47 Asian Recipes That Make Repetitive Meals Feel New Again

Weeknight meals seem repetitive until 47 Asian recipes come into the picture and brighten up the dinner table. Many people get caught in a rut, making the same things without much thought. Adding new flavors to your usual routine just makes sense when everyone’s craving a change. A good recipe collection helps spark fresh interest in everyday cooking.

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.

Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry

A bowl of rice topped with broccoli, chicken, red peppers, green onions, and sesame seeds, with black chopsticks resting on the side.
Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Quick, saucy goodness meets crisp veggies in this Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry that bursts with flavor. Each bite brings a comforting balance of sweet and savory. I reach for this recipe when I want something fast and colorful on a weekday night. People always ask how the sauce gets that perfect sticky texture.
Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry

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.

Creamy broth with a hint of warmth instantly makes this Coconut Ramen feel fresh and inviting. Cozy slurps help keep dinner interesting when the weather outside seems dull. I find myself making extra because refills happen more than once. Bowls get scraped clean without fail.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Ramen

Scallion Pancakes

Four cooked scallion pancakes on parchment paper, garnished with sliced green onions, with a small bowl of dipping sauce and a whole scallion beside them.
Scallion Pancakes. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Crisp edges and layers of flavor turn these Scallion Pancakes into fun appetizers or a side you can pick up with your hands. Peeling apart each piece adds a little drama to mealtime. I try a stack on the table for sharing at parties. Everyone grabs seconds before they cool down.
Get the Recipe: Scallion Pancakes

Chicken Tikka Masala

A close-up of chicken tikka masala served on rice, garnished with fresh cilantro, with lime wedges and naan on the side.
Chicken Tikka Masala. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Warm spices and creamy sauce work wonders in this Chicken Tikka Masala after a day that feels too long. The inviting color alone draws people to their plates. I like pairing it with rice or bread for a heartier dinner. Requests for the recipe always follow.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Masala

Shrimp Spring Rolls

Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, purple cabbage, carrots, greens, and topped with chopped peanuts and peanut sauce, served on a plate.
Shrimp Spring Rolls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Light wrappers stuffed with fresh veggies make these Shrimp Spring Rolls a fun, hand-held treat. The cool crunch offers a nice change from traditional hot meals and brings color to the plate. I pack them for picnics and gatherings all year round. Dipping sauce disappears as quickly as the rolls do.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Spring Rolls

Thai Peanut Curry (Better Than Take-Out!)

A bowl of vegetable curry with leafy greens, chunks of squash, diced tomatoes, peanuts, and cilantro, served with a spoon.
Thai Peanut Curry (Better Than Take-Out!). Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy, nutty sauce brings out unique flavors in this Thai Peanut Curry (Better Than Take-Out!). Each spoonful combines heat with a mellow bite. I chose this recipe for adventurous friends and cozy nights indoors. The leftovers rarely make it to the next day.
Get the Recipe: Thai Peanut Curry (Better Than Take-Out!)

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.

Fluffy rice flecked with juicy chicken and veggies turns this Chicken Fried Rice into dinner everyone looks forward to. It’s the solution for empty fridge days. I play with add-ins depending on what’s handy, and it never disappoints. Bowls empty fast because nobody stops at one serving.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Seaweed Salad

A close-up of seaweed salad with sesame seeds on a red plate, with chopsticks picking up a portion.
Seaweed Salad. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Bright green strands and a fresh crunch make Seaweed Salad a standout next to any main course. Every bite tastes light and full of flavor, setting it apart from heavier sides. I enjoy serving it chilled for an instant refresh at dinner. Compliments come in from those giving it a try for the first time.
Get the Recipe: Seaweed Salad

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.

Lively, balanced flavor puts this Sweet and Sour Sauce front and center for dunking or drizzling. It changes basic meals into something special with only a drizzle. I serve little bowls for dipping everything from chicken to veggies. Clean sauce dishes show how much people love it.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce

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.

Juicy, tender meat blends with crisp broccoli for this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry that tastes as good as any takeout. Dinner needs just minutes, but it never feels rushed. I toss in whatever veggies are in the fridge for variety. Requests for thirds are a compliment to the speedy prep.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Rice Paper Rolls

Close-up of sliced spring rolls filled with rice, avocado, purple cabbage, and sesame seeds, arranged on a white plate.
Rice Paper Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Light, chewy wrappers make these Rice Paper Rolls fun to assemble at the table. Everyone can pick their favorite fillings, which means fewer complaints and more smiles. I set up a do-it-yourself station at parties, and the platter empties quickly. Rolling up each bite keeps dinner hands-on and relaxed.
Get the Recipe: Rice Paper Rolls

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.
Chow Mein. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Soft noodles and a tangle of veggies keep this Chow Mein comforting but never boring. The sauce has just enough shine to grab your attention, bite after bite. I use this recipe for those times when everyone wants seconds. No leftovers ever survive the night.
Get the Recipe: Chow Mein

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.

Crisp batter and juicy chicken create a special-occasion feel with this Chicken Tempura. The sound of the crunch lets you know this dinner is anything but ordinary. I fry up batches for parties and always end up needing more. The plate empties quickly, as everyone reaches for just one more.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tempura

Strawberry Mochi

Strawberry ice cream with a slice cut out.
Strawberry Mochi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet berries and chewy texture bring something playful to Strawberry Mochi. It’s a dessert that attracts attention at potlucks or in lunchboxes. I hand them out for a sweet surprise that’s soft on the outside and bright inside. Guests return to the tray, curious about the pink filling.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Mochi

Sweet Teriyaki Sauce

A spoon of brown liquid sauce with garlic bits is held above an open glass jar. A green cloth and garlic cloves are in the background.
Sweet Teriyaki Sauce. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Glossy and bold, this Sweet Teriyaki Sauce is a kitchen secret that livens up nearly any protein or veggie. A little drizzle makes the ordinary taste so much better. I like to serve extra for dipping. People usually want the instructions before the meal ends.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Teriyaki Sauce

Butter Chicken

A bowl of creamy curry with chicken pieces served over white rice, garnished with cilantro, and accompanied by flatbread.
Butter Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Creamy clouds of gently spiced sauce make Butter Chicken a true comfort pick on crisp evenings. Its rich aroma always draws people to the dinner table. I enjoy saving a little for lunch, but it rarely lasts that long. Every time I serve this, the plates come back clean.
Get the Recipe: Butter 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.

Chewy bites and a blanket of hot broth mean these Udon Noodles fill you up and keep things cozy. The big, thick noodles are fun to eat and stand up to bold toppings well. I throw in extra vegetables for crunch. Seconds find their way into bowls without a word.
Get the Recipe: Udon Noodles

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.

Crunchy bits wrapped in rice create an exciting bite with every slice of this Shrimp Tempura Roll. The blend of textures feels fun and keeps things lively at the dinner table. I slice it up for sharing with a group. The platter usually empties in a flash.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura Roll

Crispy Sesame Chicken

A close-up of glazed chicken pieces with sesame seeds and chopped scallions on a bed of rice.
Crispy Sesame Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Golden crust with a nutty note makes Crispy Sesame Chicken perfect for adding variety to basic weeknight meals. Every piece glistens with sauce, begging to be picked up. I make extra to stash for a late-night snack. The sticky fingers are totally worth it.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sesame 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.

A little heat and a bold, creamy finish help Bang Bang Shrimp steal the spotlight. Each shrimp packs a surprising punch, keeping things interesting from start to finish. I stack them high for group dinners, because they disappear fast. One bite is all it takes to spark a conversation.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Miso Soup

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

Steaming bowls brimming with umami flavor show why Miso Soup is a classic for any cold day. Simple comforts go a long way with just a few spoonfuls. I set out mugs for sipping, and everyone wants a refill. It’s hard not to feel calmer after a warm bowl.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup

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.

Crunchy nuts mix with tender chicken for a texture combination that makes Cashew Chicken unique. The sauce coats everything with just the right appeal. I bring out this dish for potlucks and always share the recipe. Plates are always empty in short order.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Crispy Pork Belly

Sliced roast pork with crispy, golden-brown skin on a wooden surface.
Crispy Pork Belly. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crackly layers and rich flavors place Crispy Pork Belly at the center of the dinner spread every time. Bold bites draw a crowd hungry for something special. I serve thick slices at parties, watching everyone reach for seconds. Compliments arrive as soon as it’s tasted.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Pork Belly

Wonton Soup

A ceramic bowl of clear soup containing dumplings, sliced mushrooms, broccolini, chopped green onions, and cilantro.
Wonton Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Plump packets float in a comforting broth in this Wonton Soup that never goes out of style. Each spoonful brings warmth and a hint of cozy nostalgia. I notice everyone leans in for seconds quietly. The pot always winds up empty by the end.
Get the Recipe: Wonton Soup

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.

Just the right touch of heat and crunch spark every bite of this Kung Pao Chicken. The combination of peanuts and a glossy sauce stands out from more basic stir-fry dishes. I love serving it for dinners where people expect something exciting. Sparks of conversation fill the air with each plate.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bright veggies, seared but still crunchy, come together in Vegetable Stir Fry for a break from heavy dinners. Each forkful offers something a little different, keeping the meal lively. I pile this high at gatherings where lighter options are needed. Bowls empty before anything else.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Kimchi

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

Tangy and spicy, Kimchi wakes up anything on the plate with every bite. A little goes a long way in stirring up flavor. I use it as a side or topping, and it always sparks curiosity. First-timers often reach for a second help just to double-check the flavor.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi

Asian Chicken Thighs

A plate of white rice topped with glazed chicken pieces, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Asian Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Rich, umami glaze clings to each bite in these Asian Chicken Thighs, making the meal feel bold and new. There’s always a rush for seconds once these hit the table. I find the marinade leaves an unforgettable aroma. Friends regularly ask how to make them at home.
Get the Recipe: Asian Chicken Thighs

Sesame Soba Noodles

Two bowls of soba noodle salad with carrots, edamame, and radish slices, placed on a patterned cloth with wooden chopsticks beside them.
Sesame Soba Noodles. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Slippery, nutty noodles offer a playful side to cold salads or warm mains as Sesame Soba Noodles. They taste great hot or cold, and never stick around long at a party. I toss them with scallions and seeds. The unique flavor draws plenty of praise.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Soba Noodles

Spicy Tuna Bowl

A bowl of white rice topped with sliced cucumber, shredded nori, chopped green onions, and a portion of tuna, with a pair of chopsticks resting on top.
Spicy Tuna Bowl. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Heat and bright greens join forces for this Spicy Tuna Bowl that makes repetitive meals feel new again. Each spoonful is balanced with freshness and just enough punch. I set up a toppings bar so everyone builds their own. No two bowls are ever quite the same.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Bowl

Chinese Steamed Chicken

A bowl of steamed chicken pieces with mushrooms, garnished with chopped green onions, with chopsticks picking up a piece.
Chinese Steamed Chicken. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Soft, tender slices show how Chinese Steamed Chicken brings comfort without being heavy. Each bite is mild but completely heartwarming, especially when paired with rice. I choose it on nights where simple food is what everyone wants. Every plate looked scraped by the end.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Steamed Chicken

Naan Bread

A stack of flatbreads garnished with chopped parsley sits on a cloth, with a white pepper grinder, fresh herbs, a lemon wedge, and a bowl of yellow sauce nearby.
Naan Bread. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Soft centers and a bit of char make Naan Bread a companion for anything with plenty of sauce. Pulling pieces apart feels extra fulfilling when dinner steams in the kitchen. I bake several rounds for parties and potlucks, knowing they’ll be needed. Each piece disappears right from the tray.
Get the Recipe: Naan Bread

Japanese Cheesecake

A slice of sponge cake topped with powdered sugar and a raspberry, served on a plate with two black plastic forks.
Japanese Cheesecake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Feather-light texture and a gentle sweetness make Japanese Cheesecake a must-try dessert. Slicing into the airy layers always draws a crowd. I watch as people marvel at the texture with every bite. The last piece is hotly contested.
Get the Recipe: Japanese Cheesecake

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.

Plump noodles and a blast of heat keep Spicy Udon Noodles feeling new, bite after bite. Each forkful warms you up from the inside out. I change the toppings every time for a meal that never feels boring. Empty bowls are the rule, not the exception.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon Noodles

Korean Burgers

Close-up of a hamburger with a sesame seed bun, beef patty, green onions, and rich brown sauce.
Korean Burgers. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sweet, savory, and a little smoky, these Korean Burgers push burger night into exciting territory. Colorful toppings stir up extra interest at first glance. I prepare sliders for parties and each one vanishes in minutes. People ask what makes them so flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

Massaman Curry

A creamy shrimp curry with peppers, chopped nuts, sliced green onions, red chili slices, and lime wedges. Metal spoon submerged in the dish.
Massaman Curry. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Deep spices and a touch of sweetness help Massaman Curry stand out from typical stews. The comforting, thick sauce is perfect for spooning over rice. I bring it to gatherings needing something special and warming. The pot never has leftovers when dinner wraps up.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry

Elevated Ramen Noodles

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

Rich toppings and flavorful broth give Elevated Ramen Noodles a new twist on the pack-in-the-cup classic. Friends barely recognize their favorite snack in this version. I enjoy piling in extras to make it tonight’s main event. Everyone asks for tips for upgrading their own ramen at home.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Ramen 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.

A steamy bowl packed with depth, this Kimchi Stew proves heat and tang can work together for comfort. People notice the aroma as soon as it hits the table. I keep it simmering for those who want to come back for more. No one complains about having seconds.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Egg Roll

A wooden tray with spring rolls and lime wedges lined with parchment paper sits next to a small bowl of dipping sauce on a light surface.
Egg Roll. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crunchy wrappers and savory filling keep Egg Roll platters popular at any party or dinner spread. Each bite is hot, flaky, and gone before you know it. I whip up a batch for quick appetizers, and they always vanish first. Guests reach for them before taking anything else.
Get the Recipe: Egg Roll

Thai Drunken Noodles

A colorful dish of shrimp stir-fry with noodles, vegetables, and sesame seeds, garnished with basil leaves and green onions. Chopsticks rest on the dish.
Thai Drunken Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spicy sauce and chewy noodles make Thai Drunken Noodles a dinner that chases away the boring. Every bite is packed with aromatic flair and a little heat. I use this one for nights where basic just isn’t enough. Friends request the recipe before the meal ends.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken 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.

Savory heat and a bit of tang come together in Hot and Sour Soup for the best comfort on dreary evenings. Each bowlful soothes and excites, all at once. I make this for rainy nights or when sniffles are in the air. Everyone sips it down to the last spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

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.

Plant-based comfort lands front and center thanks to Tofu Fried Rice. The protein and grain combo keeps even big appetites pleased. I choose this dish for flexible, easy dinners. There’s always a bit of curiosity about the technique behind such a fluffy texture.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

Birria Ramen

A bowl of ramen with meat, cilantro, and a lime wedge, topped with noodles wrapped around chopsticks.
Birria Ramen. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bold, deep flavors meet chewy noodles in this Birria Ramen, shaking up what dinner means. Spices and broth come together for a bowlful that is cozy but never the same old thing. I ladle it out for potlucks and always end up sharing the recipe. Second helpings aren’t unusual.
Get the Recipe: Birria Ramen

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.

Tart, hot broth brings Tom Yum Soup alive with every spoonful. Each taste is bright, herby, and impossible to forget. I pair it with simple sides to keep the focus on the soup. Friends usually request another bowl before dessert.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

Egg Fried Rice

Oval dish filled with fried rice garnished with chopped green onions.
Egg Fried Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Nutty rice and savory flavors make Egg Fried Rice right at home with Asian comfort foods or as a speedy main. Every scoop feels warm and familiar. I use it to rescue leftovers or as a simple side. Extra always disappears at the table.
Get the Recipe: Egg Fried Rice

Lemongrass Chicken

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

Fresh, citrusy aroma makes Lemongrass Chicken an instant mood-lifter. The lively flavor works magic on long, boring weeks. I serve it on a bed of rice and always get requests for more. People often comment on its brightness.
Get the Recipe: Lemongrass Chicken

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.

All the fun of sushi, baked into creamy layers, sets Sushi Bake apart from ordinary casseroles. Scooping into the dish is half the fun for guests. I set it out for parties and watch it vanish quickly. What’s left over rarely makes it to the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

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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