Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen, then you’re in for a treat! This Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is not only a fantastic side dish but also a delightful main course. It’s my go-to recipe when I want something comforting and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, this chow mein fits the bill perfectly. With its chewy noodles and crunchy veggies, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it comes together in just 15 minutes, making it a total lifesaver for those hectic days!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Family-Friendly: The savory flavors and fun textures make this chow mein a hit with both kids and adults.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely have these wholesome ingredients on hand already, which means less grocery shopping!
• Budget-Friendly: Making this at home saves you money compared to takeout, without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to add or swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personal touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun of cooking! They come together beautifully to create a dish that feels both comforting and fresh.

For the Chow Mein

• 1 lb chow mein noodles (fresh kind)
• 2 cups cabbage (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup celery (sliced)
• 1 small onion (sliced)

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or any neutral 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)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it based on what you have at home or what you’re craving. Here are some tasty ideas:

• Add Protein: Toss in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it heartier.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas for more nutrition and color.
• Spicy Kick: If you like heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha before serving.
• Noodle Swap: Try using rice noodles or whole wheat noodles for a different texture.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all the noodle sauce ingredients as listed above. This step is crucial because having your sauce ready will save time when you start cooking everything together. It ensures that every noodle gets coated in that delicious flavor!

Step 2: Blanch the Noodles

Bring a large pan filled halfway with water to boil on medium-high heat. Blanch the chow mein noodles for about 20-30 seconds until they loosen up nicely. Straining them afterward helps avoid overcooking and keeps them chewy—just how we want them!

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add sliced onions, cabbage, and celery to the pan and sauté until softened—this takes about one minute. Sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and creates that lovely aroma that fills your kitchen!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Push the sautéed veggies to one side of the pan. Add another tablespoon of oil to the empty space and toss in your blanched noodles along with the prepared sauce. Mixing everything together ensures that each noodle gets coated in flavor while absorbing all those yummy vegetable juices.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Toss everything well until the noodles are fully coated in sauce—then take it off heat! This dish is best served immediately while it’s hot and delicious. Trust me; you’ll love enjoying this homemade version of Panda Express Chow Mein!

Pro Tips for Making Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Making a delicious chow mein at home is a breeze when you follow these simple tips!

• Use fresh chow mein noodles: Fresh noodles have a better texture and flavor than dried ones. They’ll give your dish that authentic chewy experience you crave.
• Prep your ingredients beforehand: Having all your veggies sliced and sauces mixed before you start cooking will make the process smoother and quicker, ensuring everything comes together in just 15 minutes.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables: Frying the cabbage, celery, and onions just until softened keeps them crunchy and vibrant. This adds texture to your dish and preserves their nutrients!
• Adjust sauce to taste: Feel free to tweak the soy sauce or oyster sauce amounts based on your preference. This allows you to customize the flavor to your liking while keeping it balanced.
• Serve immediately: Chow mein is best enjoyed right after cooking while it’s hot and fresh. This ensures that the noodles remain chewy and saucy!

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

Serving up this delightful chow mein can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: These add a pop of color and a mild oniony crunch that complements the flavors wonderfully.
• Sesame seeds: Sprinkling some toasted sesame seeds on top gives a nutty flavor and an appealing look to your chow mein.
• Fresh cilantro: For those who enjoy herbal notes, adding cilantro provides freshness that brightens up each bite.

Side Dishes

• Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with fresh vegetables make for a delightful appetizer that pairs perfectly with chow mein.
• Stir-Fried Broccoli: A quick stir-fry of broccoli with garlic enhances the meal’s nutritional value while offering a satisfying crunch alongside the noodles.
• Sweet and Sour Tofu: This dish offers a sweet contrast to the savory chow mein, creating a balanced meal that’s both filling and flavorful.
• Egg Drop Soup: A warm bowl of egg drop soup makes for a comforting side that complements the textures of chow mein while being light on the palate.

Enjoy crafting this easy 15-minute Panda Express Chow Mein; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch and store it for quick meals throughout the week, making dinner planning a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chow mein to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• To freeze, cool the chow mein and portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• The chow mein can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help steam and loosen the noodles.
• Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place!

How long does it take to make Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein?

This dish is incredibly quick! From start to finish, you can have your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein ready in just 15 minutes.

Can I customize the vegetables in my Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out or add any vegetables you prefer, such as bell peppers, carrots, or bean sprouts. This recipe is versatile and allows for plenty of creativity!

What type of noodles should I use for panda express chow mein?

Using fresh chow mein noodles will give you that authentic taste and texture that mimics restaurant-style chow mein. However, if fresh noodles aren’t available, dried ones can work too—just follow package instructions for cooking times.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge and even freezes beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein as much as I do! It’s not just a delicious side dish; it’s a fantastic way to bring a little bit of takeout magic into your home without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try, share it with your loved ones, and savor every bite. Happy cooking!