Homemade Chow Mein (Gluten Free)

My Panda Express-inspired Homemade Chow Mein is a quick and more wholesome take on the classic take-out inspired favorite. It is brimming with crisp vegetables, yummy noodles and a homemade, flavorful sauce that I can't get enough of. I love that is makes an easy, one-pan dinner I can customize depending on what I have at home. Plus, it's gluten free!

This meal is so nostalgic for me because I used to go to Six Flags with my friends all of the time in high school and I would ALWAYS order the Panda Express Chow Mein Noodles. It was a staple for me. Check out the other nostalgic recipes I have been recreating to make more wholesome, gluten free and dairy free here!

The sweet and spicy flavors, crispy edges and crinkly noodles make it a fantastic, satisfying meal any night of the week. I make it as the perfect weeknight dinner or a casual homemade feast. It's simple, authentic and infinitely versatile. For more easy-going, take-out style recipes, try my Copycat In 'n Out Burgers, this Chicken Snack Wrap and my Big Mac Pasta. Plus, here are a couple of recipes for more delicious gluten free dinner ideas.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Ready in one pan with minimal prep, it's quick and easy! You're going to love it!

This is a really fresh, nourishing recipe that's packed with vegetables and you can also add in protein to elevate it from a side dish to a main course.

All the flavors of your favorite Chinese-American dish at home. It's totally take-out inspired.

My Homemade Chow Mein Recipe has delicious fried edges with soft, tender centers. Crispy, crinkly noodles; yes please!

Add chicken, shrimp, tofu or keep it veggie-focused! There's so much you can do with this base.

I'm obsessed with this flavor-packed sauce, you guys! It's sweet, spicy and thick enough to coat every noodle.

Can we talk about the fact that it requires minimal cleanup for maximum satisfaction?

Equipment Needed

You'll need a large pan or wok, a mixing bowl and a whisk for this Homemade Chow Mein Recipe.

Ingredients Needed

Sweet onion: I love the flavor in this Homemade Chow Mein Recipe.

Garlic cloves: This is really key to the aromatic base flavor.

Cabbage: Crisp and slightly bitter, giving texture and nutrients.

Celery: This adds freshness, crunch and a lightly herbal flavor.

Ramen cakes: Creates the signature crinkly noodles; can be gluten free if needed.

Ginger: Optional but I really love the fragrant, zingy flavor.

Arrowroot: I find this thickens the sauce and gives it a glossy, rich coating.

Crushed red pepper: Adds a mild heat that balances the sweet sauce.

Coconut aminos: A healthier, slightly sweet soy sauce alternative.

Coconut sugar: Sweetens the sauce naturally while caramelizing a little during cooking.

Green onions: I love adding little pops of this fresh, crisp garnish.

Step By Step Instructions

Step 1: Gather all ingredients and prep vegetables by chopping the onion, cabbage and celery and mincing the garlic.

Step 2: Heat a lightly oiled pan over medium heat and saute the onion until lightly browned.

Step 3: Add garlic, celery, cabbage and grated ginger to the pan. Cook until vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.

Step 4: In a bowl, whisk together ginger, arrowroot, crushed red pepper, coconut aminos and coconut sugar to make the sauce.

Step 5: Pour the sauce into the pan with vegetables and add the ramen cakes.

Step 6: Add enough filtered water to just cover the noodles. Cook until noodles absorb the liquid and the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally.

Step 7: Top with sliced green onions and serve immediately. Enjoy your Homemade Chow Mein Recipe.

Storage

Store leftover Homemade Chow Mein Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Noodles may absorb more liquid over time; add a splash of water or coconut aminos when reheating.

Reheat gently in a pan to maintain the crispy edges and prevent soggy noodles.

Variations

Add protein like chicken, shrimp, beef or tofu for a more filling Homemade Chow Mein Recipe.

Swap vegetables seasonally, such as bell peppers, snow peas or carrots.

Make it spicier by increasing crushed red pepper or adding sriracha.

Use a mix of gluten free noodles.

How To Serve 

Here's how I love to serve my new favorite recipe:

• Serve immediately for the best texture and crispness.
• Pair with a simple Asian-style salad or Gluten Free Dumplings for a complete meal.
• Garnish with extra green onions, sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil for an amazing, flavorful finish.

Recipe FAQ

What is the sauce in chow mein made from?

A mix of coconut aminos, coconut sugar, ginger, arrowroot and crushed red pepper make up the thick, sweet and slightly spicy sauce.

Can I use regular pasta to make chow mein?

Yes, spaghetti or egg noodles work, but the texture might be different from ramen cakes.

How do you prevent soggy chow mein noodles?

Cook noodles just until tender and allow them to fry slightly in the sauce to keep those crisp edges.

How do you keep noodles from sticking to the wok?

Stir gently and make sure the pan is lightly oiled before adding noodles.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! It's naturally vegetarian and you can easily add protein if desired. I like to add chicken to mine!

What meat can I add to this recipe?

Chicken, shrimp or beef all work well with the sauce and vegetables.

Can I use frozen vegetables in chow mein?

Yes, but cook slightly longer to remove excess water.

What is the difference between chow mein and lo mein?

Chow mein is usually stir-fried with a crispier noodle, while lo mein uses soft noodles tossed in sauce.

Do I need to boil the noodles before frying?

No, this recipe cooks the noodles directly in the sauce for a one-pan meal.

Related Recipes

Be sure to try these fun Asian style recipe ideas next:

Sushi Cups

Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake

Heart Shaped Sushi

Viral Dumpling Salad

If you make this homemade chow mein and love it, I would really appreciate a 5 star review! I also love seeing your creations so please tag me on Instagram or TikTok.