51 Asian Recipes People Make When They Need Dinner to Just Work

Planning stress-free dinners is simpler thanks to 51 Asian recipes trusted for busy weeknights. Even when schedules are packed or motivation is low, it helps to have options you know will work. Each idea is familiar enough to put on the table fast but still brings smart new flavors. Everything here is made for straightforward cooking and easy cleanup.

Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry

Wok-fresh flavor meets busy weeknights with this Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry. Speedy prep and bright veggies make every bowl look as inviting as it tastes. I serve this dish when takeout just won’t cut it. Even on long days, plates are left spotless.
Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry

Chow Mein

Every forkful of this Chow Mein brings out classic comfort with soft noodles and a hint of crispness. The blend of sauce and vegetables fills you up with warmth after a chilly evening outside. I always make enough for next-day leftovers. Nobody skips seconds at the table.
Get the Recipe: Chow Mein

Egg Roll

Few things kick off dinner better than this Egg Roll, serving crunchy golden bites packed with flavor. Each roll stands out as both a starter and a side, making dinner more fun. I notice how fast these disappear at potlucks. A dipping sauce nearby turns them into an instant favorite.
Get the Recipe: Egg Roll

Lemongrass Chicken

Bright, citrusy notes set this Lemongrass Chicken apart, bringing fresh energy to dinnertime. The aroma alone gets everyone excited for the first bite. I save a portion for lunch since the leftovers stay so tender. More than a few guests have asked for the recipe card.
Get the Recipe: Lemongrass Chicken

Hot and Sour Soup

Deep, tangy warmth fills every bowl of this Hot and Sour Soup, perfect for shaking off the cold. Every spoonful combines a gentle kick with rich broth. I bring this to winter gatherings because it always sparks conversation. Spoons clink until the last drop is gone.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

Korean Corn Dogs

Street food memories come alive with these Korean Corn Dogs, where a crunchy shell hides unique fillings inside. Sweet, salty, and fun to eat, they draw a line at snack time. I make extra because the first batch always gets claimed right away. Anyone who tries them comes back for more.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Dogs

Sweet Orange Chicken

Sweetness paired with a hint of tang makes this Sweet Orange Chicken ideal for weeknights when you crave something different. Sticky sauce and crispy bites offer the best of two worlds. I pack leftovers before anyone else claims them. Smiles break out as soon as the platter goes on the table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Orange Chicken

Thai Fried Rice

Even picky eaters dive right in when Thai Fried Rice is on the menu. Colorful veggies and rich rice make dinner feel special without much effort. I plate up generous portions for hearty appetites. Everyone’s happy when it’s time for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fried Rice

Scallion Pancakes

Crispy edges and chewy centers create crave-worthy bites in Scallion Pancakes. These are as good at breakfast as they are at dinner. I find that pan-frying makes them even more inviting. Dipping into the sauce is half the fun of this snack.
Get the Recipe: Scallion Pancakes

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Bold flavor and glossy sauce come together in this Sweet and Sour Chicken, bringing restaurant energy home. Kids and grown-ups compete for the last few pieces. I often pair this dish with simple rice to let the sauce shine. No leftovers ever seem to make it to the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken

Crispy Pork Belly

Everyone’s eyes light up as soon as you cut into this Crispy Pork Belly and hear that crunch. Savory bites satisfy on chilly nights or any gathering. I slice it thin for easy serving among friends. The platter empties before the quiet even starts.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Pork Belly

Sweet and Sour Sauce

Basic meals instantly perk up with this Sweet and Sour Sauce, which clings perfectly to everything from chicken to tofu. It’s the simple answer for those nights when food needs something extra. I stash a jar for surprise cravings. Guests want to know what makes it so good.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce

Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

Bringing fast-food favorites home is easy with this Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken recipe. Juicy slices and a glossy glaze keep the meal lively and quick. I use leftovers for wraps or salads the next day. No one misses takeout when this is served.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

Sushi Rice

Real sushi flavor starts with this Sushi Rice, the secret behind rolls that taste just right. Soft, sticky grains become the canvas for creative dinners at home. I always have another batch ready for lunchbox sushi balls. Kids and adults alike want to help make it.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Rice

Japanese Cheesecake

Gentle sweetness and a cloud-like texture make this Japanese Cheesecake stand out on any dessert table. Light and fluffy, it offers something different from heavy cakes. I chill slices for a perfect post-dinner treat. It consistently draws a crowd back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Japanese Cheesecake

General Tso’s Chicken

Sweet, savory, and a little bit bold, this General Tso’s Chicken delivers that crispy, saucy finish that feels just like your favorite takeout. Friends talk about the perfect balance of bite and glaze. I serve it with steamed vegetables for a colorful meal. Every last piece vanishes fast.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

Dashi

Basic flavor magic begins with this Dashi, the broth that forms the base of so many comforting soups. Gentle umami notes make noodles and vegetables shine. I freeze cubes for an instant dinner boost whenever needed. Everyone comments on the depth it adds to meals.
Get the Recipe: Dashi

Udon Noodles

Thick and bouncy, Udon Noodles invite you to slurp and indulge every bite on cold nights. Steam curling up from a hot bowl adds another layer of comfort. I stir in extra veggies for a vibrant meal. Even the simplest toppings turn this into a feast.
Get the Recipe: Udon Noodles

Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

Citrus-lovers get their wish granted by Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken, balancing tangy brightness with savory bits. The flavor combination keeps things lively on grey days. I bring this to share at potlucks since it’s easy to dish out. It gets noticed for both taste and color.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

Thai Peanut Curry (Better Than Take-Out!)

A rich, nutty sauce wraps every ingredient in this Thai Peanut Curry (Better Than Take-Out!), creating a meal that feels special right at home. Plates always return empty, even from picky eaters. I store leftovers for a quick repeat lunch. The aroma brings everyone to the kitchen before it’s ready.
Get the Recipe: Thai Peanut Curry (Better Than Take-Out!)

Shrimp Spring Rolls

Fresh crunch meets light protein in these Shrimp Spring Rolls, a hit at both family dinners and lunchboxes. Each roll wraps up color and coolness together, making bites both bright and fun. I pack a little dipping sauce on the side for extra flavor. Hands reach for these before main courses.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Spring Rolls

Crispy Sesame Chicken

Flaky crust and glossy finish set this Crispy Sesame Chicken as a weeknight star. Saucy bites pop with sesame flavor and stay crunchy till the last forkful. I like to cook extra since leftovers work for salad toppings the next day. Happy chatter follows this dish to the table.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sesame Chicken

Crunchy Korean Cucumber Salad That’s Addictive

Light yet punchy, this Crunchy Korean Cucumber Salad That’s Addictive refreshes palates between hearty dishes. Crisp slices and a sweet kick make it hard to stop munching. I toss it together for quick lunches or as a bright side. The bowl empties quickly at any event.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Korean Cucumber Salad That’s Addictive

Tom Yum Soup

Little brings more comfort than a spicy bowl of Tom Yum Soup when the temperatures drop. Sour, spicy broth wakes up senses and clears away the chill. I offer smaller bowls, giving everyone a second chance if they want more. Sentences trail off as people focus on sipping.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

Chicken Fried Rice

Fast meals turn into treasured moments with this Chicken Fried Rice, offering big flavor with minimal effort. Every scoop is filling, colorful, and easy to pack for lunch. I top mine with a sprinkle of scallions to finish. It’s a standby that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Birria Ramen

Two comfort classics join forces in this Birria Ramen, blending savory broth and tender bites for a warming dinner. Deep flavors make it a favorite during cold weather. I find that slurping noodles straight from the bowl is half the fun. People always ask for the secret behind the taste.
Get the Recipe: Birria Ramen

Sweet Asian Style Pork Chops

Anyone looking for a sweet twist on dinner will smile at these Sweet Asian Style Pork Chops. Seared, juicy pieces soak up glaze and look beautiful on any plate. I keep the extras for sandwich fillings the next day. Plates return clean as conversation lingers.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Asian Style Pork Chops

Chickpea Curry

Plant-based nights shine with this Chickpea Curry, boasting creamy sauce and bold spices. Every bite packs gentle heat, making it perfect for warming up after a long day. I spoon leftovers over rice for a fast lunch. Bowls return empty thanks to the comforting flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Curry

Spicy Udon Noodles

A little heat, a little chew—Spicy Udon Noodles add cheer to long winter evenings. Every twirl brings extra comfort and color to your plate. I use leftovers for stir-fry or a filling soup. Someone always points out how uplifting it is on cold nights.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon Noodles

Crispy Rice

Each bite of this Crispy Rice delivers a crunchy surprise that pairs with just about anything. Golden grains add excitement to weeknight bowls. I pan-fry an extra batch to use in salads later. People comment on its pleasing texture.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Rice

Miso Soup

Cozy, mellow, and quick, Miso Soup calms busy minds after a long day. Simple ingredients combine for soothing slurps that warm from the inside out. I pour extra into a thermos for tomorrow’s lunch. Friends talk about how filling it is despite being so light.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup

Nutty Sesame Soba Noodles

Chewy noodles tossed with a nutty twist turn these Nutty Sesame Soba Noodles into an instant favorite. Even at room temperature, the dish feels deeply comforting. I portion a few containers for quick lunches throughout the week. No one ever gets tired of the flavor.
Get the Recipe: Nutty Sesame Soba Noodles

Egg Fried Rice

Simple meals shine with this Egg Fried Rice, where golden grains meet soft bites. It’s easy to throw together any night you need something quick. I pack a portion for work and find it just as comforting the next day. The bowl disappears faster than anything else on the table.
Get the Recipe: Egg Fried Rice

Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

A burst of flavor finds its way into dinner with Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp, crisped and tossed for maximum punch. These go quickly, so I always have backup waiting. Squeezing a lemon wedge brings the whole dish alive. More than one person has asked how to make them at home.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

Wonton Soup

Steamed dumplings tucked in savory broth make this Wonton Soup the stuff of midweek legends. Warm, slurpable bowls send the chill packing in a hurry. I find it’s just as good as a quick lunch as it is for dinner. Seconds get scooped up before you can refill the pot.
Get the Recipe: Wonton Soup

Sweet and Sour Pork

Tangy, juicy bites stack up on plates whenever Sweet and Sour Pork lands at the table. The dish keeps things playful with each colorful mouthful. I save a few pieces in a container before they vanish. It’s a fast favorite, especially with steamed rice.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork

Kimchi

Tart and spicy, Kimchi cuts through heavy meals and brings zing to each bite. Fermented crunch is the secret behind so many fun side dishes. I stash jars for topping rice or eggs all week long. Friends mention how it brightens up every dinner.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi

Elevated Ramen Noodles

Deep flavor and plenty of toppings earn these Elevated Ramen Noodles a place in everyone’s rotation. Each hot bowl holds hidden surprises under the broth. I save extra boiled eggs for snacking the next day. Bowls clear fast the minute slurping begins.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Ramen Noodles

Kimchi Stew

Spicy comfort pours out of every spoonful of Kimchi Stew, perfect for weather that calls for a hearty meal. The bubbling pot perfumes the kitchen with savory and sour notes. I dream about a second helping before finishing the first. Even adventurous eaters can’t get enough.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Spring Roll

Fresh, crisp veggies wrapped by hand set these Spring Roll apart as a snack or a shareable main. Light, crunchy bites keep dinner fun and colorful. I use extra rolls for a quick lunch—no microwave needed. Nobody skips these when they hit the table.
Get the Recipe: Spring Roll

Tonkotsu Ramen

Creamy broth and bouncy noodles in this Tonkotsu Ramen bring a sense of celebration to dinner at home. Each slurp promises comfort after a long, cold day. I prep bowls with extras like corn and green onions for added fun. Everybody hopes there’s a refill ready.
Get the Recipe: Tonkotsu Ramen

Sweet Teriyaki Sauce

Stir-fry suddenly sings with this Sweet Teriyaki Sauce, perfect for adding depth to almost any dish. Pour it over veggies, meat, or rice for instant excitement. I jar some up for the week ahead, knowing it comes in handy. Friends ask for tips on making their own.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Teriyaki Sauce

Asian Slaw

Colorful crunch makes this Asian Slaw a salad you’ll want with more than just Asian food. Tangy dressing keeps each forkful bright and memorable. I pack leftovers for lunch wrap fillings. Every gathering needs something this fresh.
Get the Recipe: Asian Slaw

Chicken Tikka Masala

Creamy, spiced sauce and juicy chicken turn this Chicken Tikka Masala into a dinner people hope for all winter. Each bite pairs bold spice with rich comfort. I save a serving for myself before the crowd digs in. Someone always asks for the recipe after a single taste.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Masala

Sushi Bake

Layers of seasoned rice, savory toppings, and a gentle bake make this Sushi Bake party-ready and easy to share. The dish brings a bit of sushi charm without the rolling and fuss. I cut it into squares for easy serving. Plates return empty before the main event.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

Strawberry Mochi

Sweet strawberries tucked in soft, pillowy rice make these Strawberry Mochi feel like little treasures. Cool, chewy ends are as fun to eat as they are to share. I wrap leftovers for lunchbox surprises the next day. Guests talk about how much fun they had long after the meal is over.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Mochi

Coconut Ramen

A tropical twist brightens every bite of this Coconut Ramen, blending creamy broth and chewy noodles together. Gentle sweetness keeps the dish interesting without too much heat. I eat leftovers cold—or hot—the next day. Curious friends always want their own bowl.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Ramen

Crispy Baked Tofu

Even tofu skeptics line up for this Crispy Baked Tofu, perfectly browned and irresistibly textured. Savory bites turn simple dinners into something worth repeating. I crumble it over salads and bowls throughout the week. Folks rave about its crunch.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Baked Tofu

Egg Drop Soup

Whispers of comfort fill every bowl of Egg Drop Soup, making it a must for chilly evenings at home. Silky ribbons of egg float through fragrant broth. I scoop leftovers into a mug for breakfast. Requests for the recipe never seem to slow down.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

Vegetable Stir Fry

Bright, flash-cooked veggies give this Vegetable Stir Fry its signature color and snap. A light, flavorful sauce makes every bite sing. I toss extra tofu or shrimp into the pan for variety. Lunch leftovers heat up perfectly and never disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Black Bean Noodles

Deep, savory sauce and chewy noodles define these Black Bean Noodles, a staple for anyone craving comfort. The dish grabs attention with its dark, glossy finish. I portion out extra for next-day cravings. Slurping up the last bit becomes the best part of dinner.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Noodles