The 23 Chinese Recipes That Got Me Back Into The Kitchen

The kitchen started to feel like a place of stress and mess. Cooking lost its joy, and takeout became the easy choice. Then came simple meals full of flavor and comfort. Each dish brought back a bit of fun and made cooking feel good again. The 23 Chinese recipes were the ones that got things back on track and made the kitchen feel like home once more.

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.

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.

A light and comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The delicate swirls of egg create a creamy texture, paired with simple flavors that warm you up inside. Egg Drop Soup is all about simplicity and heartiness without being heavy. It’s a go-to option if you’re craving something warm and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

Fried Banana

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

Warm treat made with soft, caramelized bananas that come together in minutes. Fried Banana brings a contrast of crispy and textures. It’s the perfect snack or quick dessert that pairs well with just about anything sweet. Give it a little twist, and you’ll love making it whenever you’re in need of a quick treat.
Get the Recipe: Fried Banana

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.

A quick and filling dish that never disappoints, loaded with hearty flavors and textures. Chicken Fried Rice is all about throwing simple ingredients together for a flavorful meal. Perfect for using up leftovers or just making something fuss-free for dinner. It’s a staple that’s delicious every single time.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

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.

Crispy shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that’s just right for a quick bite or appetizer. The bold flavors in Bang Bang Shrimp are always a crowd-pleaser without being overly complicated. Enjoy it alone or alongside something else to switch things up. It’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent but you’ll want it over and over again.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

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.

A blend of sweet and tangy flavors paired with crispy chicken bites that are incredibly addictive. Orange Chicken has that perfect balance of texture and taste for anyone who loves bold flavors. It’s great for grabbing seconds, or even making extra for leftovers. A classic staple that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A super colorful mix of fresh veggies tossed together for something fast and flavorful. Vegetable Stir Fry makes a healthy, delicious side or a stand-alone dish when you want something lighter. It’s quick, easy, and gives you options to switch it up how you like. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to make it your own.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

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.

Crispy chicken bites paired with a sauce that’s the perfect mix of sweet and tangy. Sweet and Sour Chicken brings all its bold flavors together for a comforting plate that’s hard to put down. It’s one of those dishes you’ll love sharing or keeping all to yourself. Easy to make and always a favorite at the table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken

Egg Rolls

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

A crispy golden shell filled with flavorful ingredients that hit the spot every time. Egg Rolls are great for snacking or pairing alongside your favorite dishes when you want something extra. They’re quick to prep and even faster to finish because you won’t want just one. Perfectly crunchy and customizable in so many ways.
Get the Recipe: Egg Rolls

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.

Soft, shredded chicken coated in a tangy lemon sauce that keeps things simple and delicious. Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken is light but bursting with comforting flavors you’ll keep coming back to. It makes for an easy meal when you don’t want anything too heavy. Simple, tasty, and a great way to level up your usual chicken dishes.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

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.

A quick dish that brings together tofu and rice for something hearty but not too overwhelming. Tofu Fried Rice works amazing for when you want to switch out meat for something lighter. It’s easy to customize, packed with flavors, and always hits the mark. Great for adding that perfect balance to any mealtime.
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 bites of chicken tossed with crunchy cashews for a mix of textures that just works. Cashew Chicken is packed with subtle nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with every bite. It’s quick to prepare and fills you up without feeling too heavy. Definitely the kind of dish you’ll find yourself making regularly.
Get the Recipe: Cashew 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 paired perfectly with a sauce that’s rich in sweet and tangy notes. Sweet and Sour Pork always stands out as a bold option when you’re craving something extra flavorful. Made quickly and easy to share, you’ll love adding it to your dinner rotation. Great for pairing with something simple or enjoying entirely on its own.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork

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.

Fresh, crunchy cucumber slices blended with a touch of spice for a kick that feels refreshing. Spicy Cucumber Salad is a super quick option for whenever you’re in the mood for something light and flavorful. It’s easy to serve up as a side dish or snack without much hassle. Perfect for switching up the routine and trying something different.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

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 mixed with chicken for a dish that’s super easy but packed with delicious flavor. Chicken Chow Mein cooks up fast and makes for a meal when you’re hungry. It’s versatile and works great when you need a quick option without feeling repetitive. Makes dinner or lunch simple, fun, and totally stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chow Mein

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.

Crispy bread topped with a shrimp paste that’s quick to whip up and easy to enjoy. Shrimp Toast gives you a mix of crunch and soft textures that work as an appetizer or snack. It’s a dish you’ll want to keep handy for whenever you’re in the mood for seafood-inspired creations. Easy to make and perfect to share around the table.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

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.

A quick and flavorful dish packed with tender chicken and crisp broccoli. It’s perfect for a hearty meal when you’re craving something simple yet delicious. The combination of sauces blends perfectly with everything on the plate. Making Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry can become your go-to for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

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.

Stir-fried noodles mixed with colorful vegetables and a delicious sauce make this a favorite. There’s something comforting in the way everything comes together in Easy Chow Mein. It’s an easy way to enjoy Chinese food at home with minimal effort. Great for when you want a quick meal without sacrificing taste.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

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.

Crispy bites of chicken coated in a sweet and slightly spicy glaze make this classic hard to beat. If you’re a fan of bold flavors, then General Tso’s Chicken delivers on every level. Its balance between crispy texture and rich taste creates a great experience in every bite. You’ll appreciate how quickly it disappears from the plate.
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 soup that perfectly matches tangy and spicy notes in every sip. Hot and Sour Soup brings warmth and richness that’s hard to resist. Perfect as an appetizer or even a main dish if you’re looking for something light but packed with flavor. It’s an ideal way to enjoy something comforting any time of the year.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

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.

Tender grilled chicken paired with a glazed sauce makes this a crowd pleaser. Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is simple, yet its bold coating adds a punch to every bite. It’s nice to see how much flavor you can pack into one humble recipe. Pair it up with steamed rice or veggies for a balanced plate.
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.

A sticky and tangy addition that fits perfectly with countless dishes. Whether used as a dip or tossed into stir-fries, Sweet and Sour Sauce adds a familiar kick. It’s a nice way to transform even the simplest meals into something special. Everyone will love how it livens up whatever it touches.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce

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.

Crispy shrimp coated in a honey glaze with crunchy walnuts make every bite enjoyable. With Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp, you get that perfect mix of sweetness with a bit of crunch. It’s a great way to add variety to your cooking without too much effort. Definitely one to try when you’re in the mood for something unique.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp

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.

Bite-sized chicken pieces covered in a rich sesame sauce bring bold flavors to the table. Sesame Chicken combines a hint of sweetness with deep notes that make it memorable. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or as part of a larger spread. You’ll love how well it works for quick homemade meals.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

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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