Chinese takeout is a go-to comfort food for many, offering a mix of bold flavors, savory sauces, and satisfying textures. But let’s be honest—when most people think of Chinese food, they picture greasy fried dishes, heavy sauces, and carb-loaded sides.
While some menu items can be calorie bombs, there are plenty of delicious and nutritious options that won’t derail your health goals.
The good news? You don’t have to give up Chinese takeout to eat healthily! Whether you’re watching your calorie intake, cutting back on sodium, or simply trying to make better food choices, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your favorite dishes without guilt.
These dishes are not only lighter but also packed with nutrients, fiber, and lean protein to keep you full and satisfied. So next time you’re ordering takeout, skip the deep-fried options and go for one of these healthier picks instead!
1. Steamed Dumplings
Steamed dumplings are a delightful option for those seeking a healthier takeout choice. These little pockets of joy are filled with a mix of lean meats and fresh vegetables. Steaming retains nutrients and flavors without adding greasy oils.
Pair them with a light soy sauce dip for added flavor without extra calories.
2. Hot and Sour Soup
Made with a base of broth, it’s enriched with ingredients like tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots. The soup is both spicy and tangy, awakening the senses with each spoonful.
Often served as an appetizer, hot and sour soup can also be a light meal on its own, warming the soul and filling the stomach without being heavy.
3. Buddha’s Delight
Buddha’s Delight is a vegetarian dish that’s as vibrant as it is nutritious. Packed with a variety of vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and snap peas, it offers a rainbow of flavors and textures. The addition of tofu provides protein, making it a balanced meal.
Lightly stir-fried in a simple sauce, this dish avoids excessive oils, keeping it low in calories.
4. Egg Drop Soup
Egg drop soup is a comforting and simple choice when ordering Chinese takeout. Its silky texture comes from beaten eggs gently stirred into a hot broth, creating delicate ribbons. Often garnished with green onions, this soup is both nourishing and light.
With few ingredients, it remains a low-calorie option that satisfies without excess.
5. Moo Goo Gai Pan
The focus on lean protein and fresh veggies makes this dish a health-conscious choice. Each bite offers a satisfying blend of textures, from tender chicken to crisp vegetables.
Moo Goo Gai Pan is ideal for those seeking a flavorful meal that’s both filling and nutritious. Enjoy it as a main course that speaks to simplicity and taste.
6. Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions
Steamed fish with ginger and scallions is a delicacy that celebrates the natural flavors of fresh fish. Steaming preserves the fish’s moisture and nutrients, while ginger and scallions add aromatic depth.
This dish is low in fat and high in protein, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters. The light soy sauce drizzle enhances the flavor without overwhelming the dish.
7. Szechuan Shrimp
Made with succulent shrimp, it’s stir-fried with red chili peppers and fresh vegetables like bell peppers and snap peas. The fiery sauce is balanced with a touch of sweetness, creating a harmonious taste.
Rich in protein and low in fat, it’s a satisfying option for spice lovers.
8. Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Chicken lettuce wraps are a delightful way to enjoy a flavorful meal without the carbs.
Chicken is combined with vegetables, creating a texture that’s both crunchy and tender. Served on crisp lettuce leaves, these wraps are refreshing and satisfying.
Ideal for those looking to cut down on carbohydrates, chicken lettuce wraps offer a tasty and healthy alternative to traditional wraps.
9. Tofu and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Tofu provides a source of complete protein, while broccoli adds fiber and essential nutrients. Stir-fried in a light garlic sauce, this dish is both aromatic and satisfying. It’s perfect for vegetarians and those looking to enjoy a meal rich in plant-based goodness.
10. Ginger Chicken with String Beans
Ginger chicken with string beans is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice and a lot of taste. It’s a meal that’s rich in protein and vitamins, offering a balanced and nutritious option for takeout.
11. Vegetable Fried Rice
Packed with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, peas, and carrots, it’s a visual and flavorful delight. Cooked with just a touch of oil, this dish remains light yet satisfying.
Each grain of rice is infused with the essence of vegetables and subtle seasonings, making it a wholesome choice. Perfect as a side or main dish, vegetable fried rice offers a comforting taste of tradition with a health-conscious twist.
12. Cashew Chicken
Tender chicken pieces are cooked with crunchy cashews and fresh vegetables, all tossed in a light sauce. The nutty taste of cashews complements the savory chicken, creating a harmonious dish.
Rich in protein and healthy fats, it satisfies hunger without being heavy.
13. Shrimp with Lobster Sauce
This dish, despite its name, contains no lobster but features tender shrimp in a savory egg-based sauce. The sauce is smooth and rich, enhancing the delicate flavor of the shrimp.
With a touch of garlic and green onions, it’s a dish that’s both aromatic and wholesome.
14. Cucumber Salad with Sesame Dressing
Thinly sliced cucumbers are tossed in a light sesame dressing, creating a cooling and flavorful salad. The addition of sesame seeds adds a nutty crunch, enhancing the texture.
Perfect as a side dish or a light snack, this salad offers a burst of freshness with every bite. It’s ideal for those looking to enjoy a simple yet satisfying dish that’s easy on the waistline.
15. Chicken and Broccoli
Chicken and broccoli is a staple in Chinese takeout that’s both nutritious and flavorful. Tender chicken breast is stir-fried with vibrant broccoli in a light sauce, creating a dish that’s rich in protein and vitamins. The sesame seeds add a subtle nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
16. Spicy Tofu with Vegetables
Tofu cubes are stir-fried with a mix of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers and eggplants. The spicy sauce adds a kick, making each bite exciting and flavorful.
Rich in plant-based protein and fiber, this dish is perfect for vegetarians and spice enthusiasts alike. It’s a satisfying meal that offers a healthy balance of heat and nutrition, ideal for those looking to spice up their takeout experience.
17. Sesame Chicken
Sesame chicken is a beloved takeout dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Crispy chicken pieces are coated in a savory sesame sauce, creating a delightful contrast of textures. The sesame seeds add a nutty crunch, enhancing the taste further.
18. Vegetable Spring Rolls
Vegetable spring rolls are a delight filled with fresh vegetables. Shredded cabbage and carrots are wrapped in a rice-paper shell, offering a satisfying bite. Served with a light dipping sauce, these rolls are a perfect appetizer or snack.
Low in calories and full of flavor, vegetable spring rolls are ideal for those seeking a light and tasty option.
19. Beef and Broccoli
Stir-fried in a savory sauce, this dish is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The beef provides protein, while the broccoli adds fiber and vitamins.
Perfect for those seeking a hearty yet health-conscious meal, beef and broccoli is a satisfying choice for lunch or dinner.
20. Miso Soup
Miso soup is a comforting and nourishing option for those looking to enjoy a light meal. Made with a base of miso paste, it’s enriched with tofu cubes, seaweed, and scallions.
The soup offers a savory and umami-rich flavor, warming the soul and satisfying the palate. Low in calories and rich in nutrients, miso soup is perfect as a starter or a light snack.
Its simplicity and depth of flavor make it a beloved choice in healthy dining.
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