Chili crisp is a viral pantry staple that’s loved for its savory crunch and spicy kick. A little goes a long way, and it’s easy to use.

Swipe through to learn how to add spice and texture to many dishes.

Top Your Eggs

Spoon crunchy chili crisp over fried, scrambled or poached eggs for an instant flavor upgrade. The crispy bits add texture while the infused oil brings heat and savory depth. Try it on avocado toast with a fried egg, stir a little into scrambled eggs or drizzle it over an omelet. It’s also delicious with breakfast tacos, especially when paired with cheese, avocado and cilantro.

Photography: Pinterest/Cathy Pittman

Upgrade Your Noodles

Toss cooked noodles with a spoonful of chili crisp for a quick, flavorful meal. Add soy sauce, sesame oil and a splash of rice vinegar for an easy sauce, then top with scallions and sesame seeds. It works with ramen, spaghetti, soba or rice noodles. For a heartier dish, add shredded chicken, sliced steak, tofu or a fried egg—and don't forget the veggies.

Photography: America's Test Kitchen via Pinterest

Make Vegetables More Exciting

Chili crisp can turn even basic vegetables into something you actually look forward to eating. Spoon it over roasted broccoli, cauliflower, green beans or Brussels sprouts just before serving. It’s equally good on steamed or sautéed vegetables. The combination of crunchy pieces, flavorful oil and chile heat adds plenty of interest without requiring a complicated sauce. Try mixing it with a little honey for a sweet-and-spicy vegetable topping.

Photography: Pinterest/The Cozy Apron

Spread It on Sandwiches

Use chili crisp like a spicy condiment on sandwiches, burgers and wraps. Spread it directly onto bread or mix it with mayonnaise for a creamy, spicy sauce. It pairs especially well with turkey, roast beef, crispy chicken, grilled cheese and egg sandwiches. The crunchy texture adds another dimension, while the chile-infused oil keeps every bite flavorful. Start with a small spoonful and add more if you want extra heat.

Photography: Pinterest/Zyre

Dress Up Rice

A spoonful of chili crisp can make a bowl of plain rice much more interesting. Stir it into hot white or brown rice, then add soy sauce and sliced green onions for a simple side dish. You can also build a complete bowl with rice, roasted vegetables, leftover meat, tofu or a fried egg. For extra texture, sprinkle on peanuts, cashews or sesame seeds before serving.

Photography: Pinterest/Lezlie Wiechowski-Souza

Add It to Dumplings

Chili crisp is a natural partner for dumplings, pot stickers and wontons. Spoon it over steamed or pan-fried dumplings, or mix it with soy sauce and rice vinegar for a quick dipping sauce. The crunchy chile pieces cling to the dumplings while the seasoned oil adds richness. It also works beautifully with frozen dumplings when you need a fast lunch or dinner that tastes much more homemade.

Photography: Pinterest

Stir It Into Dips

Give familiar dips a spicy makeover by stirring in a little crunchy chili crisp. Mix it into hummus or into dips built on mayonnaise, sour cream or cream cheese. Try chili crisp hummus with pita, spicy mayo with fries or sandwiches or cream cheese topped with chili crisp on crackers. You can also swirl it into ranch dressing for a surprisingly versatile dip for vegetables, wings or potatoes.

Photography: Pinterest/She's Almost Always Hungry