Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that feels like a treat but won’t leave your wallet empty, then you’re in for a treat with this Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein! This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during those busy weeknights when cooking just feels like too much effort. With just one pan and simple ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful dish that will please the whole family.

What makes this chow mein special is its chewy noodles and savory sauce, perfectly complemented by crunchy cabbage, celery, and onions. It’s not only super easy to prepare but also a fantastic side dish for family gatherings or even as a light dinner option. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever got by without it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 15 minutes, you can have a hot meal on the table. Perfect for those nights when time is tight!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chow mein! It’s a great way to get your kids excited about vegetables.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal and relax afterward.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of sauces brings out rich flavors that rival takeout.
• Budget-Friendly: Save money by making this at home instead of ordering out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you’ll find at any grocery store. No fancy items here—just good food that’s easy to gather!

For the Chow Mein

• 1 lb chow mein noodles (fresh kind)
• 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)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal tastes.

• Add Protein: Toss in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra heartiness.
• Change the Veggies: Use whatever vegetables you have available—bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas work great!
• Spice it Up: If you like heat, add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari and ensure your noodles are gluten-free.

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. Mixing the sauces first allows their flavors to meld together beautifully while you prepare the rest of the dish.

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 they are loosened. This step is crucial as it helps soften the noodles before they hit the pan.

Step 3: Strain and Set Aside

Next, strain the noodles in a colander and set them aside. It’s important not to rinse them off with water because you want that starchy coating that helps the sauce cling!

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Fry onions, cabbage, and celery until softened—about 1 minute. Sautéing these veggies enhances their flavors and adds that delightful crunch we love!

Step 5: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Add another tablespoon of oil into the empty space along with your noodles and prepared sauce. Stir everything together until those beautiful noodles are evenly coated in that savory goodness.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Remove from heat and serve right away! This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container if needed. Get ready to dig into some delicious homemade chow mein!

Now you’ve got an amazing recipe that’s quick enough for any day but tasty enough for special occasions! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Making this chow mein recipe is a breeze, but a few tips can take your dish from good to fantastic!

• Use fresh chow mein noodles: Fresh noodles cook faster and provide a delightful chewy texture that dried noodles just can’t match.

• Prep ingredients ahead of time: Have all your vegetables sliced and sauces mixed before you start cooking. This will streamline the process, making your 15-minute meal even quicker!

• Stir-fry over high heat: Cooking on high heat helps to quickly sear the veggies while retaining their crunchiness, giving you that authentic stir-fried flavor.

• Don’t skip the cornstarch: Mixing cornstarch with the sauce helps thicken it slightly, allowing it to cling to the noodles better for a more flavorful bite.

• Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other veggies like bell peppers or bean sprouts for a personal twist, making your dish even more colorful and nutritious!

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

Serving up this delicious chow mein is just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this dish beautifully and make the meal even more enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds give a nutty crunch, enhancing both texture and taste.
• Fresh cilantro: A handful of cilantro leaves brings a refreshing herbaceous note that brightens up every bite.

Side Dishes

• Vegetable spring rolls: Crunchy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies make for a delightful appetizer that pairs well with chow mein.
• Hot and sour soup: This tangy soup offers contrasting flavors that can beautifully balance the savory chow mein.
• Steamed edamame: Lightly salted edamame provides a protein-packed side that’s easy to prepare and adds a nice contrast in texture.
• Fried rice: For an extra hearty meal, serve this chow mein alongside vegetable fried rice for an amazing combination of flavors and textures.

Now you’re ready to whip up some Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein and enjoy it in style! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a delicious side dish in advance. It stores well and can be enjoyed throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover chow mein in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it cools completely before sealing the container to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion out servings into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chow mein overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
• Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in short bursts while stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe!

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

This delightful dish takes only 15 minutes from start to finish! It’s a quick and satisfying option for busy weeknights.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. The sauce is versatile, so you can adjust it based on your taste preferences too!

What can I serve with Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein?

This chow mein pairs wonderfully with various dishes, including stir-fried tofu, grilled chicken, or even as a base for a colorful vegetable medley.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein! It’s not just a quick side dish; it’s also packed with flavor and versatility. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a last-minute dinner, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or any variations you’ve tried—I love hearing from fellow food enthusiasts!