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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Soak Noodles: Soak the pancit bihon rice noodles in warm water for 10 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside to prepare for cooking.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Incorporate Noodles: Add the drained rice noodles to the simmering pan. Mix thoroughly to ensure the noodles absorb the flavorful broth and seasonings evenly.
- 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.
- 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