When the clock is ticking and my hunger pangs are shouting, I crave something that bursts with flavor yet comes together in a flash. Enter my Quick and Easy Pancit—a vibrant Filipino noodle dish that’s sure to become your new go-to weeknight meal. The delightful aroma of garlic sizzling in the pan pulls me in, while the colorful medley of vegetables and tender chicken (or shrimp, pork, or tofu if you prefer) dances together, creating a beautiful one-pan wonder that’s not only satisfying but also a feast for the eyes.
In just 25 minutes, I can whip up this deliciously savory dish, perfect for those hectic evenings or intimate gatherings where I want to impress but also keep it simple. With gluten-free options and endless variations, this Pancit offers both comfort and versatility. So grab your wok, and let’s turn a busy night into a culinary adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why is Quick and Easy Pancit a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: Whip up a delicious meal in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy with loved ones—less scrubbing, more savoring!
Endless Variations: Customize with chicken, shrimp, pork, or tofu, along with your favorite veggies.
Gluten-Free Friendly: Easily adapt to dietary preferences with tamari for a gluten-free delight.
Bold Flavors: The aromatic mix of garlic, soy sauce, and fresh veggies creates a satisfying taste explosion.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress at gatherings or cozy dinners, making it a family favorite.
Quick and Easy Pancit Ingredients
Note: Gather these simple ingredients to create your flavorful Quick and Easy Pancit!
For the Noodles
- Pancit Bihon (Rice Noodles) – Soak in warm water before cooking to soften them perfectly.
- Chicken Broth – Imparts a savory depth to the dish; swap with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
For the Stir-Fry
- Vegetable Oil – Essential for sautéing and adding richness.
- Garlic – Freshly minced enhances the aromatic base flavor.
- Onion – Thinly sliced for quick cooking, it adds sweetness and depth.
- Chicken Breast – Provides heartiness; feel free to replace it with shrimp, pork, or tofu for variations.
- Carrot – Julienned for crunch and natural sweetness.
- Cabbage – Shredded for volume and texture; cooks quickly.
- Green Beans – Sliced to ensure even cooking while adding a snap of color.
For the Flavors
- Soy Sauce – Adds an umami kick; consider low-sodium for a lighter dish.
- Oyster Sauce (optional) – Enhances the dish’s flavor complexity; substitute with soy sauce and sugar if needed.
- Black Pepper – A hint of mild heat and depth.
- Sesame Oil (optional) – For an additional layer of flavor complexity.
For Serving
- Lemon Wedges – Their zest brightens flavors and adds a refreshing note.
How to Make Quick and Easy Pancit
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Soak Noodles: Start by soaking the Pancit Bihon in warm water for about 10 minutes. Once pliable, drain them well to prepare for cooking.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large pan over medium heat, warm up the vegetable oil. Add minced garlic and sliced onion, sautéing until fragrant—about 2 minutes.
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Cook Chicken: Introduce the sliced chicken breast to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink and starts to brown slightly.
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Add Vegetables: Stir in the julienned carrots, shredded cabbage, and sliced green beans. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, letting the vegetables soften while maintaining their bright color.
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Mix Sauces: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), black pepper, and chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer to develop the flavors.
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Combine Noodles: Carefully add the drained noodles to the pan. Toss them gently to fully incorporate into the mixture, allowing them to absorb the flavors for about 3-5 minutes until tender.
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Finish with Flavor: Optional: Drizzle sesame oil over the dish right before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
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Serve Warm: Serve the Pancit hot, with lemon wedges on the side to brighten up each serving.
Optional: Sprinkle with green onions for an extra burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Quick and Easy Pancit?
When you’re ready to elevate your dining experience, these delightful pairings will complement the vibrant tastes of Pancit beautifully.
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Lumpia: These crispy Filipino spring rolls bring a delightful crunch and are perfect for dipping, enhancing the meal’s texture and flavor contrast.
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Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated in a tangy sauce, they add a smoky element that perfectly pairs with the savory noodles and fresh veggies.
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Spicy Sriracha Sauce: A simple drizzle adds an exciting kick that brightens the flavors of the Pancit, pleasing those who enjoy a bit of heat.
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Coconut Rice: Its subtle sweetness and creaminess make a lovely contrast to the savory noodles, creating a harmonious balance on the plate.
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Sesame Green Beans: Sautéed with sesame oil and garlic, they not only bring bright color but also a nutty flavor that enhances the overall meal.
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Mango Salad: A refreshing, sweet salad with citrus dressing balances the rich flavors of the Pancit, making each bite a burst of flavor.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing drinks like these can cut through the richness and enhance your meal, making for a delightful dining experience.
With these delicious accompaniments, you’ll transform your Quick and Easy Pancit into a full culinary adventure sure to delight family and friends alike!
Quick and Easy Pancit Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and personalize this dish to match your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist or try pork for a richer flavor. Tofu offers a fantastic vegetarian option, soaking up all those delicious tastes beautifully.
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Vegetable Choices: Consider adding bell peppers, snap peas, or even mushrooms to enhance the color and texture of your dish. The more colorful your veggies, the more vibrant the meal!
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Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, add a splash of sriracha or a sprinkle of chili flakes during cooking. Your taste buds will thank you for this bold decision!
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap soy sauce with tamari for a delightful gluten-free experience. This way, everyone can enjoy the delectable flavors without worry.
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Extra Flavor Boost: Add freshly chopped ginger or scallions when sautéing for an aromatic twist that elevates your Pancit to new heights.
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Crispy Toppings: Top your Pancit with crispy shallots or garlic for extra crunch and flavor layering. This simple addition creates delightful textures!
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can be tossed in just before serving to give the dish a refreshing lift. Experimenting with herbs creates an unforgettable aroma!
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Citrus Zing: Instead of lemon, try using lime for a different citrus kick that pairs beautifully with the savory elements. A little zest can brighten up the dish in seconds!
Make Ahead Options
These Quick and Easy Pancit options are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prepare many components, such as soaking the Pancit Bihon and chopping your vegetables (carrots, cabbage, and green beans) up to 24 hours in advance. Just refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. For the chicken, slice it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator too. When you’re ready to enjoy your flavorful meal, simply heat the vegetable oil, sauté the aromatics, add the chicken, and stir in the prepped vegetables before combining everything with the sauces and noodles. This way, you’ll achieve that comforting, restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Quick and Easy Pancit
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Perfect Noodle Texture: Avoid over-soaking the rice noodles to maintain a delightful chewy texture in your Quick and Easy Pancit. Soak just until pliable.
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Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, prepare your veggies and protein in advance. This way, you can have everything ready to toss in the pan during cooking.
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Freshness Matters: For best results, slightly undercook the noodles if you plan to make this dish ahead. They will absorb flavors beautifully when reheated.
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Serve Immediately: Always enjoy your Pancit fresh for the best texture. Reheated noodles can lose their appeal, so serve right after cooking.
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Substitute Smartly: Don’t hesitate to mix proteins and vegetables based on what you have at home. The versatility of Quick and Easy Pancit supports various combinations.
How to Store and Freeze Quick and Easy Pancit
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To preserve flavors and texture, make sure to cool it completely before sealing.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Pancit in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Allow to cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then stir-fry with a splash of water over medium heat until heated through, ensuring the noodles regain their delightful texture.
Make-Ahead Tip: If preparing Pancit ahead of time, consider slightly undercooking the noodles to prevent mushiness when reheated later.
Quick and Easy Pancit Recipe FAQs
What type of noodles should I use for Pancit?
You should use Pancit Bihon, a thin rice noodle that’s perfect for absorbing flavors. Soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften before using. If unavailable, you can substitute with other types of rice noodles or even gluten-free noodles like rice vermicelli.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Pancit in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s essential to allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it to maintain its taste and texture for the next meal.
Can I freeze Pancit?
Absolutely! You can freeze the Quick and Easy Pancit in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, and then stir-fry it over medium heat with a splash of water until heated through.
What should I do if my noodles are mushy?
If your noodles turn out mushy, it’s usually due to over-soaking or cooking. To prevent this, soak the noodles only until they are pliable and avoid cooking them for too long. If they are already overcooked, try mixing them with fresh, crisp veggies when reheating to bring back some texture.
Is Pancit safe for kids and those with allergies?
Pancit is generally a family-friendly dish! However, if cooking for kids or anyone with allergies, be mindful of ingredient swaps. Use gluten-free soy sauce for gluten sensitivities and ensure proteins are suitable for everyone. Always check all labels for potential allergens.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
You can easily adapt the Quick and Easy Pancit by replacing the chicken with tofu or tempeh and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also ensure that all sauces, like soy and oyster sauces, are vegetarian-friendly or substitute them with similar plant-based options.
Quick and Easy Pancit: A Delicious One-Pan Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the Pancit Bihon in warm water for about 10 minutes. Drain well.
- In a large pan, warm vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sliced onion, sauté until fragrant.
- Introduce sliced chicken breast to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes until no longer pink.
- Stir in julienned carrots, shredded cabbage, and sliced green beans. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and chicken broth. Simmer to develop flavors.
- Gently add drained noodles to the pan and toss to incorporate, cooking for 3-5 minutes until tender.
- Optional: Drizzle sesame oil before serving for flavor.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.