These 27 Chinese Recipes Are My Go-To When We’re All Worn Out

When everyone’s running on fumes and nobody wants to cook, these 27 Chinese recipes step up like the reliable friend who always brings food instead of advice. They’re simple enough to make without breaking a sweat. It’s basically dinner therapy that doesn’t require an appointment or awkward small talk.

Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

When I need something quick and simple that everyone will love, this has always been my go-to. Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is packed with just the right texture combination to keep things interesting on a busy night. It’s balanced, hearty, and doesn’t require too much brainpower to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Easy Chow Mein

Some nights call for something easy but packed with flavor, and this dish fits the bill. Easy Chow Mein comes together so effortlessly that it feels like a treat on exhausting days. The noodles always bring a comforting feel to the table without feeling too heavy. You can make it work with whatever you have available in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

Crispy, bold, and incredibly quick to pull together, this delivers everything you want after a long day. Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp balances just the right crunch with a pop of simple seasonings. It’s the kind of dish that feels restaurant-worthy without all the stress. Grab your favorite side, and you’re set.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

Tanghulu

Tanghulu is an effortless way to bring fun to the table while still keeping it simple. The glossy coat makes everything feel a bit more special without any added effort. It’s great for sharing during after-dinner chats. Sweet and crunchy in every bite, this dessert doubles as a pick-me-up when the whole family feels worn out.
Get the Recipe: Tanghulu

Bang Bang Shrimp

Every bite of this dish is loaded with a punchy and creamy taste that hits the spot when you’re in need of something fuss-free. Bang Bang Shrimp knows how to bring the flavors without asking for much time. This dish feels just as good on busy days as it would for small gatherings. Pair it with what you love and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

When it feels easier to grab takeout than cook, this dish steps in with all the ease you need. Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe keeps things familiar, comforting, and flavorful just like the original. It’s something everyone at the table can agree on without much debate. Serving it with a simple side makes dinner a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp

Crispy, sweet, and just a little rich, Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp is the treat you want when the day feels too long. This dish gives you that restaurant-like indulgence while keeping it practical. It’s especially great when you don’t feel like spending much time cleaning up afterward. Just pair with something simple on the side.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp

Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken is a great way to switch things up with just enough spice to keep it exciting. It’s simple enough for tired nights but doesn’t feel too basic. Throw it over rice, and you have a meal ready with minimal effort or thought. Some recipes hit the sweet spot between bold and quick, and this one does it perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Egg Drop Soup

On nights that feel a little colder or quieter, this is always the answer. Egg Drop Soup offers lightness while still being fulfilling enough to feel like a meal. It’s quick, comforting, and perfect for pairing with something simple on the side. You can enjoy it without feeling weighed down after.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

Fried Banana

Fried Banana brings a warm and crispy texture that pairs perfectly with a drizzle of sweetness. It’s such a simple way to enjoy something homemade after dinner without too much effort. A little indulgent but just what’s needed on hard days.
Get the Recipe: Fried Banana

General Tso’s Chicken

For those nights you want a little more flavor without extra work, this is a no-brainer. General Tso’s Chicken offers that mix of tangy and mildly sweet that so many of us love in Chinese takeout. It’s satisfying enough to feel like a treat without veering into complicated. You can easily serve it with a side to complete things.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

Egg Fried Rice

Egg Fried Rice is ridiculously simple but doesn’t sacrifice on taste, making it ideal for those low-energy moments. It’s so flexible that you can add whatever leftovers are on hand. A no-hassle favorite for when you need a break.
Get the Recipe: Egg Fried Rice

Cashew Chicken

A combination of tender flavors, a little crunch, and simplicity makes this stand out on tiring days. Cashew Chicken lets you toss together something hearty without much prep time. It’s one of those dishes that feel both familiar and comforting without being overly rich. Just a quick dish to keep everyone at the table happy.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Egg Rolls

These are always a hit when moods are low, offering a quick bite or snack for the whole family. Egg Rolls bring that crispy crunch everyone loves, making them feel like more than just an afterthought. It’s ideal when you need something easy to pair with other dishes. They work as a side or star all on their own.
Get the Recipe: Egg Rolls

Vegetable Stir Fry

A nutritious choice that fits right into those days you need something light but filling. Vegetable Stir Fry makes use of what’s already in your fridge and turns it into something flavorful. It doesn’t feel heavy, so you can enjoy it even during those slower evenings. Pair it with some grains or noodles for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Tofu Fried Rice

For nights where keeping it simple and plant-based feels like the right call, this dish works perfectly. Tofu Fried Rice combines ease with protein for a meal that fills you up without any extra work. It’s a great go-to when you want something light yet enjoyable for everyone at the table. Plus, it works well with nearly any side.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

Shrimp Toast

Whether you crave a crispy snack or something interesting to serve alongside dinner, this is a great option. Shrimp Toast brings that golden crunch with a rich inside that feels throwback yet satisfying. It’s perfect for when you want to mix it up after a busy day. Kids and adults alike tend to love these little slices of comfort.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

Hot and Sour Soup

Hot and Sour Soup is great for reviving tired moods with its rich and moreish flavor. It’s a no-fuss way to feel energized and comforted at the same time. Works perfectly as a standalone dish or a side to something lighter. When moments call for something warm and bold, this dish ticks all the boxes.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

Orange Chicken

If you’ve been looking for a dependable weeknight dinner, then this recipe is exactly what you need. Orange Chicken serves up sweet and citrusy flavors that always hit the mark. It’s the kind of dish that feels rewarding no matter how tired you are. Pair it with something simple and call it a meal worth repeating.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Sweet and Sour Sauce

A good sauce can make all the difference when energy is running low, and this one stands out. Sweet and Sour Sauce brings a nice mix of puckery sweetness that livens up whatever you pair it with. Use it as a drizzle or a dip, and it can make any simple meal a bit more special. It’s good for everything from meat to veggies.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce

Sesame Chicken

On long days, sometimes classic dishes are just what you need to keep everyone happy and full. Sesame Chicken delivers that nutty, simple flavor that’s always a hit, no matter who’s eating. It doesn’t feel overwhelming, making it a great choice alongside a lighter side. Leftovers also work well for lunches the next day.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

Sweet and Sour Pork

Sweet and Sour Pork makes an easy, quick meal that still delivers punchy flavors. It’s perfect for nights when you’re too tired for complex recipes. The balance lets you enjoy it without feeling too heavy afterward. Bringing equal parts tangy and lightly sweet, this dish works well on its own or with something simple alongside.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork

Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

Some dishes bring flavor and texture together perfectly for those who need a pick-me-up. Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken takes crispiness and tang to the next level in a comforting way. It works easily with whatever base you’ve got on hand, from noodles to rice. Just a few bites in, you’ll forget how tired you felt before dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

Shrimp Fried Rice

Quick, simple, and versatile enough to use up leftovers, this is great for any weeknight. Shrimp Fried Rice feels light yet filling, with just the right mix of flavors to perk up a long day. It’s a hard dish to mess up and works as a meal on its own. Have it with some soup or veggies to make dinner even easier.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Fried Rice

Chicken Chow Mein

This is a go-to for its comforting noodles and ease on rushed days. Chicken Chow Mein offers everything you love about takeout without the extra cost or hassle. It’s packed with flavors that feel familiar yet homemade at the same time. Pair it with a simple side, and you’ve got dinner covered in no time.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chow Mein

Beef and Broccoli

Beef and Broccoli blends just the right amount of texture and richness for those nights you can’t decide what to eat. It’s simple, reliable, and feels like you put in more work than you did. Adding a little rice makes it even better. When the fridge feels empty but you still need something comforting, this dish comes through.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Broccoli

Sweet and Sour Chicken

This dish gives you everything you love about takeout right at home. Sweet and Sour Chicken is known for its perfect mix of flavors that never feels too complicated. It’s always a family favorite and makes for an easy solution to weeknight dinners. Pair it with rice or steamed veggies for a hassle-free meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken