These 25 Chinese Recipes Are the Only Ones My Kids Always Finish

Some families have a short list of meals that never fail, and for us, it just happens to be 25 Chinese dishes. They’ve been tested in every mood, from picky to “I’ll eat anything,” and still pull through. It’s the kind of collection that takes the stress out of answering “what’s for dinner.” The kids eat without negotiating, which feels like a win worth celebrating.

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.

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.

Something about bold flavors draws everyone to General Tso’s Chicken almost instantly. Its sweet and slightly tangy coating makes it a great choice that blends perfectly with the tender bites. The spicy undertone adds a fun kick that doesn’t overpower everything else. Kids especially love how well it pairs with a side of plain rice.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bright mixes of veggies always seem to win over plates, especially in Vegetable Stir Fry. The slight crunch of the vegetables alongside their lightly sweet and salty glaze often makes it a hit. It’s also a good option for incorporating more greens onto the table without fuss. Even picky eaters will find it hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Fried Banana

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

Sometimes, after hearty meals, a warm dessert like Fried Banana does the trick. Its soft center with a light, crispy coating creates such a fun break in texture. Kids love how subtly sweet and filling it feels without being too overwhelming. Whether served standalone or with a side, this treat disappears in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Fried Banana

Egg Rolls

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

There’s just something about crispy bites that win hearts, especially in Egg Rolls. With a crunchy outside and a flavorful interior, it becomes a fun handheld snack or accompaniment. Rolling up different goodness all in one bite keeps things interesting. They’re great for sharing or even as an appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Egg Rolls

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.

Quick meals that still feel filling seem to gain fans fast, and Shrimp Fried Rice is no exception. The shrimp adds a light but rich flavor to the fluffy rice mixture. Plus, its balance of flavors makes it an easy go-to when everyone craves something familiar but special. It’s also a meal that can be enjoyed repeatedly without boredom.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp 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.

Family favorites often involve pairing tender chicken with something fresh like Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry. The balance of protein and greens is one reason it ends up being chosen often. Its lightly savory and sweet sauce complements everything beautifully on the plate. Overall, it’s a dish people go back to without hesitation.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

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.

Snacks can be made into stars when they hit like Shrimp Toast. Its crispy, golden texture on the outside blends nicely with a smooth topping layered with shrimp. These little squares feel fancy without being complicated and are easy to handle. Whether as a small meal or bite-sized indulgence, they leave no crumbs behind.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

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.

Meals that involve noodles tend to win because of how fun they are, and Easy Chow Mein is that choice. Its simple mix of chewy noodles alongside flavorful additions gives it a timeless appeal. Perfect for a busy evening, this plate feels both satisfying and comforting. Kids love enjoying it in seconds or having it re-served later.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

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.

Sticky, slightly sweet collections like Sesame Chicken have a certain charm that makes them disappear quickly. The balance of light sweetness and savory flavors keeps every bite interesting. With its glossy finish and slight crunch, it’s impossible to refuse. Whether eaten freshly served or reheated, it always delivers.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

Tanghulu

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

Nothing attracts attention quicker than pops of glazed sweetness, like with Tanghulu. The hard shell brings a fun snap, while the fruity center offers a burst of flavor. Kids often see it as both a treat and an experience thanks to its texture and shine. Even adults can’t resist sneaking in one or two from a shared plate.
Get the Recipe: Tanghulu

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.

Fun dishes that stand out often blend spice and crunch, much like Kung Pao Chicken. Between the blend of soft chicken pieces and bold, crunchy elements, its texture creates a dynamic bite. The unexpected burst of spice keeps things more exciting than expected. It’s a go-to for lively dinners meant to shake up familiar routines.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao 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.

Cozy bowls often win during dinnertime, and Hot and Sour Soup does just that. Its gentle heat and tangy notes make it different from the usual options. As a warm, light starter, it’s perfect for whetting the appetite or enjoying on its own. It’s refreshing, yet hearty enough for all ages to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

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.

In need of something cool but unique, Spicy Cucumber Salad often takes people by surprise. Its perfect balance of cold, crunchy pieces paired with a mild kick of spice wakes up the palate. This dish feels like a refreshing addition alongside heavier meals. It guarantees easy preparation while delivering something memorable.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

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.

Kids and adults alike gravitate toward sweeter options, which explains the love for Orange Chicken. The light citrus-flavored glaze keeps every bite interesting without being too heavy. It’s a dish that works well as an entree or takeout-style treat. Even after a long day, it’s a comforting choice to have on the table.
Get the Recipe: Orange 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.

What everyone often looks for is balance, and Sweet and Sour Sauce delivers perfectly. It pairs excellently with finger foods or another main dish to add a twist. A drizzle of this sauce brings excitement to anything it touches. It’s a safe bet for anyone who loves flavors coming together in harmony.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce

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.

Ready-to-go meals like Chicken Fried Rice always seem to save the day. The chicken adds a wholesome flavor to the already delicious rice mix, making each bite more filling than the last. It’s an option that works as both a solo dish or alongside something else. No leftovers live long once this is served.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

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.

Egg Drop Soup can be a game changer for quick meals. The velvety texture combined with hearty flavors makes each spoonful enjoyable. A filling soup without going overboard, it’s ideal for satisfying hunger on the spot. The kids, almost every time, come back around for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

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.

Classic choices like Sweet and Sour Chicken rarely fail to impress anyone. The mix of tender bites covered in a versatile sauce makes it a favorite. It’s perfect when cravings for something balanced but slightly indulgent hit. A shared family meal rarely feels complete without it making an appearance.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour 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.

Switching things up doesn’t have to feel forced with Tofu Fried Rice. Its mix of soft textures and flavorful seasonings keeps the table happy without missing meat. This dish provides variety without feeling complicated or too different. Everyone gets a chance to try something lighter yet just as enjoyable as the classics.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

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.

Meals from famous names often inspire love at home too, like this Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. Its glossy finish and grilled surface mimic what families remember loving from restaurants. As each piece soaks in its own distinct flavor, it stands great alone or paired. Both kids and adults alike appreciate its simplicity at heart.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

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.

Amazingly versatile meals like Sweet and Sour Pork deserve the compliments they get. Balancing between tender protein and a shining glaze keeps the dish flavorful and dinner complete. These combinations rarely go untouched, becoming favorites every time they’re made. It’s often remembered as a meal that sets the mood right.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork

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.

Noodle-based choices always feel like fun meals, and Chicken Chow Mein leads here. It’s packed just right to make every mouthful blend textures that are chewy but balanced. Convenient for any busy day but still flavorful, this dish gets kids clearing plates without question. Every time reheated, it holds great results.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chow Mein

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.

Tech-savvy kitchen lovers swear by gadgets, especially when Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp come together easily. Sweet bites matched by a soft crunch on the outside make this unique at first taste. Convenient cooking paired with high-quality results turns it into a winner every time. This easy adaptability guarantees its place in the lineup.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp

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.

Many go-to recipes mix tender proteins and enjoyable crunch, like Cashew Chicken. The roasted nutty flavor blends perfectly with its other ingredients, making it a top pick. It’s fresh, flavorful, and never unnecessary add-ons feel present here. This dependable dinner gets even picky eaters munching along happily.
Get the Recipe: Cashew 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.

Sharing-friendly meals often make their rounds faster, none more so than Bang Bang Shrimp. Its bold coating packs just enough flavor into each bite for repeat enjoyment. Everyone at the table appreciates its welcoming approach to a seafood dish. Even non-seafood fans find themselves enjoying this option served lightly crisp.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

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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