Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that feels like a warm hug, I’ve got just the recipe for you! This Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is a personal favorite of mine, and it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? You can whip it up in just 15 minutes with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.

This dish is not only fast but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it as a side at family gatherings or making it your main course, it’s sure to please everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those hectic evenings!
• Family-Friendly: With its savory flavors and chewy noodles, kids and adults alike will love this dish.
• Budget-Friendly: Making your own chow mein saves money compared to takeout while delivering all the deliciousness.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! For this Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein, you’ll need some simple and wholesome staples that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

Noodles & Veggies

• 1 lb chow mein noodles (fresh kind)
• 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

Other Essentials

• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/4 cup chicken stock (low-sodium, or cold water)
• 1/2 tbsp cornstarch (or potato starch)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand. Here are some tasty ideas:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and crunch.
• Swap the Protein: For an added boost, include tofu, chicken strips, or shrimp—just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Make It Spicy: Add a splash of sriracha or chili flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all your sauce ingredients as listed above. This step is crucial because mixing them ahead of time allows the flavors to blend perfectly while you cook.

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 20-30 seconds until they start to loosen up. This quick blanching makes them easier to stir-fry later!

Step 3: Strain and Set Aside

Once blanched, strain the noodles in a colander but don’t rinse them off with water. Keeping that starchy coating helps the sauce cling better during cooking.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, cabbage, and celery. Sauté them until softened—about one minute will do! This brings out their natural sweetness and adds great flavor.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now, push the veggies to one side of the pan. Pour in the remaining oil into the empty space, then add your drained noodles along with that lovely sauce we mixed earlier. Toss everything together until those noodles are thoroughly coated—this step is where all that flavor really comes together!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove from heat once everything looks deliciously combined! Serve hot as a side dish or enjoy it on its own.

Enjoy your homemade Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein! It’s sure to become a go-to meal in your kitchen!

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

Cooking this delicious chow mein dish at home is a breeze, especially with these handy tips to ensure your meal turns out perfect every time!

• Use fresh chow mein noodles – Fresh noodles provide a delightful chewy texture that enhances the overall experience compared to dried noodles, which can become too soft when cooked.

• Prep ingredients in advance – Having all your veggies sliced and sauces measured before you start cooking saves time and makes the process smoother, allowing you to whip up this meal in just 15 minutes.

• Don’t rinse the noodles – Rinsing can wash away the starch that helps the sauce cling to the noodles. Keeping that starch intact means your chow mein will have more flavor and better texture.

• Adjust the sauce to your taste – Feel free to add more soy sauce or oyster sauce if you prefer a bolder flavor. This recipe is versatile, so tweaking it according to your palate will make it even more enjoyable.

• Cook on high heat – Stir-frying on high heat gives your vegetables a quick sear while keeping them crisp, resulting in a perfectly balanced dish of tender yet crunchy veggies.

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

Presenting your chow mein beautifully can elevate the dining experience! Here are some fun ways to serve this tasty dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions – Sprinkle these on top for a fresh, vibrant touch that adds color and a mild onion flavor.
• Sesame seeds – A light dusting of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty aroma and crunch that enhances each bite.

Side Dishes

• Vegetable Spring Rolls – These crispy rolls filled with assorted vegetables complement the chow mein perfectly, offering additional textures and flavors.

• Steamed Broccoli with Garlic Sauce – The bright green broccoli drizzled with garlic sauce makes for an excellent side, providing both vibrant color and nutritional benefits.

• Sweet and Sour Tofu – This sweet and tangy dish pairs wonderfully with chow mein, adding protein while balancing out flavors with its unique contrast.

• Chinese Cucumber Salad – This refreshing salad brings a light crunch and zing that complements the savory nature of the chow mein, making it an ideal side dish.

Enjoy preparing and sharing this delightful Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein recipe! It’s not just about eating; it’s about creating momentary memories around the dinner table. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade flavors throughout the week without much hassle. Here’s how to store it properly for maximum freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chow mein to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Place cooled chow mein in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or stock to prevent sticking.
• Stir frequently until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I make Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein with other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your chow mein by adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas. The beauty of this dish is its versatility!

How do I achieve the best texture in my Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein?

To get that perfect chewy texture, use fresh chow mein noodles and avoid rinsing them after blanching. This helps them retain their natural starches, which contribute to a great stir-fry consistency.

Can I use another type of sauce instead of oyster sauce?

Yes! If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using a vegetarian stir fry sauce or even soy sauce mixed with a bit of hoisin for an extra flavor boost.

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

This recipe takes only 15 minutes from prep to plate. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough for special occasions!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This chow mein can be made ahead and stored easily, making it a fantastic choice for weekly meal planning.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein as much as I do! It’s not just a quick side dish; it’s a delightful way to bring those comforting takeout flavors into your home kitchen without breaking the bank. Whether it’s part of your weekly meal prep or a fun family dinner, I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of cooking this dish. Enjoy every bite!