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 a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it suitable for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep. The best part? It comes together in just one pan, saving you time on both cooking and cleaning!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still want a delicious meal.
• Budget-Friendly: Skip the takeout and save money by making your own tasty chow mein at home.
• Flavorful: A savory sauce combined with fresh vegetables makes every bite satisfying.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite protein or extra veggies to customize the dish to your liking.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in a single pan, cleanup is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this easy recipe, gather your tools for a smoother cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan
• Colander
• Small bowl
• Cooking spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pan: Ensures that all ingredients have enough space to cook evenly without overcrowding.
• Colander: Allows for effective straining of the noodles without losing any essential texture.
• Small bowl: Perfect for mixing sauce ingredients without making a mess.
• Cooking spatula: Helps in tossing the noodles and veggies together, ensuring even coating with the sauce.

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Ingredients

To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need the following 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

Seasoning

• 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 the noodle sauce ingredients as listed above and set aside.

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 loosened.

Step 3: Strain Noodles

Strain the noodles in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse off with water.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

Heat 1 tbsp (15 ml) vegetable oil in a large pan. Fry onions, cabbage, and celery until softened, about 1 minute.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Push the veggies to the side of the pan. Add remaining oil into empty space and add noodles along with the prepared sauce.

Step 6: Toss Together

Toss everything together until noodles are nicely coated in sauce. Remove from heat and enjoy!

This Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein not only satisfies your craving but also provides an excellent side dish that pairs wonderfully with various meals! Enjoy your homemade version of this popular dish!

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

Serving your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein can elevate the dining experience. It pairs well with various side dishes and garnishes that enhance its flavors.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal note that complements the savory noodles.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a crunchy texture and a mild onion flavor.

Include Crunchy Toppings

• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, chili flakes can be sprinkled on top to add spiciness.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds offer a nutty flavor and an appealing visual element.

Pair with Protein Options

• Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken can transform the dish into a more filling meal while keeping it light.
• Tofu: For a vegetarian option, crispy tofu cubes add protein and texture.

Serve with Dipping Sauces

• Soy Sauce: A small bowl of soy sauce allows guests to customize their flavor further.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: This sauce provides a sweet and tangy contrast to the salty chow mein.

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

To make your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein even better, keep these tips in mind for optimal results.

• Bold Flavors: Use fresh garlic and ginger for an aromatic base that enhances the overall taste.
• Properly Cook Noodles: Ensure you don’t overcook the chow mein noodles; they should be slightly firm after blanching.
• High Heat Cooking: Stir-frying on high heat gives your veggies a nice char while keeping them crisp.
• Even Sauce Distribution: Toss noodles thoroughly with the sauce to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables for crunch; frozen varieties may result in mushy textures.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook and adjust soy sauce or other seasonings to suit your palate.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein can create a balanced meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that adds color and nutrients, enhancing your meal’s health benefits.
2. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables offer a delightful crunch alongside the soft noodles.
3. Egg Drop Soup: This light soup provides warmth and complements the chow mein with its silky texture.
4. Fried Rice: A classic pairing, fried rice adds another layer of flavor while keeping the meal satisfying.
5. Vegetable Dumplings: Steamed or pan-fried dumplings filled with veggies create a great textural contrast to chow mein.
6. Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers dressed in vinegar and sesame oil balances the richness of the noodles.
7. Miso Soup: This umami-rich soup is light yet flavorful, making it an excellent companion for chow mein.
8. Edamame Beans: These lightly salted beans provide protein and are fun to pop open as you eat!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your chow mein turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the blanching step: Blanching the chow mein noodles helps soften them and prepares them for stir-frying. Skipping this step can lead to overly chewy noodles.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking vegetables for too long can make them soggy. Stir-fry just until they are softened but still crisp for the best texture.
• Not measuring your sauces: Using too much or too little sauce can affect the flavor balance. Always measure your soy sauce and other ingredients accurately.
• Using cold noodles: If you rinse the cooked noodles with cold water, they will not absorb the flavors well during cooking. Use them warm and directly from the strainer.
• Ignoring oil temperature: If the pan isn’t hot enough when adding oil, it won’t properly fry the vegetables or noodles. Ensure you heat your oil before adding ingredients.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread chow mein on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or stock, then add chow mein, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein.

What type of noodles should I use for Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein?

Use fresh chow mein noodles for the best texture and flavor. They cook quickly and blend well with sauces.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to enhance nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well in the refrigerator and is perfect for meal prepping lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

How can I make my chow mein spicier?

Add chili paste or red pepper flakes while cooking to give your chow mein an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

The Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it a fantastic side dish or main meal option. Give this recipe a try—you’re sure to impress your family and friends with this delicious homemade version!