Panda Express Chow Mein Recipe: The Perfect Copycat Version

If you’re a fan of Panda Express Chow Mein, you know just how irresistibly delicious those stir-fried noodles are—savory, slightly sweet, with the perfect chew and a hint of smoky wok flavor. The great news? You can recreate this famous dish at home with simple ingredients in under 20 minutes!

This homemade Panda Express Chow Mein recipe is quick, budget-friendly, and better than takeout. It’s the perfect side dish to pair with your favorite Asian-inspired meals or enjoy as a main course with added protein like chicken, beef, or shrimp.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein

🍜 Tastes just like the real thing!
🔥 Ready in 20 minutes! – Faster than takeout.
💰 Budget-friendly – Uses simple ingredients.
🥢 Customizable – Add your favorite veggies or proteins!

Ingredients for Chow Mein

Panda Express Chow Mein is simple yet flavorful, made with just a few key ingredients:

Noodles:

8 oz yakisoba noodles (or dry lo mein/ramen noodles, cooked & drained)
2 tbsp vegetable oil (for stir-frying)

Vegetables:

1 cup cabbage, shredded
½ cup celery, sliced thin
½ cup onion, sliced

Chow Mein Sauce:

¼ cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
1 tbsp dark soy sauce (for color & depth)
1 tbsp oyster sauce (adds umami)
1 tbsp hoisin sauce (adds a slight sweetness)
1 tsp sugar (balances the flavors)
½ tsp sesame oil (adds a rich aroma)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp ginger powder
¼ cup water (to loosen the sauce)

How to Make Panda Express Chow Mein at Home

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

If using fresh yakisoba noodles – Rinse under hot water to loosen.
If using dried noodles – Boil until just al dente, drain, and toss with a little oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Chow Mein Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:
✅ Soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic powder, ginger powder, and water.
Set aside for later.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
Add onions and celery, stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until slightly softened.
Add shredded cabbage and cook for another minute.

Step 4: Toss the Noodles in the Sauce

Add the cooked noodles to the wok.
Pour in the prepared chow mein sauce and toss everything together.
Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, mixing well until the noodles are coated and slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Transfer to a plate and serve hot.
Garnish with extra sesame oil or green onions for extra flavor!

What to Serve with Panda Express Chow Mein

This dish pairs perfectly with:

🔥 Orange Chicken – Classic Panda Express favorite.
🍗 Teriyaki Chicken – Sweet and savory combo.
🥩 Beef & Broccoli – Perfect with noodles.
🍤 Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry – For seafood lovers.
🥬 Vegetable Spring Rolls – A great crispy side.

Customize Your Chow Mein!

Want to switch it up? Try these variations:

🥩 Add Protein: Toss in chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu.
🥦 Boost with Veggies: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas.
🔥 Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili oil.
🍋 Extra Tangy: Squeeze in fresh lime juice before serving.

How to Store & Reheat Chow Mein

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in a pan with a splash of water or soy sauce to revive the texture.

Why This Panda Express Chow Mein Recipe is the Best

✔ Tastes just like Panda Express – Authentic flavors.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in 20 minutes.
✔ Customizable – Make it your own!
✔ Better than takeout! – Fresh, homemade, and budget-friendly.

Final Thoughts

If you love Panda Express Chow Mein, this copycat recipe is a must-try! It’s savory, slightly sweet, and packed with umami flavors, making it the perfect quick and delicious meal.

So grab your wok and give it a try! What’s your favorite Panda Express dish? Let me know! 😊

Panda Express Chow Mein Recipe