Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted a delightful dish that combines vibrant flavors, fresh textures, and comes together in just minutes, then this Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Pancit bihon is a classic Filipino noodle dish that brings together savory chicken, crisp vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice noodles for a meal that’s as comforting as it is exciting. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or craving a flavorful adventure, this recipe delivers a satisfying taste of the Philippines without any fuss or complicated steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping it simple is the key here. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish a joy to eat. From tender chicken to crunchy vegetables and fragrant seasonings, everything works harmoniously to create that signature pancit flavor.

• 8 oz pancit bihon (rice noodles): These thin rice noodles soak up flavor beautifully and create the perfect light base.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Essential for sautéing and creating a delicious aromatic base.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds depth and a wonderful fragrant kick.
• 1 small onion, sliced: Brings natural sweetness and balance.
• 1/2 lb chicken breast, sliced thinly: A lean protein that cooks quickly and stays tender.
• 1 medium carrot, julienned: Offers a pop of color and a subtle earthy crunch.
• 1 cup cabbage, shredded: Gives the dish volume and a fresh crisp bite.
• 1/2 cup green beans, sliced: Adds a nice texture contrast and vibrant green hue.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: The salty backbone that ties everything together.
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional): Enhances umami for a richer flavor experience.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a gentle heat and subtle spice.
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Infuses the noodles and veggies with savory depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional): Adds a toasted, nutty aroma to finish the dish off.
• Lemon wedges for serving: A zesty balance to the savory flavors.

How to Make Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Noodles

Start by soaking the pancit bihon rice noodles in warm water for about 10 minutes. This softens them just enough to become tender but not mushy when cooked later. Once soaked, drain them well and set aside so they’re ready to absorb all those beautiful flavors.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and sliced onion. Sauté until they’re fragrant and soft, which usually takes just a couple of minutes. This step builds the flavorful foundation that makes this Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe so inviting.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the thinly sliced chicken breast to the pan and stir occasionally. Cook it thoroughly until it turns white and is nicely tender, about 5 to 7 minutes. The chicken soaks up the garlic and onion flavors and becomes the star protein in this dish.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Toss in the julienned carrot, shredded cabbage, and sliced green beans. Stir everything together and cook for about 2 minutes. The vegetables keep their delightful crunch here, bringing freshness and vibrant color to the meal.

Step 5: Pour in Sauces and Broth

Pour the soy sauce, oyster sauce if using, black pepper, and chicken broth into the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This creates a flavorful broth that the noodles will soak up in the final step, making every bite deliciously seasoned and moist.

Step 6: Combine Noodles and Finish Cooking

Add the drained noodles to the pan and carefully toss everything together to coat the noodles evenly with the broth and seasonings. Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes until the noodles are soft and tender. Stir in the sesame oil, if you like, for an aromatic finish that lifts the entire dish.

Step 7: Serve with Lemon Wedges

Once everything is perfectly combined and cooked, transfer to serving plates and offer lemon wedges on the side. Squeezing fresh lemon juice just before eating adds a bright pop of acidity that beautifully balances the savory flavors of this Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe.

How to Serve Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing pancit can really transform your serving into a feast for the eyes and palate. Consider sprinkling chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for a burst of green and extra freshness. Some people love adding hard-boiled egg slices or even crispy fried garlic for added texture and richness.

Side Dishes

Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple Filipino sides like lumpia (spring rolls), atchara (pickled papaya), or even a light cucumber salad to add crispness and cut through the richness. These sides round out your meal perfectly without stealing the show.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Try serving your pancit in individual bowls topped with colorful vegetable ribbons or edible flowers. Alternatively, use banana leaves as plates or liners for an authentic Filipino touch. Packing it into bento boxes for lunch makes a practical and beautiful presentation as well.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles might absorb some sauce overnight, so stirring before reheating helps restore the original texture and flavor balance.

Freezing

While pancit tastes best freshly made, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Use a freezer-safe container and separate portions for convenience. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftovers in a pan over low to medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the noodles and revive that fresh-off-the-stove taste. Stir frequently until heated through to avoid drying out the dish.

FAQs

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shrimp, pork, or tofu are excellent alternatives that work well in this Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe. Just adjust cooking times as needed to suit the protein.

Is oyster sauce necessary?

Oyster sauce adds extra umami depth but is optional. You can skip it if you prefer or replace it with a splash of fish sauce or more soy sauce for a different flavor profile.

How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?

Soak the noodles just until softened, not fully cooked, and add them towards the end with hot broth to gently finish cooking. Avoid over-soaking or overcooking to keep their ideal texture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and swap chicken for tofu or just load up on more veggies. Omit oyster sauce or use a vegetarian version to keep that savory edge.

What is the best way to enjoy pancit?

Pancit is best enjoyed fresh and hot, right off the stove with a squeeze of fresh lemon or calamansi, paired with some crispy fried sides for contrast. It makes for a hearty yet light meal any time of day.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe that keeps me coming back for more. It’s the perfect way to savor a comforting, flavorful noodle dish without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your ingredients, invite some friends or family, and give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how delicious and satisfying this simple pancit can be!

Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Quick and Easy Pancit is a classic Filipino noodle dish made with rice noodles, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables, all stir-fried to perfection in a savory soy and oyster sauce blend. This flavorful meal is ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

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Noodles and Oils

• 8 oz pancit bihon (rice noodles)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)

Proteins and Vegetables

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1/2 lb chicken breast, sliced thinly
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 cup cabbage, shredded
• 1/2 cup green beans, sliced

Seasonings and Broth

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth

Serving

• Lemon wedges for serving

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Instructions

1. Soak Noodles: Soak the pancit bihon rice noodles in warm water for 10 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside to prepare for cooking.
2. Heat Oil and Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic and sliced onion until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Cook Chicken: Add the thinly sliced chicken breast to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
4. Add Vegetables: Stir in the julienned carrots, shredded cabbage, and sliced green beans. Cook the mixture for another 2 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly but remain crisp.
5. Add Sauces and Broth: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), black pepper, and chicken broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer to combine all flavors.
6. Incorporate Noodles: Add the drained rice noodles to the simmering pan. Mix thoroughly to ensure the noodles absorb the flavorful broth and seasonings evenly.
7. Cook Noodles: Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are soft and all ingredients are well blended. Drizzle the sesame oil over the top if using, and give it a final stir.
8. Serve: Remove from heat and serve the pancit hot, accompanied by fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the noodles to add a bright, tangy flavor.

Notes

• Soaking the rice noodles helps them cook evenly and prevents them from breaking during stir-frying.
• Oyster sauce is optional but adds a rich umami flavor to the dish; vegetarian substitutes can be used for a vegetarian version.
• Slicing the chicken thinly allows quick cooking and better absorption of flavors.
• Customize the vegetables based on what is in season or available; bell peppers or snow peas also work well.
• Using lemon wedges adds a fresh citrus note that complements the savory flavors.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Filipino