30 Easy Chinese Recipes You'll Want To Repeat

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the delicious world of Chinese-inspired cuisine? I've got a fantastic lineup of 30 super simple recipes that you’ll absolutely want to make again and again. These recipes are perfect for weeknight dinners, lazy weekend meals, or anytime you're craving those amazing flavors. Let's get cooking!

Why Chinese-Inspired Recipes?

Chinese cuisine is incredibly diverse and flavorful, offering a wide range of dishes from savory stir-fries to comforting noodle soups. What makes these Chinese-inspired recipes so appealing is their simplicity and the ability to recreate authentic tastes using readily available ingredients. You don't need to be a culinary expert to whip up these meals. They're designed to be accessible for home cooks of all levels, which means more delicious dinners and less stress in the kitchen.

Chinese-inspired dishes often strike a wonderful balance of flavors – think the perfect blend of sweet, savory, spicy, and tangy. This complexity is achieved through a combination of classic sauces like soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and chili garlic sauce. These sauces form the base of many dishes, adding depth and richness that elevates the overall experience. Plus, many Chinese recipes incorporate fresh vegetables and lean proteins, making them a healthy and satisfying choice.

Another great thing about these recipes is how adaptable they are. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have in your fridge or your personal preferences. For example, if you’re not a fan of chicken, you can easily substitute it with tofu, shrimp, or beef. The same goes for vegetables – broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots are all fantastic additions to stir-fries. The beauty of cooking at home is that you have the freedom to customize each dish to your liking, ensuring that every meal is a hit.

Whether you're a busy professional looking for quick weeknight meals, a student wanting to impress your roommates, or simply someone who loves great food, these Chinese-inspired recipes have something for everyone. So, grab your wok (or a large skillet!), gather your ingredients, and let's embark on this culinary adventure together. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create restaurant-quality dishes in your own kitchen. Let’s get started and discover some new favorite meals!

1. Quick & Easy Chicken Stir-Fry

Kick things off with a classic! Quick and easy chicken stir-fry is a staple for a reason: it’s fast, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. The key to a great stir-fry is having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This ensures that everything cooks evenly and nothing gets overcooked.

The beauty of a chicken stir-fry lies in its versatility. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference. Chicken breasts are leaner and cook quickly, while chicken thighs offer a bit more flavor and stay moist. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and are easy to eat. As for the vegetables, the possibilities are endless! Broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, and onions are all fantastic choices. You can also add mushrooms, zucchini, or even leafy greens like bok choy or spinach. The more variety, the more nutritious and flavorful the stir-fry will be.

For the sauce, a simple combination of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey or brown sugar creates a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors. Some recipes also include a bit of cornstarch to thicken the sauce and give it a glossy finish. Don't be afraid to experiment with adding a splash of rice vinegar or sesame oil for extra depth of flavor. The sauce is what ties the whole dish together, so make sure it’s packed with umami goodness.

To make the stir-fry, start by heating a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add a bit of oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work well) and then add the chicken. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. Next, add your vegetables to the pan and stir-fry them until they are tender-crisp. This usually takes just a few minutes. Add the chicken back to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir everything together until the sauce has thickened and coated the chicken and vegetables. Serve your quick and easy chicken stir-fry over rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein and vitamins, making it a healthy choice for any day of the week.

2. Shrimp Fried Rice

Shrimp fried rice is another classic that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. This dish is a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked rice and transform it into a flavorful meal. It’s also a great option for a quick dinner because it comes together in minutes. Shrimp adds a delightful seafood twist to the traditional fried rice, making it a favorite for many.

The key to perfect shrimp fried rice is using cold, cooked rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky and can result in a mushy texture. If you’re planning to make fried rice, cook the rice a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the grains to dry out slightly, which is ideal for achieving that fluffy, separate texture in fried rice. For the shrimp, you can use fresh or frozen shrimp, just make sure they are peeled and deveined. Small to medium-sized shrimp work best, as they cook quickly and evenly.

Like the chicken stir-fry, the beauty of shrimp fried rice lies in its versatility. You can add a variety of vegetables to boost the flavor and nutritional value. Diced carrots, peas, onions, and corn are common additions, but you can also include bell peppers, mushrooms, or even edamame. A touch of scrambled egg adds richness and protein to the dish. The sauce for shrimp fried rice is typically a simple mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of white pepper. Some people also like to add a dash of oyster sauce or fish sauce for extra umami.

To make shrimp fried rice, start by heating a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and sauté the shrimp until they are pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside. Next, add your vegetables to the pan and stir-fry them until they are tender-crisp. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan, and then pour in a beaten egg. Scramble the egg until it’s cooked, then mix it with the vegetables. Add the cooked rice to the pan and break it up with a spatula. Stir-fry the rice until it’s heated through and slightly toasted. Add the cooked shrimp back to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir everything together until the flavors are combined. Serve your shrimp fried rice hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or sesame seeds. This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to get a balanced meal on the table quickly.

3. Vegetable Lo Mein

Vegetable lo mein is a fantastic vegetarian option that's both hearty and flavorful. This noodle dish is packed with a variety of vegetables and coated in a savory sauce, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal. Lo mein is a popular takeout dish, but making it at home is surprisingly easy and allows you to control the ingredients and flavors.

The star of vegetable lo mein is, of course, the noodles. Lo mein noodles are typically made from wheat flour and eggs, giving them a slightly chewy texture that’s perfect for soaking up the sauce. You can find lo mein noodles in the refrigerated section of most Asian grocery stores. If you can’t find lo mein noodles, you can substitute them with spaghetti or linguine. Just make sure to cook the noodles al dente so they don’t become mushy when you stir-fry them.

Vegetable lo mein is a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your diet. Broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, snap peas, and bok choy are all excellent choices. You can also add tofu or tempeh for extra protein. The key is to cut the vegetables into similar sizes so they cook evenly. For the sauce, a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce (or a vegetarian oyster sauce alternative), sesame oil, and a touch of sugar creates a rich and flavorful base. A bit of ginger and garlic adds warmth and aroma to the dish. Some people also like to add a splash of rice vinegar or chili garlic sauce for extra tang and spice.

To make vegetable lo mein, start by cooking the noodles according to the package directions. Drain the noodles and set them aside. While the noodles are cooking, prepare your vegetables by washing and chopping them. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and stir-fry the vegetables until they are tender-crisp. Add the cooked noodles to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir everything together until the noodles are coated in the sauce and heated through. Serve your vegetable lo mein hot, garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions. This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying vegetarian meal. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch, and it’s sure to become a new favorite.

4. Sweet and Sour Chicken

Sweet and sour chicken is a beloved Chinese-American classic that's sure to satisfy your cravings. This dish features crispy chicken pieces coated in a tangy and sweet sauce, making it a delightful combination of flavors and textures. While it’s often enjoyed as a takeout favorite, making sweet and sour chicken at home is surprisingly simple and allows you to customize the ingredients to your liking.

The key to great sweet and sour chicken is achieving the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. The sauce is typically made from a combination of vinegar (usually white vinegar or rice vinegar), sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, and pineapple juice. This combination creates a vibrant and flavorful sauce that perfectly coats the crispy chicken. Some recipes also include a bit of cornstarch to thicken the sauce and give it a glossy finish. You can adjust the sweetness and sourness of the sauce by adding more sugar or vinegar to taste.

For the chicken, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and then coat them in a mixture of cornstarch and flour. This coating helps the chicken crisp up nicely when it’s fried. You can either deep-fry the chicken for extra crispiness or pan-fry it in a skillet with a bit of oil for a lighter version. Both methods yield delicious results, so choose the one that best suits your preferences.

Sweet and sour chicken often includes vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and pineapple chunks. These vegetables add a pop of color and flavor to the dish. You can also add other vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or snap peas. The vegetables are typically stir-fried until they are tender-crisp, then added to the sauce along with the chicken.

To make sweet and sour chicken, start by preparing the sauce. In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, and pineapple juice. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until it has thickened slightly. Set the sauce aside. Next, prepare the chicken by coating it in the cornstarch and flour mixture. Fry the chicken until it’s golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the oil and drain it on paper towels. In a large skillet or wok, stir-fry the vegetables until they are tender-crisp. Add the fried chicken to the skillet, pour in the sauce, and stir everything together until the chicken and vegetables are coated in the sauce. Serve your sweet and sour chicken hot, over rice or noodles. This dish is not only delicious but also a fun and satisfying meal to make at home.

5. Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao chicken is a spicy and savory stir-fry that's known for its bold flavors and satisfying kick. This dish is a Sichuan classic, featuring tender chicken pieces, peanuts, and dried chili peppers in a rich and flavorful sauce. If you're a fan of spicy food, Kung Pao chicken is definitely a recipe you'll want to try.

The key to authentic Kung Pao chicken is the combination of Sichuan peppercorns, dried chili peppers, and a flavorful sauce. Sichuan peppercorns have a unique aroma and a slightly numbing sensation that adds a distinctive element to the dish. Dried chili peppers provide the heat, and you can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference. The sauce is typically made from a combination of soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and a touch of cornstarch to thicken it.

For the chicken, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are often preferred because they stay moist and tender during cooking. However, you can also use chicken breasts if you prefer. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and marinate it in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and egg white. This marinade helps to tenderize the chicken and gives it a silky texture when it's cooked.

Kung Pao chicken also includes peanuts, which add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor to the dish. Roasted peanuts are the most common choice, but you can also use raw peanuts and toast them in the pan before adding the other ingredients. Other common additions to Kung Pao chicken include scallions, ginger, and garlic, which add aromatic flavors to the dish.

To make Kung Pao chicken, start by preparing the sauce. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Set the sauce aside. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add a bit of oil and stir-fry the Sichuan peppercorns and dried chili peppers until they are fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as this can make the dish bitter. Remove the peppercorns and chili peppers from the pan and set them aside. Add the marinated chicken to the pan and stir-fry it until it’s cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. Add the scallions, ginger, and garlic to the pan and stir-fry them until they are fragrant. Add the chicken back to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir everything together until the sauce has thickened and coated the chicken. Stir in the peanuts and the reserved Sichuan peppercorns and chili peppers. Serve your Kung Pao chicken hot, over rice or noodles. This dish is a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress!

More Recipes to Explore

Guys, these are just a few of the incredible Chinese-inspired recipes you can make at home! We've still got 25 more to go, covering everything from savory noodles and comforting soups to exciting appetizers and mouthwatering main courses. Each recipe is designed to be super simple, so you can enjoy delicious, restaurant-quality meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Let's keep exploring!

6. Mongolian Beef

Mongolian beef is a savory and slightly sweet stir-fry that's incredibly satisfying. This dish features tender slices of beef coated in a rich, dark sauce and served over crispy noodles or rice. It’s a popular choice at Chinese-American restaurants, and making it at home is surprisingly easy.

The key to great Mongolian beef is using thinly sliced beef. Flank steak is a common choice because it’s flavorful and relatively lean. You can also use sirloin or skirt steak. Slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure it’s tender. A marinade helps to tenderize the beef and add flavor. A simple marinade of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a bit of oil works well. The sauce for Mongolian beef is typically made from a combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and hoisin sauce. Hoisin sauce is a thick, sweet, and savory sauce that adds a distinctive flavor to the dish. Some recipes also include a bit of water or beef broth to thin the sauce.

To make Mongolian beef, start by marinating the beef for at least 30 minutes. While the beef is marinating, prepare the sauce by whisking together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and hoisin sauce in a bowl. Set the sauce aside. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add a bit of oil and stir-fry the marinated beef until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside. Add a bit more oil to the pan and stir-fry sliced onions until they are tender. Add the sauce to the pan and bring it to a simmer. Cook the sauce until it has thickened slightly. Add the beef back to the pan and stir everything together until the beef is coated in the sauce. Serve your Mongolian beef hot, over crispy fried noodles or rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and visual appeal. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

7. Sesame Chicken

Sesame chicken is another Chinese-American favorite that’s known for its crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sesame-flavored sauce. This dish is perfect for those who love a combination of textures and flavors. The sesame seeds add a nutty aroma and a delightful crunch to the chicken.

The key to crispy sesame chicken is double-frying the chicken. This technique involves frying the chicken twice, once at a lower temperature to cook it through and then again at a higher temperature to crisp it up. The chicken is typically coated in a batter made from flour, cornstarch, and seasonings before frying. This batter creates a light and crispy coating that holds up well to the sauce. The sauce for sesame chicken is typically made from a combination of soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, sesame oil, and a bit of cornstarch to thicken it. Sesame seeds are added to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.

For the chicken, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and then coat them in the batter. Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 325°F (160°C). Fry the chicken in batches until it’s cooked through and lightly golden. Remove the chicken from the oil and drain it on paper towels. Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry the chicken again until it’s golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the oil and drain it on paper towels.

To make the sesame chicken sauce, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until it has thickened slightly. Add sesame seeds to the sauce and stir to combine. Add the fried chicken to the sauce and stir everything together until the chicken is coated in the sauce. Serve your sesame chicken hot, over rice or noodles. Garnish with extra sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a beautiful presentation. This dish is a restaurant-quality meal that you can easily make at home.

8. Beef and Broccoli

Beef and broccoli is a classic Chinese-American dish that's loved for its simple yet satisfying flavors. This dish features tender slices of beef and crisp-tender broccoli florets in a savory sauce. It’s a great choice for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.

The key to great beef and broccoli is using good-quality beef and cooking it properly. Flank steak or sirloin steak are good choices because they’re flavorful and relatively lean. Slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure it’s tender. A marinade can also help to tenderize the beef and add flavor. A simple marinade of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a bit of oil works well. The sauce for beef and broccoli is typically made from a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, ginger, and a bit of cornstarch to thicken it. Oyster sauce adds a rich umami flavor to the dish.

Broccoli is the other star of this dish, so it’s important to cook it properly. The goal is to achieve crisp-tender broccoli that’s not too soft or mushy. Blanching the broccoli before stir-frying it can help to achieve this texture. To blanch the broccoli, cook it in boiling water for a few minutes until it’s bright green and slightly tender. Then, transfer it to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

To make beef and broccoli, start by marinating the beef for at least 30 minutes. While the beef is marinating, blanch the broccoli and set it aside. Prepare the sauce by whisking together soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch in a bowl. Set the sauce aside. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add a bit of oil and stir-fry the marinated beef until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside. Add the blanched broccoli to the pan and stir-fry it until it’s tender-crisp. Add the beef back to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir everything together until the sauce has thickened and coated the beef and broccoli. Serve your beef and broccoli hot, over rice. This dish is a healthy and delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

9. Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is a tangy and sweet dish that’s a favorite among Chinese-American cuisine lovers. This recipe features crispy chicken pieces coated in a vibrant orange-flavored sauce. The bright citrus notes make it incredibly refreshing and flavorful.

The key to outstanding orange chicken is the sauce. The sauce is typically made from fresh orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, ginger, garlic, and a touch of chili for a subtle kick. Cornstarch is often used to thicken the sauce, giving it a glossy finish that clings beautifully to the chicken. The balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors is what makes this dish so irresistible.

Like sesame chicken, the best orange chicken starts with crispy chicken. The chicken pieces are often coated in a batter of flour and cornstarch, which helps them achieve a golden-brown, crunchy exterior when fried. Double-frying the chicken can enhance the crispiness, ensuring that the chicken remains delightfully crunchy even after being coated in the sauce.

For the chicken, boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts work wonderfully. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss them in the batter before frying. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet and fry the chicken until it's golden brown and cooked through. Drain the chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil.

To make the orange chicken sauce, whisk together the orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, ginger, garlic, and chili flakes (if using) in a saucepan. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until it thickens, stirring occasionally. Add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to the sauce to help it reach the desired consistency. Once the sauce is thick and glossy, add the fried chicken and toss to coat. Serve the orange chicken hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. This dish is a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more!

10. General Tso's Chicken

General Tso's chicken is an iconic dish known for its rich, complex flavors and crispy texture. This recipe involves lightly battered and fried chicken pieces tossed in a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy sauce. It's a staple on many Chinese-American restaurant menus and a dish that's well worth making at home.

The key to authentic General Tso's chicken is the sauce, which is a harmonious blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, ginger, garlic, and dried red chilies for heat. Hoisin sauce often adds depth and umami to the sauce, while a touch of cornstarch helps to thicken it to a perfect, glossy consistency. The sauce should strike a balance between sweet, savory, and spicy, with a noticeable but not overpowering kick.

The chicken's crispiness is just as important as the sauce in General Tso's chicken. The chicken pieces are typically coated in a mixture of cornstarch and flour before being fried to a golden-brown perfection. Frying the chicken in two stages—first to cook it through, then a second time to achieve extra crispiness—yields the best results.

For the chicken, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent choice because they stay juicy and tender during the frying process. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss them in the cornstarch and flour mixture. Fry the chicken in hot oil until it's crispy and golden brown, then drain it on paper towels.

To make the General Tso's chicken sauce, sauté minced ginger and garlic in a pan to release their aromas. Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, dried red chilies, and hoisin sauce. Simmer the sauce until the flavors meld, then thicken it with a cornstarch slurry. Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly. Serve the General Tso's chicken hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. This dish offers a delightful combination of crispy chicken and a bold, flavorful sauce that will tantalize your taste buds!

11. Honey Garlic Chicken

Honey garlic chicken is a delightful dish characterized by its sticky, sweet, and savory sauce. This recipe combines tender chicken pieces with a luscious honey-garlic glaze, making it a family-friendly favorite. It’s simple to make and perfect for a quick yet satisfying weeknight dinner.

The key to honey garlic chicken is, undoubtedly, the honey garlic sauce. This sauce is a beautiful balance of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, aromatic garlic, and a touch of other seasonings to create depth. The sauce typically includes soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar for a bit of tanginess. A thickening agent like cornstarch is often used to give the sauce a glossy, syrupy consistency.

For the chicken, boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts can be used. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and lightly sear them in a pan until they are browned on the outside and cooked through. This step helps to lock in the chicken's juices and adds a nice textural contrast to the final dish.

To prepare the honey garlic sauce, sauté the minced garlic in a pan until fragrant. Add the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar (if using), and any other desired seasonings like ginger or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Simmer the sauce for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then thicken it with a cornstarch slurry if desired. Add the cooked chicken to the pan and toss to coat it evenly with the honey garlic glaze. Serve the honey garlic chicken hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. This dish is a wonderful combination of sweet and savory flavors that's sure to please everyone at the table.

12. Lemon Chicken

Lemon chicken is a bright and zesty dish that's known for its crispy chicken drizzled with a tangy lemon sauce. This recipe is refreshing, flavorful, and a welcome change from heavier Chinese-inspired dishes. The vibrant lemon flavor makes it perfect for warmer months or any time you're craving something light and delicious.

The star of lemon chicken is, of course, the lemon sauce. The sauce is typically made from fresh lemon juice, sugar, chicken broth, and a touch of soy sauce for umami. A cornstarch slurry is used to thicken the sauce, giving it a smooth, glossy texture that perfectly coats the chicken. The key is to balance the tartness of the lemon juice with the sweetness of the sugar, creating a sauce that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

The chicken in lemon chicken is usually fried until crispy. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a popular choice because they cook quickly and evenly. The chicken pieces are often coated in a batter of flour, cornstarch, and seasonings before frying, which helps them achieve a golden-brown and crispy exterior.

To make lemon chicken, start by preparing the lemon sauce. In a saucepan, combine the lemon juice, sugar, chicken broth, and soy sauce. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until it's slightly reduced. Thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry and set it aside. Next, prepare the chicken by coating it in the batter. Fry the chicken in hot oil until it's crispy and cooked through. Drain the chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil. Drizzle the lemon sauce over the fried chicken and serve immediately, garnished with lemon slices and chopped parsley or green onions. This dish is a delightful combination of crispy chicken and zesty lemon flavor that’s sure to brighten your meal.

13. Black Pepper Chicken

Black pepper chicken is a savory and aromatic dish that showcases the bold flavor of freshly ground black pepper. This recipe features tender chicken pieces stir-fried with a generous amount of black pepper, along with onions and bell peppers for added texture and flavor. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that's perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice.

The key to black pepper chicken is the generous use of freshly ground black pepper. The pepper adds a pungent, slightly spicy flavor that is the defining characteristic of this dish. The sauce for black pepper chicken typically includes soy sauce, oyster sauce (or a vegetarian alternative), garlic, and a bit of sugar to balance the flavors. A cornstarch slurry is often used to thicken the sauce, giving it a rich and glossy texture.

For the chicken, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent choice because they stay moist and tender during cooking. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and marinate them in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a bit of oil. This marinade helps to tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.

To make black pepper chicken, start by stir-frying sliced onions and bell peppers in a wok or large skillet until they are tender-crisp. Remove the vegetables from the pan and set them aside. Add the marinated chicken to the pan and stir-fry it until it's cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. Add minced garlic and freshly ground black pepper to the pan and stir-fry until fragrant. Pour in the sauce, which typically includes soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a bit of sugar, and bring it to a simmer. Thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry and then add the chicken and vegetables back to the pan. Stir everything together until the chicken and vegetables are coated in the sauce and heated through. Serve the black pepper chicken hot, over rice or noodles. This dish is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

14 - 30. More Chinese-Inspired Recipes

Guys, we've only scratched the surface! There are so many other amazing Chinese-inspired recipes out there that are just as simple and delicious. Think about dishes like Mapo Tofu, Cashew Chicken, Egg Drop Soup, and so much more. Each of these recipes offers a unique blend of flavors and textures, and they're all designed to be easy to make at home.

Why not try exploring some vegetarian options? Tofu and vegetable stir-fries can be incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Or, if you're in the mood for something comforting, a bowl of wonton soup or noodle soup is always a great choice.

Don't forget about appetizers! Spring rolls, dumplings, and potstickers are all fun and delicious options that are perfect for sharing. You can even make them ahead of time and freeze them for later.

The beauty of Chinese-inspired cuisine is that there's something for everyone. Whether you're a fan of spicy dishes, sweet and tangy flavors, or savory comfort food, you're sure to find plenty of recipes that you'll love. So, keep experimenting, keep cooking, and most importantly, keep enjoying the delicious world of Chinese-inspired cuisine!