Craving a satisfying meal that doesn’t involve waiting for takeout? You’re not alone! The hustle and bustle of busy weeknights often leaves little time for elaborate cooking. That’s why I put together this post, featuring 19 easy Chinese dinner recipes that will have you saying goodbye to greasy takeout. These recipes are not only quick to make but also healthier and tastier, allowing you to enjoy homemade Chinese food right at your dining table.
If you’re someone who loves quick dinner ideas that don’t skimp on flavor, this one’s for you! Whether you’re a busy parent trying to whip up a meal for the family or a student looking for simple Asian meals that won’t break the bank, these recipes are designed with you in mind. You’ll find a variety of easy Chinese recipes that cover everything from sweet and savory to spicy delights, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
With this collection, you’ll gain access to dishes that are quick to prepare and loaded with fresh ingredients. Each recipe has simple steps and uses easy-to-find ingredients, making your weeknight cooking a breeze. Say goodbye to takeout menus, and get ready to impress your family with these delicious, homemade options that are sure to become your new favorites!
Key Takeaways
– Each recipe is designed for busy weeknights, making them perfect for anyone looking for quick dinner ideas.
– The dishes are healthier alternatives to takeout, packed with fresh ingredients.
– You’ll find options for different taste preferences, including sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.
– All recipes are straightforward, with easy-to-follow steps that require minimal prep time.
– Enjoying homemade Chinese food at home can save you money while offering a fun cooking experience.
1. Sweet and Sour Chicken
Craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor? Sweet and Sour Chicken is your go-to! This classic meal combines tender chicken with a delightful sweet and tangy sauce, bringing a taste of takeout right to your kitchen. With colorful bell peppers and onions, this dish not only looks great but is quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. Enjoy a well-balanced meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
– 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
– 1 cup onion, sliced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 1 tbsp ketchup
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, ketchup, and cornstarch; set aside.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and onions to the pan, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables; bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in pineapple and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
FAQs:
– Can I use tofu instead of chicken? Absolutely, it’s a great vegetarian option!
– How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Create delicious, restaurant-quality Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken at home in no time for busy weeknights.
2. Classic Beef and Broccoli
Looking for a quick and flavorful dinner? Classic Beef and Broccoli is a beloved dish that delivers on taste and nutrition. Tender beef strips stir-fried with crisp broccoli in a savory soy-based sauce create a mouth-watering combination. This meal can be on your table in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy nights when you want something healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef flank steak, sliced thin
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp oyster sauce
– 1 tbsp cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp ginger, minced
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice for serving
Instructions:
1. Marinate the beef in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch for 15 minutes.
2. Heat sesame oil in a pan; add garlic and ginger, sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add marinated beef, cooking until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Toss in broccoli florets and stir-fry for another 5 minutes until tender but still bright green.
5. Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately with rice.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, just thaw it and drain excess water before cooking.
– How do I spice it up? Add red pepper flakes for heat!
3. Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice
Feeling hungry and in need of a quick meal? Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice is your answer! This one-pan wonder transforms leftover rice into a delicious dish packed with juicy shrimp, fragrant garlic, and vibrant veggies. It takes under 30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights when you want something tasty without the hassle.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup peas and carrots mix
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 3 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Green onions, chopped for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat; add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Toss in shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3 minutes.
3. Push shrimp to the side and add beaten eggs. Scramble until cooked.
4. Stir in the rice and vegetables, mixing well.
5. Pour in soy sauce, cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes until heated through.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and garnish with green onions before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I substitute chicken for shrimp? Definitely! Chicken works great in this dish.
– How do I make it vegan? Replace shrimp with tofu and use a vegan egg substitute.
Busy weeknights just got easier with Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice. Turn day-old rice and veggies into a tasty, one-pan dinner that feels restaurant-worthy. Pro tip: finish prep in under 30 minutes—dinner recipes chinese made simple.
4. Lemon Chicken
In need of a light and zesty dish? Lemon Chicken is a refreshing choice that features tender chicken coated in a bright lemon sauce. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but simple to make, perfect for weeknight dinners. The balance of sweet and tangy flavors creates a delightful experience that will have everyone asking for seconds, and you can have it ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 3 tbsp honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
– Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions:
1. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet; cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix chicken broth, lemon juice, honey, garlic, and soy sauce.
4. Pour the mixture over the chicken and simmer for 5 minutes to thicken the sauce.
5. Serve garnished with lemon slices and fresh herbs.
FAQs:
– Can I make it without honey? Yes, you can substitute with agave syrup or leave it out.
– What can I serve it with? It pairs well with rice or quinoa for a filling dinner.
5. Mongolian Beef
Craving bold flavors with minimal fuss? Mongolian Beef is a sweet and savory dish that’s sure to please! Tender beef stir-fried and coated in a sweet soy glaze with green onions creates a mouthwatering experience. You can whip this up in less than 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak, sliced thin
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tbsp cornstarch
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Add sliced beef to marinate for 10 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add marinated beef to the skillet; cook until browned and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the chopped green onions and sauté for another 2 minutes.
5. Serve over rice or noodles with additional green onions as garnish.
FAQs:
– Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, chicken would be a delicious alternative!
– How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
6. Kung Pao Chicken
Looking to spice up your dinner routine? Kung Pao Chicken is a sensational dish that combines tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and flavorful veggies in a savory sauce. The heat from the peppers perfectly balances the sweetness of the sauce, creating an exciting meal for your taste buds. This recipe is adaptable, allowing you to adjust the heat level to your liking, and it can be ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
– 1 cup bell peppers, diced
– 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
– 1 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2-3 dried red chili peppers (or to taste)
– Oil for frying
– Green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan and add dried chili peppers, sautéing until fragrant.
2. Add minced garlic, then the chicken, cooking until browned and cooked through.
3. Toss in bell peppers and peanuts, sautéing for 3 minutes.
4. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar; add to the pan.
5. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is well coated.
6. Serve garnished with fresh green onions over rice.
FAQs:
– Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Broccoli, carrots, or snap peas work great.
– Is it gluten-free? Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
7. Teriyaki Salmon
Need a healthy dinner option that’s packed with flavor? Teriyaki Salmon brings the taste of Japan right to your table! Marinated in a sweet teriyaki sauce and baked to perfection, this salmon fillet is moist, flaky, and pairs beautifully with rice or steamed veggies. With minimal ingredients and ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets
– 1/3 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp ginger, minced
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to create the marinade.
3. Place salmon fillets in a baking dish and pour marinade over them, allowing to marinate for at least 10 minutes.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve garnished with green onions and sesame seeds over rice or veggies.
FAQs:
– Can I grill the salmon instead? Yes, grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor!
– How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 days.
How To Choose Easy Chinese Dinner Recipes
Choosing the right easy Chinese dinner recipes can make your weeknight meal planning a breeze. You want dishes that are not only delicious but also quick to prepare. Here’s how to select the best options for your busy evenings.
1. Flavor Profile
Think about the flavors you and your family enjoy. Chinese cuisine offers a wide range of tastes, from sweet and sour to spicy and savory. For instance, if you love a kick, dishes like Kung Pao Chicken or Spicy Garlic Tofu Stir-Fry are excellent choices. Consider how adventurous your family is with flavors when making your selection.
2. Cooking Time
Time is often of the essence on busy nights. Look for recipes that take 30 minutes or less. For example, Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice or Lemon Chicken can be whipped up quickly. Take note of prep time as well; some recipes may seem quick but require extensive chopping or marinating.
3. Ingredients on Hand
Before planning your meal, check your pantry and fridge. Using what you already have can save time and money. If you have chicken, consider recipes like Sweet and Sour Chicken or Orange Chicken. If you have a variety of vegetables, dishes like Vegetable Lo Mein might be perfect. This helps minimize grocery trips and makes meal prep more efficient.
4. Dietary Preferences
Consider any dietary restrictions or preferences in your household. Whether someone is vegetarian, gluten-free, or watching calorie intake, there’s likely an easy Chinese recipe that can accommodate. For instance, Mapo Tofu can be a great option for vegetarians, while Teriyaki Salmon gives a healthy twist for fish lovers. Tailoring your recipes to fit everyone’s needs will make for happier meals.
5. Cooking Style
Evaluate your cooking skills and available kitchen tools. If you’re comfortable with stir-frying, you might want to try Chow Mein or Mongolian Beef. If you prefer simpler methods, soups like Egg Drop Soup or Hot and Sour Soup can be both nourishing and easy to prepare. Choose recipes that match your confidence level to ensure a stress-free cooking experience.
6. Serving Size
Think about how many people you need to serve. If cooking for a family, opt for recipes that yield larger portions or can easily be doubled. Dishes like Pineapple Fried Rice or Szechuan Noodles are not only filling but also great for leftovers. You can even meal prep by cooking a larger batch that can be enjoyed on multiple nights.
Pro Tip: Keep a list of your favorite easy Chinese dinner recipes handy. You can rotate these meals throughout the month, making weeknight cooking less of a chore. This way, you’ll always have a delicious plan in place when hunger strikes!
With this guide, you are now equipped with the tools to choose easy Chinese dinner recipes that will satisfy your cravings and fit your busy schedule. Happy cooking!
8. Spicy Garlic Tofu Stir-Fry
On the hunt for a tasty vegetarian dish? Spicy Garlic Tofu Stir-Fry is bursting with flavor! This dish features crispy tofu cubes sautéed with vibrant vegetables and a spicy garlic sauce that’s sure to impress even picky eaters. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner choice that packs a healthy punch and can be ready in about 25 minutes, making it a great go-to when you want dinner on the table fast.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb firm tofu, cubed
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp chili paste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture and cut into cubes.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet; add tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 10 minutes.
3. Add garlic and mixed vegetables, sautéing for another 5 minutes until veggies are tender.
4. Mix soy sauce and chili paste in a bowl and pour over the stir-fry, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving over rice.
FAQs:
– Can I substitute the tofu? Yes, tempeh or seitan are great alternatives!
– How do I make it gluten-free? Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
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9. Vegetable Lo Mein
Looking for a quick and satisfying dinner? Vegetable Lo Mein is a classic dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. This recipe features noodles tossed with a colorful array of vegetables in a savory soy sauce, bringing together delightful textures and tastes. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for a filling weeknight dinner that your whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, bean sprouts)
– 3 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp ginger, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
3. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 5 minutes until tender.
4. Toss in cooked noodles and soy sauce; mix until everything is well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper, serve hot in bowls.
FAQs:
– Can I use gluten-free noodles? Yes, rice noodles work well as a substitute!
– What other veggies can I add? Broccoli, snap peas, and snow peas are excellent additions.
10. Mapo Tofu
Craving a dish with a kick? Mapo Tofu is a Szechuan classic that’s rich in flavor and packed with a spicy punch. This recipe features silken tofu in a fragrant sauce made with ground pork, chili oil, and fermented black beans, creating a comforting yet exhilarating dish. It’s perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals and can be ready in about 30 minutes for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 cups silken tofu, cubed
– 3 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp chili oil
– 1 tbsp fermented black beans, minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp ginger, minced
– 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
– Oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat; add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
2. Add ground pork and cook until browned.
3. Stir in fermented black beans and cook for another minute.
4. Pour in soy sauce and chili oil; gently stir in cubed tofu.
5. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the tofu is heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions over rice.
FAQs:
– Is it possible to make it vegetarian? Yes, you can substitute the ground pork with mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
– Can I freeze leftovers? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for up to 2 days in the fridge.
11. Thai Basil Chicken
In need of a flavorful and aromatic dish? Thai Basil Chicken is your solution! This stir-fried chicken is combined with fresh Thai basil and a savory sauce, creating an explosion of flavors in every bite. Whipping this dish together takes just 30 minutes, making it an easy yet impressive meal that will have everyone raving about your cooking skills.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp oyster sauce
– 1 tbsp fish sauce
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-2 bird’s eye chilies (or to taste)
– Oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a skillet; add garlic and chilies, sautéing for a minute.
2. Add diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce; cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Toss in fresh basil leaves and stir until wilted.
5. Serve hot with rice.
FAQs:
– What if I can’t find Thai basil? Regular basil can be used as a substitute, but the flavor will differ.
– Can I use shrimp instead of chicken? Yes, shrimp works wonderfully in this dish!
12. Egg Drop Soup
Feeling under the weather or just in need of something warm? Egg Drop Soup is a comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for chilly nights. This simple soup features silky strands of egg combined with fragrant broth and veggies, coming together in just 15 minutes. It’s a classic option that’s both healthy and satisfying, making it a great choice for a light meal or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring the broth to a simmer.
2. Stir in corn and soy sauce; cook for 2 minutes.
3. Slowly pour in the beaten eggs while stirring the soup to create silky strands.
4. Add chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot in bowls.
FAQs:
– Can I make it vegetarian? Yes, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
– How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
13. Szechuan Noodles
Craving something with a little heat? Szechuan Noodles are the perfect dish for you! Tossed with a savory Szechuan sauce, garlic, and a mix of fresh vegetables, this meal is not only flavorful but also satisfying. It’s quick to prepare, taking only about 25 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles (spaghetti or Szechuan noodles)
– 2 tbsp Szechuan sauce
– 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– Oil for frying
– Green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Add bell peppers and mushrooms, stir-frying for about 5 minutes.
4. Toss in the cooked noodles, Szechuan sauce, and soy sauce; mix well.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.
FAQs:
– Can I use whole wheat noodles? Yes, whole wheat noodles are a great healthier option!
– What if I can’t find Szechuan sauce? You can make your own spicy sauce using chili paste and soy sauce.
14. Chinese Five-Spice Chicken
Looking to add some aromatic flavors to your dinner? Chinese Five-Spice Chicken is a fantastic choice! This dish highlights a blend of spices that bring warmth and depth to the table. Marinated and then roasted or grilled, the chicken is juicy and full of flavor. In less than an hour, you can serve a meal that’s both easy and impressive, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
– 2 tbsp Chinese five-spice powder
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine five-spice powder, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
2. Coat the chicken thighs in the marinade and let sit for at least 20 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Place chicken on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.
FAQs:
– Can I use chicken breast instead? Yes, but be aware it may not be as juicy.
– How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Fun fact: Chinese five-spice can upgrade weeknight dinners in under 60 minutes, a perfect addition to dinner recipes Chinese. A simple marinade brings warmth and depth to chicken, turning takeout-worthy flavor into a quick, healthy dinner.
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15. Coconut Curry Shrimp
Craving a tropical escape in your meal? Coconut Curry Shrimp combines sweet and creamy coconut milk with spicy curry for an explosion of flavors. This dish is not only quick but incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The shrimp cooks quickly, soaking up all the delicious curry notes, and when paired with rice, it makes for a hearty meal in less than 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tbsp red curry paste
– 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
– 1 tbsp fish sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Oil for frying
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a skillet; add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Stir in red curry paste and cook for 1 minute to release flavors.
3. Add coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
4. Toss in shrimp and bell peppers; cook for 5-7 minutes until shrimp are cooked through.
5. Season with fish sauce and serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro over rice.
FAQs:
– Can I use chicken instead of shrimp? Yes, chicken breast works well in this recipe.
– How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
16. Hot and Sour Soup
Looking for a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful? Hot and Sour Soup is a tangy delight filled with a mix of ingredients that deliver heat and comfort. This dish features mushrooms, tofu, and bamboo shoots, all simmered in a spicy broth, making it perfect as an appetizer or a light meal. It comes together quickly—usually in about 25 minutes—allowing you to enjoy classic Chinese flavors at home without the wait.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup tofu, cubed
– 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp vinegar
– 1 tsp chili paste
– Cornstarch for thickening
– Green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring broth to a boil; add mushrooms, tofu, and bamboo shoots.
2. Stir in soy sauce, vinegar, and chili paste; simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry; add to the soup to thicken.
4. Cook for another 2 minutes until thickened.
5. Serve garnished with green onions.
FAQs:
– Is it possible to make it vegetarian? Yes, just use vegetable broth and omit any meat products.
– How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
17. Pineapple Fried Rice
In the mood for something fun and tropical? Pineapple Fried Rice is a delightful twist on traditional fried rice that adds sweetness and flair. This dish combines cooked rice, succulent pineapple chunks, colorful vegetables, and sometimes cashews, all stir-fried together in a flavorful sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a great weeknight option that brings a taste of the tropics to your dinner table!
Ingredients:
– 4 cups cooked rice
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– 1/2 cup cashews (optional)
– Green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet; add mixed vegetables and sauté for 3 minutes.
2. Add pineapple chunks and cooked rice, stirring to combine.
3. Pour in soy sauce and cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cashews if using and cook for another minute.
5. Serve garnished with green onions.
FAQs:
– Can I make it vegan? Yes, it’s naturally vegan if you skip the eggs and use vegan soy sauce.
– How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Weeknights sprint by, but dinner can still feel special. Pineapple Fried Rice proves you can pack color, flavor, and a tropical twist into just 25 minutes—no takeout needed, just quick, delicious dinner recipes chinese that your whole family loves.
18. Chow Mein
Need a quick and delicious dinner idea? Chow Mein is a classic Chinese dish that features stir-fried noodles with a variety of vegetables and proteins. This dish is not only quick to prepare but incredibly versatile, allowing you to use whatever ingredients you have on hand. With its satisfying crunch and savory sauce, Chow Mein is a meal that the whole family will love and can be ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz chow mein noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
– 1 cup cooked protein (chicken, beef, tofu)
– 3 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Cook the chow mein noodles according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet; add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 3 minutes.
3. Add cooked protein and noodles, pouring in soy sauce and oyster sauce; mix well.
4. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
5. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
FAQs:
– Can I use different noodles? Yes, any long noodles will work, such as spaghetti or rice noodles.
– How do I make it vegetarian? Omit meat and use tofu or just replace it with additional vegetables.
19. Orange Chicken
Craving something sweet and tangy? Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that has become a favorite in Chinese cuisine. This recipe features crispy chicken pieces coated in a vibrant orange sauce that is not only full of flavor but also visually stunning. You can enjoy this beloved takeout favorite from the comfort of your home, ready in under 30 minutes. It pairs perfectly with rice, creating a meal that everyone will adore.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– 1/2 tsp ginger, minced
– Oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch; set aside.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the chicken until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken and stir to coat well. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Serve hot over steamed rice.
FAQs:
– Can I make it spicier? Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
– What can I serve with it? This dish pairs wonderfully with fried rice or steamed vegetables.
Conclusion
With these 19 easy Chinese dinner recipes at your disposal, you’ll never have to rely on takeout again! Each dish offers a unique taste of China that is simple to prepare, healthy, and, most importantly, delicious. These recipes are designed for busy weeknights but are sure to impress at any dinner table. Why not get started on your next culinary adventure tonight? Your taste buds will thank you!
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