Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Chewy chow mein noodles stir fried in a savory sauce with crunchy cabbage, celery, and onions. This Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is perfect for busy weeknights and can be ready in just 15 minutes! Whether you’re preparing a quick family meal or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress without the hassle of takeout.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it a fantastic option for busy days.
• Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil brings out rich flavors that rival your favorite restaurant dish.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this chow mein with your choice of protein or vegetables, making it suitable for everyone.
• Budget-Friendly: Save money by making this delicious dish at home instead of ordering takeout.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything is prepared in one pan!

Tools and Preparation

For this recipe, you’ll need some essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan
• Colander
• Small bowl
• Cooking spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pan: A spacious surface allows for even cooking and easy tossing of the noodles and veggies.
• Colander: Perfect for straining the noodles without rinsing away their flavor.
• Small bowl: Ideal for mixing the noodle sauce ingredients before adding them to the dish.

Ingredients

For the Chow Mein Noodles

• 1 lb chow mein noodles (fresh kind)

For the Vegetables

• 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)

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

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the noodle sauce ingredients as listed above and set aside.

Step 2: Blanch the Noodles

Bring a large pan filled halfway with water to boil on medium-high heat. Blanch chow mein noodles for 20-30 seconds or until loosened.

Step 3: Strain the Noodles

Strain the noodles in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse off with water.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 1 tbsp or 15 ml vegetable oil in a large pan. Fry onions, cabbage, and celery until softened, about 1 minute.

Step 5: Add Noodles and Sauce

Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Add remaining oil into empty space then add noodles and sauce.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

Toss everything together until noodles are coated in sauce. Remove off heat and enjoy!

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

This quick and delicious dish can be served in various ways to elevate your meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that complement the flavors of Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein.

Pair with Protein

• Stir-Fried Chicken: Add sliced chicken breast stir-fried with soy sauce and garlic for a hearty meal.
• Beef Strips: Tender beef strips cooked in a savory sauce make for a satisfying protein addition.
• Grilled Shrimp: Toss grilled shrimp on top for a seafood twist that pairs beautifully with chow mein.

Add Fresh Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for an added crunch and burst of flavor.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and enhance the dish’s presentation.
• Cilantro Leaves: Fresh cilantro can give your chow mein a refreshing herbal note.

Serve with Sauces

• Extra Soy Sauce: Provide extra soy sauce on the side for those who love a saltier taste.
• Chili Oil: A drizzle of chili oil offers a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the noodles.

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

Achieving the perfect chow mein requires attention to detail and some handy tips. Here’s how you can enhance your cooking experience.

• Use Fresh Noodles: Fresh chow mein noodles provide better texture compared to dried versions, making your dish more authentic.
• Don’t Overcook Veggies: Stir-fry vegetables just until tender to maintain their color and crunch, enhancing both texture and nutrition.
• Adjust Sauce Ingredients: Feel free to modify the sauce ingredients based on your taste preferences; adding more garlic or soy sauce can intensify the flavor.
• Keep Everything Moving: Ensure you constantly stir the noodles and veggies in the pan to achieve an even coating of sauce and prevent sticking.

Best Side Dishes for Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Complementing your chow mein with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Try these delightful options alongside your main dish.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, enhancing your meal’s health factor.
2. Spring Rolls: Crispy vegetable spring rolls provide a crunchy contrast to the soft noodles, making every bite enjoyable.
3. Egg Drop Soup: This light soup warms up your meal, making it perfect for colder days.
4. Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness and crunch to your plate.
5. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Grilled teriyaki chicken skewers offer bold flavors that pair well with chow mein’s savory notes.
6. Fried Rice: A classic companion, fried rice is filling and complements chow mein perfectly, giving you a variety of textures in one meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein, it’s important to steer clear of common errors that can impact flavor or texture.

• Skipping the noodle prep: Not properly blanching the chow mein noodles can result in a chewy and clumpy dish. Always blanch them briefly to loosen before stir-frying.
• Overcrowding the pan: Trying to cook everything at once can lead to steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Using low-quality sauces: Cheap or overly salty sauces can ruin the dish’s flavor profile. Invest in good quality soy and oyster sauce for better taste.
• Ignoring vegetable freshness: Using wilted or old vegetables affects both texture and flavor. Always use fresh ingredients for the best results.
• Not adjusting for personal taste: This recipe is versatile, so don’t hesitate to tweak it with your favorite vegetables or proteins according to your preference.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Use within 3-4 days for the best quality.

Freezing Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Place in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread noodles on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or chicken stock to a pan over medium heat. Stir-fry noodles until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

This dish takes just 15 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal quick meal option.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas, and swap out chicken stock for vegetable broth if desired.

What type of noodles should I use for Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein?

Use fresh chow mein noodles as they provide the best texture and flavor for this recipe.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats easily, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein recipe is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a delicious side dish that rivals takeout while customizing it to your tastes. Enjoy experimenting with different vegetables and protein options!