Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that will bring the flavors of your favorite takeout right into your kitchen, then this Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is just the ticket! This recipe has become a beloved staple in my home because it’s not only speedy but also packed with vibrant veggies and satisfying noodles. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a last-minute side dish for family gatherings, this chow mein never fails to impress.

The best part? You only need one pan and simple ingredients to whip up this delightful dish in no time. Say goodbye to takeout menus and hello to homemade goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic nights when you need dinner fast.
• Family-Friendly: With its colorful veggies and chewy noodles, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Budget-Savvy: By making this chow mein at home, you save money while enjoying all the flavors of your favorite takeout.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes to clean means more time to relax after a delicious meal!
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with whatever veggies you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein are simple and wholesome. With just a few fresh items and pantry staples, you can create a delightful dish that won’t break the bank.

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 chow mein recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Some Protein: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an extra boost of protein.
• Change Up the Veggies: Use bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas if you’re looking to mix in different flavors and colors.
• Make It Spicy: Add some chili flakes or sriracha for those who love a little heat in their meals.
• Switch Sauces: Try swapping out oyster sauce with hoisin sauce or teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.

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. Mixing them together first helps ensure that every bite of noodle is coated evenly with that savory flavor.

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 because it helps achieve that perfect chewy texture we all love!

Step 3: Strain and Set Aside

Next, strain the noodles in a colander and set them aside without rinsing them off. Keeping them warm will help absorb all those delicious flavors later on.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Fry onions, cabbage, and celery until softened—about one minute will do! Sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and makes everything fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Everything

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

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Remove from heat and enjoy your homemade Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein! Serve hot as a side dish or make it a main course by adding protein options you love.

With this recipe tucked away in your kitchen arsenal, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again! Happy cooking!

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

Cooking up a delicious chow mein at home has never been easier! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:

• Use fresh noodles: Fresh chow mein noodles have a wonderful chewy texture that really elevates the dish. They absorb the flavors of the sauce better than dried noodles, giving you that authentic taste.

• Prep ingredients ahead of time: Since this recipe cooks quickly, having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go will keep things moving smoothly. Chop your vegetables and mix the sauce before you start cooking to save time.

• Don’t overcook the veggies: For that perfect crunch in every bite, sauté your vegetables just until they’re tender but still crisp. This will add texture and maintain their vibrant colors.

• Adjust sauce to taste: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients based on your personal preference! If you like it sweeter, add a touch more oyster sauce or soy sauce; if you prefer it saltier, increase the soy sauce slightly.

• Experiment with add-ins: This chow mein is versatile! You can easily toss in other veggies like bell peppers or bean sprouts, or even some protein like tofu or tempeh for added nutrition.

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

Serving this delightful chow mein is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your dish look and taste incredible!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle some fresh green onions on top for a pop of color and a hint of sharpness that brightens the dish.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and a lovely crunch that enhances each mouthful.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro leaves can give a refreshing note that contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of the chow mein.

Side Dishes

• Vegetable spring rolls: These crispy bites filled with fresh veggies are an excellent appetizer that complements the noodles perfectly.
• Egg drop soup: A warm bowl of egg drop soup provides a comforting contrast to the chow mein while keeping with the Chinese cuisine theme.
• Steamed dumplings: Soft and savory, steamed dumplings filled with vegetables make for a delicious side that can be dipped in soy sauce or chili oil.
• Stir-fried broccoli: Adding a side of stir-fried broccoli not only boosts nutritional value but also adds vibrant color and texture to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set for an enjoyable dining experience with your homemade Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade noodles throughout the week without the hassle of daily cooking. Here’s how to store and maintain its fresh flavors:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chow mein to cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Cool the chow mein completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers for easy access.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chow mein in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
• Stir frequently until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful dish!

What makes this Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein unique?

This chow mein recipe captures the essence of classic takeout but is made easily at home in just 15 minutes. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a flavorful and economical alternative!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you love or have on hand, such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility.

How can I make my Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein spicier?

If you enjoy some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or sriracha when tossing the noodles. You can also try incorporating spicy bean sauce for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein as much as I do! It’s not only quick and simple but also packed with flavor that rivals your favorite takeout dish. Enjoy it as a side or a main meal; it’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!