29 Chinese Recipes for Cold Nights That Need Better Food

When the weather cools off, dinner tends to matter a little more than usual. This lineup pulls together 29 Chinese recipes that work well for nights when you want something filling and dependable. The focus is on dishes that feel nicer than the usual routine without asking for extra effort. It’s about making cold evenings feel settled rather than hurried.

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

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.

Warm and comforting, this Chinese Steamed Chicken is like a cozy hug in a dish. Gentle flavors meet tender chicken, making it a favorite for chilly evenings. The simplicity of the dish lets it pair effortlessly with a side of white rice or vegetables. Perfect for when you’re craving something light yet comforting to warm you up!
Get the Recipe: Chinese Steamed Chicken

Crispy 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.
Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re looking for something crunchy with a hint of spice, this Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp is sure to impress. Each bite packs a punch of texture and bold flavor. It’s a great way to add some excitement to your dinner table, especially when you’re craving a little heat. Get ready for everyone to ask for seconds!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp

Savory Beef and Broccoli

A plate of beef and broccoli stir-fry garnished with sesame seeds, featuring glazed beef strips and broccoli florets.
Savory Beef and Broccoli. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Few things are as comforting as this Savory Beef and Broccoli on a cold evening. The tender beef and vibrant broccoli come together in a flavorful sauce you’ll want to drizzle over everything. It feels like takeout, but you can enjoy it right at home. Whether served with rice or on its own, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Savory Beef and Broccoli

Spicy 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.
Spicy Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Love bold, fiery dishes? This Spicy Kung Pao Chicken will wake up your dinner routine. It’s the perfect mix of heat, crunch, and rich-tasting goodness to take your meal up a notch. The balance of bold flavors makes it ideal for those nights when you want something energizing and exciting. Grab your chopsticks, this one’s hard to resist!
Get the Recipe: Spicy Kung Pao Chicken

Crispy Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp

A plate of honey walnut shrimp topped with green onions.
Crispy Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For a magical mix of crispy coatings and sweet nuttiness, this Crispy Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp is unbeatable. Using the air fryer keeps the shrimp perfectly crisp without the excessive oil. The blend of textures, from the crunch of the walnuts to the tangy glaze, makes every bite unforgettable. This is perfect for cozy dinners that feel indulgent yet easy!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp

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.

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of this Wonton Soup to ease the chill on a cold day. The delicate wontons floating in the flavorful broth always feel like a special treat. It’s hearty enough to be enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with your favorite Chinese takeout classics. This dish never fails to leave people asking for more!
Get the Recipe: Wonton Soup

Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

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

Sometimes, only your favorite takeout dish will do, and this Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken delivers every time! The sticky, glossy sauce clings to chicken pieces perfectly, making every bite irresistible. It’s ideal for a laid-back family dinner or meal prepping for a busy week. You won’t miss the restaurant version once you try this at home!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

A close-up of a serving of shrimp garnished with chopped green onions, red chili slices, and cilantro, placed in a bowl with chopsticks on the side.
Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bold, rich-tasting, and beautifully crisp, this Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp makes any dinner feel special. A perfect balance of salt and spice makes these shrimp stand out in the best way. Whether served as a main course or a show-stopping appetizer, they’re guaranteed to turn heads. Just be ready, these disappear faster than you’d expect!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

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.

Crispy, flaky, and full of rich-tasting goodness, these Scallion Pancakes are the ultimate comfort food. They’re perfect to snack on their own or paired with a tangy dipping sauce. Try serving them as a side dish to your favorite Chinese meals; it’s a great way to round out your dinner. Once you try these, you’ll want to make them on repeat!
Get the Recipe: Scallion Pancakes

Zesty 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.
Zesty Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bright and full of tangy flavor, this Zesty Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken is perfect for chilly nights in. Its refreshing citrus twist pairs beautifully with lean, tender chicken to give you a cozy yet light option. This dish works wonderfully over rice or even in lettuce wraps for something different. Be sure to save the leftovers, it’s even better the next day!
Get the Recipe: Zesty Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

Tangy Hot and Sour Soup

Bowl of hot and sour soup with mushrooms, tofu, and sliced green onions, with a spoon on the side.
Tangy Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When the temperature drops, this Tangy Hot and Sour Soup is the perfect solution to warm you up from the inside out. The tangy broth, combined with just the right kick of spice, will keep you coming back for more. Serve it as a starter or enjoy it on its own for a comforting meal. The aromatic steam alone will make your kitchen smell incredible.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Hot and Sour Soup

Quick 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.
Quick Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Short on time but need a filling dinner? This Quick Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry will become your new go-to recipe. Its colorful ingredients and bold flavors make it feel like a restaurant-quality dish in no time. Pair it with a bowl of rice or some noodles to create the ultimate balanced meal. It’s easy, versatile, and perfect for any night of the week!
Get the Recipe: Quick Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Flavorful Shrimp Fried Rice

A red plate of shrimp fried rice garnished with chopped green onions, with black chopsticks resting on the side.
Flavorful Shrimp Fried Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Packed with shrimp and rich-tasting goodness, this Flavorful Shrimp Fried Rice turns simple ingredients into something remarkable. The combination of fluffy rice, shrimp, and aromatic seasonings will leave you amazed at how effortless it is to make. Perfect as a side or main dish, it’s a recipe you’ll reach for whenever you have leftover rice waiting in the fridge!
Get the Recipe: Flavorful Shrimp Fried Rice

Sweet 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.
Sweet Cashew Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For a sweet and rich-tasting combo, this Sweet Cashew Chicken is hard to beat. Tender chicken and crunchy cashews make the perfect pair, while a light glaze ties everything together. Serve it over rice or enjoy it on its own for a dish everyone will love. It’s so irresistible, you may find yourself making it more often than you planned!
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cashew Chicken

Savory 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.
Savory Tofu Fried Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Even tofu skeptics will love this Savory Tofu Fried Rice! It beautifully combines protein-packed tofu with rice and seasonings for a low-effort yet comforting dish. Perfect as a main or a side, it’s especially great for chilly nights when you need something warm and deeply fulfilling. You won’t miss meat with this rich, flavorful recipe!
Get the Recipe: Savory Tofu Fried Rice

Crispy 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.
Crispy Egg Roll. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Few things are as irresistible as these Crispy Egg Rolls, golden and packed with delicious fillings. Whether served as an appetizer or a snack, they add a deeply fulfilling crunch to any meal. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, and they’ll be the first thing to disappear from the table. Make an extra batch, because you’ll definitely want seconds!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Egg Roll

Sweet 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.
Sweet General Tso’s Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Craving something with bold flavors and crispy goodness? This Sweet General Tso’s Chicken is always a hit. The combination of sticky-sweet sauce and perfectly cooked chicken makes it an unforgettable dish. Serve it alongside fried rice or noodles for the ultimate comfort meal. It’s just as good as takeout, but so much more gratifying when homemade!
Get the Recipe: Sweet General Tso’s Chicken

Crispy Shrimp Toast

Close-up of open-faced sandwiches topped with avocado, shredded carrot, microgreens, and pieces of cooked salmon on whole-grain bread.
Crispy Shrimp Toast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Add a little elegance to your table with this Crispy Shrimp Toast. The golden, crunchy bread pairs beautifully with the creamy shrimp topping for a bite that’s both sophisticated and comforting. It’s a fantastic option for parties, get-togethers, or a special appetizer before dinner. Make plenty, these are sure to impress everyone at the table!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shrimp Toast

Quick and 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.
Quick and Easy Chow Mein. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When noodle cravings strike, this Quick and Easy Chow Mein is the perfect solution. The rich-tasting flavors and deeply fulfilling textures come together in no time, making it a great last-minute meal. Whether served as a main dish or alongside your favorite Chinese-inspired recipes, it never disappoints. You’ll find yourself reaching for this one on busy nights!
Get the Recipe: Quick and Easy Chow Mein

Sweet Orange Chicken

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce.
Sweet Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Juicy and flavorful, this Sweet Orange Chicken brings a sweet and tangy twist to your dinner table. The sticky citrus glaze makes every bite unforgettable, turning a simple dish into something special. Serve it over rice or enjoy it on its own; it’s versatile, comforting, and ideal for colder evenings. Once you try it, you might skip takeout forever!
Get the Recipe: Sweet Orange Chicken

Silky Egg Drop Soup

A comforting bowl of egg drop soup elegantly garnished with fresh cilantro, vibrant chives, and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Silky Egg Drop Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Smooth, velvety, and wonderfully warming, this Silky Egg Drop Soup will have you coming back for seconds. Its delicate flavors make it a light, soothing addition to any meal, or enjoy it on its own for a low-fuss dinner. Perfect for chilly nights, it’s a dish that’s easy to make but feels like a “hug in a bowl.” You won’t believe how deeply fulfilling it is.
Get the Recipe: Silky Egg Drop Soup

Caramelized Fried Banana

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

End your meal on a cozy note with this Caramelized Fried Banana, featuring golden sugar-crusted fruit that’s impossible to resist. The warm sweetness is perfect on its own or with a scoop of ice cream for added indulgence. It’s a fun way to try dessert with a unique twist. Whether for family or guests, this dish will have everyone smiling from the first bite!
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Fried Banana

Quick Chicken Chow Mein

Stir-fried noodles with vegetables and chicken in a pan, featuring carrots, cabbage, and green onions.
Quick Chicken Chow Mein. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a dinner that’s quick without sacrificing flavor, this Quick Chicken Chow Mein delivers every time. Tender chicken and rich-tasting noodles combine to create a comforting meal that’s simple to whip up. It’s versatile enough to pair with other dishes or enjoy solo for a hearty main course. Once you serve this, it’s sure to become a weeknight favorite!
Get the Recipe: Quick Chicken Chow Mein

Crispy Candied Tanghulu

Skewers of grapes and strawberries coated in a shiny glaze are arranged on a light surface with loose fruit pieces nearby.
Crispy Candied Tanghulu. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bring a bit of fun to your dessert table with this Crispy Candied Tanghulu. The glossy, crackling candy coating adds a deeply fulfilling crunch to beautifully preserved fruit, creating a sweet treat that feels special. Popular with kids and adults alike, it’s an eye-catching snack that’s perfect for chilly nights. Serve them fresh to enjoy their unbeatable texture!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Candied Tanghulu

Tender 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.
Tender Sweet and Sour Pork. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Craving something bold and comforting? This Tender Sweet and Sour Pork has the perfect blend of tangy and rich-tasting flavors that keep you coming back for more. Each tender bite is packed with a sauce that’s perfectly balanced without being overwhelming. Pair it with rice for a complete meal that’s deeply fulfilling and delicious. Make it once, and it’ll instantly become a favorite!
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet and Sour Pork

Quick Vegetable Stir Fry

A colorful vegetable stir-fry with bell peppers, broccoli, mushrooms, and green onions, sprinkled with black sesame seeds.
Quick Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Need a simple way to embrace more veggies? This Quick Vegetable Stir Fry is just the ticket. Bright, colorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s a great option for pairing with rice, noodles, or your favorite proteins. The best part? It cooks up in minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights. You’ll love how versatile and vibrant this dish is!
Get the Recipe: Quick Vegetable Stir Fry

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.

For a dinner that’s bold and full of flavor, this Crispy Sesame Chicken is a must-try. The crispy coating absorbs the perfect amount of sweet-and-flavorful sauce, making every bite pop with flavor. It’s a delicious choice whether served with a side of fried rice or some steamed vegetables. Family-friendly and easy to love, this dish never disappoints!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sesame Chicken

Tangy Sweet and Sour Sauce

A spoon rests inside a glass jar filled with a thick, brown liquid.
Tangy Sweet and Sour Sauce. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Whether you’re using it for dipping or drizzling, this Tangy Sweet and Sour Sauce is a game-changer for your meals. Its bright flavors balance tangy and sweet perfectly, making it ideal for pairing with egg rolls, fried chicken, or noodles. Keep some ready for whenever you want to add a little zing to your dishes. It’s the kind of sauce that goes fast, so make extra!
Get the Recipe: Tangy Sweet and Sour Sauce

Fluffy Egg Fried Rice

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

Simple yet comforting, this Fluffy Egg Fried Rice transforms basic ingredients into a dish you’ll want to make daily. It’s the perfect companion to main dishes or can easily stand alone as a deeply fulfilling meal. The fluffy texture and blend of rich-tasting flavors make it ideal for using up leftover rice. Once you make it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Egg Fried Rice

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