My Go-To 25 Chinese Recipes For Easy Flavor Wins

When there are 25 dependable Chinese classics on hand, dinner stops feeling like a quiz show where the prize is cold leftovers. These are the kinds of dishes that quietly win over even picky eaters. They’re fast, straightforward, and keep you from that “what’s for dinner” stare into the fridge that lasts way too long.

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.

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 combined with tender chicken create the perfect balance of textures. Chicken Chow Mein brings an unmistakable comfort with its mix of crisp vegetables and savory sauce. It’s a classic for quick meals that feel hearty without much hassle. This is the reliable go-to for any time-crunch craving.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chow Mein

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.

Fried shrimp with a creamy sauce is hard to ignore. Bang Bang Shrimp stands out by blending crispy bites with just the right amount of sweetness and kick. It’s the kind of dish that fits equally well as a snack or a side. There’s no way anyone will pass by a plate of these.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

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.

The balance between sweet and tangy gets everyone’s attention. Sweet and Sour Chicken makes use of that iconic combo with battered and cooked chicken. It works perfectly for those moments when you don’t want anything too heavy. Always a dependable choice for something quick yet flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken

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 are a crowd-pleaser every time they’re served. Easy Chow Mein is a simple yet comforting mix of soft noodles and fresh veggies. With its straightforward approach, this dish is a go-to for busy days. Focusing on simplicity makes it foolproof for anyone.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

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.

Rice cooked with shrimp is instantly more interesting. Shrimp Fried Rice delivers convenience and flavor wrapped in one plate. It’s the ultimate solution when leftover rice meets creativity. Filling is simple and always a solid option for last-minute meals.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Fried Rice

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 chicken coated in tangy glaze is irresistible. General Tso’s Chicken combines fried texture with a sauce that leans sweet and slightly spicy. It’s known for being a crowd favorite for good reason. This dish always impresses with how easy it is to make at home.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

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.

Bread and shrimp come together unexpectedly. Shrimp Toast is deliciously fried with its unique seafood crunch. These small pieces make perfect finger food for gatherings or light eating. It’s a standout option without being overly complicated.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

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.

A mix of spicy flavors and nuts makes this unforgettable. Kung Pao Chicken gives you that iconic pairing of tender chicken and bold textures. Balancing a little heat with a touch of crunch keeps it interesting. This dish works every time you need something fulfilling yet quick.
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.

Smooth yet spicy flavors make this option stand out. Hot and Sour Soup brings depth with its thick broth filled with different textures. It’s a warm and filling choice on cold days or any time comfort food calls. An easy bowl to whip up for something familiar without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

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.

Sweet meets crispy in every bite of this seafood dish. Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp creates balance with a light crunch that doesn’t overpower. It’s a great way to enjoy takeout-style flavors at home without going all out. Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or main.
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.

Fried chicken paired with sesame is a familiar pairing. Sesame Chicken hits that sweet-and-savory note many love in Chinese dishes. With its shiny glaze, this is one of those meals that always feels fulfilling. Perfect when you’re in the mood for something reliably good.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

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.

Crisp slices of cucumber benefit from a kick of heat here. Spicy Cucumber Salad gives you a refreshing side option that doesn’t fade into the background. Mixing bold flavors with something light works wonders for balance. Perfect to pair with heavier meals or serve as its own snack.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

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.

Broccoli paired with protein is always a smart dinner choice. Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry simplifies the idea of takeout into an easy, homemade version. It’s one of those meals that give you a full plate without much stress. Combining textures like soft and crunchy makes this such a rewarding meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Egg Rolls

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

Crunchy texture outside with a flavorful filling inside makes these great. Egg Rolls are a go-to option for appetizers or snacks that stand out on a serving plate. They pair well alongside other dishes, making a perfect complementary side. Great for eating on the go or serving at a party spread.
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.

Zingy shredded chicken gets a tangy twist without doing too much. Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken makes light work of chicken for an upgrade to plain selections. Tangy flavors give it a nice energy alongside lighter textures. You’ll remember this go-to every time leftovers need to feel new again.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Stir-fried veggies make a simple but satisfying base for meals. Vegetable Stir Fry can be served alone or paired with something larger. It’s got the right balance of lightness and substance that makes it an excellent everyday dish. A quick choice when you want to keep things straightforward with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

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.

Tangy sweetness with crispy chicken coating defines this popular pick. Orange Chicken is one of those dishes that always delivers whether at home or as takeout. Combining crisp fried bits of protein with sweet notes never gets old. A perfect shortcut to an easy feel-good weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Fried Banana

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

Warm banana slices come to life in fried form here. Fried Banana is an easy, sweet dish that finishes off a hearty meal perfectly. The heated texture pairs just as well for dessert as it does alone. No-frill desserts like this always find their place on menus for good reason.
Get the Recipe: Fried Banana

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.

Simple yet comforting flavors shine in this popular soup. Egg Drop Soup offers velvety broth and bits of mixed texture in every spoonful. A classic staple for when you need something warm and quick that’s equally filling. It’s probably among the easiest dishes to put together from this collection.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop 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.

Tender chicken chunks and crunchy cashews create a balance of textures. Cashew Chicken offers both rich flavor and pleasing contrast. It’s perfect for when you need something quick that still feels complete. Pairing protein and crunch makes it a repeat option anytime.
Get the Recipe: Cashew 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.

Sticky fruit on sticks might look simple, but it becomes fun to eat. Tanghulu is unique for combining a sweet coating over fresh pieces in a way that is especially enjoyed. This candied fruit is perfect for casual snacking between meals or easy treats. It’s an excellent balance of healthy ingredients covered sensibly.
Get the Recipe: Tanghulu

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.

Fried rice takes a familiar twist by throwing chicken into the mix. Chicken Fried Rice is a blend of fluffy rice and tender protein that’s hard to beat. It’s the ultimate in quick meal solutions for busy days or when leftovers are around. A dependable choice for lunch or dinner every time.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

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.

Pork covered in vibrant, sweet, and tangy glaze is a crowd-pleaser. Sweet and Sour Pork is all about combining bold flavors with tender meat. It’s easy to make but brings restaurant-level comfort to your table. The flavors and textures make it a favorite for casual meals or gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork

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.

Stir-fried rice gets an upgrade with the addition of tofu for variety. Tofu Fried Rice is perfect for those who want a flavorful yet light meal. The tofu blends into the dish without overpowering the other elements. This simple combination is a great choice for quick meals.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

A bowl of white rice topped with glazed chicken and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Grilled chicken pieces glazed in sweet sauce make this classic shine. Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken captures the takeout feel in a homemade way. It’s a great option for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners. The simplicity and bold flavor keep it in regular rotation anytime hunger strikes.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki 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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