Home » Recipe Index » Recipe Collections

13 Spicy Dishes You Absolutely Must Try

If you’ve ever reached for water with a smile after eating something spicy, you know there’s more to it than just how hot it is. Spicy food has a way of making dinner special. It’s not just eating; it becomes a whole event that you end up talking about later.

Basket of fried chicken with chilies and garlic.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my Affiliate Disclosure.

Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Szechuan Shrimp

Low angle shot of szechuan shrimp in a wok.
Szechuan Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re after a meal that’ll wake up your palate, you’ve got to try Szechuan Shrimp. It’s a spicy dish you absolutely must try, blending the juiciness of shrimp with a kick that’s memorable but not too overwhelming. For a night when you’re craving something with a bit of heat, this is a go-to choice.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp

Thai Chicken Curry

Low angle shot of a blue and white striped bowl filled with Thai chicken curry.
Thai Chicken Curry. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

On those days when you’re in the mood for something spicy and comforting, Thai Chicken Curry should be on your menu. It’s a beautifully spicy dish you absolutely must try, with its creamy coconut milk base and tender chicken pieces all spiced up just right. It’s the kind of meal that brings warmth and a little excitement to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Curry

Vegetarian Dan Dan Noodles

Low angle shot of a plate of vegetarian dan dan noodles with broccoli.
Vegetarian Dan Dan Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For those looking to spice up their meat-free meals, Vegetarian Dan Dan Noodles are a perfect pick. This dish is a spicy meal you absolutely must try, offering a blend of heat, peanuts, and fresh greens over noodles. It’s an excellent way to enjoy something vibrant and filling, proving that vegetarian dishes can be just as thrilling.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Dan Dan Noodles

Crispy Beef

Low angle shot of crispy beef on a plate.
Crispy Beef. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you’re craving something crispy and spicy, Crispy Beef is the answer. This dish is one of those spicy meals you absolutely must try, with its addictively crunchy texture and a sauce that’s both sweet and fiery. It’s the perfect choice for anyone who loves a good crunch with their spice, making for an unforgettable meal.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Beef

Cajun Shrimp and Grits

A bowl of grits topped with cajun shrimp.
Cajun Shrimp and Grits. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Cajun Shrimp and Grits bring a bit of southern charm to your spicy food adventures. It’s a spicy dish you absolutely must try, combining creamy grits with perfectly seasoned shrimp. Whether for breakfast or dinner, this dish offers a delicious mix of comfort and heat, making it a standout choice for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Cucumber Kimchi

Cucumber kimchi on a white plate with a pair of chopsticks lifting a slice of cucumber.
Cucumber Kimchi. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re looking to add some spice to your sides, Cucumber Kimchi is the way to go. It’s a refreshingly spicy dish you absolutely must try, offering a unique twist on traditional kimchi. Crunchy, tangy, and just the right amount of spicy, it’s a great way to introduce a bit of kick to your meals without overpowering your main dish.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Kimchi

Veggie Pad Thai

Low angle shot of a light blue bowl of pad thai.
Veggie Pad Thai. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Veggie Pad Thai is a colorful and spicy dish you absolutely must try, especially if you’re into veggies and noodles. This dish packs a ton of flavor, with plenty of fresh vegetables and a tangy sauce that ties everything together. It’s a fantastic option for anyone wanting to enjoy a hearty, spice-filled meal that’s also good for you.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pad Thai

Camarones a La Diabla

Shrimp in red chile sauce on a white plate with lime wedges and a fork in the background.
Camarones a La Diabla. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When seafood meets serious spice, you get Camarones a La Diabla. This dish is a spicy meal you absolutely must try, known for its fiery sauce that clings to every juicy shrimp. It’s the kind of dish you go for when you want something that’s both spicy and fulfilling, making it perfect for those who love a bit of heat with their seafood.
Get the Recipe: Camarones a La Diabla

Gochujang Noodles

Low angle shot of gochujang noodles with greens, mushrooms, and cheese on a grey and white plate.
Gochujang Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a quick and spicy meal, Gochujang Noodles are a must-try. This dish is a spicy meal you absolutely must try, using the unique heat of gochujang to bring life to simple noodles. It’s perfect for those days when you need something fast but still want a meal that’s full of spices and warmth.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Noodles

Chicken Hot and Sour Soup

Two bowls of hot and sour soup.
Chicken Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Hot and Sour Soup is the perfect pick-me-up for chilly days, with its spicy and tangy broth that warms you right up. It’s a spicy dish you absolutely must try, filled with all sorts of goodies like tender chicken and veggies. It’s a comforting bowl of soup that’s sure to spice up your mealtime in the best way possible.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Hot and Sour Soup

Crab, Shrimp, and Sausage Gumbo

A bowl of crab, shrimp, and sausage gumbo.
Crab, Shrimp, and Sausage Gumbo. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Mixing seafood and spice, Crab, Shrimp, and Sausage Gumbo is a hearty stew that’s perfect for those who love a bit of everything. It’s a spicy dish you absolutely must try, rich with flavors and a kick that’s just right. Whether you’re a fan of gumbo or looking to try something new, this dish is sure to impress with its depth and heat.
Get the Recipe: Crab, Shrimp, and Sausage Gumbo

Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Basket of fried chicken with chilies and garlic.
Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a spicy snack or appetizer, Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings are the way to go. These wings are a spicy dish you absolutely must try, seasoned perfectly to be crispy on the outside and juicy inside. They’re great for sharing, but after one bite, you might not want to! They’re the ideal spicy kick-off for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Dan Dan Noodles

Dan dan noodles in a white bowl with chopsticks.
Dan Dan Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Dan Dan Noodles are for those who love their noodles with a side of spice. This dish is a spicy meal you absolutely must try, combining the heat from the sauce with the texture of minced meat and the crunch of peanuts. It’s a bowl full of contrasts and flavors that come together in a harmonious and spicy meal, perfect for noodle lovers.
Get the Recipe: Dan Dan Noodles

By on March 8th, 2024
Photo of Robin Donovan

About Robin Donovan

Robin Donovan is the creative force behind All Ways Delicious. She's a writer, recipe developer, photographer, and cookbook author with more than 40 books to her name, including the bestselling Ramen for Beginners, Ramen Obsession, and Campfire Cuisine. Her work has been featured in major publications, both print and digital, including MSN, Cooking Light, Fitness, Buzzfeed, and Eating Well. More about Robin

More Posts by this author.

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

SEEN ON

as seen on promo graphic

SEEN ON

as seen on promo graphic