Panda Express Chow Mein (Quick, Savory, & Addictively Delicious)
Love Panda Express chow mein but want to skip the takeout line (and price)? This homemade version is just as satisfying—and dare I say, even better.
Tender noodles stir-fried with savory cabbage, onions, garlic, and a simple umami-packed sauce… it’s comfort food that hits all the right notes in under 30 minutes.
This version stays true to the signature flavors while letting you control the quality, salt, and oil. Weeknight dinner winner? Absolutely.
Why I Love This Recipe
Ever crave that chewy, glossy Panda Express-style chow mein? Same. After one too many soggy takeout boxes, I decided to recreate it at home—and now it’s a regular in my rotation.
✨ Perfect texture—soft noodles with crisp veggies
✨ Bold, savory sauce—balanced with garlic, ginger, soy, and hoisin
✨ Customizable—add chicken, shrimp, or tofu
✨ Quick cleanup—one skillet, one bowl
Pair it with easy mains like Turkey Wings or Instant Pot Lasagna for a fun fusion night!
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 oz chow mein noodles (or yakisoba noodles)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2½ cups green cabbage, thinly sliced (about ⅓ head)
- 1 cup onion, thinly sliced (about ½ medium)
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger paste (or freshly grated)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
🔁 Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Noodles: Yakisoba or lo mein noodles work great. Even spaghetti in a pinch!
- Oil: Vegetable or canola keeps it neutral, but sesame oil adds great flavor if used sparingly.
- Hoisin Sauce: Adds sweetness and depth. If unavailable, try oyster sauce or add a dash of brown sugar to the soy sauce mix.
- Ginger/Garlic: Fresh or paste—either works!
🔪 How to Make Panda Express Chow Mein
1. Cook the Noodles
Boil the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain, rinse briefly under cold water, and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add sliced cabbage and onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until veggies are tender with a slight bite.
3. Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix garlic, ginger paste, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and a pinch each of salt and pepper.
4. Combine Everything
Add the drained noodles to the skillet. Pour the sauce over everything and toss gently to coat the noodles and veggies evenly.
5. Finish & Serve
Stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until the noodles are heated through and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot!
🔥 Pro Tips for Takeout-Style Chow Mein
- Don’t overcook the noodles – They’ll cook a bit more in the skillet.
- Use high heat – It helps caramelize the onions and cabbage for authentic flavor.
- Double the sauce if you prefer extra coating or are adding protein.
🍽 Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This chow mein plays well as a main or side dish. Pair it with:
- Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage – for a bold Southern-meets-Asian dinner
- Grilled chicken or shrimp
- Fried egg on top – trust me
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas – for a fusion party vibe
- Crockpot Nacho Dip – because why not?
🧊 Storage & Leftover Tips
To Store:
Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To Reheat:
Microwave in short bursts or toss in a hot skillet with a splash of water to revive the texture.
To Freeze:
Not ideal—noodles can get mushy. Best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.
🍴 More Recipes You’ll Love
📝 Final Thoughts
This Panda Express Chow Mein copycat recipe is a fast, flexible, and deeply satisfying dish you’ll make again and again. Skip the takeout line and stir-fry your way to better flavor at home.
If you try it, drop a comment below! Follow @Chefmaniac for more takeout-fakeout favorites and weeknight dinner wins.
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