Panda Express Chow Mein Recipe

If you have ever craved the irresistible, saucy, and delightfully crunchy noodle dish from your favorite fast-food Chinese spot, you are in for a treat with this homemade Panda Express Chow Mein recipe. This dish perfectly captures the balance of tender chow mein noodles, crisp vegetables, and that signature savory sauce that makes Panda Express Chow Mein a beloved classic. Recreating it at home is easier than you think, and the results are just as satisfying, letting you enjoy that takeout favorite whenever the craving strikes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Panda Express Chow Mein lies in its simplicity and fresh, vibrant ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from the chewy chow mein noodles that provide perfect texture to the crisp cabbage and celery that give the dish its refreshing crunch and color. The sauce ingredients come together to create a rich, savory coating that brings everything into harmony.

• 1 lb chow mein noodles (fresh kind): Using fresh noodles ensures the ideal chewy texture and authentic taste.
• 2 cups cabbage (thinly sliced): Adds crispness and a mild sweetness that complements the sauce beautifully.
• 1 cup celery (sliced): Contributes a subtle crunch and fresh green color.
• 1 small onion (sliced): Provides a hint of natural sweetness and depth.
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or any neutral oil): Perfect for stir-frying without overpowering flavors.
• 2 tbsp regular soy sauce: Brings savory umami and saltiness that is key for the sauce base.
• 1/2 tbsp dark soy sauce: Adds richness and a touch of caramel color for authenticity.
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce (or vegetarian stir fry sauce): Elevates the sauce with a slightly sweet and complex umami flavor.
• 1 tbsp sesame oil: Delivers a fragrant, nutty aroma that finishes the dish.
• 2 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses a subtle pungency that enhances the overall flavor.
• 1/4 cup chicken stock (low-sodium, or cold water): Helps create a smooth, thick sauce to coat the noodles.
• 1/2 tbsp cornstarch (or potato starch): Thickens the sauce perfectly, helping it cling to every strand of noodle.

How to Make Panda Express Chow Mein

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by mixing all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl: regular soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, chicken stock, and cornstarch. This combined sauce is the heart of your Panda Express Chow Mein, delivering the bold, savory flavor that makes this dish stand out.

Step 2: Blanch the Noodles

Bring a large pan filled halfway with water to a boil over medium-high heat. Quickly blanch the fresh chow mein noodles for about 20 to 30 seconds – just until they loosen up. This step ensures the noodles soften just right without getting mushy or sticking together. Drain the noodles well and set aside, but don’t rinse them; you want to keep that starchy coating for better sauce cling.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the sliced onions, cabbage, and celery. Stir-fry these for about a minute until they are just softened but still maintain a crisp bite. The freshness and crunch here are essential to balancing the rich noodles.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and pour the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil into the empty space. Add the blanched noodles in, immediately followed by the prepared sauce. Toss everything together vigorously, making sure the noodles get fully coated in the delectable sauce while mixing in the vegetables evenly. Once everything is hot and well combined, remove from the heat and get ready to plate!

How to Serve Panda Express Chow Mein

Garnishes

To make your Panda Express Chow Mein even more inviting, sprinkle a few toasted sesame seeds on top or finely chopped green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor. A light drizzle of extra sesame oil can also add an aromatic boost that will make your noodles sing!

Side Dishes

This chow mein pairs wonderfully with all your favorite Asian dishes. Think steamed dumplings, crispy spring rolls, or an easy egg drop soup to round out the meal. The contrast of textures and flavors makes each bite an adventure!

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your friends? Serve Panda Express Chow Mein in individual mini Wok-shaped bowls or lettuce cups for a modern twist. You can also toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp on top to create a protein-packed main event that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Panda Express Chow Mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the noodles from drying out, a quick splash of water before reheating helps maintain that perfect texture.

Freezing

While chow mein is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. For best quality, consume within one month. Keep in mind that freezing may soften the vegetables slightly once thawed.

Reheating

Reheat your chow mein gently in a skillet over medium heat, tossing occasionally and adding a bit of water or chicken stock to revive the sauce and prevent sticking. Avoid the microwave if possible to maintain the best texture of both noodles and vegetables.

FAQs

Can I use dried noodles instead of fresh chow mein noodles?

Yes, dried noodles can work in a pinch, but fresh chow mein noodles give the best texture and authentic taste. If using dried noodles, cook them according to package instructions and drain well before stir-frying.

Is there a vegetarian version of Panda Express Chow Mein?

Absolutely! Simply swap the oyster sauce for a vegetarian stir-fry sauce or mushroom-based alternative, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. The vegetables and noodles still shine with those flavorful sauce elements.

What’s the difference between regular soy sauce and dark soy sauce in this recipe?

Regular soy sauce is lighter and saltier, while dark soy sauce is thicker, less salty but sweeter, and adds deeper color. Combining both gives the sauce a balanced flavor and that characteristic panda express hue.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Definitely! Adding sliced chicken, shrimp, or tofu works beautifully. Cook your chosen protein first, remove it from the pan, and add it back in at the end along with the sauce for a well-rounded dish.

How can I make the noodles less oily?

To keep the Panda Express Chow Mein from being too oily, use just enough vegetable oil to coat the pan and stir-fry, and make sure to quickly drain the noodles well after blanching. Using a non-stick pan can also help reduce the amount of oil needed.

Final Thoughts

Making Panda Express Chow Mein at home is such a rewarding experience, especially when you see how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and nostalgia. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is sure to become a cherished go-to. So grab those noodles and get ready — your very own plate of satisfying, saucy, and crunchy Panda Express Chow Mein awaits!

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