Name: Panda Express Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: Chow Mein Noodles; Onion; Celery; Cabbage; Soy Sauce; Sugar; Shaoxing Wine; White Pepper; Sesame Oil; Chicken Stock

When I first tried replicating Panda Express Noodles in my kitchen, I couldn’t believe how simple and delicious the process was! This dish has become a household favorite, not just because it’s a copycat of the restaurant classic, but because it’s endlessly versatile and so easy to prepare.

With its soft, flavorful noodles and perfectly cooked vegetables, this quick stir-fry is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Now, I’m sharing my step-by-step guide to make this iconic dish right in your own home. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There’s so much to adore about this noodle recipe. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

It’s Quick and Easy

With just 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking, you’ll have dinner ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without a lot of effort.

Flexible and Customizable

This recipe is a great canvas for creativity. You can switch up the veggies, add protein like chicken or tofu, or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.

Great for All Diets

By swapping a few ingredients, you can make it gluten-free, vegetarian, or even sugar-free. It’s a dish that caters to everyone.

Full of Flavor

From the savory soy sauce to the hint of sesame and spice, these noodles pack a punch of flavor in every bite.

Cooking Time

Here’s how long it takes to whip up this delicious meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

To make Panda Express Noodles, you’ll need the following components:

Chow Mein Noodles
Onion
Celery
Cabbage
Soy Sauce
Sugar
Shaoxing Wine
White Pepper
Sesame Oil
Chicken Stock

That’s all you’ll need to bring this dish to life!

Variations

Want to make this dish your own? Here are a few ways to mix things up:

Noodles: Use ramen, egg noodles, or even spaghetti as a substitute.
Vegetables: Add bell peppers, bean sprouts, or carrots for added color and flavor.
Dietary Adjustments: Use gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles to make it gluten-free, or skip the sugar entirely for a low-carb option.
Protein Add-Ons: Throw in some sautéed shrimp, diced chicken, or tofu for a heartier meal.

Equipment You’ll Need

Wok or Large Pan: Perfect for stir-frying ingredients evenly.
Cooking Tongs: Helps toss the noodles and vegetables together effortlessly.
Mixing Bowl: Use it to combine the sauce ingredients.

How to Make Panda Express Noodles?

This recipe comes together easily in just a few steps. Follow along for a guaranteed delicious result! 😋

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by whisking together your soy sauce, sugar, Shaoxing wine, white pepper, sesame oil, and chicken stock in a small bowl. The sugar will dissolve into the liquid, creating a flavorful and well-balanced sauce. Once mixed, set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of water to boil and cook the chow mein noodles for about 30 seconds, or until just tender. Be careful not to overcook! Drain the noodles and set them aside while you move on to the vegetables.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Heat a wok over medium-high heat and drizzle in some oil. Add the sliced onion, celery, and cabbage to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while still keeping their crunch. 🥬

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Now for the exciting part! Add your cooked noodles to the wok along with the prepared sauce. Toss everything together with cooking tongs until the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully. 🍜

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Your Panda Express Noodles are now ready to serve. Garnish with a sprinkle of green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch. Dig in while it’s hot! 🌟

Tips for Making the Recipe

Prep Like a Pro

Have all your ingredients measured and ready before you start cooking. Stir-frying moves fast, so being prepared will make the process smooth and stress-free.

Don’t Overcook the Noodles

Undercook the noodles slightly when boiling, as they’ll cook more when you stir-fry them. This step ensures they stay firm and chewy.

Use High Heat

Cooking on high heat keeps the vegetables crisp and prevents them from becoming soggy. A hot wok also helps the sauce cling to the noodles better.

How to Serve Panda Express Noodles?

Presentation matters, right? Here are some fun serving ideas:

Pair It with Protein: Serve these noodles alongside honey sesame chicken or Mongolian beef to create a more filling meal.
Add Fresh Garnishes: Top with green onions or toasted sesame seeds for a fresh, aromatic finish.
Make It a Feast: Pair the noodles with fried rice, egg rolls, or crab rangoons to mimic an authentic Chinese takeout spread.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional facts for a standard serving of these noodles:

Calories: 237
Protein: 9.6 g
Carbohydrates: 37 g
Fat: 6.4 g

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the great things about this recipe is how well it keeps. 🥡

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavor actually deepens overnight, making it even tastier the next day.

To reheat, toss the noodles in a hot pan with a splash of chicken stock to keep them moist. Alternatively, use the microwave and warm in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Freezing Option

Want to freeze leftovers? No problem! Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll keep for up to two months. Just make sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

With this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll never need to make a Panda Express run again! It’s a delicious, budget-friendly, and healthier way to enjoy your favorite takeout dish at home. Give it a try and see just how much better homemade can be!