Across these 31 Chinese food recipes, this collection provides full meals and saves money in the same place. Instead of cutting back too much, the focus stays on smart choices and good portions. These dishes work well for nights when you want something warm and filling without spending extra. Curious which options manage to stretch the budget while still feeling like a proper meal?
Crispy Shrimp Toast
Few things are as deeply fulfilling as biting into this Crispy Shrimp Toast, with its golden, crunchy exterior and flavorful shrimp topping. It’s the perfect appetizer or side to start a meal with a bit of flair. I’ve noticed it always impresses guests while using just a handful of ingredients. Affordable, easy, and so flavorful!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shrimp Toast
Cashew Chicken
If you’re craving something hearty with just the right amount of crunch, this Cashew Chicken hits the mark. Tender chicken and toasted cashews come together in a flavorful sauce that delivers every time. I love how simple it is to make while feeling like a restaurant favorite. Perfect with rice or on its own!
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken
Scallion Pancakes
Treat yourself to the flaky, layered goodness of these Scallion Pancakes without breaking the bank. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavorful scallion flavor. I find they’re a fun addition to any meal or even as a snack. Dip them into soy sauce for an irresistible bite!
Get the Recipe: Scallion Pancakes
Egg Drop Soup
When you’re looking for something quick, warming, and light, this Egg Drop Soup is always a great option. Soft, silky egg ribbons floating in flavorful broth feel like the ultimate comfort food. I often make this recipe when I want something cozy on a busy weeknight. So simple, yet so deeply fulfilling!
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup
Tofu Fried Rice
This Tofu Fried Rice is proof that affordable meals can also be delicious and full of flavor. Lightly crispy tofu is paired with seasoned rice and vegetables for a filling dish that feels balanced and hearty. I like making this recipe when I’m craving something meaty but want to keep it plant-based. Budget-friendly and amazing!
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice
Chicken Chow Mein
Few recipes come together as quickly and deliciously as this Chicken Chow Mein. Tender noodles tossed with chicken and crunchy veggies make for a perfect meal that’s easy on the wallet. I’ve served this when I need dinner in a pinch, and it always gets rave reviews. Sometimes, simple is exactly what you need!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chow Mein
Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp
The crispy, flavorful coating on this Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp makes every bite irresistible. A mix of bold seasoning and perfectly cooked shrimp ensures this dish always disappears fast. I love how it feels indulgent but is still surprisingly affordable. Serve it with rice for a truly fulfilling dinner!
Get the Recipe: Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp
Pork Fried Rice
Stretch those leftovers with this Pork Fried Rice, a flavorful dish that’s budget-friendly and comes together in minutes. The mix of flavorful pork, rice, and seasonings creates a hearty meal you’ll keep coming back to. I’ve made this for casual weeknight dinners, and it’s always a hit. No fancy ingredients needed!
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice
Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken
Get the flavors of takeout at home with this Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken. Packed with a rich, sweet glaze, it’s hard to believe how easy this dish is to make. It’s one of those recipes I love for staying within budget while meeting all those takeout cravings. Prepare for everyone to ask for seconds!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken
Hot and Sour Soup
A good bowl of this Hot and Sour Soup delivers bold, comforting flavors perfect for a chilly day. Tangy, spicy, and full of texture, it’s a deeply fulfilling option without feeling heavy. I enjoy making it as a way to change up my soup rotation. You’ll love how flavorful it is with simple, affordable ingredients!
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup
General Tso’s Chicken
Skip the takeout bill and make this General Tso’s Chicken from the comfort of your home. Its crispy texture and sweet, tangy glaze make every bite wonderfully enjoyable. I’ve found it tastes just as good as restaurant versions but at a fraction of the cost. Serve it with rice for an easy, budget-friendly dinner!
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken
Candied Tanghulu
This Candied Tanghulu is a fun, sweet treat that takes fruits and coats them in a crackly sugar shell. It’s perfect for a snack or dessert that feels unique but is still affordable. I’ve made it with different fruits for variety, and every version is a hit. Who knew something so simple could feel so special?
Get the Recipe: Candied Tanghulu
Crispy Sesame Chicken
The crunchy coating and sticky-sweet sesame glaze in this Crispy Sesame Chicken make it hard to stop at just one bite. It’s unexpectedly easy to make at home and always tastes better than takeout. I’ve served it for family dinners, and it disappears faster than I can plate it. Affordable comfort food at its best!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sesame Chicken
Vegetable Stir Fry
Ready in minutes, this Vegetable Stir Fry packs a punch of flavor while still being super budget-friendly. It’s the perfect way to use up vegetables in your fridge and create a vibrant, filling meal. I make this recipe when I need something healthy but crave something bold. Add rice or noodles, and dinner’s done!
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry
Chinese Steamed Chicken
When simplicity is key, this Chinese Steamed Chicken is a dinner that never disappoints. Perfectly tender with subtle flavors, it’s nourishing, light, and so easy to prepare. I reach for this dish when I want something wholesome yet deeply fulfilling. Pair it with rice, and it’s a no-fuss, seriously tasty meal!
Get the Recipe: Chinese Steamed Chicken
Chow Mein
There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of this Chow Mein, filled with tender noodles and flavorful notes. It’s a dish I turn to when I need something quick and affordable for weeknight dinners. I love how customizable it is, letting you use whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand. A total lifesaver recipe!
Get the Recipe: Chow Mein
Chicken Fried Rice
Whenever there’s leftover chicken in my fridge, this Chicken Fried Rice becomes the perfect way to repurpose it. It’s hearty, flavorful, and comes together in no time. I love how easy it is to customize with whatever veggies I have around. It’s always filling, deeply fulfilling, and doesn’t hurt my wallet.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice
Sweet and Sour Pork
With its tangy sauce and perfectly cooked pork, this Sweet and Sour Pork is a dish that stands out. It’s flavorful, fun, and works great as a dinner the whole family can enjoy. I find it perfect for those days when you’re craving takeout-style food without overspending. A classic made for sharing!
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
When the fridge is looking bare, this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry saves the day. It’s a simple, one-pan dish that’s as affordable as it is flavorful. The balance of tender chicken and crunchy broccoli feels deeply fulfilling every time. Pair this with rice or noodles for a meal that’s easy on the budget and big on taste!
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Shrimp Fried Rice
This Shrimp Fried Rice comes together in minutes but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Tender shrimp, fragrant rice, and a few basic seasonings create something truly special. I reach for this recipe when I want to impress without spending too much. It’s filling, flavorful, and always a favorite!
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Fried Rice
Kung Pao Chicken
Packed with heat, crunch, and a burst of flavor, this Kung Pao Chicken is anything but boring. The mix of bold seasonings and tender chicken keeps it exciting and affordable. I find myself making it when I need to break up repetitive dinner routines. Plus, it pairs so well with steamed rice!
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken
Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp
Say goodbye to expensive takeout with this Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp, a lighter twist on the restaurant favorite. Crispy shrimp and the sweet honey glaze make this dish feel indulgent without being heavy. I love how the air fryer makes it so easy to prepare. You’ll never guess how affordable it is!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp
Egg Roll
Whether it’s an appetizer or snack, this Egg Roll is always a good time. Crispy, golden wrappers filled with a flavorful mix of vegetables or meat offer that classic crunch with every bite. I make a batch and freeze extras for easy meals later in the week. They’re so affordable, and everyone always wants more!
Get the Recipe: Egg Roll
Sweet Orange Chicken
Brighten up your dinner with this Sweet Orange Chicken, a sweet and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknights. The sticky orange glaze brings bold flavor while still being light on the wallet. I make it when I don’t want to sacrifice flavor for convenience. Pair it with rice or noodles for a complete meal!
Get the Recipe: Sweet Orange Chicken
Wonton Soup
Few soups are as simple or comforting as this Wonton Soup, filled with tender dumplings in a flavorful broth. It’s a great way to enjoy something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. I like serving it as a starter, but honestly, it’s filling enough to enjoy as a main meal. Always a favorite in my home!
Get the Recipe: Wonton Soup
Sweet and Sour Chicken
This Sweet and Sour Chicken brings together crispy textures and a tangy-sweet sauce that’s impossible to resist. You don’t have to spend a lot to create a restaurant-style meal like this at home. I love how quick it is to whip up on a busy evening. Just don’t be surprised if everyone asks for seconds!
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken
Bang Bang Shrimp
Crispy, creamy, and just spicy enough, this Bang Bang Shrimp is a go-to for an easy dinner or snack. Coated in a tangy, sweet chili sauce, they pack big flavor into every bite. I’ve served this at get-togethers, and it’s often the first dish to go. It’s quick, affordable, and completely worth making from scratch!
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp
Caramelized Fried Banana
This Caramelized Fried Banana is a budget-friendly dessert that feels like a total treat. Golden, caramelized bananas are soft and sweet, making them the perfect way to end a meal. I sometimes drizzle a little honey on top for extra flair. Simple and deeply fulfilling, it wins me over every time!
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Fried Banana
Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken
If you love bold citrus flavor, this Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken will become a fast favorite. Juicy chicken coated in a tangy, lively kick sauce is perfect over rice or on its own. It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent even though it’s incredibly budget-friendly. Quick, delicious, and perfect for any night!
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken
Beef and Broccoli
For a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious, this Beef and Broccoli never fails. Tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a flavorful sauce come together for a simple dish that’s made for weeknight dinners. I especially enjoy it because it’s quick, customizable, and won’t hurt your wallet. A timeless favorite!
Get the Recipe: Beef and Broccoli
Egg Fried Rice
This Egg Fried Rice makes the most out of kitchen staples to create a quick and hearty dish. Fluffy eggs and seasoned rice make it deeply fulfilling enough to stand alone, yet perfect as a side with any meal. I love making this recipe when I need something in a pinch. Affordable and always a savior!
Get the Recipe: Egg Fried Rice
