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 fantastic choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick weeknight dinner or impress guests at a gathering, this recipe is both simple and delicious. With just one pan and minimal ingredients, you can enjoy a flavorful dish that beats takeout every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weekdays.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of soy sauces and sesame oil provides a rich, savory flavor that enhances the noodles.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your chow mein by adding extra veggies or protein like chicken or beef based on your preferences.
• Budget-Friendly: Making this dish at home saves money compared to ordering takeout while still satisfying your cravings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required since everything cooks in one pan, making it super convenient.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein, gather the essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan
• Colander
• Small bowl
• Cooking utensil (spatula)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pan: Provides ample space for frying vegetables and noodles without overcrowding.
• Colander: Helps drain the blanched noodles quickly while ensuring they maintain their texture.
• Small bowl: Perfect for mixing sauce ingredients before adding them to the stir-fry for an even distribution of flavor.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

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

Noodles and Vegetables

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

Sauces and 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

Seasoning

• 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: Drain Noodles

Strain the noodles in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse off with water; this keeps them coated in starch for better texture.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 5: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Add the remaining oil into the empty space. Then add noodles along with the prepared sauce.

Step 6: Toss Everything Together

Toss everything together until noodles are well coated in the sauce. Remove from heat and enjoy your delicious meal!

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

This delicious Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein can be served in various ways to complement your meal. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side or a main dish, there are plenty of options to enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled chicken for a satisfying balance of flavors and proteins.
• Serve alongside stir-fried vegetables for an extra crunch and nutrition boost.

With Protein Additions

• Top with sliced beef or turkey for added protein and flavor.
• Consider adding tofu for a plant-based option that still packs a punch.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped green onions on top to add freshness and color.
• Add cilantro just before serving for an aromatic touch.

In a Bowl

• Serve in a large bowl with chopsticks for an authentic Asian dining experience.
• Create a layered bowl by adding steamed rice at the bottom before topping with chow mein.

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

Perfecting your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is simple with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish every time you make it.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
• Monitor noodle cooking time: Be careful not to over-blanch the noodles, as they should remain chewy.
• Stir-fry quickly: High heat helps keep the vegetables crisp while ensuring everything cooks evenly.
• Customize sauces: Experiment with different sauces like hoisin or teriyaki for unique flavors.
• Add spices: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you enjoy heat!

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

To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein with one or more of these delightful side dishes. Each option complements the flavors beautifully.

1. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, making it a perfect side.
2. Spring Rolls – Crispy spring rolls provide a crunchy texture contrast that’s always satisfying.
3. Vegetable Dumplings – These soft dumplings are filled with veggies and pair well with chow mein’s flavors.
4. Fried Rice – A classic choice, fried rice adds heartiness and complements the chow mein nicely.
5. Sesame Cucumber Salad – This refreshing salad adds brightness and crunch, balancing out the dish’s richness.
6. Sweet and Sour Tofu – For those who love bold flavors, sweet and sour tofu offers an exciting complement to chow mein.
7. Miso Soup – Light yet flavorful, miso soup provides warmth and depth to your meal.
8. Edamame – Simple steamed edamame is nutritious and fun to snack on while enjoying chow mein!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein, a few common mistakes can affect the final outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is perfect every time.

• Using dried chow mein noodles: Fresh chow mein noodles provide better texture and flavor. Make sure to use fresh noodles for the best results.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking veggies for too long can make them mushy. Stir-fry just until they are tender but still crisp.
• Not prepping ingredients beforehand: This dish cooks quickly; having everything ready will prevent delays and ensure even cooking.
• Skipping the sauce preparation: Mixing the sauce before you start cooking is crucial for an even flavor throughout the dish. Don’t forget this step!
• Rinsing noodles after blanching: Rinsing removes starch that helps sauce stick. Strain and leave them without rinsing for better flavor adherence.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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 a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein that may help you during your cooking experience.

What ingredients are used in Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein?

This recipe uses fresh chow mein noodles, cabbage, celery, onion, soy sauce, oyster sauce (or vegetarian stir fry sauce), sesame oil, garlic, and chicken stock.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. You can also include cooked chicken or tofu for added protein.

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

The total time from prep to serving is just 15 minutes! It’s a quick and easy side dish you can whip up any day of the week.

Is Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein healthy?

With fresh veggies and controlled amounts of sauces, this dish can be a healthier alternative to traditional takeout options.

Final Thoughts

Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is not only quick to prepare but also deliciously versatile! You can easily customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!