Name: 15-Min Panda Express Chow Mein
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 packs (approx. 16 oz) of yakisoba noodles or chow mein noodles (fresh or refrigerated); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced; 1 cup celery, sliced on a diagonal; ½ cup onion, thinly sliced; For the Sauce:; ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons water; Tools You’ll Need:; Large non-stick skillet or wok; Wooden spatula or tongs; Small bowl (for sauce); Knife and cutting board

15-Min Panda Express Chow Mein

This Panda Express Chow Mein copycat has become one of our go-to meals during the week. I still remember the first time I made it: I was rushing between school pickup and soccer practice, and I needed something fast, tasty, and satisfying. This dish didn’t just meet those needs—it became a hit!

What I love most is how incredibly flavorful it is, with just a handful of simple ingredients. The noodles are tender, the cabbage and celery give it a great crunch, and that savory sauce? Absolutely irresistible. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a hero in your own kitchen without breaking a sweat.

The first time I served it, my husband took one bite, raised an eyebrow, and said, “This tastes just like the real thing—maybe even better.” The kids? Let’s just say there weren’t any leftovers. Now, it’s a regular on our weekly menu, especially when we want that takeout fix without the drive or the price tag.

I’ve tried a few versions over the years, but this one hits the mark every single time. It’s simple, fast, and full of that comforting, familiar flavor we all crave. I hope your family loves it as much as mine does!

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes! While yakisoba noodles work best, you can also use ramen or spaghetti noodles in a pinch.

Is this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
It is vegetarian, and easily made vegan by ensuring your soy sauce and noodles contain no animal byproducts.

Can I add protein?
Absolutely—grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even leftover rotisserie chicken work beautifully here.

Do I need a wok to make this?
Nope! A large non-stick skillet or frying pan will do the job just fine.

How can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the veggies and sauce ahead of time. The noodles are best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well in the microwave or skillet.

What You Need to Make Panda Express Chow Mein

Ingredients:

2 packs (approx. 16 oz) of yakisoba noodles or chow mein noodles (fresh or refrigerated)

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced

1 cup celery, sliced on a diagonal

½ cup onion, thinly sliced

For the Sauce:

¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce

1 tablespoon oyster sauce

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon sesame oil

2 tablespoons water

Tools You’ll Need:

Large non-stick skillet or wok

Wooden spatula or tongs

Small bowl (for sauce)

Knife and cutting board

How to Make Panda Express Chow Mein

Prep the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and water. Set aside.

Cook the Veggies
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions, celery, and cabbage. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.

Add the Noodles
If using refrigerated yakisoba noodles, loosen them by running under warm water for 1 minute. Drain and add to the pan with the veggies.

Stir in the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles and vegetables. Toss everything together for 2–3 minutes until well coated and heated through.

Serve Immediately
Dish it up hot and enjoy your homemade chow mein!

Tips for Making the Best Panda Express Chow Mein

Use refrigerated or fresh noodles for the best texture. Dry noodles will work, but they need to be cooked first.

Don’t overcook the veggies—that crisp bite is key to recreating the authentic texture.

Double the sauce if you like extra saucy noodles.

Add spice with a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for heat-lovers.

Use pre-shredded cabbage and pre-cut celery to save even more time on busy nights.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Tasted exactly like Panda Express! My husband couldn’t believe it was homemade. Will definitely make again!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Really quick and easy! I added grilled chicken to make it a full meal and it turned out great.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for busy school nights. My kids actually ASK for it now!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Loved the flavor but next time I’ll add more veggies and maybe some spice.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This is my third time making it this month. It’s just too good—and so simple!”

Printable Recipe

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