Chicken Pancit

Chicken Pancit is a beloved Filipino noodle dish that brings together tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory flavors in a vibrant stir-fry you can whip up in under 30 minutes. This recipe shows you how to make delicious Chicken Pancit quickly without sacrificing any of the traditional tastes or textures that make this meal such a comforting favorite. Light, satisfying, and versatile, it’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a festive gathering with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy preparation: Ready in less than 30 minutes, this Chicken Pancit fits perfectly into busy days without compromising flavor.
• Simple ingredients: Uses easy-to-find staples that come together to create a well-balanced, colorful dish.
• Balanced flavors: Combines savory chicken, fresh vegetables, and a hint of citrus for a meal that excites every taste bud.
• One-pan convenience: Minimal cleanup thanks to the straightforward stir-fry method that cooks everything in one skillet or wok.
• Family-friendly: A crowd-pleaser loved by kids and adults alike, making it great for weeknight meals and celebrations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Chicken Pancit recipe plays a crucial role, adding texture, flavor, or color that makes the dish shine. From tender chicken to crunchy veggies and savory seasonings, these simple components come together seamlessly for a quick, delicious meal.

• Chicken breast or thighs: Choose boneless, skinless pieces for tender, juicy protein that cooks quickly.
• Pancit noodles (rice sticks or egg noodles): Classic noodles that soak up the flavors perfectly and provide that quintessential pancit texture.
• Garlic and onion: Aromatics that build the dish’s flavorful foundation.
• Carrots and cabbage: Fresh vegetables that bring crunch and a pop of color.
• Green beans or snap peas: Optional but add a fresh, crisp bite for texture contrast.
• Soy sauce: Provides that essential salty, umami depth to the sauce.
• Chicken broth: Adds moisture and rich, savory taste to keep everything tender.
• Calamansi or lemon juice: A splash of citrus brightens the whole dish with a little tang.
• Green onions: For fresh garnish and an extra hint of onion flavor.
• Vegetable oil: For stir-frying all ingredients evenly without sticking.

Variations for Chicken Pancit

Chicken Pancit is incredibly flexible, allowing you to switch things up depending on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Experiment with these variations to make it your own!

• Seafood Pancit: Swap out chicken for shrimp or a mix of seafood for a coastal twist.
• Vegetarian version: Skip the meat, add tofu or mushrooms, and bulk up on vegetables for a meat-free delight.
• Gluten-free option: Use rice noodles and gluten-free soy sauce to keep Pancit safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Spicy kick: Add sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili flakes to ramp up the heat.
• Extra protein boost: Toss in scrambled eggs or serve with sliced hard-boiled eggs on top for additional richness.

How to Make Chicken Pancit

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Begin by slicing the chicken into thin strips to ensure it cooks evenly and quickly. Julienne the carrots, shred the cabbage, and chop the green onions. Prepare the noodles according to package instructions, typically soaking or boiling just enough to make them pliable.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onions, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Toss in the sliced chicken and sauté until no longer pink and slightly golden on the edges.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Add the carrots, cabbage, and any other chosen vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp, searing them slightly to bring out their natural sweetness and texture.

Step 4: Add the Noodles and Sauce

Incorporate the prepared noodles into the skillet, gently tossing to combine with the chicken and veggies. Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce, stirring well so that the noodles soak up the delicious flavors. Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly and the noodles to absorb the sauce fully.

Step 5: Finish with Citrus and Garnish

Turn off the heat and squeeze fresh calamansi or lemon juice over the dish, brightening the flavors with a touch of acidity. Sprinkle sliced green onions on top as a fresh garnish before serving immediately.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Pancit

• Use high heat: Keeps ingredients from steaming and helps develop a slight caramelization for better flavor.
• Don’t overcook noodles: Cook just until tender to avoid sogginess in the final dish.
• Slice uniformly: Ensures even cooking and a professional presentation.
• Customize broth amount: Adjust the chicken broth quantity depending on your preferred noodle moisture level.
• Rest before serving: Let the pancit sit for a few minutes off heat to meld the flavors together beautifully.

How to Serve Chicken Pancit

Garnishes

Fresh green onions and a wedge of calamansi or lemon are classic garnishes that bring brightness and a fresh aroma. Optionally, you can add crushed fried garlic or chopped fresh cilantro to enhance flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Chicken Pancit pairs wonderfully with traditional Filipino sides like lumpia (spring rolls), adobo, or a simple side salad. For a heartier meal, serve with garlic fried rice or steamed vegetables to balance textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Chicken Pancit in a large family-style platter perfect for sharing or plate it individually topped with sliced boiled eggs and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. For parties, try cup-sized portions garnished with colorful vegetable strips to make the meal festive and fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled Chicken Pancit in airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the noodles and vegetables moist by adding a splash of broth or water before sealing.

Freezing

While freezing Chicken Pancit is possible, it can affect the texture of the noodles and vegetables. If needed, freeze in portioned airtight containers for up to one month, but expect slight changes in consistency once thawed.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture. Avoid microwaving too long to prevent the noodles from becoming dry and rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken for Pancit?

Absolutely! Pork, beef, shrimp, or even tofu make great alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through and flavorful.

What kind of noodles should I use for Chicken Pancit?

Traditional Pancit uses rice stick noodles or egg noodles, both readily available in Asian grocery stores. Pick the type you prefer or mix them for different textures.

Is Chicken Pancit healthy?

Yes, it can be! With lean protein, lots of fresh vegetables, and controlled oil use, Chicken Pancit offers a balanced meal rich in nutrients, fiber, and flavor.

How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together?

Rinse cooked noodles in cold water after boiling and toss them with a little oil before adding them to the stir-fry to avoid clumping.

Can I make Chicken Pancit vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and add tofu or mushrooms to keep it hearty and flavorful without meat.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Pancit recipe brings the heart and soul of Filipino comfort food into your kitchen quickly and easily, with every bite delivering warmth, texture, and vibrant flavors. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, it’s a delightful dish that’s sure to become one of your favorites. Give it a try, and watch how quickly this easy, delicious meal becomes a staple in your home.

Related Posts

• Latin Mayo Roasted Chicken
• Chicken Marsala (Slow Cooker)
• Slow Cooker Roast Beef

Print