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Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein Recipe

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4.6 from 80 reviews

This Copycat Panda Express Chow Mein recipe recreates the beloved takeout classic right in your own kitchen. Featuring tender lo mein noodles, crisp stir-fried vegetables, and a savory-sweet sauce, this dish is perfect for a quick and delicious homemade meal that captures the flavors of the popular Chinese-American restaurant favorite.

Ingredients

Noodles

  • 8 oz lo mein noodles or spaghetti

Vegetables

  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1/2 cup julienned carrots
  • 1/2 cup bean sprouts
  • 1/4 cup sliced celery
  • 1/4 cup chopped onions
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce & Seasonings

  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook Noodles: Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat Oil and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Cook Vegetables: Add chopped onions, julienned carrots, sliced celery, and shredded cabbage to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
  4. Add Bean Sprouts: Stir in the bean sprouts and cook for another 1-2 minutes to maintain their crunch.
  5. Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and chicken broth or water until combined.
  6. Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and pour the sauce mixture over them.
  7. Toss and Heat Through: Toss everything together, stirring constantly to combine and heat through for about 2-3 minutes.
  8. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade chow mein!

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute oyster sauce with mushroom sauce or hoisin sauce and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Feel free to add protein such as chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu for a more filling meal.
  • To keep noodles from sticking, toss them with a little oil after cooking.
  • Adjust the amount of soy sauce and sugar to suit your taste preferences.
  • Use fresh vegetables for best texture and flavor.