Get ready to feel the heat with these 15 spicy dishes that’ll have you both sweating and smiling. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or just want something to wake up your dinner, these meals do the job. But don’t worry, they won’t melt your face off… at least not completely. Try one, and before you know it, you’ll be craving that kick all the time.

Szechuan Shrimp

If you’re in the mood for something with a kick, Szechuan Shrimp will not disappoint. It’s a crowd-pleaser known for its bold spiciness that perfectly complements the juicy shrimp. This dish brings a blend of garlic, ginger, and Szechuan peppercorns to your table. It’s ideal for those evenings when you want something quick, spicy, and utterly delicious.
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Cucumber Kimchi

Cucumber Kimchi is a refreshing take on the traditional Kimchi, where cucumbers play the starring role. Not only is it crunchy and full of texture, but it also packs a spicy punch that pairs wonderfully with any main dish. It’s an excellent side dish for those looking to add some spicy, fermented flavors to their meal. Plus, it’s simple to make and even easier to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Kimchi

Camarones a la Diabla

For seafood lovers who enjoy a bit of heat, Camarones a la Diabla is a must-try. This dish is famous for its fiery red sauce that embraces succulent shrimp, creating a meal that’s both spicy and satisfying. It’s perfect for those days when you want to turn up the heat and enjoy some Mexican cuisine. The sauce, made with a blend of chili peppers, ensures each bite is as hot as the previous.
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Dan Dan Noodles

Dan Dan Noodles offer an unforgettably spicy experience that keeps you coming back for more. It’s a dish that combines the nutty richness of sesame paste with the fiery heat of chili oil, making each forkful exciting. The ground pork provides a hearty addition to the noodles, ensuring a balanced and robust meal. If you love noodles with a side of spice, this one’s for you.
Get the Recipe: Dan Dan Noodles

Thai Chicken Satay

Looking for a grill favorite with a twist? Thai Chicken Satay is the answer. Marinated in spices and grilled to perfection, the chicken brings a mild heat that’s accentuated by a side of spicy peanut sauce. It serves as a perfect appetizer or a main dish for those who appreciate a slight kick to their meal.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Satay

Cajun Shrimp and Grits

For a Southern classic with a spicy twist, Cajun Shrimp and Grits won’t disappoint. This dish combines succulent shrimp with creamy, cheese-infused grits, all drenched in a spiced-up Cajun sauce. It’s a comforting dish that proves breakfast for dinner can be both exciting and spicy. If you’re looking for a meal that is hearty with just the right amount of kick, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Thai Larb

Thai Larb is a marvel for those who appreciate the blend of hot and tangy in one dish. It’s a meat salad that can be made with chicken, pork, or beef, seasoned with chili flakes, lime juice, and fish sauce for that perfect bite. Light yet bursting with spice, it’s perfect for a summer dinner or when you’re craving something different. Each bite promises a mix of fresh and fiery flavors, making it a staple for spicy food lovers.
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Chicken 65

This is an irresistible dish that brings the heat in every crunchy bite. This popular Indian appetizer features deep-fried chicken pieces coated in a spicy and aromatic seasoning. It’s a great way to start a meal or enjoy with drinks as it’s packed with flavors that kick-start your appetite. If you enjoy your chicken with a side of spicy, Chicken 65 is the way to go.
Get the Recipe: Chicken 65

Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles

Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles are for those who love their meals with a side of peanuts and a heap of spice. This dish combines the creaminess of peanut sauce with the unmistakable heat of Thai spices, tossed with perfectly cooked noodles. It’s a simple yet bold dish that caters to those who love their meals rich in flavor and warmth. Whether it’s lunch or dinner, these noodles promise to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles

Chicken Hot and Sour Soup

This soup is an ideal pick for anyone looking to spice up their soup game. This dish combines the heat of white pepper and the tang of vinegar to create a broth that’s both invigorating and warming. It’s filled with tender chicken strips, tofu, and vegetables, making it a complete meal in a bowl. Perfect for cold days or when you’re in need of a spicy pick-me-up, Chicken Hot and Sour Soup checks all the boxes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Hot and Sour Soup

Stir Fried Hokkien Noodles

Stir Fried Hokkien Noodles are a testament to the beauty of simplicity combined with heat. This dish is a mix of tender noodles, crispy vegetables, and a choice of protein, all tossed in a fiery sauce that hits the spot. It’s a quick and easy way to bring the heat to your dinner table. If you’re short on time but crave something spicy and fulfilling, this is your go-to dish.
Get the Recipe: Stir Fried Hokkien Noodles

Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken

For those who enjoy a unique twist, Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken mixes the unlikely duo of peanut butter and chili to create a rich, mouthwatering dish. This combination saturates tender chicken pieces in a sauce that’s both spicy and slightly sweet. It’s an ideal meal for when you want something out of the ordinary yet comforting and full of heat. Every bite is a discovery of how well these flavors play together.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken

Crab, Shrimp, and Sausage Gumbo

Crab, Shrimp, and Sausage Gumbo is a heartwarming dish that’s a staple in Southern cuisine, offering a hearty mixture of seafood and sausage simmered in a spicy and flavorful broth. It perfectly encapsulates comfort food with a kick, making it ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in. This gumbo is generous in portions and flavors, ensuring a satisfying meal with just the right level of heat.
Get the Recipe: Crab, Shrimp, and Sausage Gumbo

Crispy Beef

This dish is for those who love their beef with a crispy texture and a hot, spicy coating. The thin slices of beef are flash-fried until they’re just crispy and then bathed in a spicy sauce that clings to every piece. Crispy Beef is a dish that proves simplicity and spiciness can go hand in hand, offering a delicious option for dinner. This is one for the spice enthusiasts and those who love a bit of crunch in their meal.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Beef

Chicken Curry Laksa

Chicken Curry Laksa is a comforting bowl of spicy coconut milk-based curry, served with noodles and tender chunks of chicken. It’s a fusion dish that brings together the best of Malaysian and Indonesian flavors. For those chilly evenings or when you’re in the mood for something with a spicy kick, this laksa does not hold back. It’s a hearty meal that fills you up and warms you from the inside out.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Curry Laksa