pots during cold snaps since everyone asks for a full serving. Slurping noodles never feels more right.
Get the Recipe: Tonkotsu Ramen
Scallion Pancakes

Flaky layers and a hint of onion turn these Scallion Pancakes into a dreamy snack or side. The aroma while cooking wins over even the pickiest eaters. I pan-fry extras for a lunch treat. Nobody skips these once the plate reaches the table.
Get the Recipe: Scallion Pancakes
Chicken Tikka Masala

Bold color and spicy cream create magic in this Chicken Tikka Masala. Served over rice, it fills any winter evening with energy and comfort. I cook this when friends ask for cozy meals with a little adventure. There’s rarely a single piece left after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Masala
Spicy Tuna Bowl

Cool toppings and a bit of heat make this Spicy Tuna Bowl an upbeat twist for sushi lovers. Every fork is loaded with bright flavors and creamy contrasts. I scoop out custom bowls for each person at the table. The leftovers always vanish by the next day.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Bowl
Dashi

Clear, savory stock powers every bowl of this Dashi, making soups come alive with flavor. This base forms the heart of miso soup and other Japanese favorites. I keep a pot simmering for recipes all winter long. Even plain rice tastes better with a splash of dashi poured over top.
Get the Recipe: Dashi
Spicy Udon Noodles

Peppery warmth and slippery noodles meet in these Spicy Udon Noodles. This dish delivers comfort with a pleasant kick, perfect for evenings that need something bold. I serve steaming bowls when everyone wants an extra punch of flavor. Leftovers never last long.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon Noodles
Crispy Pork Belly

Crunchy on top and melting within, this Crispy Pork Belly feels like food from your favorite spot in Chinatown. The balance of salty fat and tender meat sticks with you. I reserve it for special nights or bringing friends together. Any leftovers become next-day snack gold.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Pork Belly
Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Golden bites with sweet glaze put this Sticky Sesame Cauliflower on par with any takeout dish. Even veggie skeptics sneak seconds at the table. I serve it as a main or over rice for clever meatless meals. Glances around the table say it all: it’s a keeper.
Get the Recipe: Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Japanese Cheesecake

Cotton-soft layers in this Japanese Cheesecake melt in your mouth with every forkful. Airy texture and mellow flavor offer a gentle ending to rich meals. I bake it for winter birthdays or quiet weekends in. Slices seem to vanish no matter how careful you try to be.
Get the Recipe: Japanese Cheesecake
Shrimp Fried Rice

Plump shrimp tucked into soft grains make this Shrimp Fried Rice great for a quick dinner or weekend treat. It comes together with little fuss, yet feels a step above your usual meal. I scoop out generous portions for lunch the next day. Empty serving bowls prove it’s a real favorite.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Fried Rice
Kimchi Stew

Tangy flavor and comforting broth give this Kimchi Stew a unique kick for chilly evenings. Every spoonful brings warmth and a bit of adventure. I find myself making extra as everyone asks for another ladle. No pot has leftovers in my kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew
Strawberry Mochi

Chewy mochi wrapped around sweet berries makes Strawberry Mochi both striking and simple to eat. Each piece is a pop of color at dessert time. I share it as a fun hands-on treat for friends. The soft, bouncy texture gets talked about just as much as the flavor.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Mochi
Thai Yellow Curry

Mild spice and bright veggies fill every spoonful of this Thai Yellow Curry, creating weeknight comfort. The creaminess pulls together fragrant flavors without overpowering the meal. I bring it out when someone requests something smooth and warming. Guests load up their bowls.
Get the Recipe: Thai Yellow Curry
Sweet and Sour Sauce

Tangy, glossy glaze for dipping and drizzling, this Sweet and Sour Sauce pairs perfectly with crispy snacks. A homemade batch beats any takeout packet. I keep it on standby for egg rolls, nuggets, or fried rice. There’s never a drop left after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce
General Tso’s Chicken

Crunchy coating and tangy sauce turn General Tso’s Chicken into an at-home classic that wins over any crowd. Sweet heat makes every plate lively. I dish it up on nights that need something a little extra. Plates are empty by dessert.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken
Shrimp Tempura

Crackling tempura around juicy shrimp gives Shrimp Tempura its irresistible reputation. Light batter means every bite stays crisp. I use this for appetizers or as part of a bigger sushi meal. Friends always ask for just one more piece.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura
Sushi Bake

Toasty edges, creamy topping, and seaweed on the side define Sushi Bake as the fun group dinner you didn’t know you needed. It combines everything cozy about sushi but with less fuss. I bring out a baking dish on weekends for movie nights. All that’s ever left are a few empty spoons.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake
Elevated Ramen Noodles

Slippery noodles and rich broth make these Elevated Ramen Noodles a far cry from what you might have eaten in college. Toppings stay customizable for every eater at the table. I set up a ramen bar for friends to make their own. Comments on the “upgrade” roll in after every bowl.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Ramen Noodles
Sweet Thai Chili Sauce

Bright, spicy sweetness in this Sweet Thai Chili Sauce pulls double duty as a dip and glaze. Bottled versions can’t compete with the clean heat here. I jar up extra and share with neighbors who love bold flavors. The sauce never survives more than a couple of days.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Thai Chili Sauce
Spring Roll

Cool veggies wrap up, crunch, and color in these Spring Roll appetizers, perfect for sharing. Dipping is half the fun, and the peanut sauce becomes a star. I set up an assembly line for group meals. The tray always comes back empty.
Get the Recipe: Spring Roll
Sesame Soba Noodles

Chewy noodles and toasty sesame give these Sesame Soba Noodles a flavor that stands out. Newcomers are often surprised at how simple they are to pull together. I like packing them for quick winter lunches or picnics indoors. Bowls disappear fast at every meal.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Soba Noodles
Chickpea Curry

Fragrant, saucy curry packed with chickpeas calls everyone in for dinner. Each spoonful of this Chickpea Curry is warming and rich without being heavy. I keep it handy for both quick dinners and leftovers. People coming back for seconds is a safe bet.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Curry
Naan Bread

Soft, warm flatbread fresh from the oven makes any Asian meal better, especially Naan Bread. The chewy bite is great on its own or for scooping up saucy dishes. I bake extra rounds and watch them vanish at the table. Everyone reaches for one more piece.
Get the Recipe: Naan Bread
Crispy Sesame Chicken

Glazed for shine and crunch, this Crispy Sesame Chicken delivers on bold flavor and texture. Golden bites hold onto their warmth, especially alongside fluffy rice. I make larger batches because the plate empties fast. It’s a fan favorite no matter the occasion.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sesame Chicken
Sweet Teriyaki Sauce

Shine and sweet tang define this Sweet Teriyaki Sauce, the secret sauce for grilling or stir-fry at home. A spoonful transforms even simple vegetables. I bottle it in small jars for easy drizzling on leftovers. Everyone asks what makes meals pop.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Teriyaki Sauce
Asian Cucumber Salad Jar

Cool slices and a hint of vinegar make this Asian Cucumber Salad Jar a crunchy side to balance main dishes. Layers of cucumber get even better after a quick chill. I shake up a jar before setting the table. Refreshment comes with every forkful.
Get the Recipe: Asian Cucumber Salad Jar
Cashew Chicken

Tender chicken pieces meet crunchy nuts in this Cashew Chicken, rounding out cozy dinners with texture and flavor. Quick to stir-fry, it satisfies everyone. I love adding extra veggies to the mix. Plates end up scraped clean every time.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken
Wonton Soup

Silky dumplings and savory broth swirl together in Wonton Soup for a warming winter meal. Every spoon is both light and filling. I ladle big servings for anyone coming in from the cold. The pot empties right before the seconds are called.
Get the Recipe: Wonton Soup
Birria Ramen

Deep broth and slow-cooked beef give this Birria Ramen a fusion appeal for anyone craving bold comfort. Slurp-worthy noodles soak up all that rich flavor. I save this recipe for special nights in. Friends always comment on how different and hearty it tastes.
Get the Recipe: Birria Ramen
Chinese Steamed Chicken

Juicy bites of Chinese Steamed Chicken glide onto plates with very little fuss. Delicate flavors make each serving feel light but fulfilling. I use it as a base for simple meals or with seasoned rice. Clean plates tell me everyone wanted just a bit more.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Steamed Chicken
Rice Paper Rolls

See-through wraps stuffed with fresh vegetables and noodles shape these Rice Paper Rolls into perfect party snacks. Creating them with friends turns dinner into an activity. I dip them in spicy sauces for extra flavor. Nothing ever lingers on the plate.
Get the Recipe: Rice Paper Rolls
Thai Drunken Noodles

Wide rice noodles and punchy sauce fill bowls with comfort each time I make Thai Drunken Noodles. The heat builds as you eat, chasing away any winter fatigue. I set the pan on the table so everyone can serve themselves. None makes it to the fridge after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles
Lemongrass Chicken

Bright herbal notes meet juicy texture in Lemongrass Chicken, waking up weeknight meals. Each bite brings hints of citrus and warmth. I pull out this dish for group dinners when something lively is needed. Seconds get scooped up fast.
Get the Recipe: Lemongrass Chicken
Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

Creamy coconut and gentle spice come together in Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry, perfect for chilly evenings in. Every spoonful holds sweet and warming flavors. I bring it to potlucks and watch the pot empty early. Requests for the recipe always follow.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry
Egg Roll

Crisp wrappers and rich fillings make each Egg Roll an ideal party bite or side dish. The golden crunch signals comfort with each chew. I fry extra to stash away for snack cravings. Not a single one ever makes it past midnight.
Get the Recipe: Egg Roll
Asian Chicken Thighs

Juicy meat and shiny glaze give Asian Chicken Thighs pride of place at the winter table. Deep flavor works well with noodles or rice. I make enough for extras just in case. Second helpings are inevitable.
Get the Recipe: Asian Chicken Thighs
Hot and Sour Soup

Each spoonful of Hot and Sour Soup brings tang, spice, and warmth that lingers longer than the bowl lasts. The broth features a bold, hearty flavor perfect for cold evenings. I ladle this out for those feeling under the weather or just needing a pick-me-up. Everyone asks if there’s more left.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup
Chow Mein

Springy noodles tangled up with savory sauce make Chow Mein a must for any Asian-inspired night in. Quick, easy, and satisfying, it fits almost any craving. I prep it as a side or the main event. All eyes stay fixed on the serving dish until it’s gone.
Get the Recipe: Chow Mein
Sweet Asian Style Pork Chops

Glazed with a sticky layer, these Sweet Asian Style Pork Chops shine as a centerpiece for lively Asian dinners. Tender bites and a whisper of sweetness make each forkful hard to resist. I grill them for special occasions or chillier evenings. No leftovers ever make it to the next meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Asian Style Pork Chops
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.
