If you’re planning on leftovers, these 17 Chinese dishes might make you think again. They’re the kind of crowd-pleasers that have everyone going back for seconds, thirds, and even fourths without hesitation. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, these dishes are known for their vanishing act that leaves nothing behind. Fair warning: they’ll be gone before you even have a chance to grab a second helping yourself.

Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup

There’s something about Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup that makes it a comfort food classic. The combination of tender pork and shrimp wrapped in silky wontons, swimming in a broth that’s rich with flavor, makes for a meal that’s both nourishing and pleasing to the palate. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just looking for a quick and comforting meal, this soup is a go-to choice.
Get the Recipe: Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup

Dan Dan Noodles

Dan Dan Noodles stand out in the world of Sichuan cuisine with their bold, spicy flavor, which will grab your attention from the first bite. This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be turned into something extraordinary. It’s the kind of dish that’s hard to put down once you start, leading you to understand why it’s such a beloved recipe.
Get the Recipe: Dan Dan Noodles

Air Fryer Spring Rolls

With Air Fryer Spring Rolls, you get all the crunchy goodness without the extra oil from traditional frying methods. They’re a healthier alternative that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture, making them a hit at any gathering. Filled with vegetables and sometimes meat, they are versatile and can be adjusted to suit everyone’s taste. This approach offers a quick and easy way to enjoy a favorite snack or appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spring Rolls

Char Siu

The rich, sweet, and savory flavors of Char Siu make it more than just another barbecue pork. This dish is characterized by its glossy, red-glazed exterior and tender meat, which is a result of marinating and slow-roasting. It’s commonly sliced and served with rice or noodles, but it can also shine as a main dish on its own. Char Siu is a testament to the magic that happens with patience and the right blend of ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu

Hoisin Beef

Hoisin Beef brings together the bold flavors of hoisin sauce with the tenderness of beef in a dish that’s hard to resist. Not too complicated to make, it’s ideal for when you want something that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. Each bite offers a sweet and savory taste that complements the beef wonderfully, making it a popular choice for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Hoisin Beef

Air Fryer Pork Belly

For those who love their pork with a crispy exterior and tender inside, Air Fryer Pork Belly is a revelation. Using an air fryer allows you to achieve the perfect texture without the mess and calories of traditional frying. It’s a simple way to prepare a decadent dish that’s usually reserved for special occasions. The result is a pork belly that’s so delicious it’s likely to be the first dish to disappear from the table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly

Chicken Egg Foo Young

Chicken Egg Foo Young is a versatile omelette that’s filled with chicken and vegetables, making it a fulfilling meal any time of the day. It’s a dish that proves simplicity is often the key to a great meal, balancing healthiness with flavors. Easy to make and customizable to your taste, it’s a great option for a last-minute dinner. This dish embodies the essence of comfort food with the added bonus of being nutritious.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Foo Young

Char Siu Bao

Steamed buns filled with succulent barbecue pork, known as Char Siu Bao, are a dim sum favorite for good reason. They’re soft, fluffy, and have a sweet and savory filling that’s utterly addictive. Seen as a staple in Chinese cuisine, they make for a fulfilling snack or part of a larger meal. It’s one of those dishes that you find yourself craving at all times of the day.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu Bao

Mongolian Chicken

Mongolian Chicken is perfect for those who enjoy a good balance of sweet and spicy. The dish is characterized by tender chicken pieces coated in a rich sauce that brings together a mix of flavors. It’s often served over a bed of steamed rice, which helps to soak up all that delicious sauce. This dish is a great way to spice up dinner time and leave everyone at the table wanting more.
Get the Recipe: Mongolian Chicken

Har Gow

This dish features delicate, pleated dumplings filled with shrimp and bamboo shoots, steamed to perfection. They’re a staple at dim sum restaurants and a favorite among many for their translucent wrappers and juicy filling. Har Gow is a true showcase of skill in Chinese cuisine, as making them requires a bit of finesse. Once you’ve had them, it’s easy to understand why they’re such a beloved item.
Get the Recipe: Har Gow

Instant Pot Spare Ribs

For a dish that combines convenience with flavor, Instant Pot Spare Ribs are hard to beat. This method turns out succulently tender ribs that fall off the bone, coated in a flavorful sauce that’s both sweet and tangy. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic without having to spend hours tending to the grill or oven. The instant pot does all the heavy lifting, making it a user-friendly option for a delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spare Ribs

Vegetarian Dan Dan Noodles

Vegetarian Dan Dan Noodles bring the same exciting flavors as the traditional version but with a plant-based twist. It’s a dish that proves you don’t need meat to enjoy the depth of Sichuan cuisine. With a mix of spicy sauce, noodles, and vegetables, it’s balanced, nutritious, and full of taste. This dish is satisfying for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, highlighting the versatility of Chinese flavors.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Dan Dan Noodles

Chicken Potstickers

These Chicken Potstickers are a crowd-pleaser with their crispy bottoms and juicy filling. They strike the perfect balance between crunchy and tender, making them irresistible at any meal. Whether served as an appetizer or a side, they’re a versatile addition to any table. It’s a dish that draws people together, encouraging everyone to share and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Potstickers

Sweet and Sour Tofu

Sweet and Sour Tofu is a vibrant dish that showcases tofu in a whole new light. The tofu, with its crispy exterior and soft interior, soaks up the bold sweet and sour sauce, making every bite a pleasure. It’s a great dish for those looking to incorporate more plant-based options into their meals without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s colorful and appealing, adding a visual pop to your dining table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Tofu

Tanghulu

This classic street food snack offers a contrast of flavors and textures, with its crunchy, candied exterior and juicy, tart fruit inside. Traditionally made with hawthorn berries but easily adapted to use strawberries or grapes, it’s a treat that’s as beautiful to look at as it is to eat. Tanghulu is not only fun to make but also brings a bit of whimsy to your palate. It’s a simple yet indulgent treat that’s perfect for fulfilling a sweet tooth.
Get the Recipe: Tanghulu

Szechuan Shrimp

Szechuan Shrimp is a must-try for lovers of seafood and spice. It features plump shrimp tossed in a vibrant, spicy sauce that’s full of bold Sichuan pepper flavor. This dish is quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight meal that’s full of tang. For those who enjoy a meal that packs a punch, this shrimp dish is a perfect pick.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp

Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken

This Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken brings a beloved dish to your table with less oil and hassle. By using the air fryer, the chicken pieces get wonderfully crispy, while the classic combination of spicy, sweet, and nutty flavors remains intact. It’s a healthier take on a traditional recipe, proving that you can enjoy your favorites in a new and beneficial way. This version is as appealing as it is flavorful, ensuring it disappears quickly from the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken