I Lean on These 17 Chinese Dishes for No-Fuss Family Nights

ByMandy

Family nights don’t always go as planned. Sometimes there’s noise, sometimes someone “accidentally” feeds the dog under the table. But these 17 Chinese dishes manage to keep things calm, or at least focused. They’re easy to bring together and don’t make a mess out of the kitchen or the schedule.

A breaded and golden-brown fried chicken tender being dipped into a white sauce in a bowl, with more chicken tenders in the background.
Raising Cane Tenders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

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.

When you’re looking for something comforting and simple, Egg Drop Soup is an excellent choice. This dish blends soft textures with a warm broth to create a lovely meal starter. It’s quick to make yet feels special enough for family dinners. Perfect for pairing with other dishes or enjoying on its own on a relaxing night.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

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.

A versatile option that works for vegetarians or anyone wanting a quick and healthy meal, Tofu Fried Rice is a must-try. Packed with mix-ins and balanced flavors, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences. Plus, it’s a quick one-pan recipe that’s great for busy nights. It serves as a full meal or an accompaniment to other dishes.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

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.

For something flavorful yet simple to prepare, Cashew Chicken is a great choice for family dinner nights. Tender chicken pieces mixed with crunchy cashews create a lovely texture in each bite. It’s easy to whip up and pairs well with plain rice or noodles. If you want a reliable dish that pleases everyone, this is surely one of them.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Egg Rolls

Vegan egg rolls in a wooden tray.
Egg Rolls. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Few appetizers stand out as much as Egg Rolls during family meals. Crispy on the outside while offering a flavorful bite inside, they’re always a hit around the table. They’re fun to make, ensuring engagement even for casual kitchen cooks. A great starter before a meal or even as a snack for sharing moments together.
Get the Recipe: Egg Rolls

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.

A practical solution for busy evenings, Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry keeps mealtime simple yet hearty. Tender chicken with bright broccoli creates a nice balance of textures. Its quick preparation will save you time while still delivering big benefits for flavor and variety on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

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.

You can’t go wrong with a comforting bowl of Hot and Sour Soup when you’re craving something warm and flavorful. Its mix of tangy and slightly spicy flavors makes it an easy crowd-pleaser. It’s a simple dish to pull together, perfect for a quick meal on busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour 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.

If you’re looking for a mix of bold flavors packed into a single dish, try General Tso’s Chicken. The savory and slightly sweet glaze pairs wonderfully with crispy chicken pieces. It’s a great option when you’re in the mood for something flavorful without needing a restaurant.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

Tanghulu

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

For a fun and unique dessert, Tanghulu has a perfect balance of crunchy sweetness. Known for its glossy candied coating, it’s surprisingly simple to make at home. It’s a treat everyone will enjoy, especially after a savory meal. Serve as an eye-catching snack or dessert that’s always a hit with kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Tanghulu

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.

Families love dishes like Sweet and Sour Chicken, which brings together crispy pieces with a tangy sauce. It’s satisfying and quick to prepare, addressing dinner needs without stress. This dish pairs well with rice or noodles, creating a balanced and complete meal. Ideal for nights when flavor and ease are both priorities.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour 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.

If you’re looking for an appetizer or snack, Shrimp Toast is a great go-to option. With its golden, crispy exterior and flavorful filling, it’s sure to impress around the table. It’s perfect for sharing and works well to start off a family meal. Great on its own or with dipping sauces for extra variety.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

Fried Banana

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

Transform dessert time with Fried Banana, a simple yet incredibly satisfying option. Their lightly crisped exterior pairs perfectly with the soft and sweet inside. Ideal for both kids and adults, it makes for a wonderful after-dinner treat. Pair with ice cream or enjoy on its own for a cozy dessert night.
Get the Recipe: Fried Banana

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.

Add a hearty plate of Chicken Chow Mein to your weeknight rotation for something fast and filling. The simple combination of noodles and chicken makes it a favorite for all ages. It’s straightforward process means minimal prep while delivering lots of great flavor. Ideal for leftovers, or no leftovers, because it vanishes quickly!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chow Mein

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.

You’ll find Sweet and Sour Sauce handy for turning simple dishes into something bold and flavorful. Perfect for drizzling over chicken, vegetables, or even rice, it’s a sauce you can use in many meals. It takes little effort but makes a big impact at the dinner table. It’s an easy way to bring some variety into weekly dinners.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce

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.

Families love recreating the bold flavors of Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe at home. This sweet glaze pairs perfectly with tender chicken, offering a quick but lovely dish. It’s easy to enjoy over rice or veggies, making it a versatile option for casual dinners. Bring that restaurant-style flavor to your table whenever you need it.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Quick and easy dinners call for Vegetable Stir Fry, which combines simplicity and rich flavor all in one dish. It’s perfect for using up whatever vegetables you have on hand. Served with rice or noodles, it’s an easy way to create a healthy, balanced meal. Whether it’s for the family or dinner solo, it’s always a dependable option.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

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.

When you want something flavorful without much effort, Chicken Fried Rice meets all your needs. Packed with hearty portions, it’s great for serving the whole family. This dish is perfect for repurposing leftover rice and turning it into a full meal. It’s versatile, quick, and always a hit at the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Raising Cane Tenders

A breaded and golden-brown fried chicken tender being dipped into a white sauce in a bowl, with more chicken tenders in the background.
Raising Cane Tenders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Skip the takeout and bring the flavor home with Raising Cane Tenders, a crowd favorite. Their crispy texture and juicy insides finish off any meal with ease. Perfect for dipping sauces and sides like fries or coleslaw, it’s sure to be a dinner staple. Easy to assemble and great for game nights or casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Raising Cane Tenders

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