11 simple recipes that make Chinese takeout seem overrated

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Craving some Chinese takeout but not in the mood to wait for delivery or deal with the extra cost? You’re in luck! These 11 amazing recipes bring all the flavors of your favorite Chinese dishes right into your kitchen. They’re quick, easy, and wallet-friendly, making them perfect for those busy weeknights or whenever the craving hits. Once you try these, you might just forget about your local takeout spot!

Shrimp lo mein in a skillet with chopped green onions in a white bowl on the side.
Shrimp Lo Mein. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Honey garlic chicken in a bowl served over rice.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Forget about calling for takeout; this slow cooker honey garlic chicken is your new go-to for a hassle-free dinner. Imagine chunks of chicken smothered in a sticky, sweet sauce, way healthier than anything you’d get from a takeout joint. And the best part? It’s so easy to make. Just set it up in your slow cooker and let the magic happen.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Hot & Sour Egg Drop Soup

A bowl of soup with an egg on top.
Hot & Sour Egg Drop Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Why choose between hot and sour soup or egg drop when you can have both? This combo is a cozy, comforting bowl of goodness. It’s the perfect homemade remedy for those days when you’re craving a bit of both. Plus, it’s a cinch to make, saving you that trip to the Chinese restaurant.
Get the Recipe: Hot & Sour Egg Drop Soup

Mapo Tofu

Tofu in a bowl with chopsticks.
Mapo Tofu. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Spice up your dinner with this easy mapo tofu. It’s a straightforward dish that brings the heat and flavors of a classic Chinese favorite right to your kitchen. Best part? It uses ingredients you probably already have. Say goodbye to waiting for delivery and hello to a quick, fiery meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Mapo Tofu

Spicy Udon Noodle Stir Fry

Spicy udon noodle stir fry in a bowl with chopsticks.
Spicy Udon Noodle Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Spice up your weeknights with this spicy udon noodle stir fry. It’s a quick fix packed with umami flavor, thanks to the ginger-garlic sriracha sauce. Tossed with hearty udon noodles and ground beef, it’s a dish that stands up to any takeout menu. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s fast, filling, and utterly delicious.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon Noodle Stir Fry

Shrimp Lo Mein

Shrimp lo mein in a skillet with chopped green onions in a white bowl on the side.
Shrimp Lo Mein. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Tired of ordering shrimp lo mein? Why not make it yourself? It’s surprisingly simple and quick, with all those flavors you love – Chinese egg noodles, juicy shrimp, fresh veggies, all tossed in a sauce that’ll make you wonder why you ever bothered with takeout. Plus, it’s ready in just 20 minutes. Weeknight dinners just got a whole lot better!
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Lo Mein

Ground Beef Stir Fry

Ground beef stir fry in a skillet.
Ground Beef Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

For a weeknight meal that’s both simple and scrumptious, try this ground beef stir fry. It’s got everything you need – fresh veggies, flavorful beef, and a homemade garlic ginger sauce. And the best part? It’s all done in one pan. Quicker, healthier, and more satisfying than any takeout, it’s a win-win.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Stir Fry

Sweet & Sour Tofu

Sweet and sour tofu in a bowl with rice and chopsticks on the side.
Sweet & Sour Tofu. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Here’s a sweet and sour tofu recipe that’s a total game-changer. Crispy tofu coated in a sticky sauce that mimics that classic takeout favorite. And you know what’s even better? It’s all ready in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect vegetarian friendly meal for when you want something quick and easy, but still packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Sour Tofu

Chinese Boneless Spare Ribs

Homemade Chinese spare ribs with broccoli and rice on a white plate.
Chinese Boneless Spare Ribs. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

If you love the sticky, sweet taste of Chinese spare ribs from your favorite takeout spot, you’re going to enjoy making these at home. They’ve got those crispy edges and that iconic deep red color. Plus, they’re way easier on your wallet and surprisingly simple to whip up. Think about it – all the yumminess of takeout, but you’re in control of the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Boneless Spare Ribs

General Tso Shrimp

Homemade general tso shrimp with broccoli and rice in a bowl with chopsticks.
General Tso Shrimp. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Craving some General Tso’s but don’t want to wait for delivery? This homemade version has all the sweet and slightly spicy flavors you’re craving, and guess what? It takes just 10 minutes to make. Plus, it’s all done in one skillet. So, you can enjoy your favorite takeout dish faster, cheaper, and just as delicious.
Get the Recipe: General Tso Shrimp

Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Beef and broccoli stir fry served with white rice on a white plate.
Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Thinly sliced beef, crunchy broccoli, and a crave-worthy sauce – this shaved beef and broccoli stir fry is your answer to those takeout cravings. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a last-minute dinner. Plus, it’s just as good, if not better, than what you’d get from your local takeout spot.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Kung Pao Chickpeas

Kung pao chickpea dish in a bowl with rice and skillet off to the left.
Kung Pao Chickpeas. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Switch up your takeout routine with these Kung Pao chickpeas. They’ve got all the bold flavors of your favorite Chinese dish, but with a vegan twist. The sauce is spot on, recreating that classic taste you love, and the chickpeas make it a simple yet satisfying protein swap. Homemade takeout has never been this good!
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chickpeas

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