Name: Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 8 oz chow mein noodles; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 cups chopped cabbage; 1 cup julienned carrots; 4 green onions, chopped; 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp oyster sauce (or mushroom-based alternative)

Print Recipe

The delightful aroma of sautéed vegetables mingles with the unmistakable savory scent of soy sauce, whisking you away to a bustling Panda Express kitchen. Imagine a plate piled high with luscious noodles, glistening in their own glory, each bite bursting with flavor and texture that dances on your palate. This Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein promises not just a meal, but a culinary experience that will have your taste buds cheering for an encore.

As you gather around the dinner table or host friends for a cozy night in, this dish transforms any occasion into a reason to celebrate. Remember the last time you craved takeout, only to realize your wallet would protest? Fear not! With this recipe in hand, you’ll whip up a restaurant-quality chow mein that will leave everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Why You'll Love This Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein

This incredible Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein:

Chow Mein Noodles: These thin egg noodles are essential for achieving that classic texture; look for fresh or frozen varieties at your local store.
Vegetable Oil: Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil to allow the flavors to shine without overwhelming them.
Fresh Vegetables: A mix of cabbage, carrots, and green onions brings vibrant color and crunch; feel free to customize based on what you have on hand!
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is best; it adds depth without drowning out the other flavors.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds aromatic warmth that elevates the entire dish; choose firm cloves for optimal flavor.

For the Sauce:

Oyster Sauce: This rich sauce provides umami goodness; if you’re vegetarian or vegan, opt for mushroom-based alternatives.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein:

Step 1: Prepare Your Noodles

Cook the chow mein noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sauté Your Vegetables

In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil. Once hot, toss in minced garlic followed by chopped cabbage and julienned carrots. Stir-fry until they soften, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the drained noodles into the skillet with vegetables. Pour in soy sauce and oyster sauce while tossing everything together so every noodle gets coated in that glorious sauce.

Step 4: Stir-Fry

Continue stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined. The tantalizing aroma should fill your kitchen by now!

Step 5: Garnish

Toss in chopped green onions right before serving for that fresh crunch.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra soy sauce if desired for the perfect finishing touch.

Now you’ve got yourself a plate of delicious Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every savory bite as you bask in culinary glory—who knew homemade could taste so good?

You Must Know About Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein

This showstopping Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the ultimate Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein, start by sautéing your veggies in a hot pan first. While they cook, boil your noodles to al dente perfection. Finally, combine everything in the pan for a harmonious blend of tastes.

Flavor Your Way

Don’t hesitate to make this Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein your own! Swap out chicken for tofu or beef, toss in some bean sprouts, or sprinkle sesame seeds for extra crunch. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination!

Storing & Reheating

For optimal freshness, store leftovers of your Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water and microwave briefly to restore moisture and flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein

This professional-quality Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes I whip up this dish when friends come over, and their reactions remind me why I love cooking—everyone digging in with gusto and asking for my “secret recipe,” which is really just deliciousness served on a plate!

FAQs

What is Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein?

Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein is a homemade version of the popular stir-fried noodle dish served at Panda Express restaurants. This recipe features soft, chewy noodles tossed with fresh vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and onions. It captures the same savory flavors found in the original dish, making it a favorite among fans of Asian cuisine. Preparing this copycat version allows you to recreate that delicious experience in your own kitchen while controlling the ingredients for a healthier meal.

How do I make Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein at home?

To make Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein at home, start by cooking egg noodles according to package instructions. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add sliced vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir in the cooked noodles along with soy sauce and sesame oil. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Serve hot for a quick weeknight dinner that everyone will love.

What vegetables can I use in Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein?

You can use a variety of vegetables in Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein to suit your taste preferences. Common choices include cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and bean sprouts. Feel free to experiment with other veggies like broccoli or snap peas for added nutrition. The key is to slice them thinly so they cook evenly and quickly while maintaining their crispness in the final dish.

Can I make Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein gluten-free by using gluten-free noodles instead of traditional egg noodles. Look for rice noodles or gluten-free pasta options available in stores. Additionally, opt for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to ensure that your dish remains entirely gluten-free while still delivering that savory flavor you love.

Conclusion

In summary, Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein is a delightful dish that you can prepare at home with ease. By following simple steps and using fresh ingredients, you can achieve similar flavors to those found at Panda Express. This recipe allows for customization with various vegetables and dietary adjustments as needed. Enjoy this satisfying meal any night of the week!