29 Chinese Food Recipes I’d Make Instead of Takeout

ByMandy

I’ve gathered 29 Chinese recipe ideas that bring the bold flavors of takeout right to your home. Perfect for everything from cozy family dinners to casual celebrations, these recipes let you skip the delivery fee without skipping the taste. And trust me, these recipes deserve the spotlight; it’s a dish you’ll make again and again.

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.

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.

Whether it’s a busy evening or you’re craving comfort, this Quick and Easy Chow Mein delivers big flavor with little effort. Packed with tender noodles and savory seasonings, it’s a favorite at any gathering. Add it to your weeknight rotation or serve it at casual dinners; people will ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Quick and Easy Chow Mein

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.

One dish turns leftover rice into something you’ll love making fresh. Flavorful Chicken Fried Rice pairs tender chicken bits with perfectly stir-fried rice and colorful veggies for a hearty, lovely dish. Guests always rave about how restaurant-level this tastes. Perfect for potlucks or nights when you need something quick.
Get the Recipe: Flavorful Chicken Fried Rice

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.

Crispy edges and flaky layers make Scallion Pancakes stand out on any table. The aromatic scallions provide a fresh bite, while the golden texture offers irresistible crunch. I serve these as appetizers, but they often steal the spotlight, leaving people asking how to make them at home.
Get the Recipe: Scallion Pancakes

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.

Unexpectedly crunchy and lightly sweet, Crispy Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp brings restaurant-quality flavor into your kitchen. Topped with candied walnuts and drizzled with creamy sauce, it’s the recipe everyone will talk about long after the meal ends. Go ahead and make extra; it disappears fast.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp

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.

Everyone loves a little teriyaki flair at dinner. Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken captures everything you love about takeout but feels fresh and homemade. The savory glaze sticks beautifully to the tender chicken and makes this dish unforgettable. It’s perfect for weekend dinners or entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

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.

Bright, crackling sweetness defines Crispy Candied Tanghulu. Imagine berries with a shiny caramel coating that crunches with every bite; it’s a sweet treat that demands attention. Perfect for cool fall gatherings or as a unique dessert at holiday parties. Serve with pride; it never stays on the table long!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Candied Tanghulu

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.

The bold heat of Spicy Kung Pao Chicken always grabs attention. This dish balances chili peppers and velvety chicken in a perfect harmony of spice and savory. I make this when I need something adventurous yet familiar, and it’s guaranteed to leave people talking.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Kung Pao 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.

Crackling shells and a bold aromatic seasoning make Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp deeply satisfying. It’s the dish that guests remember and request; whether served at celebrations or casual meals. Pair it with steamed rice for a balanced yet indulgent dinner.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

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.

This is comfort in a bowl. The velvety ribbons of egg in Silky Egg Drop Soup swirl beautifully, giving each spoonful a delicate, lovely texture. Whether served as a starter or a simple addition to a cozy dinner, it’s pure warmth and ease.
Get the Recipe: Silky Egg Drop Soup

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.

Bright green broccoli and tender chicken meet in Quick Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry, a recipe that’s always quick yet flavorful. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something healthy that feels homemade. The colors and textures make this dish as appealing as it is easy to love.
Get the Recipe: Quick Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

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.

Coated in golden crispiness and paired with a creamy kick, Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp is a crowd favorite for fall gatherings. It’s equally at home as an appetizer or a shareable entrée that turns heads at dinner parties. One taste, and everyone will be hooked.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp

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.

Why order out when you can create perfection at home? Sweet General Tso’s Chicken combines crispy chicken with a glossy, sweet-and-savory sauce. This dish disappears quickly at parties; everyone loves its bold flavor. You might as well plan for a double batch!
Get the Recipe: Sweet General Tso’s Chicken

Quick Vegetable Stir Fry

Quick Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A medley of vibrant, crisp vegetables comes together in Quick Vegetable Stir Fry, a recipe that’s as nutritious as it is appetizing. Cooked quickly to preserve their texture, they make a fresh addition to autumn meals or a light yet tasty dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Quick Vegetable Stir Fry

Caramelized Fried Banana

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

Surprise desserts always impress, and Caramelized Fried Banana is no exception. Golden bananas caramelized to perfection add warmth and sweetness, perfect after a hearty meal. Serve with ice cream for an extra indulgence that no one can pass up.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Fried Banana

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.

This lovely dish balances sheer comfort and bright nutty tones. Sweet Cashew Chicken is the one recipe that brings smiles to the dinner table every time. Tender chicken bites paired with buttery cashews strike harmony while delivering a touch of sweetness to every bite.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cashew Chicken

Fluffy Egg Fried Rice

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

Soft, warm rice with fluffy bits of egg makes Fluffy Egg Fried Rice the ultimate comfort food. It’s simple yet flavorful enough for everyone’s plate, whether paired with sides or served alone. Guests always remark on how homey this dish feels, and it’s ready in a flash.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Egg Fried Rice

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.

Bite-sized and deliciously crunchy, Crispy Shrimp Toast transforms simple shrimp into a golden, crackling appetizer. Every bite bursts with flavor, matched by its gorgeous presentation. These are a sure-fire hit for pre-dinner snacks or finger foods at parties.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shrimp Toast

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.

Tossed perfectly with soft tofu, Savory Tofu Fried Rice proves plant-based dishes can satisfy any crowd. Earthy flavors pair beautifully with golden fried rice, creating a dish that’s filling yet fresh. Perfect for potlucks, this recipe gets rave reviews from vegetarians and meat lovers alike.
Get the Recipe: Savory Tofu Fried Rice

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.

Vibrant citrus meets tender bites in Sweet Orange Chicken, a recipe where fall flavors shine. This meal is bright yet rich, with subtle tanginess that keeps every bite refreshing. It’s just as good on a cozy dinner table as it is for sharing at casual celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Orange 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.

When crisp autumn evenings roll in, Tangy Hot and Sour Soup hits the spot. The combination of sour notes with just the right amount of heat makes this soup unforgettable. It’s a great starter that warms up the season or a comforting remedy on chilly nights.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Hot and Sour Soup

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.

Tangy lemon glaze coats shredded chicken to create Zesty Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken, a refreshing option that surprises every palate. Bright citrus flavors bring out a juicy, homemade feel perfect for entertaining or quiet nights in. Pair it with steamed greens or fried rice.
Get the Recipe: Zesty Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

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.

With bold flavors that lift any dish it touches, Tangy Sweet and Sour Sauce continues to impress. It’s versatile and pairs beautifully with everything, from crispy spring rolls to spoonfuls of fluffy rice. Keep this in your back pocket whenever you need a vibrant zing that pops.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Sweet and Sour Sauce

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.

Bathed in rich sesame flavor and fried to golden perfection, Crispy Sesame Chicken is an irresistible crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for autumn dinners when you want warming spices and crunch in every bite. No matter the occasion, there’s no doubt this dish will be an instant hit.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sesame Chicken

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.

Tender chunks of pork are coated in the perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors. Tender Sweet and Sour Pork steals the show at celebrations or family dinners. Its velvety, saucy finish pairs well with steamed rice and brings a touch of indulgence to the table.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet and Sour Pork

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.

A hearty twist on traditional fried rice, Flavorful Shrimp Fried Rice serves tender shrimp nestled in a perfectly seasoned rice base. It’s a simple, lovely dish for fall evenings indoors or paired with other meals at gatherings. Guests comment on its restaurant-like flavor every time.
Get the Recipe: Flavorful Shrimp Fried Rice

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.

A classic fan favorite and always unforgettable, Tangy Sweet and Sour Chicken pairs tender chicken with a glossy sauce that’s as bold as it is vibrant. The combination of textures makes this one recipe everyone secretly loves more than takeout itself.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Sweet and Sour Chicken

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.

Sometimes simple is best, and Savory Beef and Broccoli proves it. A rich, flavorful sauce perfectly complements tender beef and crisp broccoli florets. Whether celebrating with friends or cooking at home, this dish feels just as comforting as takeout but fresher.
Get the Recipe: Savory Beef and Broccoli

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.

With tender noodles tangled in savory sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, Quick Chicken Chow Mein takes the spotlight at busy dinners or quiet meals. This recipe combines speed, flavor, and comfort in one plate. A recipe that is ready in minutes!
Get the Recipe: Quick Chicken Chow Mein

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.

Crunchy and loaded with flavor, Crispy Egg Rolls bring the joy of homemade appetizers to any gathering. The golden shell gives way to a soft, seasoned filling that’s versatile and enjoyable. Pair with dipping sauce, and these instantly disappear!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Egg Roll

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