Get ready to satisfy your cravings for a delicious, filling meal that’s quick to prepare – just like Panda Express! Their famous fried rice dishes are a staple on many menus, and now you can make them at home with ease. In this article, we’ll share 18 mouth-watering recipes inspired by the popular Chinese restaurant chain. From classic chicken and vegetable options to spicy shrimp and beef variations, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight meal or a foodie eager to experiment with new flavors, these recipes will become your go-to guide for cooking up a storm in the kitchen.
Classic Panda Express Fried Rice with Chicken
Savor the flavors of Chinese cuisine with this iconic dish inspired by Panda Express. This recipe yields a mouthwatering, savory fried rice dish packed with juicy chicken and an assortment of aromatics.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mixed veggies (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken; cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add mixed veggies; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes or until heated through and lightly toasted.
6. Return chicken to the skillet; stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Panda Express Fried Rice
This vegan-friendly take on the classic Chinese dish is a flavorful and filling meal that’s perfect for any time of day. With a medley of colorful vegetables and savory seasonings, this recipe captures the essence of Panda Express’ signature fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until translucent.
3. Add mixed bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Push vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack 1 egg (optional) into the other side and scramble it.
5. Mix everything together, then add cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and chopped scallions (if desired).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Spicy Panda Express Fried Rice with Shrimp
Get ready to level up your fried rice game with this spicy twist! This recipe combines the iconic flavors of Panda Express with succulent shrimp and a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.
3. Add diced onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes or until heated through.
5. Add red pepper flakes, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Return shrimp to the skillet; toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Panda Express Fried Rice with Beef and Broccoli
Panda Express Fried Rice with Beef and Broccoli Recipe Summary:
Experience the classic Chinese-American dish at home! This Panda Express-inspired fried rice recipe combines savory beef, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced cooked beef (e.g., flank steak or chicken breast)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the broccoli to the same pan and cook until tender, approximately 3-4 minutes.
4. Push the broccoli to one side of the pan. Crack in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry the rice for about 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
6. Mix the cooked beef back into the rice mixture. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Egg-Free Panda Express Fried Rice
Experience the authentic taste of Panda Express without the eggs! This recipe uses a simple substitute and combines it with savory vegetables, spices, and aromatics to create a delicious and egg-free fried rice dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables, onion, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
4. Add soy sauce and stir-fry for an additional minute to combine.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Savory Panda Express Fried Rice with Pineapple
Elevate your fried rice game with this unique twist on a classic Chinese dish, combining the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavors of soy sauce and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked eggs, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add mixed vegetables, chicken, and scallions; stir-fry until combined.
3. Push ingredients to one side; add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked rice to the wok/skillet; stir-fry until heated through, breaking up any clumps.
5. Add pineapple and cooked eggs (if using); stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Low-Sodium Panda Express Fried Rice
This recipe is a healthier take on the popular Panda Express fried rice dish, reduced in sodium to cater to those with dietary restrictions. With this adaptation, you can still enjoy the same flavors and textures while keeping your salt intake in check.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon low-sodium vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (reduced-sodium or homemade)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt-free seasoning blend (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add mixed frozen vegetables and cooked rice; stir-fry for 5 minutes.
5. Push cooked rice mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in eggs and scramble until cooked through.
6. Mix eggs with rice and add soy sauce, black pepper, and salt-free seasoning blend (if using). Stir-fry everything together.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Panda Express Fried Rice with Tofu and Mixed Veggies
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this easy-to-make Panda Express-inspired fried rice dish, packed with tender tofu, colorful mixed veggies, and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed veggies (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed veggies and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet/wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, incorporating all ingredients together.
6. Add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for an additional minute.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Panda Express Fried Rice with Scallions
This recipe brings the flavors of your favorite Chinese-American restaurant to your kitchen, with a twist! By adding scallions and simple seasonings, you’ll elevate the classic fried rice dish to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mixed frozen vegetables and cook according to package instructions.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir-fry rice for about 5 minutes, incorporating soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Transfer fried rice to a serving platter; garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Panda Express Fried Rice with Dark Soy Sauce
Savor the flavors of Panda Express at home with this easy-to-make fried rice recipe, elevated by the rich and savory taste of dark soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cooked rice; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Push rice mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in eggs and scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix eggs with rice, then add soy sauce and dark soy sauce; stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick Panda Express Fried Rice for Busy Weeknights
Looking for a fast and flavorful meal solution? This recipe for Quick Panda Express Fried Rice is a game-changer, using leftover rice to create a mouthwatering dish reminiscent of the popular Chinese restaurant.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); cook for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Panda Express Fried Rice with Mushrooms and Peas
Quickly whip up a flavorful dish inspired by the popular Chinese-American chain, Panda Express. This fried rice recipe adds savory mushrooms and sweet peas for added depth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Push the mushroom mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the mushroom mixture.
6. Add the peas, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
7. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
8. Stir-fry everything together until the rice is heated through and starting to brown, about 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gluten-Free Panda Express Fried Rice
Get ready to recreate the flavors of Panda Express’ iconic fried rice dish without the gluten! This recipe is a simplified version that uses readily available ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (gluten-free)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (gluten-free)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Push the onion aside and add the minced garlic; cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Make two wells in the rice mixture and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs into the rice.
6. Stir in soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Panda Express Fried Rice with Sesame Oil Twist
Get ready to elevate your fried rice game with this recipe that combines the classic Chinese-American dish with the nutty flavor of sesame oil. This twist on a favorite takes only a few minutes to prepare and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sesame oil.
5. Pour the soy-sesame mixture over the rice mixture; stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
One-Pan Panda Express Fried Rice with Garlic Butter
Elevate your Chinese takeout game with this effortless one-pan recipe that combines the flavors of Panda Express with a hint of garlic butter. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed veggies (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed veggies and cook until tender.
4. Stir in cooked rice, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
5. Push the rice mixture to one side of the pan. Crack an egg into the other side; scramble until cooked through.
6. Mix the egg with the rice. Add softened butter and stir until melted.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Panda Express Fried Rice with Charred Brussels Sprouts
Get ready to elevate your fried rice game with this easy and flavorful recipe! This dish is a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Charred Brussels sprouts (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Charred Brussels Sprouts:
– Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Toss 1 pound of trimmed Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper.
– Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Jalapeño-Packed Spicy Panda Express Fried Rice
Get ready for a flavor explosion! This recipe combines the familiar flavors of Panda Express fried rice with the spicy kick of jalapeños, creating a unique and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and jalapeño; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet, stirring constantly to combine with vegetables and sauce.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until rice is heated through and starting to brown.
6. Season with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); adjust salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Panda Express Fried Rice with Crab Meat and Sweet Corn
Get ready for a flavorful twist on the classic Chinese dish! This recipe combines the savory taste of crab meat with the sweetness of corn, all wrapped up in a crispy fried rice package.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan.
5. Crack in 1 egg and scramble it until cooked through, then mix with the vegetables.
6. Add crab meat and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
7. Mix in cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
8. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until rice is heated through and starting to brown.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
10. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your home cooking game with these 18 delicious Panda Express fried rice recipes! From classic chicken and veggie options to spicy shrimp and beef and broccoli variations, there’s something for everyone. Try making egg-free or low-sodium versions, or add some extra flavor with dark soy sauce or sesame oil twists. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade goodness with these mouthwatering fried rice creations!
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