Asian Chicken Recipes: 10 Best Weeknight Dinners

Looking for quick and tasty dinner ideas? You’re in the right spot! Asian-inspired dishes are known for their bold flavors and simplicity. They’re perfect for weeknight meals.

Discover 10 mouth-watering Asian chicken recipes that are easy to make and full of flavor. From spicy stir-fries to savory noodle dishes, these quick dinner solutions will become your new favorites.

Key Takeaways

• Explore a variety of Asian-inspired chicken dishes.
• Quick and easy recipes for busy weeknights.
• Delicious and flavorful meal ideas.
• Simple ingredients for authentic Asian flavors.
• 10 mouth-watering recipes to try at home.

Delicious Asian Chicken Recipes for Every Home Cook

Weeknight dinners just got a whole lot tastier with these easy and flavorful Asian chicken recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting to explore the world of Asian cuisine, these dishes are simple, delicious, and quick to prepare.

Why These Recipes Work for Weeknights

Many of these Asian chicken recipes are one-pot affairs, making both prep and cleanup easier. They’re designed to be hearty and straightforward, avoiding uncommon ingredients or advanced techniques. This simplicity is key to making weeknight dinners less stressful and more enjoyable.

Quick Preparation: Most of these recipes can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights. The use of simple, readily available ingredients means you can get a delicious meal on the table without a lot of fuss.

Essential Pantry Ingredients

To make these Asian chicken recipes, you’ll need some essential pantry ingredients. These include:

• Soy sauce or tamari for depth of flavor
• Rice vinegar for a tangy taste
• Ginger and garlic for added aroma
• Various oils like sesame or vegetable oil for cooking
• Spices and herbs such as basil, cilantro, or chili flakes to add freshness and heat

Having these ingredients on hand will make it easier to whip up a tasty Asian-inspired chicken dish any night of the week.

Helpful Kitchen Tools

While the ingredients are crucial, having the right kitchen tools can also make a big difference. Some helpful tools include:

• A large skillet or wok for stir-frying
• A cutting board for preparing ingredients
• A sharp knife for chopping
• Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient measurement

With these tools and the right ingredients, you’ll be well-equipped to make a variety of delicious Asian chicken recipes.

1. Honey Sesame Chicken Stir-Fry

This Honey Sesame Chicken Stir-Fry is a mix of sweet and savory. It’s a spicy Asian chicken recipe and a popular Asian chicken stir-fry. Chicken and rice is a classic combo that works well here.

Ingredients List

To make this dish, you’ll need:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
• 1 cup mixed bell peppers (such as bell, orange, and yellow)
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preparing this dish is easy. Just follow these steps:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the mixed bell peppers to the skillet and cook until they start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
7. Serve the chicken and bell peppers over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish hot, straight from the skillet. You can add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level. For a full meal, try it with steamed broccoli or a simple green salad.

2. Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)

Thai Basil Chicken, or Pad Krapow Gai, is a key dish in Thai food. It mixes spicy, savory, and aromatic tastes in under 30 minutes. It’s a prime example of authentic Asian chicken recipes you can make at home.

Ingredients List

To make this tasty Thai Basil Chicken, you’ll need:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 Thai chilies, minced (depending on your desired level of spiciness)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups cooked rice (for serving)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Making Thai Basil Chicken is easy. Here’s how:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Have all your ingredients ready and within reach. This includes chopping the chicken, garlic, chilies, and basil.
2. Heat the oil: In a large pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the chicken: Add the chicken to the pan and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
4. Stir-fry the aromatics: In the same pan, add the remaining oil, then stir-fry the minced garlic and chilies until fragrant.
5. Combine and season: Return the chicken to the pan, add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and white pepper. Stir everything together.
6. Add basil leaves: Finally, add the Thai basil leaves to the pan and stir-fry until they are slightly wilted. Season with salt to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Thai Basil Chicken is best with steamed jasmine rice. You can also top it with a fried egg for added richness. For a complete meal, consider serving with some stir-fried vegetables or a simple salad.

Enjoy your homemade Pad Krapow Gai, a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your collection of authentic Asian chicken recipes.

3. Korean Gochujang Chicken

If you’re searching for a healthy Asian chicken recipe, Korean Gochujang Chicken is a great pick. It mixes spicy gochujang (Korean chili paste) with tender chicken. This makes it a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients List

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
• 2 tbsp gochujang
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
• 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Step-by-Step Preparation

To make this healthy Asian chicken recipe, start by mixing gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Add the chicken pieces to this marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.

Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Korean Gochujang Chicken over steamed rice or with roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.

This recipe is not only tasty but also a healthy option for your weeknight dinners. It’s a perfect fit for your search for healthy Asian chicken recipes.

4. Japanese Chicken Katsu Curry

For a satisfying weeknight dinner, try Japanese Chicken Katsu Curry. It’s a mix of Japanese and Western flavors. The dish has crispy chicken katsu and a rich curry sauce. It’s a quick and delicious Asian chicken meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients List

To make Japanese Chicken Katsu Curry, you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 medium onions, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 medium potato, diced
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation

Making Japanese Chicken Katsu Curry is surprisingly easy. Here’s how:

1. Prepare the chicken by pounding it to an even thickness. Then, coat it in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
2. Fry the coated chicken in vegetable oil until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the diced onions, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced potato until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add curry powder and flour to the pan, stirring for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
5. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until the curry sauce thickens.
6. Season the curry sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the fried chicken katsu on top of a bed of rice, with the curry sauce spooned over the top.

Serving Suggestions

Japanese Chicken Katsu Curry is best served hot. Garnish with chopped green onions or pickled ginger for flavor and color. Serve it with steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal. It’s a quick Asian chicken meal perfect for busy weeknights.

“The combination of crispy chicken katsu and rich curry sauce is a match made in heaven, making Japanese Chicken Katsu Curry a dish you’ll want to make again and again.”

5. Chinese Kung Pao Chicken

Chinese Kung Pao chicken is a classic dish. It combines tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and vegetables in a spicy sauce. This dish is a staple in Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold flavors and spicy kick.

Ingredients List

To make Kung Pao chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 cup peanuts or cashews
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and snow peas)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Scallions, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Follow these steps to prepare Kung Pao chicken:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.
2. In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the peanuts or cashews and cook until lightly toasted, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the wok and stir in the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, Sichuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the sauce has thickened, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Kung Pao chicken is best served with steamed rice or noodles to help cool down the spiciness. You can also pair it with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a simple green salad.

By following these steps and using the right ingredients, you can create a delicious and savory Asian chicken curry that will become a favorite in your household.

6. Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Explore the lively tastes of Vietnam with this simple Lemongrass Chicken recipe. This dish is a hit, blending lemongrass’s zing with chicken’s richness. It’s a great choice for a weeknight dinner, ready fast and full of flavor.

Ingredients List

To make Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Fresh cilantro or basil leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preparing Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is easy.

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix chicken, lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, and black pepper. Make sure the chicken is well-coated. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a big skillet over medium-high. Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any extra liquid drip off. Cook until browned on both sides and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. Rest and Serve: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly. Top with fresh cilantro or basil leaves.

Serving Suggestions

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken can be enjoyed in many ways.

• Serve with steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles to soak up the flavorful juices.
• Pair with a refreshing cucumber salad or pickled carrots for a balanced meal.
• Use the chicken in wraps or sandwiches for a quick and easy lunch.

7. Filipino Chicken Adobo

Looking to spice up your weeknight dinners? Try Filipino Chicken Adobo. It’s flavorful and easy to make. This classic dish combines chicken, vinegar, and chili peppers for bold flavors.

Ingredients List

To make Filipino Chicken Adobo, you’ll need:

• 1 lb chicken thighs or legs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
• 2 bay leaves
• 1-2 Thai chili peppers, sliced
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preparing Filipino Chicken Adobo is easy. Here’s how:

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
2. Add garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaves. Cook until fragrant.
3. Pour in vinegar and soy sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
4. Add chili peppers and season with salt. Continue to simmer until the chicken is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Filipino Chicken Adobo is best with steamed rice. You can also add steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. For extra spice, serve with chili sauce or sliced chili peppers.

This spicy Asian chicken recipe will be a favorite in your kitchen. It’s a delicious and easy meal for any night.

8. Malaysian Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

Looking for a tasty and simple Asian chicken recipe? Try Malaysian Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce. It’s flavorful and aromatic, healthy, and quick to make. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you need for this authentic Asian chicken recipe:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into skewers
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 20 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
• Peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh cucumber, sliced
• Fresh mint leaves

Step-by-Step Preparation

Here’s how to make your Malaysian Chicken Satay:

1. In a large bowl, mix coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add the chicken to the marinade, making sure it’s well coated. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Heat your grill to medium-high. Thread the chicken onto the bamboo skewers.
4. Grill the satay for 5-7 minutes per side, until it’s cooked through.
5. Serve hot with peanut sauce, cucumber, and mint leaves.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some ways to enhance your meal:

• Serve with steamed jasmine rice or roti for a filling meal.
• Offer extra peanut sauce for dipping.
• Garnish with more mint leaves and cucumber slices.
• Pair with a refreshing salad or fresh fruit.

This Malaysian Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is a healthy Asian chicken recipe and an authentic Asian dish. It brings Malaysia’s flavors to your table. Enjoy!

9. Indian Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken is a tasty Indian dish perfect for weeknights. It’s a quick Asian chicken meal that’s both tasty and simple to make.

Ingredients List

To make Indian Butter Chicken, you’ll need these ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
• 2 onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Step-by-Step Preparation

Here’s how to prepare Indian Butter Chicken:

1. Marinate the chicken in yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add more ghee or oil if necessary. Cook the sliced onions until they’re lightly browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Indian Butter Chicken over basmati rice or with naan bread for a flavorful Asian chicken marinade experience. Garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy!

10. Taiwanese Three Cup Chicken

Taiwanese Three Cup Chicken is a standout among Asian chicken recipes. It’s known for its unique taste and aroma. This makes it a great choice for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients List

To make Taiwanese Three Cup Chicken, you’ll need these ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice wine
• 1/4 cup sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation

Here’s how to prepare Taiwanese Three Cup Chicken:

1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the soy sauce, rice wine, and sugar to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with chopped fresh basil.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Taiwanese Three Cup Chicken hot with steamed rice or noodles. You can also add stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion: Bringing Asian Chicken Recipes to Your Weekly Rotation

Try these 10 tasty Asian chicken recipes to spice up your meals. Adding asian chicken recipes to your menu makes dinner exciting. It also gives you a healthy and tasty choice instead of the same old dishes.

These healthy asian chicken recipes are quick, easy, and good for you. They’re great for any day of the week. By exploring Asian flavors, you can make meals that are both balanced and fun for your family.

Begin trying out these recipes and enjoy cooking Asian-inspired meals at home. With a bit of practice, you can make these recipes your own. This way, mealtime becomes easy and enjoyable.