If you’ve ever found yourself craving the delicious, savory goodness of Panda Express Chow Mein, you’re not alone. This popular dish, with its perfect blend of vegetables and tender egg noodles, brings a taste of Chinese cuisine right to your kitchen. Luckily, you can recreate this beloved restaurant classic at home with just a few simple ingredients and steps. Let’s dive into the world of flavors and techniques that will have you serving up a plate of Panda Express Chow Mein Copycat in no time.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This Panda Express Chow Mein Copycat recipe is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire for several reasons. First, it’s quick and easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Second, it allows for customization; you can easily add your favorite proteins or vegetables. Finally, making this dish at home means you can control the ingredients, ensuring it’s both delicious and satisfying without any mystery additives.

What Goes In

To recreate this popular dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

8 oz chicken broth – provides a rich, savory base.
¼ cup tamari soy sauce – for a gluten-free option, adds depth of flavor.
3 minced garlic cloves – brings a fragrant aroma.
1 tsp minced ginger – adds a zesty kick.
1 tsp white pepper – gives a gentle warmth.
2 Tbsp vegetable oil – for sautéing.
2 tsp sesame oil – enhances the dish with a nutty flavor.
1 cup chopped celery – adds crunch and freshness.
1 white onion, thinly sliced – provides sweetness.
2 cups cabbage, chopped – a classic Chow Mein vegetable.
16 oz Chinese egg noodles – Thai Kitchen stir fry noodles work as well!
1 cup bean sprouts – for a fresh, crisp texture.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before you start cooking, gather the following equipment to make the process smooth:

Large skillet or wok – for stir-frying the ingredients.
Wooden spoon or spatula – for tossing the ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
Knife and cutting board – for chopping and slicing your vegetables.
Colander – for draining the cooked noodles.

Cooking Panda Express Chow Mein Copycat: The Process

Now that you have all your ingredients and gear ready, let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Start by cooking the Chinese egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set them aside. A little tip: rinse them under cold water to prevent them from sticking together.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant—be careful not to burn them!

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Next, toss in the sliced onions, chopped celery, and cabbage. Stir-fry the mixture for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp. This will help retain their vibrant colors and flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate the Noodles

Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, add the drained noodles to the skillet. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently toss the noodles with the vegetables so they are evenly mixed.

Step 5: Pour in the Sauces

Pour the chicken broth and tamari soy sauce over the noodle and vegetable mixture. Add the white pepper and sesame oil. Continue to stir-fry everything together for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring that every noodle is coated with the sauce.

Step 6: Finish with Bean Sprouts

Finally, fold in the bean sprouts and cook for an additional minute. This adds a delightful crunch and freshness to the dish.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove the wok from heat. Serve your homemade Panda Express Chow Mein Copycat hot, garnished with additional bean sprouts if desired. Enjoy the flavors of your favorite takeout right at home!

Make It Fit Your Plan

This Chow Mein dish is versatile and can easily be adjusted to fit various dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:

Protein Additions: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal. For a plant-based option, try Sweet Chili Garlic Tofu Bowls With Pickled Veg.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, bok choy, or mushrooms.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for some heat.
Low-Carb Option: Substitute the noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.

Avoid These Traps

While making this dish is quite straightforward, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Overcooking the Vegetables: Aim for a tender-crisp texture to maintain their flavors and nutrients.
Using the Wrong Noodles: Stick to Chinese egg noodles or suitable stir-fry noodles for the best texture.
Skipping the Chicken Broth: This adds essential flavor, so don’t omit it!
Not Tasting as You Go: Adjust the seasoning to your preference as you cook; everyone’s taste is different.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Preparing meals in advance can save time during busy weeks. Here’s how to make this dish ahead of time:

You can prepare the noodles and chop the vegetables a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply follow the steps starting from the sautéing of the aromatics. The cooked Chow Mein can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Before You Go

This Panda Express Chow Mein Copycat is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor and comfort. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability, allowing you to make it your own. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your creations and enjoy every bite of your homemade Chow Mein. Happy cooking!

Panda Express Chow Mein Copycat

This Panda Express Chow Mein Copycat is a quick, delicious way to satisfy your cravings for takeout!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Chinese

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

8 oz chicken broth provides a rich, savory base
¼ cup tamari soy sauce for a gluten-free option
3 minced garlic cloves brings a fragrant aroma
1 tsp minced ginger adds a zesty kick
1 tsp white pepper gives a gentle warmth
2 Tbsp vegetable oil for sautéing
2 tsp sesame oil enhances the dish with a nutty flavor
1 cup chopped celery adds crunch and freshness
1 white onion thinly sliced, provides sweetness
2 cups cabbage chopped, a classic Chow Mein vegetable
16 oz Chinese egg noodles Thai Kitchen stir fry noodles work as well
1 cup bean sprouts for a fresh, crisp texture

Equipment

Large skillet or wok
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Colander

Method

Start by cooking the Chinese egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set them aside. A little tip: rinse them under cold water to prevent them from sticking together.
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant—be careful not to burn them!
Next, toss in the sliced onions, chopped celery, and cabbage. Stir-fry the mixture for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.
Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, add the drained noodles to the skillet. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently toss the noodles with the vegetables.
Pour the chicken broth and tamari soy sauce over the noodle and vegetable mixture. Add the white pepper and sesame oil. Continue to stir-fry everything together for another 2-3 minutes.
Finally, fold in the bean sprouts and cook for an additional minute to add a delightful crunch and freshness.
Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove the wok from heat. Serve your homemade Panda Express Chow Mein Copycat hot, garnished with additional bean sprouts if desired.