My 29 Favorite Asian Recipes That Are Better Than Takeout

Ordering takeout feels easier until you realize there are 29 homemade options that beat it every time. These recipes manage to outshine the box and bag without much effort. Friends usually stop mid-bite to point out how good they are. That’s when you realize staying in was the better choice all along.

Shrimp Fried Rice

Weeknight dinners can be so much better with something fast yet flavorful. Shrimp Fried Rice is packed with just the right balance of seasoning and texture to make it stand out. It brings together tender shrimp and a perfectly cooked rice base. Each bite feels complete without needing anything extra.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Fried Rice

Butter Chicken

Need something creamy and flavorful? Butter Chicken delivers that perfect balance of richness and seasoning in every bite. Its bold flavors make it a go-to choice when you’re craving something with flair. Paired with rice or bread, it’s a meal you’ll want again and again.
Get the Recipe: Butter Chicken

Kimchi

Spicy, tangy, and fermented; this is a staple that brings amazing boldness with just a spoonful. Kimchi offers layers of flavor that work with rice, soups, or on its own. It’s been a traditional favorite for a reason, delivering fermented flavor that shines. Keeps meals exciting and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi

Crab Rangoon

Bite-sized snacks can be irresistibly good, especially those stuffed with creaminess. Crab Rangoon adds crunch and smoothness in every bite, making it a standout appetizer. The combination of crispy outside and soft filling creates a perfect balance. It’s truly an appetizer everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon

Massaman Curry

Rich and layered, this recipe mixes warming spices into something unforgettable. Massaman Curry pairs beautifully with rice or bread for a fulfilling pairing. Perfect for those who like depth in their meals. The mix of hearty ingredients makes it truly comforting.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry

Sweet and Sour Chicken

When you want something tangy and flavorful, this option really comes through. Sweet and Sour Chicken has a standout sauce that’s sticky, balanced, and pairs perfectly with the crispy bites of chicken. It’s a great mix of textures and flavors. Enjoy it with steamed rice for the perfect pairing.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken

Teriyaki Sauce

Sometimes all you need is the right condiment to upgrade your meal. Teriyaki Sauce is sweet, sticky, and perfect for glazing over meats, veggies, or even rice. It’s easy to add to so many recipes, making it incredibly versatile. Once you’ve tried it, it quickly becomes a favorite drizzle.
Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Sauce

Chicken Tikka Masala

Looking for something balanced in spice and creaminess? Chicken Tikka Masala packs bold flavor and creamy texture into every bite. The sauce pairs easily with rice or bread for an all-in meal. It stands out as one of those recipes you can’t stop loving.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Masala

Dashi

A good base can completely transform your meals, and this one is unforgettable. Dashi enriches broths and stews with its umami-packed essence, helping other ingredients shine. It’s a core part of several recipes that stands apart. Adding it to your kitchen opens up options to other creations.
Get the Recipe: Dashi

Udon Noodles

Thick, chewy, and satisfying, these noodles are worth adding to your rotation. Udon Noodles pair perfectly with hot broths, stir-fries, or even cold sauces. The texture makes them stand out from other options. They’re easy to personalize based on what you’re craving.
Get the Recipe: Udon Noodles

Bang Bang Shrimp

Crispy bites paired with a flavorful coating make this a must-try. Bang Bang Shrimp is bold, combining a unique balance of spice and sauce. These shrimp are great on their own or paired with rice or salad. Once you start enjoying them, it’s hard to stop.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Korean Burgers

Ever tried burgers with an extra flavorful twist? Korean Burgers bring bold flavors and pair perfectly with toppings like slaw or pickles. Each bite is juicy and packed full of seasoning that feels anything but ordinary. It’s a fresh take on a classic idea that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

Chicken Chow Mein

Stir-fried noodles done right bring everything to the table. Chicken Chow Mein is a quick and customizable meal that combines tender chicken with flavorful noodles. It’s the perfect dinner when you don’t feel like ordering out. Add your favorite toppings, and you’re good to go.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chow Mein

Shrimp Tempura Roll

Sushi fans won’t want to miss this one. Shrimp Tempura Roll combines crispy seafood with perfectly rolled rice and seaweed for a complete bite. Its balance of texture and flavor makes it a go-to in any sushi platter. You’ll keep coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura Roll

Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

Next-level fried chicken dishes make meals unforgettable. Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken mixes crispy meat with a sweet and tangy coating. Its freshness and crunch work beautifully together. It’s a recipe that feels like it belongs in a takeout menu.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

Pork Belly

Few cuts of meat stand out as much as this one. Pork Belly has perfect layers of crisp and tenderness for a unique mix. It’s hard to match how well it adapts to both quick and slow cooking. Whether grilled or roasted, it’s a recipe worth revisiting.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly

Chicken Tempura

Chicken Tempura delivers crispness and lightness together, with its perfectly cooked batter that doesn’t overwhelm the meat. The golden coating gives just enough crunch to balance the tenderness inside. The simplicity of the technique lets the chicken shine through every bite. Pair with dipping sauces to mix things up.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tempura

Vegetable Stir Fry

Need something quick yet packed with texture? Vegetable Stir Fry combines a variety of crunchy ingredients for a wholesome meal choice. It works on its own or as a side dish to any protein you like. Simple yet filled with delicious combinations in every forkful.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Chickpea Curry

Vegetarian meals can be just as rich and full-flavored. Chickpea Curry balances hearty textures with bold seasoning for a complete dish. Whether served over rice or eaten on its own, it’s as filling as any meat-based version. It’s easy to enjoy as a standalone favorite or paired with bread.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Curry

Spicy Udon Noodles

Sometimes you need a dish with just the right kick. Spicy Udon Noodles combines bold seasoning with the chewy texture of udon. Perfect for when you’re in the mood for simplicity but with an extra punch of flavor. The heat and satisfaction are unmatched, and every bite feels balanced.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon Noodles

Crispy Rice

Fried rice gets a new spin with something even more texturally interesting. Crispy Rice offers that extra crunch while still delivering the flavors you love in rice-based dishes. Perfect on its own or paired with savory toppings to complete it. Both easy to enjoy and endlessly versatile.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Rice

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Replicating favorites at home has never been simpler. Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe creates that iconic balance between tender meat and sweet, sticky sauce. It’s the perfect choice to upgrade regular chicken dinners. A tried-and-true copycat for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Asian Slaw

Salads take a flavorful twist when prepared this way. Asian Slaw combines crunchy greens with bold seasonings for a refreshing meal side or topping. It’s easy to toss together yet leaves a strong, memorable impression. Works great alongside heavier dishes to keep your meals balanced.
Get the Recipe: Asian Slaw

Thai Yellow Curry

Spice blends take center stage in this comforting choice. Thai Yellow Curry brings hearty ingredients together in a perfectly balanced, creamy dish. It’s versatile enough to pair with different bases or proteins for added variety. With a bold spice profile, it’s one of those recipes that shines.
Get the Recipe: Thai Yellow Curry

Tanghulu

Desserts don’t have to be fussy to stand out. Tanghulu coats fruits in a hardened sweet layer for a crunchy, fruity experience. Fun to make and even more enjoyable to eat, it’s perfect for sharing with friends. The mix of sweetness and freshness is always enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Tanghulu

Elevated Ramen Noodles

Elevated Ramen Noodles takes something simple and turns it into something much better with just a few tweaks. Perfect for those who want to upgrade their meals in a few easy steps. It proves quick stuff can still feel complete.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Ramen Noodles

Strawberry Mochi

Need a dessert packed with texture and sweetness? Strawberry Mochi has that chewy outside and fruity center that’s hard to beat. It’s easy to enjoy whether it’s for a snack or after a good meal. A great treat that feels light, fresh, and fun.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Mochi

Lemongrass Chicken

Grilled or pan-cooked options don’t get better than this. Lemongrass Chicken offers layers of flavor thanks to its bold ingredients and tender meat. It’s a stand-out recipe that works for both casual dinners or special meals. The fragrant flavors pair well with grains or greens.
Get the Recipe: Lemongrass Chicken

Korean Corn Dogs

Snacks don’t get more fun than this. Korean Corn Dogs combine crispy coating with a soft, tender inside for an irresistible balance. Great as an on-the-go snack or for enjoying while relaxing. It’s the snack upgrade you didn’t know you needed.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Dogs