Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Chewy chow mein noodles stir fried in a savory sauce with crunchy cabbage, celery, and onions make this Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty side dish for your gathering, this recipe is not only simple but also budget-friendly. With just one pan and minimal ingredients, you can enjoy the flavors of your favorite takeout right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly: Skip the takeout and save money by making this delicious meal at home.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with everything cooked in one pan.
• Savory Flavor: The combination of sauces creates a rich and satisfying taste that will impress everyone.

Tools and Preparation

To make this dish smoothly, having the right tools on hand is key. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan
• Colander
• Small bowl
• Cooking spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pan: Provides ample space to cook the noodles and vegetables evenly without overcrowding.
• Colander: Helps drain the blanched noodles quickly while ensuring they stay hot.
• Small bowl: Perfect for mixing the sauce ingredients before adding them to the noodles.
• Cooking spoon: Ideal for stirring and tossing everything together to achieve the best flavor distribution.

Ingredients

For this Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein, gather the following ingredients:

Noodles

• 1 lb chow mein noodles (fresh kind)

Vegetables

• 2 cups cabbage (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup celery (sliced)
• 1 small onion (sliced)

Sauces & Oils

• 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

Aromatics & Stock

• 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 all the noodle sauce ingredients as listed above and set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Blanch the Noodles

Bring a large pan filled halfway with water to boil over medium-high heat. Blanch the chow mein noodles for about 20-30 seconds or until they are loosened. Be careful not to overcook them.

Step 3: Drain the Noodles

Strain the noodles in a colander and set them aside. Do not rinse off with water as you want to keep them warm and starchy.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add sliced onions, cabbage, and celery. Fry until softened, which should take about 1 minute.

Step 5: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Pour in another tablespoon of oil into the empty space, then add the drained noodles along with your prepared sauce.

Step 6: Toss Everything Together

Using your cooking spoon, toss everything together until all the noodles are well coated in sauce. Remove from heat and enjoy your delicious homemade chow mein!

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

This delicious and quick chow mein is perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re enjoying a casual dinner at home or hosting friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

With Protein Options

• Grilled Chicken – Add slices of grilled chicken breast on top for extra protein.
• Stir-Fried Beef – Toss in some tender beef strips for a heartier dish.
• Sautéed Tofu – For a plant-based option, sauté tofu cubes until golden brown and mix them in.

Accompanying Sauces

• Chili Sauce – Drizzle some chili sauce over the chow mein for a spicy kick.
• Soy Sauce – Offer additional soy sauce on the side for those who prefer more flavor.

Garnishes

• Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added crunch and visual appeal.
• Green Onions – Chop green onions finely and use them as a fresh garnish.

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

Perfecting your chow mein is simple with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance flavor and texture every time you make this dish.

• Use Fresh Noodles – Fresh chow mein noodles provide the best texture. Look for them at your local grocery store or Asian market.
• Don’t Overcook the Vegetables – Stir-fry just until they are tender-crisp to maintain their crunch and vibrant color.
• Pre-Mix Your Sauce – Combine sauce ingredients before cooking to save time during stir-frying.
• High Heat Cooking – Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding ingredients, which helps achieve that restaurant-style sear.
• Taste and Adjust – Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust saltiness by adding more soy sauce if needed.
• Batch Cook Noodles – If making a larger batch, consider cooking noodles in smaller portions to avoid sticking.

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

Pairing your chow mein with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal beautifully. Here are some tasty options that work well together.

1. Spring Rolls – Crispy vegetable spring rolls add crunch and flavor, perfect as an appetizer.
2. Egg Drop Soup – A light broth with silky egg ribbons offers warmth and comfort alongside the main dish.
3. Vegetable Dumplings – Steamed or pan-fried dumplings filled with veggies create a delightful addition to your table.
4. Stir-Fried Broccoli – Quick-cooked broccoli with garlic makes for a nutritious and vibrant side.
5. Fried Rice – A classic fried rice complements chow mein well, providing additional carbs and flavors.
6. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing balances the savory notes of the chow mein.
7. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers – Grilled chicken skewers glazed with teriyaki sauce offer a sweet contrast to the savory noodles.
8. Miso Soup – This light soup brings umami flavors that pair nicely with any Chinese-inspired meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will elevate your cooking skills and ensure your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein turns out perfectly.

• Using the wrong noodles – Ensure you use fresh chow mein noodles for the best texture. Dried noodles require longer cooking times and can become mushy.
• Overcooking vegetables – Stir-fry vegetables just until they are softened, about a minute. Overcooked veggies lose their crunch and vibrant color.
• Skipping the sauce prep – Mix the sauce ingredients before cooking to save time. Adding them on the fly may lead to uneven flavors.
• Neglecting to strain noodles properly – After blanching, make sure to strain the noodles well without rinsing. This keeps their starch intact for better sauce adherence.
• Not adjusting seasoning – Taste your chow mein before serving. You can add a dash more soy sauce or sesame oil if you prefer a bolder flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop – Add a splash of water or chicken stock in a pan over medium heat, stir occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of noodles are used in Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein?

Fresh chow mein noodles are preferred for their chewy texture and quick cooking time.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to add proteins such as chicken or beef, or extra veggies like bell peppers and carrots for added nutrition.

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

This recipe is designed to be quick! You can have it ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge and reheats nicely, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Final Thoughts

Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is a delightful dish that brings takeout flavors right into your kitchen without breaking the bank. Its quick preparation allows you to enjoy a homemade meal any day of the week. Feel free to customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables!