If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors, textures, and that unmistakable comforting vibe, this Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Pancit, a beloved Filipino noodle dish, brings together tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and silky rice noodles all tossed in a savory sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or whipping up a weeknight meal, this recipe’s simplicity and delightful taste will have you coming back for seconds in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be simple, but each is essential for creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in your pancit. From the tender chicken to the crunchy veggies and silky noodles, every element plays a special role.
- 8 oz pancit bihon (rice noodles): The star of the dish, these noodles soak up all the delicious sauce and stay tender without getting mushy.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: For sautéing the aromatics and chicken, adding a subtle richness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings that irresistible depth and warmth to the dish.
- 1 small onion, sliced: Adds a mild sweetness that balances perfectly with the savory elements.
- 1/2 lb chicken breast, sliced thinly: Lean protein that cooks quickly and soaks in the flavors beautifully.
- 1 medium carrot, julienned: Provides a wonderful crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded: Adds freshness and a bit of bite to contrast the soft noodles.
- 1/2 cup green beans, sliced: Enhances texture and brings a bright earthiness.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: The salty umami backbone of the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional): Boosts the savoriness and gives a subtle sweetness to the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a tiny kick and warmth.
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: The moist cooking liquid that infuses the noodles with flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional): Adds a lovely nutty aroma at the finish.
- Lemon wedges for serving: Brightens up each bite with a fresh, tangy zing.
How to Make Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Noodles
Start by soaking your pancit bihon in warm water for about 10 minutes. This softens the noodles just enough so they cook quickly later without becoming mushy. Once softened, drain them well and set them aside so they’re ready to soak up all the flavors.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Chicken
Heat up your vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sliced onions, and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent. This step releases all the lovely flavors that form the base of our pancit. Then, add the thinly sliced chicken breast and cook until it’s fully cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Cooking the chicken first ensures it’s tender and juicy.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the vibrant carrots, shredded cabbage, and sliced green beans. These veggies not only add wonderful color and crunch, but they also keep the dish feeling light and fresh. Let them cook for about 2 minutes, just enough to soften slightly while retaining their crisp texture.
Step 4: Create the Flavorful Broth
Next, pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce if using, black pepper, and chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer so the flavors can meld beautifully. This liquid base is what makes the noodles so delicious as they absorb all the savory goodness.
Step 5: Combine Noodles and Finish Cooking
Add the drained pancit bihon noodles to the pan and toss everything together to coat the noodles evenly with the broth and sauces. Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the noodles to soften perfectly while soaking up the seasonings. If you like, drizzle the sesame oil in now for a subtle aromatic finish that elevates the dish wonderfully.
Step 6: Serve Hot with a Lemon Wedge
Finally, plate your pancit while it’s hot and serve with lemon wedges on the side. A little squeeze of lemon adds a bright and zesty contrast that brightens the entire dish and enhances all those rich flavors.
How to Serve Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility when it comes to garnishing. Fresh lemon or calamansi wedges add a burst of citrus that balances the savory profile. You can also sprinkle some chopped green onions or toasted garlic bits on top to add texture and extra flavor that will make every bite special.
Side Dishes
Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple Filipino sides like lumpia (spring rolls), hard-boiled eggs, or fresh cucumber salad. These sides add complementary textures and flavors while keeping the meal light and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to impress at a gathering, arrange the pancit in a large serving platter topped with fresh herbs, slices of boiled eggs, and lemon wedges artfully placed around. Serving in banana leaves or colorful bowls also adds a festive, inviting touch that shows you made something truly special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your pancit has cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the lemon wedges separate until serving to maintain their fresh zing.
Freezing
This dish doesn’t freeze quite as well due to the delicate texture of the rice noodles and fresh vegetables, which can become mushy after thawing. It’s best to enjoy pancit fresh or refrigerated within a couple of days.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pancit gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Stir frequently to prevent the noodles from sticking or drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, to preserve texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles for this Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe?
Absolutely! While pancit bihon is traditional, you can experiment with egg noodles or even vermicelli. Just adjust soaking and cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Is it necessary to use oyster sauce?
Oyster sauce is optional but recommended. It adds a lovely depth of flavor and subtle sweetness. If you don’t have it, you can increase soy sauce slightly or add a touch of fish sauce for umami.
Can I substitute chicken with other proteins?
Yes! Shrimp, pork, or even tofu work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the protein chosen.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more vegetables like mushrooms or tofu to keep it hearty and satisfying.
What’s the secret to getting the perfect texture in pancit noodles?
The key is soaking the noodles before cooking and adding them to a simmering broth so they absorb flavor while staying tender, not mushy. Timing is everything!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about making this Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe that brings a bit of Filipino tradition right to your table. It’s a colorful, flavorful dish that fits effortlessly into any weeknight or special occasion. Trust me, once you try it, this pancit will become a favorite go-to recipe you reach for again and again. Give it a whirl and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Filipino
Description
A quick and easy Filipino Pancit Bihon recipe featuring thin rice noodles stir-fried with chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory soy-based sauces, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 8 oz pancit bihon (rice noodles)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Proteins
- 1/2 lb chicken breast, sliced thinly
Vegetables
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup green beans, sliced
Liquids & Sauces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
Garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Soak the noodles: Soak the pancit bihon rice noodles in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain and set aside to soften them before cooking.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sliced onion, sautéing them until fragrant and translucent.
- Cook the chicken: Add the thinly sliced chicken breast to the pan and cook thoroughly for about 5 to 7 minutes until no longer pink.
- Add vegetables: Stir in julienned carrots, shredded cabbage, and sliced green beans. Continue cooking for 2 more minutes to slightly soften the vegetables.
- Add seasonings and broth: Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), black pepper, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook noodles in broth: Add the drained rice noodles into the pan, mixing well so the noodles absorb the broth and flavors. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the noodles are tender and well combined.
- Finish and serve: If desired, drizzle sesame oil for added aroma and flavor. Serve the Pancit hot with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over just before eating.
Notes
- Oyster sauce is optional but adds depth of flavor; omit for a milder taste.
- Soaking the noodles properly prevents them from breaking during cooking.
- Adjust vegetable quantities according to preference or availability.
- Use chicken broth to enhance the savory profile; water can be substituted in a pinch.
- Serve immediately for best texture and freshness.
