There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of freshly fried rice wafting through the air, especially when it’s as delectable as Panda Express copycat fried rice. Imagine each grain perfectly cooked, dancing with vibrant veggies and savory soy sauce, tickling your senses and making your mouth water. a warming soup option It’s a dish that brings comfort, joy, and a hint of nostalgia all at once.
Now, picture this: you’ve just come home after a long day, your stomach growling louder than a grizzly bear in hibernation. You open the fridge to find a symphony of leftover vegetables and a half-eaten takeout carton from last week. Suddenly, inspiration strikes! With a little creativity and this easy recipe for Panda Express copycat fried rice, you’re just moments away from satisfying that craving and impressing yourself in the process.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Panda Express copycat fried rice is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The flavor is so rich that you’ll think you’re dining out without leaving your kitchen.
- Its colorful presentation makes it irresistible on any plate.
- Plus, you can easily customize it with whatever ingredients you have on hand!
Ingredients for panda express copycat fried rice
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cooked Rice: Day-old rice works best; it’s drier and prevents clumping during cooking.
- Vegetable Oil: Use this for frying; its high smoke point is perfect for stir-frying.
- Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch; slice them thinly for best results.
- Mixed Vegetables: A mix of peas, carrots, and corn gives color and nutrition; frozen works great!
- Eggs: Scrambled eggs add protein; use large eggs for fluffiness.
- Soy Sauce: Essential for flavor; low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness.
- Sesame Oil: Adds an authentic touch; just a drizzle enhances the overall taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make panda express copycat fried rice
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the green onions and measure out your mixed vegetables. If you haven’t already done so, ensure your rice is cooked and cooled—day-old rice works wonders.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
In a large skillet or wok, heat about two tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This will create that perfect sizzle when you add your ingredients.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the mixed vegetables first; stir-fry them for about three minutes until they’re tender but still vibrant. You want them to maintain that delightful crunch!
Step 4: Scramble the Eggs
Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Crack two eggs into the other side and scramble them until fully cooked—about two minutes should do the trick! Combine everything in the pan once cooked.
Step 5: Add Rice and Soy Sauce
Now it’s time for that glorious rice! Add in your cooled cooked rice along with three tablespoons of soy sauce and one teaspoon of sesame oil. Stir everything together thoroughly until well combined.
Step 6: Finish with Green Onions
Finally, toss in those sliced green onions and stir-fry for another minute until everything is heated through. Serve hot straight from the pan!
Transfer to plates and enjoy your homemade Panda Express copycat fried rice like a culinary superstar! With every bite packed with flavor, you’ll find it hard not to gobble down seconds (or thirds!).
This delightful dish captures all that deliciousness we love about takeout but brings it right into our cozy kitchens. So next time you’re itching for some comfort food without hitting up your favorite restaurant, remember this easy recipe—it’s bound to become a beloved staple!
You Must Know
- This delightful panda express copycat fried rice recipe is not just about taste; it’s also a quick and easy way to bring restaurant vibes to your kitchen.
- With vibrant veggies and savory soy sauce, it dazzles in color and flavor, making any meal feel special.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing all your ingredients first. Sauté the vegetables until tender, then add the day-old rice for that perfect texture. Finish with soy sauce to bind the flavors together, ensuring each grain is seasoned beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in your fridge. You can use broccoli or snap peas instead of peas and carrots. Adding scrambled eggs boosts protein, while a dash of sesame oil brings extra depth.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave until hot or stir-fry in a pan for that fresh taste again!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect panda express copycat fried rice, make sure to use cold, day-old rice for the best texture.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Incorporate your favorite proteins like shrimp or chicken for added flavor!
I remember the first time I made this panda express copycat fried rice for my friends. They couldn’t believe how easy it was and practically begged me for seconds!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for panda express copycat fried rice?
To make panda express copycat fried rice, you’ll need cooked jasmine rice, eggs, soy sauce, green onions, peas, and carrots. Optional ingredients include sesame oil and cooked proteins like chicken or shrimp. spicy chicken and zucchini The key is to use cold, day-old rice for the best texture. This recipe allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins to replicate that delicious restaurant flavor at home. For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe recipe.
How can I make panda express copycat fried rice vegetarian?
You can easily make a vegetarian version of panda express copycat fried rice by omitting the meat and using extra vegetables instead. Add tofu for protein, or include more peas and carrots. add some crispy tofu Use soy sauce for flavoring and consider adding sesame oil for a nutty taste. Remember to ensure that your soy sauce is vegetarian-friendly if needed.
Can I prepare panda express copycat fried rice in advance?
Yes, you can prepare panda express copycat fried rice in advance. Cook the rice a day before and store it in the refrigerator. When you are ready to cook, simply heat up a pan, scramble the eggs, and stir-fry the cold rice with your chosen ingredients. This method helps maintain the right texture while saving you time during meal preparation.
What is the best way to reheat leftover panda express copycat fried rice?
To reheat leftover panda express copycat fried rice, use a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Add the cold fried rice directly to the pan and stir frequently until heated through. You can add a splash of soy sauce or water to help prevent sticking and enhance moisture. Alternatively, microwaving it in short intervals works well if you’re pressed for time.
Conclusion for panda express copycat fried rice :
Making panda express copycat fried rice at home is simple and rewarding. With just a few basic ingredients like day-old jasmine rice, vegetables, and soy sauce, you can achieve that signature taste. Customize it with proteins or additional veggies to suit your preferences. This recipe not only saves money but also allows you to enjoy a delicious meal whenever you crave it. Enjoy this flavorful dish as a side or main course any time!
Panda Express Copycat Fried Rice
Panda Express Copycat Fried Rice is your ticket to restaurant-quality flavor right at home. This quick and easy recipe features fluffy jasmine rice stir-fried with colorful mixed vegetables, fluffy scrambled eggs, and savory soy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a satisfying side dish, this dish can be customized with whatever ingredients you have on hand. With every bite bursting with flavor, it’s bound to become a family favorite!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Gather and prepare all ingredients. Ensure the rice is cold.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 3 minutes until tender.
- Push the veggies to one side; crack in the eggs and scramble until fully cooked (about 2 minutes). Combine with veggies.
- Stir in the cold rice, soy sauce, and sesame oil, mixing until well combined.
- Toss in sliced green onions and stir-fry for another minute until heated through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (210g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 186mg
Keywords: Substitute any leftover vegetables or proteins like chicken or tofu for added variety. For best results, avoid overcrowding the pan during cooking to ensure even frying.





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