15 Spicy Recipes That Bring the Heat

If you’re craving meals with a little (or a lot) of heat, this lineup delivers bold flavor in every bite. These dishes span a range of spice levels and styles—from noodles and seafood to pasta, salad, and skewers. You’ll find global inspiration across every recipe, with a balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements that keep things interesting. Whether you’re in the mood for something saucy, grilled, or chilled, there’s something here to wake up your taste buds.

Instant Pot Spicy Thai Lo Mein

This quick-cooking noodle dish is made in the Instant Pot with a mix of Thai spices, soy sauce, and just enough heat to wake up your senses. Vegetables and noodles cook together for easy cleanup. Add protein like shrimp or tofu to bulk it up. It’s fast, filling, and big on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spicy Thai Lo Mein

Shrimp Spring Rolls with Spicy Garlic Sauce

Fresh and light, these rolls are filled with shrimp, veggies, and herbs and served with a punchy garlic chili dipping sauce. The contrast of cool filling and spicy dip keeps every bite interesting. Great for appetizers or light lunches. You can swap in other proteins or keep it vegetarian.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Spring Rolls with Spicy Garlic Sauce

Spicy Baked Tofu Noodles

Crispy baked tofu gets tossed in a bold sauce and served over noodles for a satisfying plant-based meal. The sauce is spicy, slightly sweet, and sticks to the tofu just right. Add greens or herbs for contrast. This one’s easy to prep ahead and assemble fast.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Baked Tofu Noodles

Spicy Chicken with Pepperoncini Peppers

This skillet chicken dish uses tangy pepperoncini to add heat and acidity, giving the chicken a juicy, zesty kick. A light pan sauce pulls everything together. Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings bold flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Chicken with Pepperoncini Peppers

Spicy Harissa Pasta

This pasta uses North African harissa paste for a smoky, peppery sauce that coats every bite. Cream or tomatoes mellow the heat slightly. Add chicken, chickpeas, or feta for variety. It’s rich, spicy, and comes together quickly.
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Spicy Ramen Noodles Recipe

Instant ramen gets a serious upgrade with chili oil, garlic, and soy sauce. A soft egg, some scallions, or sesame seeds take it even further. It’s a quick fix when you want comfort with a kick. Customize the spice level to your liking.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Ramen Noodles Recipe

Spicy Shrimp Tostadas

Crispy tortillas are layered with spicy shrimp, creamy toppings, and fresh vegetables for a bold, crunchy bite. A chili-lime seasoning gives the shrimp just the right amount of heat. These come together fast and are great for casual dinners. Add avocado or slaw to balance the spice.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Shrimp Tostadas

Spicy Southwestern Chicken Salad

Grilled chicken with chili and cumin tops a bed of crisp greens, beans, and corn with a spicy ranch or chipotle dressing. It’s hearty, fresh, and full of bold textures. Serve warm or chilled. A great option for lunches or lighter dinners.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Southwestern Chicken Salad

Spicy Tuna Rice Bowl

Sushi-grade tuna is tossed in a spicy mayo or sriracha sauce and served over rice with cucumber, avocado, and sesame. It’s fresh, creamy, and customizable. A fast and flavorful bowl that feels restaurant-worthy. Works well with cooked tuna or salmon too.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Rice Bowl

Spicy Tuna Rolls

These sushi rolls are filled with spicy tuna, avocado, and rice, wrapped in seaweed and sliced into bite-sized pieces. The heat is balanced by the creamy filling and mild rice. Serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi. A fun project meal that doesn’t require cooking.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Rolls

Spicy Udon Noodle Stir Fry

Thick udon noodles get tossed in a chili garlic sauce with vegetables and your choice of protein. The sauce clings to the noodles, giving each bite a bold, savory kick. Ready in under 30 minutes. Great for using up what’s in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon Noodle Stir Fry

Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers

Harissa and honey combine for a sticky glaze that coats grilled chicken perfectly. The result is sweet, smoky, and spicy all in one. Serve over rice or with grilled vegetables. These are great for cookouts or meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers

Sweet & Spicy Mango Shrimp

Shrimp is sautéed with mango and a mix of chili and lime for a tropical-style dish that balances sweet and heat. It cooks fast and pairs well with rice or lettuce cups. Add jalapeño or hot sauce for more bite. Light, fast, and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Spicy Mango Shrimp

Sweet and Spicy Bacon and Turkey Chili

This hearty chili gets depth from ground turkey, smoky bacon, and a mix of sweet and spicy elements like brown sugar and chili powder. Simmered until thick, it’s cozy and bold. Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips. Great for game day or batch cooking.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Bacon and Turkey Chili

The Best Chinese Sweet And Spicy Chicken Recipe

Crispy chicken pieces are coated in a glossy sauce with just the right balance of sugar and heat. It’s a quick stir fry that tastes like takeout but made at home. Serve with white rice or steamed vegetables. A reliable go-to when you want bold flavor fast.
Get the Recipe: The Best Chinese Sweet And Spicy Chicken Recipe