29 Asian Dishes That Taste Like They Took Hours But Didn’t
Saving on dinner doesn’t have to be a drag. Found a bunch of smart tricks to keep those meals tasty but the costs way down. With 29 easy recipes in the mix, that’s a lot of spare change for having fun in other ways. Maybe it’s time to plan that weekend getaway or snag that gadget been eyeing for months.

Easy Bibimbap

For those nights when you want something simple yet fulfilling, Easy Bibimbap comes to the rescue. It’s a one-bowl wonder that brings together rice, veggies, and a spicy sauce topped with a fried egg. Mixing it all together is part of the fun, and the variety of textures and flavors will keep you coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Easy Bibimbap
Sesame Chicken

When the craving for something sweet and sticky hits, Sesame Chicken is there to satisfy. It’s chicken pieces coated in a thick, golden brown sauce, sprinkled with sesame seeds for that extra touch. With a quick prep and cook time, it’s an ideal candidate for a busy weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken
Sushi Bake

For those who love sushi but not the hassle of rolling it, Sushi Bake is the perfect solution. It’s deconstructed sushi served casserole-style, combining all your favorite sushi flavors in one easy-to-make dish. Layers of seasoned rice, creamy mayo, and your choice of toppings get baked together for a deliciously unconventional sushi experience.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake
Shrimp Tempura

Bringing a bit of elegance to your dinner table without the fuss, Shrimp Tempura is surprisingly straightforward to make. It features lightly battered shrimp fried to golden perfection, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This dish serves as a great appetizer or a side, pairing well with a variety of dips.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura
Tom Yum Soup

Looking for something that’s both light and bursting with flavor? Tom Yum Soup answers that call. It’s a hot and sour delight that combines herbs and spices in a way that’s hard to forget. Each spoonful is like a journey to the streets of Thailand. Plus, it’s a great pick-me-up on any day without needing hours to simmer.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup
Sweet and Sour Chicken

Nothing beats the classic flavor combination found in Sweet and Sour Chicken. It’s a feast for the senses, bringing together flavors that dance on your palate. Whether it’s served with rice or noodles, it promises a meal that’s both fulfilling and quick to prepare, perfect for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken
Egg Drop Soup

Feeling under the weather or just in need of a comforting bowl? Egg Drop Soup is as simple as it gets, yet it’s packed with flavor. Just silky beaten eggs floating in a tasty broth, creating a comforting and simple dish. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it perfect for any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup
Chicken Tempura

Ever wanted some good fried chicken with a twist? Look no further, Chicken Tempura is here to save dinner. It’s crispy, light, and comes with a dipping sauce that’s just hard to resist. You get that perfect crunch in every bite, making you wonder why you haven’t tried making it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tempura
Kimchi Stew

Got some kimchi and not sure what to do with it? Kimchi Stew is your answer to a flavorful and warming meal. It combines the tangy taste of kimchi with tender pieces of pork and tofu, stewed together for a harmonious dish. Serve it with rice, and enjoy a cozy meal that’s packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew
Miso Soup

Starting off a meal with something warm and comforting? Miso Soup is the way to go. With its simple base of broth and miso paste, it’s filled with depth without needing a long list of ingredients. It’s the perfect beginning to any meal, offering a soothing taste and lightness that prepares you for the main course.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup
General Tso’s Chicken

Have that craving for something sweet, spicy, and just downright pleasing? General Tso’s Chicken has got you covered. It’s all about crispy fried chicken coated in that irresistible sauce. Whether it’s served with rice or broccoli, it’s sure to be a hit that brings a little bit of spice to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken
Hot and Sour Soup

In the mood for something that’s both spicy and tangy? Hot and Sour Soup will tick all the boxes. It’s a vibrant concoction of tofu, mushrooms, and a broth that’s both spicy and tangy. Each spoonful is a journey to a comforting place, perfect for any day you need a pick-me-up.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup
Korean Corn Dogs

Revamping the classic corn dog with a twist, Korean Corn Dogs have taken the world by storm. They’re a fantastic fusion of sweet, tasty, and a bit of spice wrapped around a juicy hot dog. Coated in a crunchy outer layer and often rolled in sugar, these treats bring a unique take on a familiar favorite.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Dogs
Orange Chicken

For nights when you’re craving a bit of sweetness with your protein, Orange Chicken won’t disappoint. It features crispy chicken pieces drenched in a vibrant, citrusy sauce that hits all the right notes. It’s a classic takeout dish that’s actually simple to recreate at home, giving you all the flavor with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken
Easy Chow Mein

Have you got 30 minutes and a craving for some noodles? Easy Chow Mein is your quick fix to satisfy those cravings without leaving your home. It’s a stir-fry delight full of veggies and your choice of protein, all tangled in tasty noodles. Just a few simple steps, and you’ve got a dish that beats out any take-out.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein
Chicken Tikka Masala

Ever craved something rich, creamy, and absolutely bursting with flavor? Chicken Tikka Masala has got to be on your menu then. It’s a hearty dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a spiced tomato-based sauce. Best enjoyed with rice or naan, it’s like bringing a bit of India to your kitchen without the need for a passport.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Masala
Udon Noodles

Ever craved something chewy, slurpy, and totally comforting? Udon Noodles fit that bill perfectly. They’re thick, wheat-flour noodles that play well with just about any topping or sauce you fancy. Experimenting with them means you can have a different dish every time, from soups to stir-fries, and it’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Udon Noodles
Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

For those who love a bit of grill action in their meal prep, Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers are a must-try. They’re marinated to perfection, bringing a burst of Thai flavors in every bite. Perfect for when you want something light yet fulfilling, these skewers are a hit every time. Serve them up with some peanut sauce, and watch them disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
Sweet and Sour Sauce

When you’re craving that perfect balance of sweet and tangy, there’s nothing better to turn to than Sweet and Sour Sauce. It’s the key to making your dishes pop, especially when you want a dip that brings both flavor and excitement. Whip it up quick for a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce
Easy Thai Peanut Curry

Easy Thai Peanut Curry will take your meal game to the next level when you’re in the mood for something exotic with a creamy twist. It’s all about that smooth peanut sauce that combines with curry flavors to create something truly magical. Throw in some veggies and chicken, serve it over rice, and get yourself a better meal than any local take-out.
Get the Recipe: Easy Thai Peanut Curry
Kung Pao Chicken

If you’re gunning for a dish with a kick, Kung Pao Chicken might just be your next go-to. This meal is all about those tender chicken pieces mixed with crunchy peanuts in a spicy, sweet sauce. It’s got a bit of heat, balanced with a touch of sweetness, making every bite thrilling. Plus, it’s stir-fried to get that delicious texture, ready in no time for a quick dinner fix.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken
Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

Often, you need just the right kick of sweetness and spice, and Thai Sweet Chili Sauce is your golden ticket. It’s that secret ingredient that turns simple dishes into spectacular ones. Whether it’s a topping or a dip, it brings a unique touch that’s hard to beat. Easy to whip up, it’s a game changer for your cooking routine.
Get the Recipe: Thai Sweet Chili Sauce
Lemongrass Chicken

Bringing the freshness of lemongrass into a simple yet exotic dish, Lemongrass Chicken is where it’s at for an easy meal with a burst of flavor. The chicken soaks up all the marinate’s goodness, creating a tender and aromatic experience. Served with rice, it’s a light meal that leaves you feeling full without the heaviness.
Get the Recipe: Lemongrass Chicken
Vegetable Stir Fry

On those nights when you want something quick, colorful, and nutritious, Vegetable Stir Fry does not disappoint. It’s a whirlwind of vibrant veggies cooked just right to retain their crunch and flavor. You can toss in whatever you have on hand, making it the ultimate go-to for a busy evening. No fuss, all flavor, and ready in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry
Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

You haven’t lived until you’ve tried Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry. It’s like every spoonful takes you on a trip to Thailand without leaving your kitchen. Creamy coconut, tender shrimp, and a punch of spices make it a must-have for any night. Plus, it’s easier to make than you might think, which means impressing your friends just got simpler.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry
Tonkotsu Ramen

Let’s talk about Tonkotsu Ramen when you need that rich, porky broth that sticks to your ribs in the best way. It’s the kind of bowl that promises satisfaction with every slurp, featuring tender noodles and a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate. It’s like bringing a piece of Japanese comfort food right to your table.
Get the Recipe: Tonkotsu Ramen
Thai Yellow Curry

If you’re in the mood for something that warms you up from the inside out, Thai Yellow Curry is the way to go. It’s packed with flavors that are deep and comforting, blending spices and coconut milk like you wouldn’t believe. It’s not just food; it’s an experience waiting to unfold in your kitchen. And surprise, it’s not as complicated to make as it seems.
Get the Recipe: Thai Yellow Curry
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Ever wondered how to make that restaurant favorite at home? The Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe gives you all the secrets. It’s all about that tender chicken glazed with a rich, sticky teriyaki sauce, creating a meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to pull off. Served over a bed of rice, it becomes a comforting meal that beats the need to order out.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Sweet and Sour Pork

For those who love their meat sweet, tangy, and a little crispy, Sweet and Sour Pork is your dream dish. It’s a classic, with juicy chunks of pork enveloped in that irresistible sauce. It’s like a party in your mouth where everything’s perfectly balanced. Best part? It’s way easier to pull off than it sounds, guaranteeing a wow at your table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork
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.
