Trustpilot

7 Easy Fakeaway Recipes That Taste Better Than a Takeaway

7 Easy Fakeaway Recipes That Taste Better Than a Takeaway

There's nothing quite like a Friday night takeaway. Whether you're craving crispy Chinese-style chicken, a creamy Indian curry or a cheesy pizza, sometimes only your favourite comfort food will do.

But what if you could recreate those delicious takeaway flavours in your own kitchen?

With a few simple ingredients and some everyday kitchen essentials, making your own takeaway-inspired dishes is easier than you might think. Plus, homemade fakeaways let you customise the flavours, adjust the spice levels and make generous portions for the whole family.

From crispy air fryer chicken to homemade garlic bread pizza, these 7 easy fakeaway recipes are perfect for a cosy night in.

 

1. Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken

Crispy, savoury and packed with flavour, salt and pepper chicken is a Chinese takeaway favourite. This homemade version uses an air fryer to create deliciously golden chicken pieces with less added oil than deep-frying.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 18-22 minutes
Serves: 2

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

  • 3 tbsp cornflour

  • 1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

  • 1 red pepper, sliced

  • 1 green pepper, sliced

  • 1 small onion, sliced

  • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

  • 1 red chilli, sliced (optional)

  • 2 spring onions, chopped

Method

  1. Prepare the chicken. Place the diced chicken in a mixing bowl. Add the cornflour, five-spice powder, salt and pepper, tossing until evenly coated.

  2. Air fry until crispy. Lightly coat the chicken with the oil and arrange it in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Cook at 190°C for approximately 12-16 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and cooked through. Work in batches if needed.

  3. Cook the vegetables. Heat a little oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and peppers, cooking for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.

  4. Add the flavour. Stir in the garlic, chilli and spring onions, cooking for another minute.

  5. Combine and serve. Add the crispy chicken to the pan and toss everything together until well combined.

Serve with fluffy rice, noodles or homemade chips for the ultimate Chinese-style fakeaway.

Kitchen tip: A digital food thermometer is useful for checking that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 75°C.

2. Easy Chicken Balti Curry

Rich, fragrant and packed with warming spices, chicken balti is a classic Indian takeaway favourite. This simple homemade version combines tender chicken, peppers and a delicious tomato-based sauce for a comforting curry that's perfect for a Friday night fakeaway.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 500g chicken breast, diced

  • 1 onion, finely chopped

  • 1 red pepper, sliced

  • 3 garlic cloves, crushed

  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger

  • 400g tin chopped tomatoes

  • 2 tbsp tomato purée

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

  • 2 tbsp mild curry powder

  • 1 tsp garam masala

  • 150ml chicken stock

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Fresh coriander, to garnish

Method

  1. Cook the onion. Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened.

  2. Add the spices. Stir in the garlic, ginger, curry powder and garam masala. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

  3. Cook the chicken. Add the diced chicken and cook for 5 minutes, stirring regularly until lightly browned.

  4. Make the sauce. Add the sliced pepper, chopped tomatoes, tomato purée and chicken stock. Stir everything together.

  5. Simmer. Cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through to 75°C.

  6. Serve. Season to taste, garnish with fresh coriander and serve with fluffy basmati rice and warm naan bread.

Kitchen tip: A deep non-stick frying pan is ideal for simmering the rich balti sauce, while a mini food chopper makes preparing the onion, garlic and ginger quick and easy.

3. Homemade Chicken Doner Kebabs

Love a late-night kebab? These homemade chicken doner-style kebabs are packed with smoky spices and served in soft flatbreads with crunchy salad and a refreshing garlic yoghurt sauce.

Prep time: 15 minutes, plus marinating
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Serves: 4

Ingredients

For the chicken:

  • 600g boneless, skinless chicken thighs

  • 3 tbsp natural yoghurt

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 2 tsp smoked paprika

  • 1 tsp ground cumin

  • 1 tsp ground coriander

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp chilli powder

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

To serve:

  • 4 flatbreads or pittas

  • Shredded lettuce

  • Sliced tomatoes

  • Sliced red onion

  • 150g Greek yoghurt

  • 1 garlic clove, crushed

  • 1 tsp lemon juice

Method

  1. Prepare the marinade. Combine the yoghurt, olive oil and spices in a mixing bowl. Add the chicken thighs and coat thoroughly.

  2. Marinate. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

  3. Cook the chicken. Arrange the thighs in an air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook at 190°C for approximately 18-22 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked through and lightly charred at the edges. The centre should reach 75°C.

  4. Make the garlic sauce. Mix the Greek yoghurt, crushed garlic and lemon juice in a small bowl.

  5. Slice the chicken. Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before cutting it into thin strips using a sharp kitchen knife.

  6. Assemble the kebabs. Warm the flatbreads and fill them with chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, red onion and a generous spoonful of garlic sauce.

Kitchen tip: Kitchen tongs make it easier to turn the chicken during cooking and assemble the kebabs without making a mess.

4. Korean Crispy Chicken with Sticky Gochujang Sauce

Crispy, sticky and packed with flavour, Korean fried chicken is the ultimate fakeaway treat. This easy homemade version combines golden, crunchy chicken bites with a delicious sweet and spicy gochujang sauce.

Made in the air fryer rather than deep-fried, it's a simple way to recreate Korean-inspired takeaway flavours at home. Serve with fluffy rice, sesame seeds and spring onions for a seriously satisfying dinner.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Serves: 3

Ingredients

For the crispy chicken:

  • 500g boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 4 tbsp cornflour

  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Korean-style sauce:

  • 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chilli paste)

  • 2 tbsp honey

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar

  • 1 tbsp water

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tsp sesame oil

  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger

To serve:

  • Cooked jasmine rice

  • 2 spring onions, finely sliced

  • 1 tsp sesame seeds

  • Sliced cucumber (optional)

Method

  1. Prepare the chicken. Place the chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl. Add the cornflour, garlic powder, salt and black pepper. Toss until each piece is evenly coated.

  2. Air fry until crispy. Drizzle the chicken with vegetable oil and toss again. Arrange the pieces in a single layer in your air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Cook at 190°C for approximately 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden, crispy and cooked to an internal temperature of 75°C. Cook in batches if necessary.

  3. Make the sticky Korean sauce. While the chicken cooks, whisk together the gochujang, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, water, minced garlic, sesame oil and grated ginger in a small bowl.

  4. Heat the sauce. Pour the mixture into a non-stick frying pan over medium-low heat. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently with a silicone spatula until slightly thickened.

  5. Coat the chicken. Add the crispy chicken to the pan and toss gently until every piece is covered in the glossy sauce.

  6. Add the finishing touches. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced spring onions for extra flavour and crunch.

  7. Serve and enjoy. Spoon the Korean crispy chicken over freshly cooked jasmine rice and serve with sliced cucumber for a refreshing contrast.

Kitchen tip: A digital kitchen thermometer makes it easy to check that the chicken is cooked through.

5. Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza

Forget waiting for delivery. A homemade Margherita pizza is simple, satisfying and perfect for a Friday night fakeaway.

Using ready-made pizza dough makes this recipe even quicker, while fresh mozzarella and basil give it that classic Italian-inspired flavour.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 12-15 minutes
Serves: 2

Ingredients

  • 1 ready-made pizza dough (approximately 400g)

  • 150g passata

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • 1 garlic clove, crushed

  • 200g mozzarella, drained and torn

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • Fresh basil leaves

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Method

  1. Preheat the oven. Heat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan). Place a large baking tray inside to warm.

  2. Prepare the pizza sauce. Mix the passata, oregano, crushed garlic and a pinch of salt in a small bowl.

  3. Shape the dough. Lightly flour your worktop and roll out the pizza dough using a rolling pin until it reaches your preferred thickness.

  4. Add the toppings. Place the dough on baking parchment suitable for the oven temperature. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce across the base, leaving a small border around the edges.

  5. Add the cheese. Scatter the torn mozzarella across the pizza and drizzle lightly with olive oil.

  6. Bake. Carefully transfer the pizza and parchment onto the hot baking tray. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the base is cooked and the cheese is bubbling. Check the dough packaging for any different cooking instructions.

  7. Finish and serve. Add fresh basil leaves, slice and enjoy.

Kitchen tip: A pizza cutter makes serving easier, while a preheated baking tray helps create a crispier base.

6. Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken

If sweet and sour chicken is your usual Chinese takeaway order, this homemade version deserves a place on your menu.

Crispy chicken pieces are tossed in a colourful sauce made with pineapple, peppers and a delicious balance of sweet and tangy flavours.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Serves: 4

Ingredients

For the chicken:

  • 500g chicken breast, diced

  • 4 tbsp cornflour

  • 1 egg, beaten

  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the sauce:

  • 1 red pepper, chopped

  • 1 green pepper, chopped

  • 1 small onion, chopped

  • 150g pineapple chunks

  • 4 tbsp tomato ketchup

  • 3 tbsp rice vinegar

  • 2 tbsp brown sugar

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce

  • 100ml pineapple juice

  • 1 tsp cornflour mixed with 1 tbsp cold water

Method

  1. Prepare the chicken. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper. Dip each piece into the beaten egg, then coat evenly in cornflour.

  2. Air fry the chicken. Lightly coat the pieces with oil and arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer. Cook at 190°C for 14-18 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and cooked to 75°C. Cook in batches if necessary.

  3. Cook the vegetables. Heat a little oil in a large frying pan or wok. Add the onion and peppers, stir-frying for 4-5 minutes.

  4. Prepare the sauce. In a jug, combine the ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce and pineapple juice.

  5. Bring everything together. Pour the sauce into the pan, add the pineapple chunks and simmer for 2-3 minutes.

  6. Thicken the sauce. Stir in the cornflour mixture and cook until glossy and thickened.

  7. Add the chicken. Toss the crispy chicken through the sauce just before serving.

Serve immediately with egg-fried rice or noodles.

Kitchen tip: A wok or deep frying pan gives you plenty of room to toss the vegetables and chicken together without spilling the sauce.

7. Loaded Chicken Tikka Fries

Can't decide between a curry and loaded chips? These chicken tikka fries combine the best of both.

Crispy golden chips are topped with spiced chicken, melted cheese, fresh onions and a creamy mint yoghurt drizzle. They're perfect for a relaxed weekend dinner or sharing with friends.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 3-4

Ingredients

  • 500g frozen oven chips

  • 400g chicken breast, diced

  • 2 tbsp tikka curry paste

  • 2 tbsp natural yoghurt

  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

  • 100g grated cheddar cheese

  • ½ red onion, finely diced

  • 1 small tomato, diced

  • Fresh coriander, chopped

For the mint yoghurt sauce:

  • 150g Greek yoghurt

  • 1 tsp dried mint

  • 1 tsp lemon juice

  • A pinch of salt

Method

  1. Prepare the chicken. Mix the diced chicken with the tikka curry paste and natural yoghurt in a bowl until evenly coated.

  2. Cook the chips. Prepare the frozen chips in the oven or air fryer according to the packet instructions until golden and crispy.

  3. Cook the chicken. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, stirring regularly, until fully cooked to 75°C.

  4. Make the yoghurt sauce. Combine the Greek yoghurt, dried mint, lemon juice and salt in a small mixing bowl.

  5. Assemble the loaded fries. Transfer the cooked chips to an ovenproof dish. Scatter the chicken over the top, followed by the grated cheese.

  6. Melt the cheese. Place under a preheated medium grill for approximately 2-3 minutes, watching carefully until the cheese has melted.

  7. Finish with toppings. Sprinkle with the diced red onion, tomato and fresh coriander. Drizzle with mint yoghurt sauce before serving.

Kitchen tip: Grating your own cheese can give you a smoother melt, while a small handheld grater is useful when preparing smaller portions.

How to Make Your Homemade Fakeaway Even Better

Making delicious homemade fakeaway recipes isn't just about following the ingredients. A few simple cooking habits can help you achieve better results every time.

Prepare Your Ingredients Before Cooking

Chopping your vegetables, measuring sauces and preparing ingredients in advance makes the cooking process much easier.

Small mixing bowls, measuring spoons and a sturdy chopping board are particularly useful for keeping everything organised.

Don't Overcrowd Your Air Fryer

When making crispy chicken or chips, leave enough room for hot air to circulate around the food. Cooking in smaller batches often produces crispier results than filling the basket too tightly.

Get Creative With Sauces

Homemade sauces can transform a basic meal into something that tastes much more like your favourite takeaway.

Try experimenting with:

  • Garlic yoghurt sauce for kebabs and wraps

  • Honey and soy sauce for sticky chicken

  • Sweet chilli sauce for crispy chicken bites

  • Spiced yoghurt marinades for Indian-inspired dishes

  • Homemade pizza sauce with garlic and herbs