What Got Me Excited About Cooking Again Were These 21 Chinese Dishes

I didn’t think cooking could feel fun again until these 21 Chinese dishes reminded me it doesn’t have to be a chore. They’re bold, quick to throw together, and make dinner feel less like a job and more like a win. Half the time I was surprised I actually made something good. The other half, I was just impressed I didn’t burn anything.

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.

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.

Cashew Chicken brings together the crunch of cashews and the tender chicken, creating a fulfilling bite in every piece. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal with a bit of texture. Whether for a quick dinner or a comforting meal, this dish always does the trick. It’s one of those meals that just hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Cashew 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.

You’ll love the crispy, golden exterior of Shrimp Toast, which is packed with flavor inside. This dish is perfect for anyone craving something crispy and fulfilling. It’s quick to make, and the mix of textures gives you just the right amount of crunch and tenderness. The combination is so simple, yet always delicious.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

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.

Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a no-fuss dish that never disappoints. It’s packed with veggies and chicken, offering a quick, healthy dinner that’s easy to whip up. The balance of flavors makes it a solid choice for any night. If you’re looking for something straightforward yet filling, this one’s a winner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

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.

This dish takes the shrimp game up a notch. The air fryer makes it crisp without all the oil, while the sweet glaze keeps things interesting. Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp is one of those dishes that feels like a treat without being overly heavy. A great option if you’re craving something light but still indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp

Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

A plate of Asian-style salad with shredded vegetables, chicken, orange slices, sesame seeds, and garnished with herbs.
Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken. Photo Credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen

For something tangy and light, Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken hits the mark. The lemon brings a refreshing zing that pairs perfectly with the shredded chicken. It’s a simple yet flavorful option when you’re in the mood for something fresh. This dish is light but still packs enough to keep you full.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

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.

Egg Drop Soup is the kind of dish that’s comforting yet quick. It’s silky, smooth, and perfect for when you want something warm without much fuss. Whether you’re starting a meal or just need a quick snack, this soup always works. Simple, warm, and just the right amount of soothing.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

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.

This is a classic that never goes out of style. Chicken Fried Rice is a quick and easy meal that lets you use up leftovers while still keeping things tasty. The chicken adds heartiness, while the rice makes it filling without being heavy. If you’re looking for a meal that’s simple and fulfilling, this dish is always a hit.
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.

If you’re after something tangy and flavorful, Sweet and Sour Pork has you covered. The pork is tender and balanced by the perfect sweet and sour sauce. It’s a dish that feels light but fulfilling, with just the right amount of kick. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or craving a bit of tang, this is the answer.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork

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.

General Tso’s Chicken is the kind of dish that’s got just the right balance of sweet, salty, and spicy. It’s one of those meals you crave when you want something bold. The chicken is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and the sauce ties it all together. If you’re in the mood for a little heat with some sweetness, this one’s it.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s 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.

When you need something quick and comforting, Easy Chow Mein is the way to go. It’s the kind of dish that’s easy to toss together and will still impress everyone. The noodles come out just right with a little bit of crunch. This dish is all about simplicity, without losing that fulfilling punch.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

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.

Sesame Chicken is a great way to spice things up in the kitchen. It’s got that perfect crunch from the crispy coating and a sauce that brings a fulfilling sweetness. The sesame seeds add a nice touch, making each bite feel more special. It’s one of those dishes that’ll make you want to cook more often.
Get the Recipe: Sesame 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.

There’s nothing like a bowl of Hot and Sour Soup to warm you up. It’s got that perfect balance of spicy and tangy that makes each spoonful exciting. This soup is not just filling, it’s also full of depth. It’ll definitely make you look forward to every bite.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

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.

Orange Chicken is packed with bold flavors that’ll definitely stand out. The tangy sauce really brings the dish to life, while the chicken stays crispy on the outside. It’s one of those meals that makes you wonder why you haven’t tried it sooner. If you’re looking for something with a bit of sweetness and heat, this one’s a win.
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.

This is a fun, sweet treat that’s surprisingly simple to make. Fried Banana is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and brings a bit of sweetness to any meal. A perfect dessert or snack, it doesn’t require much but brings plenty of enjoyment. It’s one of those quick fixes that leave you wanting more.
Get the Recipe: Fried Banana

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.

If you’re in the mood for something bold, Kung Pao Chicken is a solid choice. It packs a punch with its mix of savory and spicy, all while keeping the chicken tender. The peanuts add a nice crunch, making it a texture-filled treat. It’s the kind of dish that never fails to impress.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

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.

Tofu Fried Rice is perfect for when you need something simple but satisfying. The tofu soaks up all the goodness of the seasonings, making every bite flavorful. It’s a dish that works well as a side or on its own. You’ll love how easily this one comes together.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

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.

If you’re craving a good teriyaki dish, Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe has you covered. The chicken comes out tender, glazed with a sweet and savory sauce that makes every bite count. It’s a great go-to when you’re in the mood for something flavorful but easy to prepare. This dish definitely brings a restaurant-quality vibe to your home.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

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.

Sweet and Sour Sauce is the perfect companion for so many dishes. It’s got that perfect balance of tangy and sweet, making it a staple in many kitchens. Whether it’s for dipping or drizzling, it’s sure to bring a burst of flavor to your plate. Keep some on hand for whenever you need that extra zing.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce

Vegetable Stir Fry

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

This is a simple yet satisfying way to get your veggies in. The mix of colors and textures makes it as fun to look at as it is to eat. You can throw in whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a flexible meal. Vegetable Stir Fry is a dish that’s quick to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

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.

Sweet and Sour Chicken is the kind of dish that hits all the right notes. The crispy chicken and the tangy sauce mix so well together, it’s hard not to enjoy. It’s a dish that’s as simple to make as it is delicious to eat. You can never go wrong with this one in your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour 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.

For a dish that’s full of flavor, Bang Bang Shrimp is the way to go. It’s crispy, creamy, and just the right amount of spicy, making it hard to stop eating. This one’s perfect for a snack or an appetizer, and it’ll definitely make your kitchen smell amazing. You won’t regret giving this a try!
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

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