Panda Express Chow Mein 🍜🥢

Easy copycat with savory, slightly smoky flavor—ready in minutes

Introduction

Craving that takeout classic? This Panda Express Chow Mein (Copycat) brings the same stir-fried noodles, tender cabbage, and rich soy-based flavor right into your kitchen.

It’s quick, customizable, and perfect as a main dish or side.

Ingredients

Noodles:

200–250g chow mein noodles (or spaghetti as substitute)

Vegetables:

2 cups cabbage (shredded)
1 cup bean sprouts
1/2 onion (sliced)
1 celery stalk (optional, sliced)

Sauce:

3 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional but authentic)
1 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp sesame oil
1/2 tsp black pepper

Cooking:

2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic (minced)

Optional Add-ins:

Chicken, shrimp, or beef
Tofu for vegan option
Chili sauce for heat

Substitutions:

Chow mein noodles → spaghetti or ramen
Oyster sauce → hoisin or skip for vegan
Soy sauce → low-sodium or tamari
Oil → any neutral oil

Timing

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: ~20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook noodles

Boil noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare sauce

Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and pepper.

Step 3: Stir-fry aromatics

Heat oil in a large pan or wok. Add garlic and cook briefly.

Step 4: Cook vegetables

Add onion, cabbage, and celery. Stir-fry until slightly softened but still crisp.

Step 5: Add noodles

Add cooked noodles and toss with vegetables.

Step 6: Add sauce

Pour sauce over noodles and mix well.

Step 7: Finish

Add bean sprouts and cook for 1–2 minutes.

Step 8: Serve

Serve hot as a main or side dish.

Nutritional Information (approx per serving)

Calories: 250–400 kcal
Carbohydrates: 35–55g
Fat: 8–15g
Protein: 6–12g

Healthier Alternatives

Use whole wheat noodles
Reduce oil
Add more vegetables
Use low-sodium soy sauce
Add lean protein

Serving Suggestions

Orange chicken
Grilled chicken or shrimp
Spring rolls
Stir-fried vegetables
Chili oil or hot sauce

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking noodles (mushy texture)
Too much sauce (soggy noodles)
Not using high heat
Overcrowding pan
Skipping garlic

Storage Tips

Store in fridge up to 3 days
Reheat in pan for best texture
Avoid microwaving too long
Freeze possible but texture may change
Add splash of water when reheating