If you’re craving a flavorful, comforting dish that’s ready before you know it, this Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe is exactly what you need. Pancit, a beloved Filipino noodle dish, is vibrant, packed with fresh veggies, tender chicken, and just the right amount of savory sauce to make every bite a delight. Whether you’re a weeknight dinner hero or a weekend cook looking to impress friends, this recipe is straightforward and guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to any memorable dish, and this Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe is no exception. Each ingredient plays a special role, offering texture, color, or that umami kick that brings the noodles to life.
- 8 oz pancit bihon (rice noodles): These thin noodles soak up the sauce and flavors beautifully, giving the dish its signature texture.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Perfect for sautéing the aromatics and chicken, providing a mild base without overpowering flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch that makes the dish irresistibly savory from the first sizzle.
- 1 small onion, sliced: Adds sweetness and depth, balancing out the savory elements perfectly.
- 1/2 lb chicken breast, sliced thinly: Tender protein that cooks quickly and blends seamlessly with the veggies and noodles.
- 1 medium carrot, julienned: Brightens the dish with a lovely crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded: Adds freshness and texture, softening just enough to complement the noodles.
- 1/2 cup green beans, sliced: Brings a subtle snap and an earthy note to the mix.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: The salty umami backbone that ties everything together.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional): For an extra layer of richness and sweetness if you want to amp up the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that awakens the palate without overpowering the dish.
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid that cooks the noodles and keeps the dish moist and tasty.
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional): A little extra aroma and nuttiness to finish the dish beautifully.
- Lemon wedges for serving: The bright, zesty touch that complements the savory noodles perfectly.
How to Make Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe
Step 1: Soak the noodles
Start by soaking the pancit bihon in warm water for about 10 minutes. This gentle soaking makes the noodles pliable and ready to absorb all the savory goodness later, ensuring they don’t clump or break while cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the aromatics and chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sliced onions, stirring until fragrant and slightly golden. This creates a flavorful foundation. Then, add the thinly sliced chicken breast and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes—a key step for tender, juicy pieces that meld well with the veggies and noodles.
Step 3: Add the vegetables
Toss in the julienned carrots, shredded cabbage, and sliced green beans. Stir-fry the vegetables with the chicken for about 2 minutes to retain a slight crunch, which adds delightful texture and bursts of freshness.
Step 4: Add sauces and broth
Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce if using, black pepper, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This blend infuses the entire dish with savory flavors while keeping it moist and comforting.
Step 5: Incorporate the noodles
Add the drained rice noodles to the pan, mixing them thoroughly with the simmering sauce and vegetables. Let the noodles soak up the broth’s deliciousness by cooking for about 3 to 5 minutes until tender. Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil for that lovely, nutty aroma if you like. Now your Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe is almost ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe
Garnishes
Serving pancit with lemon wedges is a tradition that elevates the dish beautifully. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a bright, tangy contrast that balances the savory depth of the noodles and chicken perfectly, making each bite sing with freshness.
Side Dishes
Pancit shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple Filipino sides like lumpia (spring rolls), or a fresh cucumber salad to add crispness and cool down the palate. You can also serve it alongside grilled or fried meats for a heartier meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, serve your Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe family-style in a big, colorful platter garnished with fresh herbs or chopped scallions. Or try wrapping portions in lettuce cups for a fun, hand-held version that’s sure to spark conversation and smiles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, be sure to cool any leftovers before placing them in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, pancit stays delicious for up to 3 days, making it a perfect lunch or quick dinner option for the next couple of days.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s best to avoid it for pancit since the texture of the noodles and vegetables can change noticeably. If you do freeze, use a freezer-safe container and thaw gently in the fridge overnight for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your pancit gently in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water to revive moisture and prevent the noodles from drying out. This will make your leftovers taste almost as fresh as the first time you made this Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles instead of pancit bihon?
Absolutely! While pancit bihon gives the traditional texture, you can substitute with other rice vermicelli or even thin egg noodles to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
Is oyster sauce necessary for the recipe?
Oyster sauce is optional but highly recommended because it adds a subtle sweetness and depth. If you prefer, you can skip it, and the dish will still be tasty with soy sauce alone.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding tofu or mushrooms can boost protein and keep your Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe just as satisfying.
How spicy is this pancit recipe?
This version is mild with just black pepper for gentle heat. You can always add chili flakes or sliced fresh chili for a spicy kick if you like to turn up the heat.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can slice the vegetables and chicken a day ahead, and even soak the noodles in advance. This prep will make putting everything together on cooking day even faster.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a homemade pancit that brings people together, and this Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe is the perfect gateway to that warmth and tradition. With its vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and comforting aroma, making this dish will fill your kitchen with joy and your heart with satisfaction. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become your go-to noodle dish for any occasion!
Print
Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Filipino
Description
Quick and Easy Pancit is a traditional Filipino noodle dish made with thin rice noodles, sautéed chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory sauces. This recipe combines simple ingredients and straightforward steps to bring you a flavorful, comforting meal in just 25 minutes, perfect for a weekday dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pancit bihon (rice noodles)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 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
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Soak the noodles: Soak the pancit bihon (rice noodles) in warm water for 10 minutes to soften them. Drain the noodles and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onions, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
- Cook the chicken: Add the thinly sliced chicken breast to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.
- Add vegetables: Stir in the julienned carrots, shredded cabbage, and sliced green beans. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to slightly soften the vegetables.
- Add sauces and broth: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce if using, black pepper, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate noodles: Add the drained rice noodles to the pan, mixing thoroughly to ensure they absorb the broth and seasonings evenly.
- Cook the noodles: Continue cooking for about 3-5 minutes or until the noodles are soft and flavorful. If desired, drizzle the sesame oil over the dish and mix well.
- Serve: Serve the pancit hot with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over before eating for added brightness and flavor.
Notes
- If oyster sauce is unavailable or you prefer a vegetarian version, the sauce can be omitted.
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce to your taste preference for saltiness.
- For added protein variety, shrimp or pork can be used instead of chicken.
- Ensure not to over-soak the rice noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy during cooking.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or fried garlic for extra flavor and texture.
