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Panda Express Chow Mein (Copycat) Recipe

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4.3 from 12 reviews

This Panda Express Chow Mein copycat recipe offers a delicious and easy-to-make version of the classic Chinese takeout favorite. Featuring stir-fried noodles tossed with fresh vegetables and a savory soy sauce glaze, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

Sauce

  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • Ground black pepper, to taste

Vegetables & Noodles

  • 23 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 (5.6 ounce) packages Yaki-soba noodles or Chinese egg noodles (refrigerated)
  • ⅔ cup celery, chopped diagonally
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups chopped cabbage

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, and ground black pepper. Mix well and set aside to allow flavors to meld.
  2. Rinse the noodles: Remove the noodles from their packaging, discarding any flavoring packets included. Rinse the noodles thoroughly under cold water to separate strands, then drain them well and set aside.
  3. Sauté the vegetables: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped celery and thinly sliced onion, sautéing for 1 to 2 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent. Then add the chopped cabbage and continue sautéing for another minute until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
  4. Stir-fry the noodles: Add the rinsed noodles and the prepared soy sauce mixture to the vegetables in the wok. Stir-fry everything together over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes until the noodles are heated through and evenly coated with the sauce.
  5. Serve hot: Once everything is combined and heated, transfer the chow mein to serving plates and enjoy immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Using refrigerated egg noodles or yaki-soba noodles provides the authentic texture typical of chow mein.
  • Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce or brown sugar to suit your taste preferences.
  • For added protein, you can include cooked chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu.
  • Make sure not to overcook the vegetables to maintain their crunchiness.
  • Use a large wok or wide skillet for best stir-frying results to ensure even cooking.