Name: Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh chow mein noodles; 2 cups thinly sliced cabbage; 1 cup sliced celery; 1 small sliced onion; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 tbsp regular soy sauce; 1/2 tbsp dark soy sauce; 2 tbsp oyster sauce (or vegetarian stir fry sauce); 1 tbsp sesame oil; 2 garlic cloves (minced); 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken stock (or cold water); 1/2 tbsp cornstarch (or potato starch)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why make this recipe

Panda Express Chow Mein is a popular dish loved by many for its savory flavors and quick cooking time. Making it at home means you can enjoy this classic dish anytime you want! Plus, you can control the ingredients and make it healthier if you choose. This recipe takes only 15 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a quick lunch.

How to make Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

To make Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Ingredients:

1 lb fresh chow mein noodles
2 cups thinly sliced cabbage
1 cup sliced celery
1 small sliced onion
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 tbsp regular soy sauce
1/2 tbsp dark soy sauce
2 tbsp oyster sauce (or vegetarian stir fry sauce)
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1/4 cup chicken stock (low-sodium, or cold water)
1/2 tbsp cornstarch (or potato starch)

Now, let’s go through the directions:

Directions:

Combine all sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
Bring water to a boil in a large pan; blanch noodles for 20-30 seconds, then strain them.
In the same pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat and sauté onions, cabbage, and celery until softened.
Push veggies to one side; add more oil if needed and mix in blanched noodles along with the prepared sauce.
Toss everything together until well-coated, remove from heat, and serve.

How to serve Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

You can serve this dish as is or pair it with your favorite protein, such as chicken, beef, or shrimp, for a more filling meal. It also goes well with a side of sweet and sour sauce or soy sauce.

How to store Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay good for about 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist.

Tips to make Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Make sure to use fresh chow mein noodles for the best texture and flavor.
Don’t skip the blanching step; it ensures the noodles are fluffy and not sticky.
Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch and color.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, you can use a vegetarian stir fry sauce instead of oyster sauce. You can also add tofu for protein.

FAQs

Q: Can I use dried chow mein noodles?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to follow the package instructions for cooking them. Dried noodles may take a bit longer to prepare.

Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and check the noodle package for gluten-free options.

Q: What can I use instead of chicken stock?
A: You can use water or vegetable broth as a substitute if you don’t have chicken stock on hand.