13 Asian recipes so simple even weeknights feel fancy

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When weeknights get busy, it’s easy to fall into the same old dinner routine, but adding a touch of Asian-inspired flair doesn’t have to be complicated. I’ve put together a collection of recipes that bring bold flavors and simple steps, making your dinners feel special without all the hassle. These dishes are perfect for those nights when you want to enjoy something a little different and make dinner feel like a treat, even on the busiest of days.

Ground Beef and Broccoli stir-fry over rice.
Ground Beef and Broccoli. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipe

Filipino Spaghetti

A bowl of spaghetti topped with a rich meat sauce placed on a red and white checkered tablecloth.
Filipino Spaghetti. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Filipino spaghetti brings a unique twist to classic spaghetti with its sweet and savory flavors, making it a standout choice for weeknight dinners. It’s a perfect dish when you want to switch things up without much effort. Ready in about 30 minutes, this meal feels special and comforting with every bite. The combination of savory meat and a touch of sweetness makes it an instant hit for any night. Simple, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Spaghetti

Chicken Chop Suey

Stir-fried chicken chop suey in a skillet.
Chicken Chop Suey. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken chop suey is a quick stir-fry that’s loaded with fresh veggies and tender chicken, perfect for busy nights. The light sauce and variety of textures make it a dish that feels a little elevated without the extra work. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a great way to bring some flair to your dinner routine. It’s easy to pull together but looks and tastes like you spent much more time. Perfect for adding some flavor to any weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chop Suey

Pancit Bihon Guisado

A fork lifting a portion of chicken and noodles from a bowl of stir-fry.
Pancit Bihon Guisado. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Pancit bihon guisado is a traditional Filipino noodle dish that’s great for when you want something quick yet special. It’s a flavorful combination of noodles, veggies, and meat that comes together in about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy nights, it’s a complete meal in one that brings a touch of Asian flair to your table. With minimal prep, it’s easy to make and always feels like a treat. Great for a satisfying and stress-free weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pancit Bihon Guisado

Filipino Leche Flan

Leche flan caramel creme brulee on a plate with a spoon.
Filipino Leche Flan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Filipino leche flan is a rich and creamy dessert that feels like a little indulgence on any night. Though simple to make, it brings a luxurious touch to the end of your meal, making even weeknights feel fancy. It’s perfect for those times when you want something sweet without a lot of effort. Ready to impress with its silky texture and caramel flavor, this flan comes together with minimal fuss. A great way to add a special note to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Leche Flan

Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

A plate of freshly cooked Filipino banana turon lumpia spring rolls.
Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Filipino banana turon lumpia is a delightful snack or dessert that’s easy to prepare and brings a touch of fun to any evening. The crispy wrapper and sweet filling make it a go-to when you need a quick treat that feels just a bit special. It’s a great choice for those busy nights when you still want something with flair. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. A simple yet standout dish that everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

Bowl of black pepper chicken with chop sticks.
Chinese Black Pepper Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chinese black pepper chicken is a quick stir-fry that packs a punch of flavor with its bold, peppery sauce. Perfect for busy nights, it comes together in about 30 minutes and feels like something you’d order at a restaurant. With tender chicken and crisp veggies, it’s an easy way to bring some excitement to your dinner routine. The dish is simple to make but offers big, bold flavors that make even a regular night feel special. A weeknight favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

Korean Beef and Broccoli

Ground Beef and Broccoli stir-fry over rice.
Korean Beef and Broccoli. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Korean beef and broccoli is a simple, savory dish that combines tender beef and crisp broccoli in a delicious sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it great for when time is tight. The flavorful sauce coats everything beautifully, giving you a dish that feels like a little treat without the extra work. It’s an easy way to enjoy those classic Asian flavors at home. A great option for a quick, tasty dinner.
Get the Recipe: Korean Beef and Broccoli

Ground Pork Stir Fry

A plate with ground pork and vegetables on top of cauliflower rice.
Ground Pork Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This ground pork stir fry is a quick and versatile dish that’s perfect for busy evenings. With its simple mix of veggies and flavorful pork, it’s ready in 30 minutes and delivers great taste with minimal effort. It’s a go-to when you want something easy yet full of flavor that doesn’t feel like the usual. Perfect for weeknights, it’s a dish that makes dinner feel effortless and satisfying. A reliable and quick option for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Stir Fry

Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Shrimp and broccoli stir-fry in a bowl.
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp and broccoli stir-fry is a light and fresh option that’s perfect for busy nights when you need dinner fast. The combination of tender shrimp and crisp broccoli is ready in about 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight go-to. The simple sauce ties everything together, giving you a dish that feels a little special without much effort. It’s quick, easy, and packs plenty of flavor. Great for when you want something light but still satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

Roasted broccoli and tofu cubes garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, served with a wooden spoon.
Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Broccoli tofu stir fry is a simple and healthy meal that’s perfect for weeknights. With crispy tofu and fresh broccoli tossed in a light sauce, it’s ready in under 30 minutes. The dish feels like a fresh take on dinner, bringing a bit of Asian flair without all the work. It’s great for when you want something quick, easy, and still packed with flavor. Perfect for adding a little variety to your weeknight meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

Air Fryer Lumpia

Filipino spring rolls in a basket with dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air fryer lumpia is a lighter, faster take on a classic favorite that’s perfect for weeknight snacking or a light meal. Ready in about 30 minutes, these crispy rolls are a great way to enjoy that familiar taste without the hassle of deep frying. It’s an easy way to bring a bit of Asian-inspired flavor to your table without all the fuss. The air fryer keeps things simple and mess-free, making it perfect for any night. A quick snack that feels special.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites

A basket of crispy roasted pork belly chunks garnished with parsley, served in a white paper-lined wicker basket.
Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air fryer pork belly bites are a crispy, flavorful option that’s great for those nights when you want something a little different. These bite-sized pieces cook up fast and are perfect for adding a bit of crunch to your dinner table. Ready in about 30 minutes, they’re an easy way to bring some bold flavors to your meal without much effort. Perfect for a quick snack or as part of a larger meal. A simple, tasty choice that makes any night feel special.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites

Bang Bang Shrimp

Fried shrimp on a plate next to a bowl of sauce.
Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Bang bang shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknights when you need something easy yet impressive. The shrimp cook up fast, and the creamy, spicy sauce adds a touch of heat that makes the dish feel like a treat. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s great for when you want something with a little kick but not a lot of work. Perfect as a main dish or an appetizer, it’s always a hit and brings a bit of excitement to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

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