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Easy Panda Express Chow Mein Recipe

Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein Recipe

Sarah Brown
It’s crunch time! But ditching the takeout menu for this homemade copycat Panda Express chow mein is so much better—and it’s easier than you might think. Plus, I can assure you, once you try making it at home, you won’t want to go back.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 8 Servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet/wok

Ingredients
  

  • 3 5.6 ounce packages Yakisoba noodles or Chinese egg noodles (found in the produce section, typically in a 17oz pack)
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 –3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • ⅔ cup celery diagonally chopped
  • 1 medium onion thinly sliced
  • 2 cups chopped cabbage
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar optional, for a touch of acidity
  • ½ teaspoon sesame oil optional, for extra depth and flavor
  • ½ teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra depth and flavor)

Instructions
 

  • Let’s dive straight into the cooking process. Grab your apron; it’s chow mein time!

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

  • Start by cooking the noodles. If you’re using Yakisoba, they usually need just a minute or two in boiling water. If you’re using Chinese egg noodles, follow the package directions. Drain them and set aside. Feel free to toss in a bit of oil to prevent them from sticking together.

Step 2: Prepare the Flavor Base

  • In a large skillet or wok, heat up the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté them until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Trust me; your kitchen will start smelling divine!

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

  • Now, toss the chopped celery and sliced onion into your skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. The colors will make you excited to dive in. Then, add the chopped cabbage, giving it another 2-3 minutes. You want the cabbage to wilt but still have some crispness.

Step 4: Add the Noodles and Sauce

  • Time to get those noodles back in action! Add them right into the skillet with the veggies. In a separate bowl, mix soy sauce and brown sugar until combined and then pour this sauce over the noodles and veggies. Toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated.

Step 5: Season and Finish

  • Add freshly ground black pepper to taste, and if you’re feeling adventurous, splash in some rice vinegar for acidity. Drizzle sesame oil on top for that authentic flavor. Mix once more until everything is hot and well-incorporated.

Step 6: Plate and Enjoy

  • Serve this chow mein hot and fresh! You can garnish it with toasted sesame seeds or some chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor and color.

Notes

Here are some tried-and-true tips to level up your chow mein experience:
Add Protein: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier dish.
Adjust the Sauce: If you like it sweeter, add more brown sugar. More soy sauce gives a saltier taste.
Play with Veggies: Bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas are fantastic substitutes or additions.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Work in batches if your skillet is smaller. This ensures even cooking.
Leftover Love: This dish is great for meal prep. Store it in the fridge and enjoy it over the week.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 7gFat: 10gSodium: 700mgFiber: 3g
Keyword Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein Recipe
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