Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein (Better Than Takeout)

Panda Express Chow Mein is the side dish that quietly steals the show – chewy noodles, crisp cabbage and celery, and a savory sauce that ties it all together. This copycat version tastes just like the original and comes together in 25 minutes, so you can skip the takeout line.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• On the table in 25 minutes
• Tastes just like the Panda Express side
• Uses easy-to-find ingredients
• A great base for adding chicken, shrimp, or tofu

Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein

Panda Express Chow Mein made at home - springy wheat noodles tossed with cabbage, celery, and onion in a savory soy-and-oyster sauce. Faster than delivery.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 340

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 10 ounces chow mein noodles or yakisoba noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cups green cabbage sliced
• 1 cup celery sliced on the bias
• 1/2 yellow onion sliced

Sauce

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
• 1 clove garlic minced

Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Tongs

Method

 

1. Cook the noodles according to package directions until just al dente, then drain and toss with a little oil to prevent sticking.
2. Whisk together all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the onion and celery and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
4. Add the cabbage and stir-fry 2 more minutes until just wilted but still crisp.
5. Add the noodles and sauce, then toss with tongs for 2-3 minutes until everything is coated and heated through. Serve hot.

Notes

Use chow mein or stir-fry noodles (yakisoba work great). Cook them just to al dente so they stay chewy when stir-fried. Have everything prepped before you start - this cooks fast.

Tips for the Best Panda Express Chow Mein

• Cook the noodles only to al dente so they stay springy after stir-frying
• Use high heat and keep things moving for that takeout wok flavor
• Slice the celery on the bias like Panda Express does
• Have all ingredients prepped before you start – it cooks fast

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a hot skillet with a splash of water to revive the noodles.

Variations to Try

• Add sliced chicken breast or shrimp to make it a main
• Toss in shredded carrot for extra color
• Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-friendly

Frequently Asked Questions

What noodles does Panda Express use for chow mein?

They use thick, chewy wheat stir-fry noodles. Fresh chow mein or yakisoba noodles from the refrigerated section are the closest match.

Is Panda Express Chow Mein vegetarian?

The noodles and vegetables are plant-based, but the sauce traditionally contains oyster sauce. Use a vegetarian oyster sauce to keep it meat-free.

Why are my chow mein noodles mushy?

Overcooking is the usual culprit. Boil them just to al dente and toss with oil, since they cook again in the stir-fry.

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