I Always Plan Ahead With 33 Asian Dinner Recipes

Planning doesn’t have to feel like a chore when 33 Asian-inspired dinners are lined up and waiting. It turns “what’s for dinner” into an easy question with a better answer every time. The mix of dishes keeps the week interesting while saving time for more important things, like relaxing.

Close-up of a bowl of ramen with noodles, a halved boiled egg, sliced meat, green leafy vegetables, and mushrooms in broth. — Tonkotsu Ramen. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

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. — Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A favorite among seafood lovers, this dish emphasizes simplicity with an irresistible result. Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp brings out the natural flavors of shrimp with a balance of seasoning and texture. The crisp exterior contrasts perfectly with the tender meat inside. Great for appetizers or pairing with rice for a quick dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Slices of cucumber tossed in spicy Korean dressing. — Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Refreshingly bold yet simple, this dish offers crunch in every bite. Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad combines crisp textures with a kick, making it an ideal side dish. It brings fresh flavors to the table without overpowering a meal. Perfect for light meals or enjoying as a snack.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Dashi

A wooden ladle pouring fish sauce into a white ceramic bowl, with ripples visible on the liquid surface. A brown napkin is partially visible in the background. — Dashi. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Known for its versatility, this staple is a foundation in many recipes. Dashi adds depth to soups, broths, and sauces without needing much to highlight its flavor. It’s a go-to for creating a strong base while keeping meals light and flavorful. A little goes a long way in enhancing other dishes.
Get the Recipe: Dashi

Vegetable Stir Fry

Perfect for weeknights, this is a quick meal solution that brings together a balance of flavors. Vegetable Stir Fry keeps things simple yet flavorful, highlighting fresh combinations in every bite. It pairs easily with noodles or rice and fits well into busy routines. Great for anyone looking for flexibility and convenience.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

Sweet chili sauce in a small bowl on a light green cloth. — Thai Sweet Chili Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A staple for any kitchen, this sauce brings a touch of heat to accompanying dips and marinades. Thai Sweet Chili Sauce works well as a finishing touch or as the star of the table. It’s known for balancing sweetness and spice in a way few sauces can match. Its adaptability makes it a keeper for many recipes.
Get the Recipe: Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

Massaman Curry

A creamy shrimp curry with peppers, chopped nuts, sliced green onions, red chili slices, and lime wedges. Metal spoon submerged in the dish. — Massaman Curry. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of Massaman Curry, rich yet mellow in its own way. It’s the kind of meal that feels right after a long day. The sauce alone brings warmth to any rice or bread beside it. Planning with this dish always pays off when you crave comfort.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry

Spicy Udon Noodles

Close-up of stir-fried noodles with vegetables, including carrots, green beans, and chopped red peppers, garnished with sesame seeds. Chopsticks are picking up some noodles. — Spicy Udon Noodles. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Great for those who crave a little heat, this dish doesn’t hold back on its flavors. Spicy Udon Noodles showcases the chewy texture of udon with a fiery twist that’s hard to ignore. It’s filling, flavorful, and quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings. A dinner that packs boldness in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon Noodles

Sesame Chicken

A close-up of glazed chicken pieces with sesame seeds and chopped scallions on a bed of rice. — Sesame Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Family dinners feel a little more exciting when Sesame Chicken hits the table. Its light crunch and smooth glaze make it something everyone reaches for fast. It brings just enough comfort without being heavy. With this dish in your plan, dinner feels a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

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.

Perfect for starter dishes or casual dining, this one comes with just the right touch of spice and texture. Bang Bang Shrimp brings together crispy shrimp with a creamy, spicy sauce that adds a fun twist. It popularizes itself with versatility at parties and as shareable snacks. Always a hit with seafood fans.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

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.

A go-to for many who love bold yet easy meals, Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe never fails to impress. The balance of sweet and smoky flavor makes it hard to resist. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something quick yet full of character. Having it ready ahead makes dinnertime simple and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Thai Yellow Curry

There’s a smooth comfort that comes with Thai Yellow Curry, making it a great pick for planned dinners. Its mellow warmth brings a gentle richness that pairs well with many sides. It turns even simple meals into something more complete. Having it ready ahead of time keeps dinner easy yet full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Thai Yellow Curry

Chicken Fried Rice

When time is short but dinner still matters, Chicken Fried Rice fits right in. It’s quick, filling, and always a crowd favorite. The mix of textures makes it feel like a full meal without extra effort. Planning with this one guarantees an easy, balanced dinner anytime.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Kimchi

Known for its tangy, fermented flavor, this staple is a game-changer for many side dishes and recipes. Kimchi brings boldness and character to meals without requiring much effort. A staple with versatility, it balances intense flavor and light textures. Commonly loved for its ability to complement other dishes.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi

Asian Style Pork Chops

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

A strong option for meat lovers and hearty meals, this dish works well for dinner tonight or meal prep for later. Asian Style Pork Chops add rich flavors to juicy cuts of meat, making them stand out on the table. They pair easily with sides like rice or stir-fried vegetables. A reliable option for simple yet flavorful dinners.
Get the Recipe: Asian Style Pork Chops

Crispy Rice

Small crunch can make a big difference, and that’s exactly what Crispy Rice brings to the table. It adds texture that makes even plain dishes feel more exciting. The golden layer keeps every bite fun to eat. Preparing it ahead of time helps dinners feel thoughtful and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Rice

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. — Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Perfect for flavorful meals with a bright twist, this dish stands out for its unique pairing of tangy and savory notes. Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken mixes shredded pieces with a touch that brings freshness to the table. It’s great over rice or as part of a larger spread. A lighter yet boldly flavored option for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

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.

Excellent for sushi enthusiasts who enjoy crispy elements, this dish combines shrimp tempura with other fresh ingredients. Shrimp Tempura Roll delivers crunch with each bite, while blending textures in a balanced way. Great for a light lunch or sharing platter. It’s an approachable favorite for casual sushi meals.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura Roll

Elevated Ramen Noodles

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

When comfort meets convenience, Elevated Ramen Noodles become the easy answer. They turn an everyday dish into something warm and enjoyable without extra effort. It’s simple yet feels complete once ready. Having it in your dinner plan means less stress and more flavor.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Ramen Noodles

Chickpea Curry

Bowl of chickpea stew with spinach, potatoes, tomatoes, and topped with fresh cilantro. — Chickpea Curry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For nights that call for something wholesome and full, Chickpea Curry fits perfectly. It has a hearty texture that fills you up without feeling heavy. Each spoonful brings a calm balance that’s easy to enjoy. Preparing it early gives you a comforting meal ready to go.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Curry

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 reliable option for those seeking meatless variations of popular meals, this recipe brings a fresh twist to fried rice classics. Tofu Fried Rice combines tofu’s texture with perfectly cooked rice to create a filling dish. It works well with vegetables or seasonings to match your preferences. Easy to prepare and packed with variety.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

Korean Corn Dogs

Several breaded and fried corn dogs on sticks, drizzled with mustard and ketchup, placed on white crumpled paper. — Korean Corn Dogs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Great for street-style food enthusiasts, this dish brings fun and flavor to snacks or small meals. Korean Corn Dogs combine crispy, batter-coated hot dogs with unique touches that make them stand out from typical corn dogs. Perfect for casual gatherings or just enjoying at home.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Dogs

Miso Soup

Simple yet full of character, this dish is an ideal starter or side. Miso Soup highlights bold flavors and light textures, offering warmth without being too heavy. It’s easy to make and pairs well with sushi or other Asian-inspired dishes. Perfect for adding variety to your meals.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup

Thai Drunken Noodles

A colorful dish of shrimp stir-fry with noodles, vegetables, and sesame seeds, garnished with basil leaves and green onions. Chopsticks rest on the dish. — Thai Drunken Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nights feel more exciting when Thai Drunken Noodles are part of the lineup. They’re bold, quick to enjoy, and never fail to make the table lively. Each forkful carries that perfect balance of heat and comfort. It’s one of those go-to meals that make dinner feel like something to look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

Korean Burgers

Close-up of a hamburger with a sesame seed bun, beef patty, green onions, and rich brown sauce. — Korean Burgers. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Dinner feels a little more interesting when Korean Burgers are on the menu. They bring a nice twist to a classic favorite while staying easy to enjoy. Each bite blends familiar comfort with a touch of fun. Planning with this recipe keeps weeknights simple but flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

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.

A favorite for those who enjoy dishes with a bit of spice, this recipe makes an impact with its flavorful sauce and textures. Kung Pao Chicken combines tender chicken pieces with bold and contrasting elements for a satisfying main dish. It works great with rice or noodles, making it a go-to choice for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Sweet and Sour Pork

Some meals never go out of style, and Sweet and Sour Pork is proof of that. Its balance of tang and richness keeps every bite interesting. It’s the kind of dish people always reach for first. Having it ready ahead makes dinner feel complete in the easiest way.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork

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. — Easy Chow Mein. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Busy nights become smoother when Easy Chow Mein is part of the plan. It’s fast, filling, and always fits into any dinner spread. The mix of noodles and texture gives it a nice rhythm at the table. Keeping this one in your list ensures dinner is both quick and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

Shrimp Tempura

A bowl of crispy fried shrimp with slices of green onions and jalapeños. — Shrimp Tempura. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Everyone enjoys the crisp bite of Shrimp Tempura, especially when it’s freshly made and ready to go. It’s light, crunchy, and pairs well with almost anything. The texture makes it fun without being heavy. Having this prepared ahead makes mealtime feel effortless yet special.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Thai chicken skewers topped with a creamy sauce and garnished with chopped herbs and peanuts, served over a bed of white rice. — Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Weeknights feel easier when Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers are part of the plan. They bring a nice balance of smoky flavor and simple fun to the table. Each piece feels light yet full of character. Having them ready ahead makes dinner feel quick, fresh, and well-prepared.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Hot and Sour Soup

There’s something about Hot and Sour Soup that keeps people coming back for more. Its balance of warmth and tang feels comforting and energizing at the same time. It’s light enough to start a meal but strong enough to stand on its own. Adding it to your dinner plan is always a smart move.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

Orange Chicken

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce. — Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Adding Orange Chicken to your meal plan always brings a bit of brightness to dinner. Its light sweetness and crisp texture make it a favorite for all ages. It’s simple to serve but feels like a treat every time. Keeping it in your rotation makes dinner planning a lot easier.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

Close-up of a shrimp curry dish with rice, topped with black sesame seeds and chopped green onions. — Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry stands out for its balance of thick sauce and tender shrimp, making it perfect for pairing with steamed rice. Its textures and bold combinations make it memorable. A satisfying choice for those who enjoy seafood-forward meals.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

Tonkotsu Ramen

A warm bowl of Tonkotsu Ramen turns any night into something comforting and complete. It’s smooth, rich, and full of flavor that lingers in a good way. Each bowl feels like a full meal on its own. Having it ready ahead of time makes dinner something worth looking forward to.
Get the Recipe: Tonkotsu Ramen