Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Chewy chow mein noodles stir fried in a savory sauce with crunchy cabbage, celery, and onions. This Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a delicious dish that rivals your favorite takeout. It’s not only quick to make but also budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy schedules.
• Budget-friendly: Save money by making this popular dish at home instead of ordering takeout.
• Flavor-packed: A delightful blend of soy sauce and sesame oil creates a savory taste that will satisfy your cravings.
• Versatile ingredients: Easily modify the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins.
• One-pan meal: Less cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan.

Tools and Preparation

To efficiently whip up your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein, having the right tools is essential. With these items on hand, you’ll simplify the cooking process and enjoy a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan
• Colander
• Small bowl
• Cooking spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pan: A spacious surface allows for even cooking and prevents overcrowding when frying the vegetables and noodles.
• Colander: Perfect for straining the noodles without losing any pieces, ensuring they stay intact for stir-frying.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb chow mein noodles (fresh kind)
• 2 cups cabbage (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup celery (sliced)
• 1 small onion (sliced)

Sauces and 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

Additional Flavorings

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

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

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all noodle sauce ingredients as listed above. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Blanch the Noodles

Bring a large pan filled halfway with water to boil over medium-high heat. Blanch chow mein noodles for 20–30 seconds or until loosened.

Step 3: Strain the Noodles

Strain the noodles in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse off with water; this will help maintain their texture.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions, cabbage, and celery, frying until softened—about 1 minute.

Step 5: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Pour the remaining oil into the empty space, then add the strained noodles along with the prepared sauce.

Step 6: Toss Everything Together

Toss all ingredients together until the noodles are thoroughly coated in sauce. Remove from heat and enjoy your delicious Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein!

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

This Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want it as a main course or a side, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Pair it with your favorite protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a satisfying meal.
• Top with sliced green onions or sesame seeds to add flavor and crunch.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside stir-fried vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.
• Accompany it with spring rolls to bring in that authentic Chinese takeaway feel.

Garnishes

• Drizzle extra sesame oil on top before serving for an added depth of flavor.
• Add chili flakes if you enjoy a spicy kick in your chow mein.

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

To make the most out of your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein, follow these simple tips for the best results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables provide better texture and flavor, making your dish more vibrant.
• Don’t overcook the noodles: Blanch them just until loosened; they should still have a slight bite for the perfect chewiness.
• Customize your sauce: Feel free to adjust the sauce ingredients based on your taste preferences; add more soy sauce for saltiness or oyster sauce for richness.
• Keep it moving: Toss the noodles continuously in the pan to ensure they are evenly coated and heated through without sticking.
• Add proteins: Consider adding tofu, chicken, or beef while cooking for a complete meal packed with protein.

Best Side Dishes for Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Looking for the perfect accompaniments? Here are some excellent side dishes that pair well with Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein.

1. Egg Rolls: Crispy and filled with veggies or meat, egg rolls make an excellent appetizer to start your meal.
2. Sweet and Sour Chicken: The tangy sauce complements the savory chow mein nicely, creating a delightful contrast.
3. Hot and Sour Soup: A warm soup adds warmth and richness to your dinner spread, balancing the flavors perfectly.
4. Steamed Dumplings: Soft and flavorful dumplings can be filled with meat or vegetables, enhancing your Asian-inspired meal.
5. Sesame Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli tossed in sesame oil offers a healthy crunch that pairs beautifully with chow mein.
6. Fried Rice: For those who love carbs, fried rice brings an additional layer of flavor and texture to your table.
7. Chinese Pickled Vegetables: A tangy pickled side can cut through the richness of chow mein and cleanse the palate.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can act as a light dessert option after enjoying your savory chow mein dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chow mein can be quick and easy, but it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that could affect your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein turns out perfectly.

• Using the wrong noodles: Always use fresh chow mein noodles for the best texture. Dried noodles require longer cooking times and won’t give you the authentic taste.
• Overcooking vegetables: Sauté vegetables just until softened. Overcooking makes them mushy and detracts from the crunchiness that complements the noodles.
• Skipping the sauce mixing: Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl before adding them to the pan. This ensures even distribution of flavors throughout your chow mein.
• Not prepping ingredients ahead: Have all ingredients sliced and ready to go before you start cooking. This prevents delays and helps maintain a quick cooking time.
• Rinsing noodles after blanching: Avoid rinsing cooked noodles as this washes away starch needed for sauce adherence, resulting in bland bites.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your chow mein in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

• Place leftovers in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
• Chow mein can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the chow mein in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a microwave lid, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or oil, add chow mein, and stir-fry until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

This recipe is designed with speed in mind. Using fresh chow mein noodles and simple stir-frying techniques allows you to prepare it in just 15 minutes.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to add proteins like chicken or shrimp, or toss in other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition.

Is this chow mein suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! You can easily make it vegetarian by using vegetarian oyster sauce instead of regular oyster sauce.

How do I make my chow mein spicier?

To add some heat, consider incorporating chili flakes or sriracha into your sauce mixture for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

The Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is not only a delightful side dish but also a fantastic option for a quick meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your tastes or what you have on hand. Give it a try and enjoy this comforting dish that brings takeout flavors right into your kitchen!