If you’ve ever swooned over a takeout carton brimming with savory noodles, crunchy cabbage, and that irresistible, just-so-slightly smoky flavor, you’re going to fall hard for this homemade Panda Express Chow Mein. Here’s your chance to recreate this fan-favorite dish right in your own kitchen—no more chasing those cravings or wondering what’s in the sauce! With a handful of humble ingredients, you’ll have stir-fried noodles every bit as delicious and satisfying (dare I say more so?) than what you get at the restaurant, plus all the fun that comes from cooking it yourself.

Panda Express Chow Mein Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how you can channel the magic of Panda Express Chow Mein with just a few staple ingredients. Every single item has a key role—from chewy noodles to a glossy sauce—so pick the freshest you can find for the very best flavor and texture.

Chow mein noodles (1 lb, fresh): The backbone of this dish—springy and satisfying, they soak up all the delicious sauce.
Cabbage (2 cups, thinly sliced): Adds a crisp bite and subtle sweetness that balances out the richness of the stir fry.
Celery (1 cup, sliced): For a fresh, slightly peppery crunch that pops in every bite.
Onion (1 small, sliced): Brings gentle warmth and classic savory flavor to the mix.
Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point to ensure your stir-fry gets the perfect sear.
Soy sauce (2 tablespoons, regular): The cornerstone of umami richness in your noodle sauce.
Dark soy sauce (½ tablespoon): Offers color and depth, lending that signature Chow Mein hue and deep flavor.
Oyster sauce or vegetarian stir fry sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds a mellow savoriness and a hint of sweetness—don’t skip it!
Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Just a touch for that nuttiness and aromatic finish.
Garlic cloves (2, minced): Fresh garlic lifts the sauce and infuses every bite.
Chicken stock or cold water (¼ cup, low-sodium): Helps the sauce cling to the noodles and keeps things silky, not stodgy.
Cornstarch or potato starch (½ tablespoon): For just the right gloss and gentle thickening in your sauce.

How to Make Panda Express Chow Mein

Step 1: Prep the Noodle Sauce

Before anything hits the pan, whisk up your noodle sauce—this is where the magic of Panda Express Chow Mein begins. Combine the regular soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, garlic, chicken stock (or water), and cornstarch in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and set it aside within arm’s reach. You’ll want everything ready to go because things move fast once you’re at the stove!

Step 2: Blanch the Noodles

Fill a big pan halfway with water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Add your chow mein noodles and give them about 20 to 30 seconds—just enough to loosen and soften them. Watch carefully; you don’t want them mushy. Immediately strain and set aside, but don’t rinse! Keeping that surface starch helps the sauce stick beautifully to each noodle strand.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat one tablespoon of your vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the onion, cabbage, and celery together—cook everything, stirring constantly for just about a minute. You’re looking for slightly softened veggies that still have a crunch—this isn’t a stew!

Step 4: Add Noodles and Sauce

Once your veggies are ready, push them to one side of the pan to clear a little space. Drizzle in your remaining oil, then quickly add those blanched noodles and pour your homemade sauce over the top. Hear that sizzle? This is where Panda Express Chow Mein really comes to life!

Step 5: Toss and Finish

Working quickly but gently, toss everything together using tongs or a pair of chopsticks so each strand gets glossy and coated. Keep things moving for another 1–2 minutes, just until everything is evenly combined and steaming hot. That’s it—off the heat, and your Panda Express Chow Mein is ready to devour!

How to Serve Panda Express Chow Mein

Garnishes

Garnishes are the secret to taking your Panda Express Chow Mein from “yum” to “oh wow!” A big sprinkle of sliced scallions or thin shreds of carrot adds terrific color and a burst of freshness. If you love a little heat, toss on some toasted sesame seeds or a dash of chili flakes for extra pizzazz.

Side Dishes

To turn chow mein into a full feast, pair it with favorites like crispy egg rolls, sweet and sour chicken, or even a vibrant stir-fried broccoli. Steamed dumplings also make a perfect sidekick, soaking up any extra sauce that clings to your plate. Mix and match your favorite appetizers for an authentic at-home Panda Express experience!

Creative Ways to Present

Why not have fun with your Panda Express Chow Mein presentation? Try serving it in mini takeout boxes for a playful, party-ready feel, or pile it high in a family-style bowl right at the center of your dinner table. For a more modern spin, heap the noodles onto individual plates with carefully arranged veggies on top—they’ll look (and taste) irresistible!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Panda Express Chow Mein keeps beautifully for next-day lunches or quick dinners. Let the noodles cool completely, transfer them to an airtight container, and store in the refrigerator—they’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days.

Freezing

If you have a lot left over or want to prep ahead, you can freeze chow mein, but be aware that the veggies might lose their crunch. For best results, cool the noodles thoroughly, portion into freezer-safe bags or containers, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To revive your Panda Express Chow Mein, add a splash of water or broth to a skillet and warm the noodles over medium heat, tossing gently to loosen them up. In a pinch, you can microwave portions in 30-second bursts, stirring between intervals to ensure even heating and moisture.

FAQs

What type of noodles should I use for Panda Express Chow Mein?

Fresh chow mein noodles are best for capturing that classic texture, but if you can’t find them, refrigerated or frozen Asian wheat noodles (sometimes labeled “lo mein” or “yakisoba”) work too. Steer clear of instant ramen; it just won’t deliver the right bite.

Can I add protein like chicken or tofu?

Absolutely! Simply stir-fry thinly sliced chicken, tofu, shrimp, or even beef before the vegetables, then set aside. Add them back in with the noodles and sauce so everything gets wonderfully coated and perfectly heated through.

Is it possible to make this Panda Express Chow Mein vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Swap the oyster sauce for a vegetarian mushroom stir fry sauce, use vegetable stock or water, and double-check that your noodles don’t contain eggs if you need a fully vegan version. The flavor is just as bold and comforting—no meat or dairy required.

Why shouldn’t I rinse the noodles after blanching?

Not rinsing your noodles helps retain their heat and a bit of natural starch, ensuring that the sauce clings to every strand and delivers that signature sticky, glossy finish.

How can I make my noodles extra smoky or “wok-fried”?

For that restaurant-style smokiness, use a large, very hot wok or cast-iron pan and stir-fry in small batches. A bit of extra high heat and minimal crowding let everything char lightly and mimic the Panda Express Chow Mein experience you know and love.

Final Thoughts

Give this homemade Panda Express Chow Mein a go and you might just find it outshines your favorite takeout version! It’s easy, satisfying, and customizable in all the best ways—so gather your ingredients and treat yourself (and your friends and family) to a noodle night that’s bound to become a regular request.