Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Chewy chow mein noodles stir fried in a savory sauce with crunchy cabbage, celery, and onions make this Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein the perfect quick meal. Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish is not only budget-friendly but also a fantastic alternative to takeout. Whether you’re prepping for a busy weeknight dinner or need a hearty side for your next gathering, this recipe delivers flavor and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a delicious meal without any hassle.
• One-Pan Wonder: Save time on cleanup with this simple one-pan recipe that minimizes dishes.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with your favorite protein like chicken or turkey for a complete meal, or enjoy it as a standalone side.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic creates a delightful umami flavor that’s irresistible.
• Budget-Friendly: Using fresh ingredients and simple sauces makes this recipe affordable without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan
• Colander
• Small bowl
• Cooking spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pan: A spacious pan allows for even cooking of the noodles and vegetables without overcrowding.
• Colander: Essential for draining the blanched noodles quickly while keeping them intact for stir-frying.
• Small bowl: Perfect for mixing the sauce ingredients before adding them to the pan, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
• Cooking spatula: A sturdy spatula helps in tossing the noodles and veggies seamlessly, preventing sticking and burning.

Ingredients

For this delightful dish, gather the following fresh ingredients:

Noodles

• 1 lb chow mein noodles (fresh kind)

Vegetables

• 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
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)

Stock

• 1/4 cup chicken stock (low-sodium, or cold water)

Thickening Agent

• 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 to allow flavors to meld.

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 they are loosened but still firm.

Step 3: Strain the Noodles

Strain the noodles in a colander and set them aside. Do not rinse off with water; you want to keep them warm.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add sliced onions, cabbage, and celery; stir-fry until softened, about 1 minute.

Step 5: Combine Noodles with Sauce

Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Add remaining oil into the empty space, followed by the strained noodles and prepared sauce.

Step 6: Toss Everything Together

Carefully toss everything together using your spatula until all noodles are evenly coated in sauce. Remove from heat and serve immediately!

Enjoy your homemade Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein, a delightful dish that will impress your family and friends!

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

Serving Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is a delightful experience that can be tailored to various occasions. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to complement a range of flavors and textures, making it perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Pair with Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Add grilled chicken slices on top for a protein boost that complements the savory noodles.
• Stir-Fried Beef: Serve alongside stir-fried beef for a heartier meal rich in flavor.
• Sautéed Tofu: For a vegetarian option, sauté tofu cubes until golden and serve them next to the chow mein.

Add Fresh Veggies

• Steamed Broccoli: A side of steamed broccoli brings color and nutrients, enhancing the overall dish.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds crunch and balances the savory flavors of the chow mein.

Complete the Meal

• Egg Rolls: Serve crispy egg rolls as an appetizer for a classic Chinese takeout feel.
• Spring Rolls: Light spring rolls filled with fresh vegetables make a great pairing that won’t overwhelm.

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

To achieve the best results for your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance the taste and texture of your dish.

• Use Fresh Noodles: Fresh chow mein noodles provide a better texture than dried ones, making your dish more authentic.
• Customize Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like bell peppers or bok choy based on your preference.
• Adjust Sauce Levels: Taste your sauce before adding it to the noodles; adjust soy sauce or oyster sauce to suit your flavor preference.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Blanching the noodles for just 20-30 seconds keeps them chewy and prevents them from becoming mushy.
• Stir-Fry Quickly: Stir-frying on high heat ensures that all ingredients remain crisp and retain their natural flavors.

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

Pairing side dishes with Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein can elevate your meal while adding variety. Here are some excellent options:

1. Sesame Green Beans: Toss green beans in sesame oil and seeds for a quick, flavorful side.
2. Fried Rice: A classic companion; fried rice can be made easily with leftover rice, veggies, and eggs if desired.
3. Hot and Sour Soup: This soup offers a delightful contrast with its tangy flavor profile that complements chow mein well.
4. Chinese Pickled Vegetables: Sweet and tangy pickles add an exciting crunch that balances out the savory noodles.
5. Miso Soup: Light miso soup provides warmth and is an excellent starter before diving into hearty chow mein.
6. Sweet Chili Chicken Wings: Crispy wings coated in sweet chili sauce add an extra layer of flavor to your meal experience.
7. Vegetable Dumplings: These can be steamed or pan-fried and offer a deliciously soft texture that pairs perfectly with chow mein.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your cooking experience smoother and yield better results. Here are some tips:

• Overcooking the Noodles: Ensure you only blanch the chow mein noodles for 20-30 seconds. Overcooking will make them mushy, ruining the texture.
• Not Preparing Ingredients First: Always have your ingredients sliced and ready before starting. This helps maintain a quick cooking process and prevents burning.
• Ignoring Sauce Proportions: Measure your sauce ingredients carefully. Too much soy sauce or oyster sauce can overpower the dish, while too little may result in bland flavors.
• Using Cold Vegetables: Make sure your cabbage, celery, and onions are at room temperature before cooking. Cold vegetables can lower the pan’s temperature, leading to steaming instead of stir-frying.
• Failing to Toss Properly: When combining noodles and vegetables, ensure you toss everything well to coat the noodles evenly with sauce. Incomplete mixing can lead to uneven flavor distribution.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Separate portions with parchment paper for easy thawing.

Reheating Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes until hot.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of chicken stock and stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some commonly asked queries:

How do I make this Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free chow mein noodles or substitute them with rice noodles. Ensure that all sauces are also gluten-free.

Can I add protein to my Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein?

Absolutely! You can easily add cooked chicken, beef, turkey, or tofu for extra protein.

What other vegetables work well in Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein?

Feel free to include bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for added color and nutrition!

How do I adjust the spice level in Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil while cooking for some heat without overwhelming flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is not only quick but also deliciously satisfying! Its versatility allows you to customize it by adding your favorite proteins or veggies. Give it a try and enjoy a homemade dish that rivals takeout!