There's nothing quite like the satisfaction of twirling perfectly seasoned Asian Noodles around your chopsticks, especially when they taste better than your favorite restaurant! I discovered this homemade chinese food approach during one of those weeks when my family was craving takeout but I wanted to control the ingredients and save money.
What started as an attempt to recreate our beloved Panda Express order turned into our go-to weeknight dinner that's ready faster than delivery. This chow mein recipe delivers all those savory, slightly sweet flavors we love with tender vegetables and perfectly chewy noodles that actually taste fresher than restaurant versions.
Why You'll Love This Easy Chinese Recipe
This Asian Noodles dish is a total game-changer for busy families who crave authentic flavors without the takeout price tag or mystery ingredients. It's incredibly versatile, naturally customizable with whatever vegetables you have on hand, and creates that perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet that makes chinese cooking recipes so addictive.
What I love most about this homemade panda express chow mein version is how it tastes even better than the original while being ready in under 20 minutes. My kids actually prefer this to restaurant versions now because they can see exactly what goes into their food, and my husband loves that we're saving money while eating healthier.
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What You'll Need
This copycat chow mein panda express recipe uses simple ingredients that create those complex, restaurant-quality flavors!
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh chow mein noodles (or lo mein noodles)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cups cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 2 cups bean sprouts
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Extras
You can add cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp for protein, or throw in some snap peas or broccoli for extra vegetables. Some families love adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
This how to make panda express chow mein version is super easy - full steps are in the recipe card.
How to Make Asian Noodles
Prepare the Noodles
Cook fresh chow mein noodles according to package directions until just tender. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
Make the Sauce
Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth and combined.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add onion and carrots, stir-fry for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
Add Remaining Vegetables
Toss in cabbage, bean sprouts, and garlic. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
Combine Everything
Add cooked noodles and sauce to the pan. Toss everything together for 2-3 minutes until noodles are heated through and well coated.
People Also Ask: What's the difference between chow mein and lo mein? Chow mein noodles are typically stir-fried until slightly crispy, while lo mein noodles are softer and more saucy. This copycat panda express low mein style recipe creates that perfect middle ground with tender but not mushy noodles.
Aliana's Pro Tip
Here's the secret that makes restaurant-quality asian noodles at home: use the highest heat your stove can handle and work quickly.
I learned this from watching professional chefs - that intense heat creates the slightly charred flavor that makes takeout so addictive.
Also, don't overcook your vegetables - they should still have some crunch when you're done.
The residual heat will finish cooking them perfectly as you toss everything together.
Easy Swaps
No fresh chow mein noodles? Use dried lo mein noodles or even spaghetti in a pinch. You can substitute the oyster sauce with hoisin sauce for a slightly sweeter flavor. For a lighter version, use less oil and add a splash of chicken broth to prevent sticking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a large skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the noodles. Microwave reheating works too, but the skillet method preserves better texture.
What to Serve With Asian Noodles
This versatile dish pairs perfectly with egg rolls, potstickers, or simple steamed dumplings. My family loves it alongside sweet and sour chicken or orange chicken for a complete Chinese takeout experience at home.
FAQs About Chow Mein
What vegetables work best in chow mein?
Traditional vegetables include cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts, but feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use rice noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce for a delicious gluten-free version.
How do I prevent the noodles from sticking?
Rinse cooked noodles with cold water and toss with a little oil before stir-frying.
Can I use dried noodles instead of fresh?
Yes! Cook them according to package directions, but reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes since they'll finish cooking in the pan.
More Delicious Ideas
If you're looking for more homemade chinese food recipes that beat takeout, these dishes are easy to make, budget-friendly, and always satisfying: Fried Rice (customizable with any leftover proteins and vegetables), Sweet and Sour Chicken (crispy, saucy, and better than restaurant versions), Beef and Broccoli (tender, flavorful, and ready in minutes).
Made it your way? I'd love to see it! Tag @AlianaRecipes on Pinterest and show off your delicious version.
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Asian Noodles Recipe:
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