Name: Filipino Pancit Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients: 8 ounces rice noodles; 1 large onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium carrot, julienned; ½ small cabbage, shredded; ½ cup snow peas, trimmed; 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium); 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium or no sodium added); ½ lemon, sliced (for serving); Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 49 reviews

If you are craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and comforting textures, then this Filipino Pancit Recipe is exactly what you need. This beloved noodle stir-fry from the Philippines offers a perfect balance of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory sauces, all tossed together with soft, flavorful rice noodles. Quick, easy, and absolutely delicious, this recipe brings the heart of Filipino home cooking to your table and is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round pan with a black honeycomb pattern shows three groups of vegetables arranged inside. At the top is a large pile of thinly shredded white cabbage with a light green tint, on the right are bright green snap peas with smooth, shiny surfaces, and at the bottom left, there are thin orange carrot sticks laid roughly parallel. The pan has a metal handle on the left side, and the background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is the secret behind an unforgettable Filipino Pancit Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of textures, tastes, and colors that make this dish truly special.

8 ounces rice noodles: These thin noodles absorb the flavorful sauce beautifully and give pancit its signature texture.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Perfect for stir-frying the ingredients without overpowering their natural flavors.
1 large onion (sliced): Adds sweetness and depth to the base of the dish when sautéed.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a fragrant and savory kick that’s essential in Filipino cooking.
1 medium carrot (julienned): Offers crunch and a pop of bright color.
½ small cabbage (shredded): Adds a tender crispness and mild sweetness that balances the dish.
½ cup snow peas (trimmed): Fresh and slightly sweet, these peas bring a delightful snap.
1 cup cooked chicken (shredded): Protein-packed and tender, it makes the pancit hearty and satisfying.
¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium): Provides saltiness with a rich umami flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Adds a subtle sweetness and deep, savory notes that elevate the dish.
½ teaspoon black pepper (ground): Brings just the right touch of warmth and spice.
2 cups chicken broth (low or no sodium): Helps cook the noodles and infuses them with savory goodness.
½ lemon (sliced for serving): Adds a bright, tangy contrast that brightens every bite.
Fresh cilantro or green onions (chopped, for garnish): For a fresh and inviting finish to your pancit.

How to Make Filipino Pancit Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Noodles

Begin by soaking the rice noodles in warm water for about 10 minutes until they soften just enough to become pliable but not mushy. This prep step ensures they cook evenly later without sticking together.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic, cooking them for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. This fragrant base lays the flavor foundation for the entire pancit.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Next, toss in the julienned carrots, shredded cabbage, and trimmed snow peas. Stir-fry these vibrant veggies for approximately 3 to 4 minutes. The goal here is to soften them slightly while maintaining their essential crispness, contributing color and texture that bring the dish to life.

Step 4: Add the Chicken

Once your veggies are just tender, stir in the shredded cooked chicken. Cooking the chicken with the vegetables for about 2 minutes helps infuse the flavors, making every bite tender, juicy, and flavorful.

Step 5: Season the Stir-Fry

Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sprinkle the ground black pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly, allowing the seasonings to coat the chicken and vegetables. This combination is the soul of this Filipino Pancit Recipe, delivering that characteristic savory, slightly sweet taste.

Step 6: Simmer with Broth and Add Noodles

Now pour the chicken broth into the wok and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the drained noodles carefully, tossing them with the chicken and vegetables. Let the noodles soak up the flavorful broth and sauce as you continue to cook and toss for another 3 to 5 minutes until they are fully tender and have absorbed all the delicious flavors.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once the noodles and ingredients are perfectly combined and cooked, transfer your pancit to a serving platter. Garnish generously with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions and serve with lemon slices on the side. The lemon provides a bright, fresh pop that cuts through the richness and makes every bite sing.

How to Serve Filipino Pancit Recipe

A large silver strainer filled with a light layer of thin, pale yellow noodles mixed with thin orange carrot strips and small bits of light green herbs. Bright yellow lemon wedges with white edges sit on top scattered around. Some chopped green herbs are sprinkled over the noodles, adding color contrast. The noodles have a soft, fine texture and fill the strainer loosely. The strainer rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions are essential garnishes that add a burst of freshness right before you dig in. A few wedges of lemon on the side not only add a beautiful pop of color but also allow each person to customize their pancit with a zesty tang.

Side Dishes

Pancit pairs beautifully with other Filipino favorites like lumpia (spring rolls), sweet and savory adobo, or even a side of steamed rice. These sides create a well-rounded meal that highlights the variety and richness of Filipino cuisine.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, try serving pancit in individual banana leaf cups or even in hollowed-out bell peppers. Not only does this make for a stunning presentation, but it also infuses the dish with an extra hint of aroma and tropical flair that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Filipino Pancit Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or dinners on busy days.

Freezing

While pancit is best enjoyed fresh for the best texture, you can freeze leftovers for up to one month. Use a freezer-safe container and make sure to keep the noodles and sauce well mixed to prevent drying out during freezing.

Reheating

Reheat pancit gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the noodles. This will help revive the noodles’ softness without making them mushy. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the dish unevenly.

FAQs

Can I use other proteins besides chicken in this Filipino Pancit Recipe?

Absolutely! Shrimp, pork, or even tofu work wonderfully and add variety. Feel free to experiment with whatever proteins you enjoy to make the dish your own.

What type of noodles are best for pancit?

Traditionally, pancit uses thin rice noodles called “bihon,” but you can also use egg noodles or even spaghetti in a pinch. The key is that the noodles absorb the sauce well and maintain a pleasant texture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

The core ingredients like rice noodles and fresh vegetables are naturally gluten-free. However, to keep it gluten-free, make sure to choose gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce or their alternatives.

How spicy is this Filipino Pancit Recipe?

This recipe is naturally mild but loaded with savory flavors. If you prefer some heat, you can easily add sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili flakes to taste.

Can I make this dish vegan or vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap out the chicken for tofu or extra vegetables, and replace oyster sauce with mushroom sauce or soy sauce. The dish remains just as flavorful and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

Making this Filipino Pancit Recipe at home is like inviting a warm Filipino feast into your kitchen. The beautiful mix of tender noodles, savory chicken, and crisp vegetables comes together so harmoniously that every bite feels like a celebration. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find yourself returning to its comforting flavors time and again. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll want to share it with everyone you know!