My Weeknight Plan Usually Involves 33 Asian Recipes

Planning dinners ahead doesn’t sound exciting, but having 33 Asian recipes ready to rotate changes everything. The mix ensures weeknights aren’t repetitive or boring. It’s like having a built-in backup plan for every craving that sneaks in after work. Suddenly, making dinner at home feels less like work and more like winning at the weekday grind.

Grilled chicken with herbs on white rice, garnished with shredded carrots and cabbage.
Lemongrass Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

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.

Weeknight meals are better when they’re quick but still full of classic flavors. Sweet and Sour Chicken combines both tangy and sweet tastes in every bite, making it a go-to for families. It’s perfect for pairing with rice or noodles. Each plate disappears fast whenever you serve it to a group. No one leaves hungry after a dish like this.
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.

Mixing up dinner routines keeps things fresh, especially when you want a lighter meal. Tofu Fried Rice packs in plenty of flavor and texture with every spoonful. It’s a great way to use leftovers too, making cleanup easy. Vegetarians and meat eaters both appreciate it for weeknight meals. This rice is often gone before seconds can be served.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

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.

Simple dishes sometimes surprise with their bold punch of flavor. Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken offers a citrusy kick and pairs well with different sides for a balanced dinner. Its quick prep makes it a weekday favorite. The texture works just as well in sandwiches or wraps for lunch. Families often ask for it again soon after.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

Udon Noodles

A close-up of stir-fried noodles with green beans, red bell peppers, and carrots, garnished with sesame seeds.
Udon Noodles. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Thick noodles can turn any evening into a comforting meal without much planning. Udon Noodles bring a chewy bite and are easy to toss with your favorite sauces or toppings. You can serve them hot or cold, depending on your mood. They please picky eaters every time. These noodles become a staple after just one try.
Get the Recipe: Udon Noodles

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.

Hosting friends is simple when you offer something crunchy and rich on the table. Cashew Chicken mixes crisp texture with bold sauce for a dish that stands out. It’s a great pick for both busy nights and weekends. People love adding extra to their plates. Every piece gets scooped up before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Spring Rolls

A plate of fresh vegetable spring rolls sliced in half, arranged around a dish of dipping sauce and sprinkled with sesame seeds.
Spring Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Finger foods always help make meals more fun for everyone at the table. Spring Rolls give you light, fresh bites that pair well with dipping sauces. They suit both snacks and main meals. People often fill up plates more than once. Any leftovers are rare when these rolls are served.
Get the Recipe: Spring Rolls

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.

Quick dinners taste better when they remind you of favorites from your childhood. Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe brings that familiar, rich flavor to your kitchen in no time. The sweet and salty glaze is a crowd-pleaser. Even kids choose this over takeout. It’s a smart pick for a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Elevated Ramen Noodles

A bowl of ramen with soft-boiled egg, vegetables, and sesame seeds.
Elevated Ramen Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ramen gets an upgrade when you add just a bit more care. Elevated Ramen Noodles turn a basic meal into something much more interesting. You can add toppings or just enjoy it simple. Either way, this noodle bowl never disappoints. Everyone asks for a second helping once they finish the first.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Ramen Noodles

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.

Soup is always reliable on nights when you want something comforting. Hot and Sour Soup combines two classic flavors to perk up any evening. A bowl disappears quickly no matter who you serve. It’s also great for leftovers and quick lunches. The flavor is always just right, never overpowering.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

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.

Treats on a stick grab everyone’s attention at dessert time or snack breaks. Tanghulu wraps fruit in a crisp coat, making it fun to crack open each bite. You’ll see smiles all around when you serve this sweet snack. Kids especially love trying different fruit combinations. It’s a simple dessert that doesn’t last long on any platter.
Get the Recipe: Tanghulu

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.

When something rich and nutty calls out for dinner, it’s hard to pass up. Sesame Chicken is a classic, thanks to its balance of flavor and easy pairing with rice. The glaze gives it a shine that’s hard not to scoop up right away. It’s a mainstay on busy nights. Seconds almost always happen with this one.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

Tom Yum Soup

Close-up of a spicy tom yum soup with shrimp, mushrooms, tomato chunks, lime wedge, and chopped herbs in a rich, red broth.
Tom Yum Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Stepping outside regular flavors helps keep weeknights interesting. Tom Yum Soup serves a sour and spicy hit that makes meals more lively. It’s often paired with simple sides or eaten on its own. Quick to heat up and quick to disappear, this soup is a crowd favorite. Every spoon brings something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

Cucumber Salad Jar (Asian Style)

A glass jar filled with sliced cucumbers, red onions, and herbs in pickling liquid, with two metal forks placed inside.
Cucumber Salad Jar (Asian Style). Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Light sides brighten up main dishes on busy days. Cucumber Salad Jar (Asian Style) brings a cool crunch and a touch of tang whenever you need a refreshing bite. It’s easy to pack for lunches or serve to guests. The crisp texture makes it ideal for balancing heavier mains. People usually ask for the recipe after one try.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad Jar (Asian Style)

Miso Soup

A bowl of miso soup with tofu cubes, seaweed, and green onions.
Miso Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A classic bowl that starts many evenings comes together quickly. Miso Soup brings a gentle umami flavor to balance out the rest of your meal. It’s warm and pairs well with many different dishes. Small bowls are perfect for quick snacks or first courses. Miso soup fits into any meal plan with no fuss.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup

Asian Style Pork Chops

Close-up of sliced grilled pork belly garnished with sesame seeds and green chili, served on a bed of kale.
Asian Style Pork Chops. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pork chops take on a new role when they switch up their seasonings. Asian Style Pork Chops bring bold flavor to the table and work for both fast and slow dinners. Grilled or pan-seared, each piece stays tender. Kids and adults agree they want these more often once they’re served. The leftovers are just as popular the next day.
Get the Recipe: Asian Style Pork Chops

Chicken Tempura

Plate of batter-fried fritters with a bowl of red dipping sauce on a white plate, viewed from above.
Chicken Tempura. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, this one always gets a spotlight during special dinners. Chicken Tempura serves up bite-sized pieces great for dipping or sharing. It fits well with simple sides or bigger meals. Even picky eaters come back for more. The plate always empties fast with these around.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tempura

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

More vegetables in the evening makes dinner feel full without being heavy. Vegetable Stir Fry brings color and varied texture to anyone’s plate in no time. You can use whatever you have, making it a smart choice every week. Every serving feels a bit different. This stir fry is gone in minutes once it’s ready.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Shrimp Tempura Roll

Close-up of sushi rolls with avocado, cucumber, and rice, topped with sesame seeds and a drizzle of spicy mayo on a beige plate.
Shrimp Tempura Roll. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Everyone gets excited when rolls show up for dinner. Shrimp Tempura Roll combines crunchy seafood with sticky rice for a hit at any gathering. The pieces slice neatly and look great on any tray. Sharing these is part of the fun. Extra rolls rarely last long when you set them out.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura Roll

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.

Dips make even the best mains a bit more fun. Sweet and Sour Sauce works for everything from chicken to spring rolls and brightens up even the plainest side. You can keep a jar in the fridge for easy use during the week. All ages enjoy it as a topper or dip. Plates come back clean when you’ve got a sauce like this.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce

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.

When you need a quick appetizer that stands out, this one always works. Bang Bang Shrimp tosses crunchy bites in a creamy, peppery sauce for extra kick. It’s popular at gatherings but just as good as a meal on its own. People ask for more as soon as the plate hits the table. These never make it through the night without disappearing.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Asian Slaw

A bowl of colorful coleslaw with shredded purple and green cabbage, carrots, chopped peanuts, and greens, mixed with dressing.
Asian Slaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crispy sides help balance rich mains during busy weeks. Asian Slaw mixes crunch with a little sweetness and makes a great topping or side. You can prep it early and keep it chilled until dinner. The textures help wake up simple meals. Families add it to wraps, bowls, or straight onto their plates.
Get the Recipe: Asian Slaw

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.

Everyone looks forward to bright, sticky mains that feel a bit like a treat. Orange Chicken brings its signature sweet and tangy kick every time you make it. The thick glaze pairs best with plain sides. It’s a hit with both adults and kids. Empty plates are the rule with orange chicken in the house.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Easy Bibimbap

A bowl of bibimbap with sliced beef, egg yolk, carrots, cucumber, greens, and bean sprouts, topped with sesame seeds and red sauce.
Easy Bibimbap. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Meals in bowls are both fun and quick to put together midweek. Easy Bibimbap layers rice, veggies, and protein for a complete dinner with every scoop. The colors make dinner look exciting. Mixing everything before eating is part of the fun. This is a great way to use leftovers while keeping things fresh.
Get the Recipe: Easy Bibimbap

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.

Keeping dinner easy always helps on rushed nights, especially with a recipe like this. Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is quick to pull together and offers a balanced meal in one pan. You can double the batch to have extra for lunch. The mix pleases both grownups and kids. It’s a weekly favorite for families who need a fast fix.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Spicy Udon Noodles

Close-up of stir-fried noodles with vegetables, including carrots, green beans, and chopped red peppers, garnished with sesame seeds. Chopsticks are picking up some noodles.
Spicy Udon Noodles. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Some meals need a little kick to break out of a rut. Spicy Udon Noodles bring chewy noodles and a warm punch, making quiet nights more lively. The heat is just enough without taking over the whole dish. This is a good pick for anyone who enjoys bold flavors at home. Bowls empty quickly when you serve these noodles.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon Noodles

Kimchi Stew

Close-up of a wooden spoon in a vibrant kimchi stew with tofu and pork, garnished with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes.
Kimchi Stew. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Stews fill the kitchen with warmth and plenty to share. Kimchi Stew mixes tangy and spicy tastes in one bowl for big crowds or just your family. It’s filling and pairs with simple sides easily. You can keep leftovers for busy nights and they heat up without losing flavor. Each bowl is a little different, making it fun every time.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

Close-up of a shrimp curry dish with rice, topped with black sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Curry night never disappoints when you add shrimp and coconut. Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry balances creamy and spicy notes for a weeknight dinner that feels special. It goes well with both noodles and rice. Guests usually ask for another serving. Curry lovers mark this one down for repeat dinners.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

Kimchi

A bowl of spicy, pickled kimchi cabbage on a light-colored surface.
Kimchi. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Fermented sides make meals pop and bring a little extra something to the table. Kimchi is a staple that you can add to many Asian dishes or just eat by itself. Both kids and adults get hooked on its crunch and tang. It helps meals feel new even if the mains stay simple. Kimchi keeps well in the fridge, always ready to grab.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi

Coconut Ramen

Close-up of a bowl of ramen with noodles, bok choy, mushrooms, half a boiled egg, sesame seeds, and lime, garnished with chili slices. Black chopsticks hold some noodles above the bowl.
Coconut Ramen. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Noodle bowls don’t have to be heavy to feel complete at dinner. Coconut Ramen is light with a little sweetness and works for different eating styles. The creamy base warms you up and fills you fast. Slurping is encouraged with bowls like this. It’s a fun spin on regular ramen that guests will comment on.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Ramen

Chickpea Curry

Bowl of chickpea stew with spinach, potatoes, tomatoes, and topped with fresh cilantro.
Chickpea Curry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Plant-based mains come together fast and work well for all ages. Chickpea Curry delivers rich flavor with soft beans in each bite, making it perfect for meatless nights. It fills up plates quickly while using simple sides. You can freeze it for later, or use any leftovers for lunch. It’s a handy weeknight option that pleases everyone.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Curry

Sushi Bake

A dish of loaded fries inspired by sushi bake, topped with avocado slices, diced cucumbers, green onions, sesame seeds, and drizzled with sauce.
Sushi Bake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sharing main dishes can be easy when you turn your favorites into a casserole. Sushi Bake layers classic flavors in one pan for easy serving. Each spoonful brings together different textures and tastes. It’s perfect for larger families or group dinners. The tray always empties before you have to store leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

Crispy Rice

A stack of crispy rice topped with a dollop of white sauce, red sauce, and sliced green onions, with a blurred dish of green garnishes in the background.
Crispy Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bite-sized snacks turn into the main event when you add extra crunch. Crispy Rice has a golden finish and a soft inside, working well as a base for toppings or just plain. Pile them up and watch them disappear at gatherings. They’re easy to make ahead for lunchboxes too. You can switch up toppings every time for something new.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Rice

Lemongrass Chicken

Grilled chicken with herbs on white rice, garnished with shredded carrots and cabbage.
Lemongrass Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Marinades do wonders for weeknight proteins, especially when flavor counts. Lemongrass Chicken brings a citrus aroma and tender texture to any dinner plate. It goes well with simple greens or rice. This chicken often shows up on lunch menus the next day. Families love seeing it come out of the oven after a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Lemongrass 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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