Pancit succeeds when the noodles drink up seasoned broth instead of plain water, which means a real bone broth and a naturally brewed soy do most of the work. Soak the bihon only until it turns pliable, then let it finish cooking in the broth itself. Cooked that way the noodles absorb flavor rather than going to mush.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep20 min
Cook20 min
Makes6 servings
CuisineFilipino
Cost$$
Dairy-free
Contains gluten · soy
Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for6servings
Rice noodles
Thin bihon rice noodles; soak in warm water only until bendable, since they finish cooking in the pan.
About as virtuous as dinner gets. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortEasy
Cook it with
Instant PotSlow cookerOne-pot
The Method
Soak noodlesCover bihon in warm water 5 to 8 minutes until just pliable, then drain. They should still have a raw bite.
Cook aromatics and chickenStir-fry garlic and sliced chicken over high heat until the chicken is cooked through, about 4 minutes, then add carrot and cabbage.
Simmer noodles in brothPour in broth and soy, add noodles, and toss constantly. Cook until the noodles absorb nearly all the liquid, 4 to 6 minutes.
FinishFold in scallions off the heat and squeeze citrus over the top. Serve with more citrus wedges on the side.
Can you make Pancit in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Pancit? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Pancit ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Pancit gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
Is Pancit vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
Cooked it? Changed something that worked? Leave a note for the next person — first-name basis, no account.
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