I Learned 29 Chinese Food Recipes So I’d Stop Spending

Takeout bills add up quickly, so learning 29 Chinese food recipes at home is a smart move. It’s an easy way to enjoy restaurant-style favorites without the extra cost, and you might start skipping delivery altogether. Covering classics and hidden gems, these recipes blend bold flavors with simple, approachable steps. Whether you’re saving money or trying something new, homemade Chinese dishes make dinner an easy win.

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.

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.

Making meals with fresh, bold flavors can be simple, especially when you have a gem like Scallion Pancakes. These crispy, layered flatbreads pair beautifully with any main dish or are great on their own. Tossing out takeout cravings becomes easier when you have this recipe up your sleeve. You’ll love how quick it is to whip them up any time you crave that golden crunch.
Get the Recipe: Scallion Pancakes

Tangy Sweet and Sour Chicken

Close-up of sweet and sour chicken with bell peppers and pineapple chunks in a thick sauce.
Tangy Sweet and Sour Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

More than a classic, this dish always brings bold contrasting flavors to the table. With Tangy Sweet and Sour Chicken, every bite is a mix of vibrant tanginess and slight sweetness, making it unforgettable. It pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe is popular among those who enjoy bold, well-balanced flavors at home.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Sweet and Sour 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.

When you need comfort in a bowl, this never disappoints. Silky Egg Drop Soup has that soothing consistency paired with just the right level of flavor. It’s great as a warm starter for any meal or as a simple solo option when you need something quick. Skip ordering, and enjoy this at home anytime with ease.
Get the Recipe: Silky Egg Drop Soup

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.

For those who are big fans of seafood, this dish is a must-try. Crispy Shrimp Toast delivers crunch and a satisfying bite in every piece. It’s a smart appetizer that looks impressive without being complicated to make. Perfect when guests are over or when you’re treating yourself to something different.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shrimp Toast

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.

Looking for a fast dish that can complement just about anything? Quick Vegetable Stir Fry lets you whip up something healthy and vibrant without much effort. You’ll appreciate how versatile it is, whether served alone or paired with rice or protein. It’s super easy to customize to match your preferences, making meals less complicated.
Get the Recipe: Quick Vegetable Stir Fry

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.

When you need bold flavor without spending hours, this dish delivers big. Zesty Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken combines citrus notes with tender texture, creating a dish that feels special whether for lunch or dinner. It easily pairs with rice, noodles, or even salad bases. The simplicity of preparation makes it an easy favorite at home.
Get the Recipe: Zesty Chinese Lemon Shredded 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.

Dishes that feel fancy don’t always require ordering from outside. Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp brings a lovely crunch with a twist that you can easily pull together yourself. It’s a recipe that’s great for sharing or for those days when you want to treat yourself better at home. You’ll probably find yourself coming back to this one to avoid spending too much money on restaurant prices.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp

Fluffy Egg Fried Rice

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

Ever find yourself needing a quick meal with minimal effort? Fluffy Egg Fried Rice is an ideal choice that uses simple methods to create a filling dish. Its soft texture, combined with mild flavors, makes it suited for both meals or side dishes. Cooking this at home means fewer orders from restaurants during busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Egg Fried Rice

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.

Making a go-to meal for busy nights doesn’t mean grabbing the phone for delivery. Quick Chicken Chow Mein is a reliable option when there’s little time but plenty of hunger. It’s the type of dish that feels filling and pairs well with whatever you have around. Cutting down on spending starts by customizing recipes like this to fit your weekly meals.
Get the Recipe: Quick Chicken Chow Mein

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.

Sometimes adding one sauce can change the entire meal’s balance, right? That’s why Tangy Sweet and Sour Sauce is so useful, letting you level up stir fry dishes, sides, or even snacks. It’s versatile and easily used with chicken, pork, or vegetable dishes. You’ll want to keep this recipe bookmarked anytime you’re out of ideas for making everyday meals exciting again.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Sweet and Sour Sauce

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.

Choosing homemade fixes rather than takeout can feel empowering. Quick Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry gives you a chance to whip up a classic pairing that works for any meal. It’s straightforward enough to tackle even when you’re short on prep time. Learning dishes like these gives you a reason to step back from ordering and save more in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Quick Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Caramelized Fried Banana

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

Sweet dishes don’t always have to come from boxed desserts or bakery shelves. Caramelized Fried Banana offers a warm, gooey treat that’s simple enough for a homemade indulgence. Skipping sugary snacks from stores becomes easier with something this good. It’s a quick dessert option that hits the spot without feeling overly complicated or expensive.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Fried Banana

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.

There’s something so appealing about pairing tangy citrus with tender bites, isn’t there? Sweet Orange Chicken brings this idea to life with its vibrant flavors that work well for both lunch and dinner. It’s much easier to make than most people think, which helps cut down on takeout habits. Just having this recipe handy makes cooking at home more exciting.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Orange 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.

Mastering memorable dishes takes less effort than you might imagine. Crispy Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp shows how a restaurant-worthy dish can be made at home in no time. It’s great for showcasing at gatherings or treating yourself on a casual evening. Skipping takeout for this recipe makes you appreciate tasty, economical choices at home.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Honey Walnut 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.

Trying out recipes can be rewarding when they’re easy and packed with flavor. Savory Beef and Broccoli is a dependable combination for a fulfilling dish that feels effortless to prepare. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy something hearty and fresh. Forget ordering out when meals like this can be mastered in your home kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Savory Beef and Broccoli

Flavorful Chicken Fried Rice

Close-up of chicken fried rice with peas, carrots, sliced green onions, and chopsticks.
Flavorful Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Homestyle cooking becomes a lot simpler when you start with crowd-pleasers. Flavorful Chicken Fried Rice brings together a balance of protein and grains for an easy meal combination. It’s a dish that works for quick lunches or satisfying dinners without stretching your wallet. Avoiding pricey food deliveries starts with learning recipes just like this one.
Get the Recipe: Flavorful Chicken Fried Rice

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.

Treats that feel unique are often the ones you’ll want to make again and again. Crispy Candied Tanghulu lets you create something fun at home instead of relying on high dessert prices. With every bite of the sweet and crunchy texture, you’ll appreciate the homemade effort. It’s easy enough for anyone to try and perfectly ideal for casual weekends indoors.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Candied Tanghulu

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.

When quick recipes are on your mind, flavorful meals don’t have to seem out of reach. Sweet Cashew Chicken combines a solid pairing you can perfect at home without heading to a nearby restaurant. It’s simple enough for weekday nights or meal prep rotations without overcomplicating your schedule. Skipping dining out with recipes like this can really help with cutting expenses.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cashew Chicken

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.

Cooking at home doesn’t need to take hours. Quick and Easy Chow Mein shows you how to prepare a foolproof noodle base for meals in less time than ordering out. It’s flexible enough to complement different proteins or vegetables, making it a valuable staple. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll understand why opting for this homemade option saves both time and money.
Get the Recipe: Quick and Easy Chow Mein

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.

Easy-to-master recipes are often the most rewarding for busy weeks. Flavorful Shrimp Fried Rice delivers on the promise of quick preparation without giving up on being filling. It works wonders as both a complete dish or a side to your favorite creations. Simple swaps like this can shift your routine away from spending extra on repeat takeout orders.
Get the Recipe: Flavorful Shrimp Fried Rice

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.

Replicating iconic dishes doesn’t have to be a hassle when you have some reliable recipes. Sweet General Tso’s Chicken is a dish that’s just as memorable at home as it is from a restaurant menu. This classic combination of flavor and texture works for lunch, dinner, or even planned leftovers. It’s the kind of meal where cooking it yourself feels just as indulgent as ordering delivery.
Get the Recipe: Sweet General Tso’s 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.

Meals with crunch are always a crowd-pleaser. Adding Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp to your go-to recipe list means you’ll have a fresh option that’s anything but boring. It’s bold and versatile enough to impress without overcomplicating your time at home. Skipping takeout never felt this rewarding when you’ve got something this tasty right in your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

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.

Home cooks often love experimenting with recipes that feel special yet attainable. Tender Sweet and Sour Pork delivers a flavorful homemade option without relying on restaurant deliveries. This balanced dish works well for family meals or even casual gatherings. Once you make it yourself, ordering it out will hardly feel necessary anymore.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet and Sour Pork

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.

Meals that combine ease with flexibility often stand out the most, right? That’s where Savory Tofu Fried Rice excels, bringing everything from textures to simple preparation into one dish. Add it to your weekly plans to skip convenience foods and enjoy something fresh at home. Once you try this recipe out, you’ll be glad you took the time to make it instead of ordering out.
Get the Recipe: Savory Tofu Fried Rice

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.

Figuring out dinner plans can be easier when you know your go-to meal options. Crispy Sesame Chicken provides the crunch and flavor you’d expect without ordering from a restaurant. It’s straightforward to whip up for evenings when you want something dependable and home-cooked. Putting recipes like this into your rotation makes skipping expensive food deliveries a simple choice.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sesame 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.

Sometimes, the simplest meals are the ones worth repeating. Tangy Hot and Sour Soup works well for lunch or dinner when you don’t want to overthink your menu. It’s light enough yet packed with bold flavors that you can adjust to your liking. Cooking this yourself lets you skip over pricier restaurant versions without missing out.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Hot and Sour Soup

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.

Chinese dishes like Spicy Kung Pao Chicken are always better when prepared fresh in your own kitchen. Balancing the mild heat with tender chicken is simple when you skip over-complicated recipes. Homemade versions give you better control of spice and texture for a perfect result every time. You won’t miss ordering this out once you make it your own.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Kung Pao Chicken

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.

Nothing beats making something at home that usually comes in a box or order bag. Crispy Egg Roll is perfect when you need a quick snack or want to try your hand at making appetizers from scratch. No more relying on store-bought versions when you can whip these up yourself. Pair it with your favorite dip, and enjoy every bite with a whole new appreciation.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Egg Roll

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.

Bringing restaurant favorites home feels so rewarding, doesn’t it? Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken delivers the same bold glaze and texture you love but without needing a takeout menu. It makes building better meals at home faster and just as enjoyable. After making this once, it’s likely to stick in your rotation as a homemade option.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

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