Takeout on speed dial, same old limp fries, and salads that have seen better days. Why go down that road when you can whip up something way more exciting in your own kitchen? Those pots and pans collecting dust? Time to show them some love. Tonight? We’re cooking 17 delicious dishes that are worth the time and effort.
![Low angle shot of a bowl of kung pao chicken.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Kung-Pao-Chicken-1600-2.jpg)
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps
![Closeup of a chicken shawarma wrap.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/AF-Chicken-Shawarma-Wraps-1600-2.jpg)
Skip the takeout menu tonight. Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps bring the vibrant flavors of the Middle East right to your kitchen table, all with the convenience of your air fryer. You’ll love the combination of juicy, spiced chicken with crisp veggies, all wrapped up in a warm pita.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps
Szechuan Shrimp
![Low angle shot of szechuan shrimp in a wok.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Szechuan-Shrimp1600-2.jpg)
If you’re craving something with a kick, Szechuan Shrimp is the answer. This dish balances spicy, sweet, and savory notes, creating a dance of flavors in your mouth. Succulent shrimp is the star, perfectly complemented by the bold Szechuan sauce. It’s a dish that brings the heat and heart of Sichuan cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake
![A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Creamy-Spinach-Chicken-Bake.jpg)
Imagine biting into tender chicken nestled in a bed of creamy spinach — that’s Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake for you. It’s a comforting dish that combines protein and greens in one go, making it a perfect weeknight meal. The creamy sauce breathes life into the chicken, making every bite better than the last.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake
Sopa de Camarones
![A bowl of shrimp soup.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Sopa-de-Camaron-1600-2.jpg)
Seafood lovers, rejoice with Sopa de Camarones. This Mexican shrimp soup combines the ocean’s freshness with earthy, comforting flavors. It’s a bowl of warmth filled with tender shrimp and vegetables, perfect for any day that calls for a cozy meal. Consider it a hug in a bowl but with seafood.
Get the Recipe: Sopa de Camarones
Chicken Pakora
![Low angle shot of chicken pakora on a plate with a green napkin.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/chicken-pakora-10.jpg)
Your crispy, irresistible snack fix is Chicken Pakora. These bite-sized chicken pieces, coated in a spiced flour batter and fried to perfection, bring the flavors of Indian street food to your kitchen. They’re perfect for when you want something savory, crunchy, and satisfyingly delicious.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pakora
Beef Bulgogi Bowls
![Beef bulgogi in a bowl with rice and cucumbers.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/beef-bulgogi-msn2.jpg)
Craving Korean BBQ? Beef Bulgogi Bowls are here to satisfy that craving with minimal fuss. These bowls feature thinly sliced marinated beef, paired with a variety of fresh vegetables and steamed rice. It’s a fast track to flavorful, balanced meals, capturing the essence of Korean cuisine in the comfort of your home.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls
Chicken Hot and Sour Soup
![Two bowls of hot and sour soup.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Chicken-Hot-and-Sour-Soup-1600-2.jpg)
The ultimate comfort food with a twist is Chicken Hot and Sour Soup. This soup strikes the perfect balance between the hotness of seasonings and the tangy broth, coupled with tender chicken and vegetables. It’s a classic Chinese restaurant favorite that’s surprisingly easy to replicate at home.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Hot and Sour Soup
Salpicon de Res
![Low angle shot of mini tostadas with salpicon de res or shredded beef salad on top.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Salpicon-de-Res-1600.jpg)
When you want a salad that’s hearty and satisfying, Salpicon de Res is the way to go. This Mexican shredded beef salad is packed full of flavor, featuring a refreshing mix of beef and a zingy dressing. It’s a dish that proves salads can be more than just leafy greens – they can be a meal in themselves.
Get the Recipe: Salpicon de Res
Green Chili Chicken Soup
![Overhead shot of a pot of the soup with two bowls of the soup and garnishes.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Green-chile-chicken-soup-set-two.jpg)
For a taste of the Southwest, dig into Green Chili Chicken Soup. This comforting soup packs a punch with its combination of tender chicken and fiery green chilis. It’s a bowl full of comfort with just the right amount of heat. Whether it’s chilly outside or you’re just craving some warmth, this has got you covered.
Get the Recipe: Green Chili Chicken Soup
Shrimp Yakisoba
![Shrimp yakisoba on a plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/shrimp-yakisoba-dslr-4-1.jpg)
Switch up your noodle game with Shrimp Yakisoba. This Japanese-inspired dish brings together succulent shrimp, crisp vegetables, and noodles, all tossed in a savory sauce. It’s a stir-fry that promises flavor in every bite, making it a surefire way to satisfy those noodle cravings without reaching for a takeout menu.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Yakisoba
Ramen Fried Chicken
![Hand reaching into a bowl of ramen fried chicken pieces.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ramen-crusted-chicken-msn.jpg)
Fried chicken meets Japanese ramen in Ramen Fried Chicken. This ingenious dish uses crushed ramen noodles as breading, creating a uniquely crunchy exterior. Inside, the chicken is juicy and tender, making every bite a perfect crunch. It’s a fun twist on classic fried chicken – perfect for the adventurous.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Fried Chicken
Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos
![Shrimp tacos on a plate with lime wedges.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shrimp-chorizo-tacos.jpg)
Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos offer a delicious blend of flavors and textures. The spicy, smoky chorizo pairs wonderfully with the delicate shrimp, all tucked into a soft tortilla. Add your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a taco night that beats any restaurant’s version. It’s quick, easy, and flavorful!
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos
Crispy Beef
![Low angle shot of crispy beef on a plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/crispy-beef-1.jpg)
Looking for a dish that’s crispy, savory, and utterly satisfying? Crispy Beef has got you covered. Thin slices of beef are fried until they’re irresistibly crispy, then tossed in a savory sauce that’s sweet, spicy, and tangy all at once. It’s a flavor-packed dish that might just become your new favorite.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Beef
Kerala Fish Curry
![Fish curry in an earthenware baking dish.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/kerala-fish-curry-horiz-1024x765-1-1024x765-1.jpg)
Take a culinary trip to South India with Kerala Fish Curry. This dish features fish simmered in a curry and coconut milk sauce, infused with exotic spices. It’s a vibrant and aromatic dish that brings the coastal flavors of Kerala straight to your table. Paired with rice, it’s a comforting meal that’s hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Kerala Fish Curry
Kung Pao Chicken
![Low angle shot of a bowl of kung pao chicken.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Kung-Pao-Chicken-1600-2.jpg)
Kung Pao Chicken is not just another stir-fry; it’s a symphony of flavors. Tender chicken pieces, crunchy peanuts, and a bold mix of spicy and tangy sauces come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and addictive. It’s a classic Chinese dish that proves homemade can easily outshine takeout.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken
Chilaquiles
![Overhead shot of chilaquiles on a black plate with a fork and knife on the side.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/chilaquiles-plated-5.jpg)
Wake up your palate with Chilaquiles. This traditional Mexican breakfast dish is a delicious mix of lightly fried tortillas, topped with cheese, eggs, and any other toppings you like. It’s a flavorful, satisfying dish that turns breakfast or brunch into a feast. Try it and be amazed!
Get the Recipe: Chilaquiles
Mongolian Chicken
![Two bowls of chicken curry with spices and rice.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/mongolian-chicken-6.jpg)
Need a dish that’s both simple and outrageously delicious? Mongolian Chicken fits the bill. It has chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sauce. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of Asian flair to dinner time, tempting enough to make you forget about ordering in.
Get the Recipe: Mongolian Chicken