Copycat Panda Express Fried Rice (Better Than Takeout)

Panda Express Fried Rice is a takeout staple – fluffy rice studded with egg and vegetables in a savory soy sauce. This copycat recipe nails that flavor in 20 minutes, and the trick is starting with cold, day-old rice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 20 minutes
• Tastes just like the Panda Express side
• A great way to use leftover rice
• Easily doubled for a crowd

Copycat Panda Express Fried Rice

A copycat of Panda Express Fried Rice - day-old rice stir-fried with egg, peas, carrots, and green onion in a simple savory soy sauce. Fast and foolproof.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 330

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups cooked rice cold, day-old
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 eggs beaten
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 3 green onions sliced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper

Equipment

• Wok or large skillet

Method

 

1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok over high heat and scramble the eggs until just set, then remove.
2. Add the remaining oil and stir-fry the peas and carrots for 2 minutes.
3. Add the cold rice, breaking up clumps, and stir-fry 3-4 minutes until heated and slightly toasted.
4. Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
5. Fold in the eggs and green onions, then serve hot.

Notes

Cold, day-old rice is the secret - fresh rice turns mushy. Get the wok hot for that toasty stir-fried flavor.

Tips for the Best Panda Express Fried Rice

• Use cold, day-old rice so it fries up fluffy, not mushy
• Get the wok hot for that toasty wok flavor
• Cook the egg separately so it stays fluffy
• Use white pepper for the authentic taste

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate up to 4 days. Reheat in a hot skillet with a touch of oil to revive the texture.

Variations to Try

• Add diced chicken, shrimp, or pork to make it a meal
• Stir in extra vegetables like corn or edamame
• Use tamari for a gluten-friendly version

Frequently Asked Questions

Why use day-old rice for fried rice?

Cold, dried-out rice fries up separate and fluffy. Fresh, warm rice is too moist and turns gummy.

What kind of rice is best?

Long-grain white rice like jasmine works best for that classic Panda Express texture.

Can I make it without a wok?

Yes. A large skillet over high heat works well – just avoid crowding the pan.

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