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Chinese cuisine offers an incredible variety of flavors, techniques, and ingredients—especially when it comes to chicken. From sweet and tangy glazes to fiery stir-fries, there’s a recipe to satisfy almost every palate.
If you’re craving a delicious homemade meal that’s both comforting and exciting, here are 19 Chinese chicken recipe ideas to explore in your own kitchen.
1. Chicken Congee
Slow-cooked rice porridge with tender shredded chicken, often flavored with ginger and scallions. Congee is a comforting, warming dish that’s perfect for breakfast or a lighter meal.
Get the Chicken Congee recipe here
2. Kung Pao Chicken
A classic Sichuan dish known for its spicy, savory sauce, crunchy peanuts, and vibrant chili peppers. The combination of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar creates a bold yet balanced flavor.
Get the Kung Pao Chicken recipe here
3. Sweet and Sour Chicken
Tender chicken pieces, bell peppers, and pineapple chunks coated in a tangy-sweet sauce. Ideal for those who enjoy a fruity twist on a savory meal.
Get the Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe here
4. Orange Chicken
A popular takeout favorite featuring crispy chicken tossed in a sweet, citrusy glaze. Grated orange zest adds a burst of fresh flavor to every bite.
Get the Orange Chicken recipe here
5. General Tso’s Chicken
Famous for its glossy, spicy-sweet sauce, General Tso’s Chicken is crispy, comforting, and irresistibly tasty. Adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer dried chili peppers.
Get the General Tso’s Chicken recipe here
6. Cashew Chicken
Tender chicken and crunchy cashews come together in a light, savory sauce. It’s a great choice for those who prefer a less spicy but still flavorful option.
Get the Cashew Chicken recipe here
7. Black Pepper Chicken
A strong dose of freshly ground black pepper gives this stir-fry a peppery kick. Onions, bell peppers, and a soy-based sauce round out its bold taste.
Get the Black Pepper Chicken recipe here
8. Garlic & Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry
Simple and satisfying, this dish relies on the aromatic combination of fresh garlic and ginger. Toss in your favorite veggies for extra color and nutrition.
Get the Garlic & Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry recipe here
9. Sesame Chicken
Coated in a sweet and slightly sticky sauce, sesame chicken offers a perfect blend of crunch and richness. Top it off with toasted sesame seeds for texture and presentation.
Get the Sesame Chicken recipe here
10. Lemon Chicken
Light, zesty, and refreshing, lemon chicken features a tangy, citrus-infused sauce that pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice or steamed veggies.
Get the Lemon Chicken recipe here
11. Chicken Chow Mein
Thin noodles, stir-fried with bite-size pieces of chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce. Chow Mein is a reliable crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize.
Get the Chicken Chow Mein recipe here
12. Szechuan Chicken
A spicy dish hailing from the Sichuan province, this recipe showcases the signature numbing heat of Sichuan peppercorns. Perfect for those who crave a fiery kick.
Get the Szechuan Chicken recipe here
13. Five-Spice Chicken
Chinese five-spice (star anise, cloves, cinnamon, fennel, and Sichuan pepper) imparts a warm, aromatic flavor. Marinating the chicken overnight ensures deep seasoning.
Get the Five-Spice Chicken recipe here
14. Chicken Fried Rice
A versatile favorite that can incorporate leftover chicken, veggies, and day-old rice. Soy sauce, scrambled egg, and a bit of sesame oil make it wonderfully savory.
Get the Chicken Fried Rice recipe here
15. Hot and Spicy Chicken Wings
Marinated in a hot chili sauce, these wings offer a mouthwatering punch. Baking or air-frying cuts down on extra oil while still achieving a crispy finish.
Get the Hot and Spicy Chicken Wings recipe here
16. Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry
Simple, healthy, and quick to make, this dish highlights a light sauce that clings to tender chicken and bright green florets.
Get the Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry recipe here
17. Chili Oil Chicken
Cook bite-sized chicken pieces with chili oil, garlic, and a hint of vinegar for a tangy, spicy treat. Adjust the chili oil based on your heat tolerance.
Get the Chili Oil Chicken recipe here
18. Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Ground chicken, diced vegetables, and a savory sauce make for a light, refreshing meal. Spoon the mixture into crisp lettuce leaves, and top with chopped peanuts or chili sauce.
Get the Chicken Lettuce Wraps recipe here
19. Coca-Cola Chicken Wings
A sweet-and-salty classic in many Chinese households, Coca-Cola simmers down into a caramel-like glaze. Add soy sauce and aromatics (like ginger) to balance the sweetness.
