Cooking at home doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. These 15 dishes are easy enough to whip up after a busy day but special enough to make you forget all about the nearest fast food joint. From comforting favorites to exciting new flavors, each recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot.
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Air Fryer Sesame Chicken
Craving takeout but want to stay in? Air Fryer Sesame Chicken might be your new go-to meal. It’s quick to make and gives you that crispy texture without all the oil. You’ll be surprised how close it comes to your favorite restaurant version.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sesame Chicken
Bombay Sandwiches
Street food doesn’t have to mean leaving your house. Bombay Sandwiches brings the flavors of Mumbai right to your kitchen. These colorful, layered sandwiches are packed with vegetables and spices, making them a perfect light lunch or dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Bombay Sandwiches
Dan Dan Noodles
When you’re in the mood for something bold and spicy, look no further than Dan Dan Noodles. This Sichuan classic balances heat with nutty flavors for a truly memorable meal. It’s easier to make at home than you might think and can be customized to your preferred spice level.
Get the Recipe: Dan Dan Noodles
Szechuan Shrimp
Bring the heat of Sichuan cuisine to your dinner table with Szechuan Shrimp. This dish combines tender shrimp with a spicy, numbing sauce that’s characteristic of the region. It’s a great way to experience authentic flavors without leaving your home.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp
Garlic Chili Oil Noodles
Sometimes simple is best, and Garlic Chili Oil Noodles prove just that. This dish packs a punch with minimal ingredients, letting the garlic and chili shine. It’s quick to throw together on busy nights when you want something flavorful without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chili Oil Noodles
Air Fryer Fish Tacos
Taco Tuesday just got a lot easier with Air Fryer Fish Tacos. The air fryer gives the fish a crispy exterior while keeping it moist inside. Add your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a restaurant-quality meal in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fish Tacos
Chicken Karaage
Japanese comfort food is within reach with homemade Chicken Karaage. These bite-sized pieces of fried chicken are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. They’re perfect for snacking or as part of a larger Japanese-inspired meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Karaage
Instant Pot Shrimp Biryani
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Indian cuisine at home doesn’t have to be intimidating. Instant Pot Shrimp Biryani makes this aromatic rice dish accessible to even novice cooks. The Instant Pot does most of the work, leaving you with a flavorful one-pot meal that rivals any takeout version.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Shrimp Biryani
Pork Fried Rice
Looking for a quick and easy meal that’s better than takeout? You’ll love Pork Fried Rice. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables. This dish comes together in minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re tempted to order in.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice
Kerala Fish Curry
If you’re in the mood for something with a bit of heat and complexity, give Kerala Fish Curry a try. This South Indian dish is known for its bold flavors and aromatic spices. It’s surprisingly easy to make at home and can be a healthier alternative to your usual takeout options.
Get the Recipe: Kerala Fish Curry
Shrimp Yakisoba
Craving Japanese noodles but don’t want to leave the house? Shrimp Yakisoba is your answer. This stir-fried noodle dish is packed with vegetables and protein. It’s quicker to make than waiting for delivery and allows you to control the ingredients and portion sizes.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Yakisoba
Miso Glazed Salmon
For a restaurant-quality meal at home, look no further than Miso Glazed Salmon. This Japanese-inspired dish is deceptively simple to prepare but looks and tastes like something from a high-end eatery. It’s a great option for impressing dinner guests.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Salmon
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo
Need a hands-off dinner option that’s full of flavor? Instant Pot Chicken Adobo is the way to go. This Filipino favorite is traditionally slow-cooked, but the Instant Pot makes it achievable on a weeknight. The result is tender chicken in a tangy, savory sauce.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Adobo
Spicy Pork Mazeman
If you’re tired of the same old noodle dishes, give Spicy Pork Mazeman a shot. This soupless ramen variation is less common than its soupy counterparts. It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for those nights when you’re craving something different.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Pork Mazeman
Mongolian Chicken
When you’re in the mood for Chinese takeout but want to stay in, try making Mongolian Chicken at home. This popular dish features tender chicken pieces in a rich, slightly sweet sauce. It allows you to adjust the sweetness and spice levels to your liking.
Get the Recipe: Mongolian Chicken
Robin Donovan is an AP syndicated writer, recipe developer, food photographer, and author of more than 40 cookbooks including the bestsellers Ramen Obsession and Ramen for Beginners. Her work is featured by major media outlets including Huffington Post, MSN, Chicago Sun-Times, Orlando Sentinel, Buzzfeed, Cooking Light, Mercury News, Seattle Times, Pop Sugar, and many others. More about Robin