31 Asian Recipes That Wake Up Tired Weeknight Dinners

ByMandy

Dinner can feel predictable when energy is low and time is tight. You will find 31 Asian recipes here that help shake up weeknight routines without overcomplicating things. Flavors range from comforting staples to options that bring a little extra kick to the table. Even on a packed day, there is an idea that fits what you have going on.

Shrimp fried rice with peas, eggs, and diced vegetables being stirred with a wooden spatula.
Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Pork Fried Rice

Close-up of fried rice with chunks of meat, peas, diced carrots, and bean sprouts mixed together.
Pork Fried Rice. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

When you’re looking to make something comforting yet simple, this Pork Fried Rice delivers every time. It’s flavorful, filling, and easy to whip up on a busy evening. Whether served solo or as part of a spread, it brings reliable taste to the table. This dish is one you’ll keep coming back to.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice

Lemongrass Chicken

Grilled chicken with herbs on white rice, garnished with shredded carrots and cabbage.
Lemongrass Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A refreshing twist to weeknight dinners, this Lemongrass Chicken makes mealtime feel a little more vibrant. With a perfect balance of savory and citrusy notes, it’s sure to stand out. The flavors make it feel special without being complicated. Serve it once, and it might just become a regular request.
Get the Recipe: Lemongrass Chicken

Black Bean Noodles

A bowl of stir-fried udon noodles with beef, cabbage, and green onion garnish, served with a pair of chopsticks on the side.
Black Bean Noodles. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Tired of the same old noodle dishes? This Black Bean Noodles recipe brings a savory richness that feels filling without being heavy. The mix of textures keeps every bite interesting while still leaning into that cozy feel. It’s a smart choice when you want something quick and comforting with a little extra depth.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Noodles

Sweet Asian Style Pork Chops

Close-up of sliced grilled pork belly garnished with sesame seeds and green chili, served on a bed of kale.
Sweet Asian Style Pork Chops. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mealtimes feel upgraded when you try this Sweet Asian Style Pork Chops recipe. The balance of savory and sweet gives it a bold profile without being overwhelming. It works well when you want something a little different from the usual routine. Pair the chops with simple sides to round out the plate and make it a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Asian Style Pork Chops

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.

There’s something soothing about the simplicity of this Chinese Steamed Chicken that makes it perfect for low-key dinners. Its tender texture and balanced taste make it feel wholesome and comforting. Pair it with simple sides for a deliciously fuss-free meal. This is perfect for days when you want light but flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Steamed Chicken

Elevated Ramen Noodles

A bowl of ramen with soft-boiled egg, vegetables, and sesame seeds.
Elevated Ramen Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Busy days call for quick meals, and this Elevated Ramen Noodles recipe delivers just that with a twist. It takes your usual weeknight favorite and gives it a flavorful upgrade. You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen for a dish that feels exciting. Simple but filling, it’s a real time-saver.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Ramen Noodles

Spicy Tuna Bowl

A bowl of white rice topped with sliced cucumber, shredded nori, chopped green onions, and a portion of tuna, with a pair of chopsticks resting on top.
Spicy Tuna Bowl. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Layers of fresh and bold flavors make this Spicy Tuna Bowl a fun addition to your mealtime rotation. Whether you’re running short on time or want something that feels light and vibrant, it’s an ideal choice. It’s easy to prepare yet tastes far from ordinary. This bowl brings a refreshing energy to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Bowl

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.

Looking for something hearty with a bit of spice? This Kung Pao Chicken strikes the perfect balance between bold flavors and easy preparation. It’s a dependable dinner option whenever you need something fulfilling but not too heavy. With its mix of textures and flavors, your weeknight meals just got better.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Seaweed Salad

A close-up of seaweed salad with sesame seeds on a red plate, with chopsticks picking up a portion.
Seaweed Salad. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

For something unique and refreshing, this Seaweed Salad is a perfect choice. Its crisp texture and light flavors make it an excellent side dish to complement your meal. It’s a great way to bring balance without feeling overwhelming, and it’s easy to add to your weeknight dinner lineup. Simple yet effective!
Get the Recipe: Seaweed Salad

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.

Few things are as comforting as a warm bowl of this Wonton Soup on a busy evening. Its flavorful broth and delicate dumplings make it feel filling yet light. It’s exactly what you need when you want something cozy without a lot of effort. This is a fantastic go-to for simple, fulfilling dinners.
Get the Recipe: Wonton Soup

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.

Switching up your dinner routine is easier with dishes like this General Tso’s Chicken. Its sweet and savory balance brings bold flavor without being overly complicated. Serve it as a centerpiece or alongside other favorites for a meal that impresses without stress. It’s the dependable dish you didn’t know you needed.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

Vegetable Fried Rice

A bowl of Vegetable Fried Rice with mixed vegetables including carrots, bell peppers, and peas.
Vegetable Fried Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Leftover rice becomes the star of mealtime with this Vegetable Fried Rice recipe. Filling yet not too heavy, it’s a versatile option that works on its own or as a side. The mix of textures and flavors keeps it interesting with every bite. Even the busiest nights feel better with this on the table.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fried Rice

Chicken Chow Mein

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

Easy enough for a weeknight yet filling enough to impress, this Chicken Chow Mein hits all the right notes. The mix of tender chicken and noodles makes it flavorful without being overly rich. It’s the kind of dish that fits seamlessly into your dinner rotation. Enjoy a classic that’s every bit as simple as it is tasty.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chow Mein

Vietnamese Shaking Beef

A plate of stir-fried beef cubes with onions, garnished with cilantro, served on lettuce with tomato slices and lime wedges. Chopsticks rest beside the plate.
Vietnamese Shaking Beef. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

When you want something easy but still packed with flavor, this Vietnamese Shaking Beef is a solid choice. It’s all about tender textures and vibrant, savory notes that taste restaurant-quality. Pair it with rice or a simple side for a meal that feels both complete and effortless. Perfect for busy nights!
Get the Recipe: Vietnamese Shaking Beef

Butter Chicken

A bowl of creamy curry with chicken pieces served over white rice, garnished with cilantro, and accompanied by flatbread.
Butter Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Creamy, rich, and filling, this Butter Chicken is perfect for evenings that call for warmth and flavor. Its balanced taste feels hearty without being heavy, making it a crowd-pleasing choice. Serve it with rice or bread for a complete meal that’s as comforting as it is simple to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Butter Chicken

Asian Slaw

A bowl of colorful coleslaw with shredded purple and green cabbage, carrots, chopped peanuts, and greens, mixed with dressing.
Asian Slaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

With every bite, the crisp and colorful mix of this Asian Slaw brings a refreshing twist to dinner. Perfect for balancing heavier dishes or standing alone for lighter fare. It’s quick to prepare and always versatile, making it an easy choice for busy evenings or gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Asian Slaw

Rice Pilaf

A bowl of rice pilaf topped with sliced green onions, almonds, and dried cranberries.
Rice Pilaf. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Turning simple grains into something special, this Rice Pilaf offers a savory touch to just about any meal. Whether paired with a cozy main dish or enjoyed on its own, it’s sure to satisfy. Its warm blend of flavors adds comfort to the table in just the right way.
Get the Recipe: Rice Pilaf

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.

A burst of savory and sweet makes this Bang Bang Shrimp an instant dinner winner. The sauce clings beautifully to each shrimp, creating a dish that feels fun yet fulfilling. It’s quick to prepare and makes both weeknights and gatherings feel just a little more exciting.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Panda Express Super Greens

A plate of stir-fried kale, broccoli, and sliced onions, served with a pair of chopsticks on the side.
Panda Express Super Greens. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Adding a wholesome touch to dinner can be easy with this Panda Express Super Greens. Light, fresh, and packed with flavor, it’s the kind of side that feels right alongside almost anything. Perfect for busy evenings when you want a meal that’s both simple and nourishing without skipping out on taste.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Super Greens

Chicken Tikka Masala

A close-up of chicken tikka masala served on rice, garnished with fresh cilantro, with lime wedges and naan on the side.
Chicken Tikka Masala. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Few dishes feel as comforting as this Chicken Tikka Masala, with its creamy richness and bold spices. It’s ideal for evenings when you want something hearty yet unfussy. Serve it with rice or bread and turn a regular night into something memorable without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Masala

Thai Yellow Curry

Thai Yellow Curry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.
Thai Yellow Curry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dinner feels a little more exciting when you serve this Thai Yellow Curry. With its warm spices and comforting texture, it pairs easily with rice or noodles for a complete meal. It adds global flavor to your table while still being simple enough to make at home.
Get the Recipe: Thai Yellow Curry

Crab Rangoon

A bowl of fried wontons served with a side of red dipping sauce and a small dish of chopped green onions.
Crab Rangoon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crisp on the outside and creamy inside, this Crab Rangoon transforms simple ingredients into irresistible bites. Whether served as a dinner treat or a party favorite, it’s hard not to love its combination of textures. Each bite feels special without requiring much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon

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.

When you need dinner on the table fast, this Tofu Fried Rice delivers in both ease and flavor. Balanced yet hearty, each bowl feels fulfilling without being heavy. It’s easy to adapt and the kind of meal that fits right into weeknight routines.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

Shrimp Tempura Roll

Close-up of sushi rolls with avocado, cucumber, and rice, topped with sesame seeds and a drizzle of spicy mayo on a beige plate.
Shrimp Tempura Roll. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Combining crispy shrimp with fluffy rice, this Shrimp Tempura Roll turns dinner into something colorful and fun. It’s packed with tastes and textures that make you want to come back for another bite. Whether for casual meals or turning the evening special, this dish is easy enough to fit either moment.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura Roll

Sesame Soba Noodles

Two bowls of soba noodle salad with carrots, edamame, and radish slices, placed on a patterned cloth with wooden chopsticks beside them.
Sesame Soba Noodles. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Nutty and flavorful, this Sesame Soba Noodles recipe makes tired dinners feel fresh again. Tossed in a savory sauce, it’s the perfect balance of simplicity and deliciousness. Whether as a main dish or a side, this recipe proves how exciting noodles can be in a pinch.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Soba Noodles

Beef and Broccoli

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

Turning lean beef and fresh broccoli into a classic dish, this Beef and Broccoli makes dinner both hearty and enjoyable. Saucy and flavorful, it’s just what you need to upgrade a busy weeknight. The combination always feels right and is quick enough to become a favorite meal.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Broccoli

Egg Fried Rice

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

When there’s no time for fuss, this Egg Fried Rice becomes your go-to option. Simple yet comforting, it pairs soft rice with rich, savory eggs you’ll love. Serve it on its own or alongside your main dish when dinner needs a dependable solution. Effortless, fulfilling, and ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Egg Fried Rice

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.

Packed with bold flavors, this Hot and Sour Soup is perfect for warming up tired evenings. Tangy and spicy notes keep it exciting while also providing that comfort food feel. Whether served as a starter or by itself, this dish is hearty enough for soothing cravings with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A quick stir of fresh vegetables comes together fast in this Vegetable Stir Fry recipe. Bright and adaptable, it works well on busy weeknights when time is short. Serve it with rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a meal that feels balanced and complete without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Miso Soup

A bowl of miso soup with tofu cubes, seaweed, and green onions.
Miso Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Few dishes offer both simplicity and depth as beautifully as this Miso Soup. It’s light yet comforting enough to feel fulfilling, making it a great addition to almost any evening. Warm, soothing, and flavorful, this soup is perfect when you need a quick bowl of comfort without compromise.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup

Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice

Shrimp fried rice with peas, eggs, and diced vegetables being stirred with a wooden spatula.
Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Lighter yet still hearty, this Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice recipe proves you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for a fresh approach. It’s quick to prepare and brings out the natural sweetness of cauliflower paired with tender shrimp. Perfect for dinners that need both ease and deliciousness.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice

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