Chinese chicken dishes have a special place in my heart. Whether it’s the sweet tang of sweet and sour chicken or the bold flavors of Kung Pao chicken, these meals never fail to ignite my appetite. As families gather around the dinner table, there’s something comforting about serving up a plate of vibrant stir-fries and warming soups, making me crave the delightful essence of Asian cuisine. This post is crafted for anyone aiming to bring a taste of China into their home, especially those busy parents looking for easy chicken recipes that the whole family will love.

If you’re searching for family-friendly meals that will please even the pickiest eaters, you’re in the right spot. Maybe you want to whip up a quick dinner idea on a busy weeknight or experiment with new stir-fry recipes that are both nutritious and delicious. I’ve gathered 19 Chinese chicken dishes that are easy to prepare and loaded with flavors your kids will adore. From savory chicken fried rice to tantalizing chicken dumplings, you’ll find a variety of options that fit any occasion, making mealtime a breeze.

Get ready to explore mouthwatering recipes that are not only simple but also fun to make. You’ll discover meals that can transform your kitchen into a bustling Asian eatery. So, grab your wok and let’s dive into these delectable dishes that are sure to become family favorites, making every dinner a memorable feast!

Key Takeaways

– You’ll find 19 easy Chinese chicken dishes perfect for quick family dinners that everyone will love.

– Each recipe focuses on common ingredients and straightforward cooking methods, making meal prep a snap.

– These dishes are tailored to be kid-friendly, ensuring even picky eaters will enjoy them.

– Explore a variety of flavors with options like sweet and sour chicken and spicy Szechuan chicken, catering to different taste preferences.

– Cooking these meals together can be a fun family activity, creating memorable moments while enjoying delicious food.

1. Sweet and Sour Chicken

Craving something sweet and tangy? Sweet and Sour Chicken is a beloved dish that offers a delightful mix of flavors that kids and adults alike can’t resist. Tender chicken is enveloped in a vibrant sauce made from fresh pineapple juice and a hint of ketchup, delivering a taste experience that’s both nutritious and easy to prepare. Bright bell peppers and onions not only enhance the flavor but also add visual appeal to your plate.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– ½ cup sugar
– ⅓ cup vinegar
– ½ cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken and season with salt and pepper, cooking until golden brown.
3. Stir in the bell peppers and onion, cooking until they start to soften.
4. In a bowl, mix sugar, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Pour the sauce over the chicken and veggies.
5. Add the pineapple and simmer until the sauce thickens. Serve over rice.

For an extra crispy texture, coat the chicken in cornstarch before frying.

FAQs:
– Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
– What can I serve with it? It’s great with steamed rice or noodles.

Fun fact: Sweet and Sour Chicken is one of the easiest Chinese Chicken Dishes to make at home. Ready in 20–30 minutes, it’s kid-friendly, colorful, and practical for busy families—plus you control the sauce.

2. Chicken Lo Mein

Looking for a quick and comforting meal? Chicken Lo Mein is the perfect solution, bringing silky egg noodles together with juicy chicken and colorful vegetables for a delicious weeknight dinner. The savory aroma of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist diving right in. Plus, it’s a nutritious option that kids will love.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, broccoli)
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
– 2 tablespoons oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
3. Add chicken slices and cook until browned.
4. Stir in mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
5. Combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Pour over the chicken and veggies and stir in the cooked noodles.
6. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.

For a spicy kick, add some chili flakes while cooking.

FAQs:
– Can I use other noodles? Yes, you can substitute with rice noodles or even spaghetti.

3. General Tso’s Chicken

Want a dish that’s both sweet and spicy? General Tso’s Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that brings crispy chicken pieces together with a rich sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. This dish is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to introduce kids to the flavors of Asian cuisine, appealing to both young and older palates.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken thighs, cubed
– 1 cup cornstarch
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– ½ cup sugar
– ⅓ cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon minced ginger
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 green onions, sliced
– Oil for frying

Instructions:
1. Dip chicken cubes in beaten eggs, then coat with cornstarch.
2. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the chicken until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
3. In another pan, heat sesame oil and sauté garlic and ginger until aromatic.
4. Add sugar, soy sauce, and vinegar, stirring until combined.
5. Toss the fried chicken in the sauce and garnish with green onions. Serve hot over rice.

Experiment with the sauce’s sweetness by adjusting sugar levels to preference.

FAQs:
– Can this be made gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch.

4. Kung Pao Chicken

Craving something packed with crunch and flavor? Kung Pao Chicken is a delightful dish featuring tender chicken, peanuts, and a medley of veggies all tossed in a spicy sauce. This dish is not only satisfying but also a fun option for family dinners, with kids enjoying the crunch of peanuts alongside tender chicken.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– ½ cup peanuts
– 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
– 1 cup zucchini, diced
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
– 2 teaspoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon oil

Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, cooking until no longer pink.
2. Add garlic, bell peppers, and zucchini, sautéing until just tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix soy sauce, vinegar, hoisin, and hot sauce. Pour over chicken and veggies.
4. Stir in peanuts and cook for an additional minute. Serve hot.

To reduce spiciness, limit the hot sauce or use mild varieties.

FAQs:
– Can I use other nuts? Cashews can be a great substitute for peanuts.

Fun fact: 1 cup of bell peppers plus ½ cup peanuts bring a crunchy, kid-friendly texture to Kung Pao Chicken. When something pops with color and crunch, kids are 2x more likely to finish their plate.

5. Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

In need of a quick, healthy dinner? Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry is a satisfying meal that brings together tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a sweet-savory teriyaki sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect choice for busy weeknights while still offering a nutritious option for the family. Kids will love the sweet flavors, and parents will appreciate the added veggies.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– ½ cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and season with salt and pepper, cooking until browned.
3. Stir in mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender but still crisp.
4. Pour teriyaki sauce over the chicken and veggies, stirring to coat evenly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

For a more authentic flavor, make your own teriyaki sauce with soy sauce, honey, and ginger.

FAQs:
– What can I serve it with? It pairs beautifully with rice or quinoa.

6. Lemon Chicken

Looking for a refreshing dish? Lemon Chicken is the perfect choice, featuring crispy chicken slices coated in a zesty lemon sauce that kids adore. This light dish pairs well with a variety of sides, from rice to steamed vegetables, ensuring a wholesome meal that’s easy to enjoy.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into slices
– ½ cup flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 2 tablespoons oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Dredge chicken slices in flour, then dip in the beaten egg.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat, and cook chicken until golden brown on both sides.
3. In a bowl, mix chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Pour over the cooked chicken in the skillet.
4. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens. Serve warm.

Adjust the lemon juice amount to suit your taste; you can add more for a tangier flavor.

FAQs:
– Can I use other proteins? Yes, this recipe works well with shrimp or tofu.

7. Orange Chicken

In the mood for something sweet and crispy? Orange Chicken is a family favorite known for its crunchy texture and delightful citrus flavor. The chicken is fried to perfection and then coated in a sticky orange sauce that’s irresistibly sweet and zesty. Kids will love this dish, making it a fantastic way to introduce them to Asian cuisine.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup cornstarch
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup orange juice
– ½ cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Oil for frying

Instructions:
1. Coat chicken pieces in beaten eggs, then dredge in cornstarch.
2. Heat oil and fry the chicken until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic, simmering until thickened.
4. Toss the fried chicken in the orange sauce until evenly coated. Serve hot.

For added texture, sprinkle sesame seeds over the dish before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I make this dish in advance? It’s best served fresh to maintain crispiness.

8. Chicken Fried Rice

Got leftover rice? Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect dish to transform those leftovers into a delicious meal. Fluffy rice is stir-fried with chicken, colorful vegetables, and doused in savory soy sauce, creating a satisfying one-bowl meal. Kids love the familiar flavors, and it’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies!

Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 2 tablespoons oil
– 2 green onions, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced chicken, cooking until browned.
3. Push chicken to one side, add beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through.
4. Stir in mixed vegetables and cooked rice. Pour soy sauce over, and mix until well combined.
5. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve warm.

Use cold, day-old rice for the best texture; it prevents clumping.

FAQs:
– Can I add other proteins? Absolutely! Shrimp or pork work great too.

9. Spicy Szechuan Chicken

Craving something with a kick? Spicy Szechuan Chicken is a lively dish loaded with tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a signature Szechuan sauce that perfectly balances heat and sweetness. This dish is an excellent choice for families who enjoy a bit of spice while still being approachable for kids. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your family’s taste.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
– 1 cup bell peppers, julienned
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons Szechuan sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust to taste)
– 2 tablespoons oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add chicken slices, cooking until browned.
3. Stir in bell peppers and broccoli, cooking until just tender.
4. Combine Szechuan sauce, soy sauce, and chili paste. Pour over the chicken and veggies, stirring to coat.
5. Cook for a few minutes until heated through. Serve over rice.

For less heat, use less chili paste or replace it with sweet chili sauce.

FAQs:
– Can this dish be made vegetarian? Yes, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh.

10. Honey Garlic Chicken

In the mood for something sweet and savory? Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish loved for its sticky glaze and tender chicken. The combination of honey, soy sauce, and garlic creates a mouth-watering sauce that clings to the chicken, making each bite a treat. Quick to prepare, this dish is a hit with kids, making it an ideal family meal.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– ¼ cup honey
– ¼ cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
2. In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, and garlic. Pour over the chicken and stir to coat evenly.
3. Simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens. Serve hot over rice or with stir-fried veggies.

For more flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey sauce for a few hours before cooking.

FAQs:
– Is this dish freezer-friendly? Yes, it freezes well in an airtight container.

11. Garlic Ginger Chicken

Want a dish bursting with aromatic flavors? Garlic Ginger Chicken highlights the freshness of ginger and garlic, creating a savory meal that’s both simple and delicious. Marinated to soak up the flavors, the chicken is stir-fried to perfection, making it a great choice for family gatherings. Kids will appreciate the tender chicken and the sweet-savory sauce that complements it beautifully.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken thighs, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
– ¼ cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 tablespoons oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine garlic, ginger, soy sauce, honey, salt, and pepper. Add chicken, marinating for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
4. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions.

For a sweeter flavor, increase the amount of honey in the marinade.

FAQs:
– Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, chicken breast works well too.

12. Chicken and Broccoli

In search of a nutritious and tasty dish? Chicken and Broccoli is a fantastic meal that combines lean protein with the health benefits of broccoli. Stir-fried in a light garlic sauce, this simple yet delicious dish is packed with flavor and nutrients. The bright green broccoli adds a pop of color, making it visually appealing for kids, while the tender chicken ensures it’s a family favorite.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add chicken, cooking until browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in broccoli and cook until just tender.
5. Mix soy sauce and oyster sauce, pouring over the chicken and broccoli. Stir to coat and serve hot.

To maintain the bright color of the broccoli, avoid overcooking.

FAQs:
– Can I add other vegetables? Yes, bell peppers or carrots work well in this dish.

13. Chicken Teriyaki Skewers

Looking for a fun and interactive meal? Chicken Teriyaki Skewers are perfect for family gatherings, allowing kids to help make marinated chicken pieces threaded onto skewers and grilled to perfection. Brushed with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, these skewers are delicious and easy to pack for picnics too. The charred edges add delightful flavor, while the glaze keeps the chicken juicy.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
– ¼ cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine chicken cubes, teriyaki sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Preheat the grill or grill pan.
3. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
4. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning frequently, until cooked through.
5. Brush with extra teriyaki sauce before serving.

Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

FAQs:
– Can I add vegetables to the skewers? Absolutely! Bell peppers and onions are great additions.

Turn dinner into a family fest with Chicken Teriyaki Skewers—kids love threading the chicken and brushing on the glossy glaze. These chinese chicken dishes prove weeknights can be quick, healthy, and fun for everyone, from picnics to playful kitchen helpers.

14. Coconut Curry Chicken

Craving a comforting yet light dish? Coconut Curry Chicken is a delicious twist on classic Asian flavors, where rich coconut milk melds beautifully with curry spices, creating a creamy and aromatic meal that kids will adore. This dish not only satisfies but also showcases vibrant colors, making it an attractive option for family dinners.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry paste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, peas, carrots)
– 2 tablespoons oil
– Salt to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced chicken and cook until lightly browned.
3. Stir in curry paste and cook for another minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth, bringing to a simmer.
5. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender. Season with salt. Serve with rice.

Add lime juice for an extra zing right before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use other proteins? Tofu can be used for a vegetarian option.

15. Chicken Dumplings

Looking for a fun way to enjoy chicken? Chicken Dumplings are a delightful bite-sized treat filled with seasoned chicken and veggies, steamed or pan-fried for that perfect golden crust. They make a great appetizer or main dish, and kids love dipping them into soy sauce or sweet chili sauce. Plus, making dumplings can be a fun family activity!

Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup cabbage, finely chopped
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 package dumpling wrappers
– Oil for frying (if pan-frying)

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix ground chicken, cabbage, green onions, garlic, and soy sauce.
2. Place about a tablespoon of the filling in each dumpling wrapper, folding and sealing them tightly.
3. To steam, place dumplings in a steamer basket over boiling water for 10 minutes.
4. To pan-fry, heat oil in a skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides.
5. Serve with soy sauce or dipping sauce.

For added flavor, add ginger or sesame oil to the filling mixture.

FAQs:
– Can I freeze dumplings? Yes, freeze uncooked dumplings and cook from frozen when ready.

16. Braised Chicken with Mushrooms

In the mood for a comforting dish? Braised Chicken with Mushrooms combines tender chicken pieces with earthy mushrooms, slow-cooked to perfection. This dish allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a savory sauce that pairs wonderfully with rice. It’s a fantastic option for families who appreciate hearty meals that are both satisfying and nourishing.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken thighs, bone-in
– 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons oil

Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides, then remove.
2. In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until soft.
3. Add mushrooms, cooking until they release their juices.
4. Return chicken to the pot, adding chicken broth and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 30 minutes.
5. Serve hot over rice.

Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional flavor.

FAQs:
– Can I use chicken breast instead? Yes, though thighs retain more moisture.

17. Chicken Chow Mein

Craving a classic takeout favorite? Chicken Chow Mein is easy to recreate at home, featuring stir-fried chicken and vegetables tossed in a savory sauce with crispy noodles that add delightful crunch. It’s a versatile dish, allowing you to mix and match veggies or even add shrimp for variety. Kids enjoy the noodles, making this a great option for picky eaters.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz chow mein noodles
– 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, snow peas)
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 2 tablespoons oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.
3. Add chicken slices, cooking until browned.
4. Stir in mixed vegetables and cook until just tender.
5. Add noodles and sauces, tossing to combine everything well. Serve immediately.

For extra crunch, top with fried onions or crispy noodles.

FAQs:
– Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, simply use tofu or more vegetables instead of chicken.

18. Chicken and Cashew Stir-Fry

In need of a vibrant and crunchy meal? Chicken and Cashew Stir-Fry combines tender chicken with the delightful crunch of cashews and colorful vegetables. The rich flavors of the sauce meld beautifully with the ingredients, making it an ideal choice for a quick and nutritious weeknight dinner. Kids will love the colorful presentation, making it an inviting dish on the dinner table.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
– 1 cup cashews
– 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 2 tablespoons oil

Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned.
2. Stir in bell peppers and broccoli, cooking until tender.
3. Add soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring to coat.
4. Toss in the cashews and cook for an additional minute. Serve hot over rice.

For added flavor, toss in some chili flakes if your family likes a kick.

FAQs:
– Can I use other nuts? Almonds or peanuts can be a nice variation.

19. Chicken Pho

Craving a warm and comforting soup? Chicken Pho is a fragrant noodle soup that combines tender chicken, rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a flavorful broth that’s both soothing and satisfying. It’s a wonderful way to introduce young ones to Asian cuisine through a healthy and delicious dish. Kids will love slurping the noodles while enjoying the aromatic broth, making it a fun meal for the whole family.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh herbs (cilantro, basil)
– Lime wedges for serving
– Salt to taste

Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add the chicken breast and cook until fully cooked through.
2. Remove chicken and shred it once cooled.
3. In the same broth, add garlic, onion, and noodles, cooking according to noodle package instructions.
4. Serve the soup hot, topped with shredded chicken and fresh herbs, with lime wedges on the side.

For extra flavor, add star anise or cloves to the broth while simmering.

FAQs:
– Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, use vegetable broth and tofu instead of chicken.

Conclusion

Delicious and nutritious Chinese chicken dishes can easily become family favorites with these simple recipes. Each dish brings unique flavors and health benefits to the table, ensuring that mealtime is both enjoyable and wholesome. Explore these easy chicken recipes to create memorable moments with your family over dinner.

Whether you’re whipping up a quick stir-fry or a comforting noodle soup, you’re set for success in the kitchen. Gather your ingredients, invite the family, and enjoy cooking together!

Frequently Asked Questions