There’s something irresistibly comforting about the sizzle of Chow Mein being stir-fried in a hot wok. I first fell in love with this dish years ago, craving the quick, vibrant flavors that blend effortlessly to create a satisfying meal. When I began to recreate my favorite takeout favorites at home, I found that making a delicious version of Panda Express Chow Mein was not only achievable, but it also gave me control over the ingredients.
Imagine tender noodles tossed with crisp cabbage, celery, and a variety of colorful veggies, all drizzled in a soy-based sauce that strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet. Whether you’re aiming for a quick weeknight dinner or trying to impress friends at a casual gathering, this homemade delight can be ready in under 30 minutes! Plus, it’s totally customizable—add your favorite protein, swap in seasonal vegetables, or even make it vegan. Let’s dive into this quick, comforting recipe that’s sure to elevate your dinner game!
Why love Panda Express Chow Mein?
Discover why this Panda Express Chow Mein recipe is your new go-to!
- Quick to Make: In under 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Full of Flavor: A delightful mix of savory and slightly sweet soy-based sauce enhances the tender noodles and veggies.
- Customizable Delight: Easily adjust ingredients to fit your palate; toss in your favorite proteins or veggies!
- Easy Steps: Simple stir-frying technique ensures that even novice cooks can shine in the kitchen.
- Perfect for Sharing: Impress friends and family with a homemade dish that captures the essence of takeout!
With every bite, you’ll savor the satisfying combination of flavors that make this recipe truly irresistible.
Panda Express Chow Mein Ingredients
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For the Noodles
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Chow Mein Noodles – The essential base; substitute with yakisoba noodles or spaghetti if needed.
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For the Vegetables
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Green Cabbage – Adds crunch; shredding promotes quick cooking.
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Celery – Provides texture and a fresh, peppery note.
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Onion – Enhances savory depth; yellow or white onion is best.
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Garlic – Offers aromatic flavor; fresh is preferred, but garlic powder works too.
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For the Sauce
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Soy Sauce – Key for that savory umami flavor; opt for low-sodium if desired.
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Oyster Sauce – Adds sweetness; use vegetarian version for a vegan option.
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Hoisin Sauce (optional) – Enhances flavor richness; not essential but adds depth.
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Brown Sugar – Balances saltiness with sweetness; substitute with maple syrup if needed.
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Sesame Oil – Provides an authentic fragrance; essential for flavor.
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For Cooking
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Vegetable Oil – Ideal for high-heat stir-frying; can swap for canola or neutral oil.
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Salt and Pepper – Adjust to taste for overall flavor enhancement.
This collection of ingredients will help you recreate the beloved Panda Express Chow Mein with all its tasty charm right in your kitchen!
How to Make Panda Express Chow Mein
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Cook the Noodles: Begin by boiling the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions, typically for about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside, ensuring they’re not sticky.
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Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers, perfect for stir-frying.
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Stir-Fry the Veggies: Add the sliced onion, chopped celery, and shredded cabbage to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp, showcasing vibrant colors.
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Add Garlic: Incorporate the minced garlic into the stir-fried veggies and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant and golden. This enhances the depth of flavor.
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Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add the drained chow mein noodles to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), brown sugar, and sesame oil. Toss everything to combine well.
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Finish Stir-Frying: Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring all ingredients are well-integrated and heated through. The noodles should shimmer with the sauce.
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Season and Serve: Taste, then season with salt and pepper as necessary before serving hot. Enjoy the comforting, familiar flavors of chow mein!
Optional: Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an added touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Panda Express Chow Mein?
Looking to create a delightful meal around your flavorful chow mein?
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Egg Rolls: Crunchy and savory, these crispy bites add a satisfying contrast to the tender noodles. They perfectly complement the Asian flavors of your chow mein.
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Sweet and Sour Chicken: This tangy dish brings a pop of flavor and pairs beautifully with the slightly sweet notes of the chow mein sauce. The combination is a beloved classic!
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Asian Slaw: Light and refreshing, a colorful slaw with sesame dressing adds crunch and brightness to your plate, enhancing the meal’s freshness.
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Fried Rice: For a hearty twist, serving your chow mein with fried rice creates a symphony of textures and flavors. It’s a filling experience loved by many!
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Hot and Sour Soup: A bowl of this warming soup brings a comforting spiciness that complements the chow mein nicely, creating a well-rounded meal.
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Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in a tangy dressing bring a refreshing element, balancing out the savory noodles beautifully.
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Lychee or Mango Sorbet: For dessert, the sweet and fruity flavors of sorbet provide a light, refreshing end to your meal, contrasting perfectly with the savory elements.
With these delightful pairings, your Panda Express Chow Mein will shine even brighter on the dinner table!
Expert Tips for Panda Express Chow Mein
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High-Heat Oil: Use vegetable or canola oil for a proper stir-fry; it withstands high temperatures without smoking.
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Protein Boost: To make a protein-packed Panda Express Chow Mein, add diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu during the noodle mixing step.
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Veggie Variety: Don’t hesitate to toss in more colorful veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition and crunch.
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Keep it Crisp: Be careful not to overcook your vegetables; they should retain a slight crunch for that perfect texture contrast!
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Flavor Enhancer: Consider adding a splash of sriracha for a spicy kick at the end of cooking, balancing the flavors wonderfully.
Make Ahead Options
These Panda Express Chow Mein ingredients are wonderfully suited for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can chop vegetables like the cabbage, celery, and onion up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them crisp. Additionally, the sauce can be mixed together and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just remember to give it a good stir before using. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the noodles and stir-fry the prepped veggies with the sauce for 2-3 minutes. This way, your flavorful chow mein will taste just as delicious without the last-minute rush!
Panda Express Chow Mein Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own, bringing your unique flavor preferences to life!
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Vegan Delight: Replace oyster sauce with a splash of soy sauce and a dash of maple syrup for a vegan-friendly twist.
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Protein Power: Add diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu during the stir-fry to elevate the dish with protein-packed goodness. You’ll enjoy a heartier meal that satisfies every craving!
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Extra Vegetables: Incorporate snap peas, bell peppers, or zucchini to enhance nutrition and add vibrant color. This makes not only a visually appealing dish but also a nutrient-rich one.
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Gluten-Free Option: Opt for rice noodles or gluten-free spaghetti as an alternative to chow mein noodles. Enjoy a suitable meal without missing out on flavor!
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Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes towards the end of cooking. This gives it a delightful fiery flair!
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Nutty Flavor: Top with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts to add a delicious crunch and nutty aroma. It’s a simple addition that elevates the overall experience.
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Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a little hoisin sauce for added depth and sweetness, enhancing the dish’s profile. A touch goes a long way in making your chow mein truly memorable.
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Coconut Twist: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a sweeter, milder taste that’s perfect for those monitoring their sodium intake. Enjoy this tropical flavor twist!
How to Store and Freeze Panda Express Chow Mein
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This maintains flavor and texture, ensuring your homemade Panda Express Chow Mein is still delightful when reheated.
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Freezer: You can freeze the chow mein for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-friendly bags, pressing out excess air to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: To reheat, warm in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the noodles and prevent stickiness. Heat until thoroughly warmed, usually about 5-7 minutes over medium heat.
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Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, keep an eye on the vegetables; warm them just until heated through to maintain their crispness.
Panda Express Chow Mein Recipe FAQs
What type of noodles should I use for Panda Express Chow Mein?
Absolutely! Chow Mein noodles are the traditional choice for this dish, but if you can’t find them, you can easily substitute yakisoba noodles or even spaghetti. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package to ensure they’re cooked perfectly!
How do I store leftover Panda Express Chow Mein?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep the noodles from sticking together. This brief moisture will help revive the dish’s original texture.
Can I freeze Panda Express Chow Mein?
Definitely! To freeze your homemade chow mein, portion it out into freezer-friendly bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet as described previously for optimal results.
What should I do if my vegetables are overcooked?
Not to worry! If you find that your vegetables are getting soft during cooking, try to adjust the cooking time next time by reducing it to 2-3 minutes for stir-frying. Remember, vegetables should maintain a slight crunch to give that lovely contrast to the noodles. Additionally, you can always add a little extra fresh veggie garnish right before serving to brighten up the dish!
Can I make Panda Express Chow Mein vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is easily made vegan by substituting oyster sauce with a vegetarian version or simply omitting it. You can also add more delicious veggies or protein alternatives like tofu to enhance the flavor while keeping it plant-based.
How can I enhance the flavor of my chow mein?
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of sriracha or red pepper flakes towards the end of cooking for a spicy kick! You can also toss in additional ingredients like bell peppers, snap peas, or even crushed peanuts for added richness in taste and texture.
These tips will help you create a delicious and satisfying Panda Express Chow Mein in the comfort of your own kitchen! Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Savory Panda Express Chow Mein You Can Whip Up Fast!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by boiling the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions, typically for about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside, ensuring they're not sticky.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers, perfect for stir-frying.
- Add the sliced onion, chopped celery, and shredded cabbage to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp, showcasing vibrant colors.
- Incorporate the minced garlic into the stir-fried veggies and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant and golden.
- Add the drained chow mein noodles to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), brown sugar, and sesame oil. Toss everything to combine well.
- Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring all ingredients are well-integrated and heated through.
- Taste, then season with salt and pepper as necessary before serving hot.