Name: Filipino Pansit Bihon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients: Thin rice vermicelli (bihon); Chicken breast, sliced thin; Shrimp (optional); Garlic, minced; Onion, sliced; Carrots, julienned; Cabbage, shredded; Green beans or snap peas, cut diagonally; Soy sauce; Oyster sauce; Chicken or vegetable broth; Calamansi juice or lemon juice; Salt and pepper; Cooking oil; Green onions, chopped (for garnish); Fried garlic bits (optional, for topping)

Pansit Bihon is a beloved Filipino stir-fried noodle dish featuring thin rice noodles, savory chicken or shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and fragrant seasonings. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal. Filipino Pansit Bihon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this Pansit Bihon recipe because it captures the comforting flavors of the Philippines in every bite. The combination of tender noodles, savory chicken or shrimp, crisp veggies, and a rich blend of soy sauce and citrus makes each forkful vibrant and satisfying. It’s a versatile dish that I can easily customize and put together in under 30 minutes—perfect for when I need something flavorful and fuss-free.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Thin rice vermicelli (bihon)
Chicken breast, sliced thin
Shrimp (optional)
Garlic, minced
Onion, sliced
Carrots, julienned
Cabbage, shredded
Green beans or snap peas, cut diagonally
Soy sauce
Oyster sauce
Chicken or vegetable broth
Calamansi juice or lemon juice
Salt and pepper
Cooking oil
Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Fried garlic bits (optional, for topping)

directions

Soak bihon noodles in lukewarm water for a few minutes until pliable; drain and set aside.
Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add onion and cook until translucent.
Add chicken and cook until lightly browned. If using shrimp, stir-fry until pink.
Stir in carrots, cabbage, and green beans; cook until veggies begin to soften.
Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and broth; mix well.
Add drained noodles, gently tossing to combine and absorb sauce. If mixture seems dry, add a little more broth or water.
Season with salt, pepper, and calamansi (or lemon) juice. Taste and adjust as needed.
Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with green onions and fried garlic bits.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: approximately 25 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Omit chicken and shrimp; add tofu or extra mushrooms. Use vegetable broth and add bell peppers or snow peas.
Seafood mix: Use a combination of shrimp, squid rings, and fish cake.
Spicy kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced bird’s eye chilies for heat.

storage/reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet with a few splashes of broth or water to restore moisture, stirring constantly until heated through.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the noodles may lose their texture.

FAQs

1. What can I substitute if I can’t find bihon noodles?

I’ve used lo mein or angel hair pasta before; they work well and absorb the flavors nicely, though texture varies slightly.

2. Can I make this ahead for a party?

I often prep the ingredients earlier and stir-fry everything just before serving. The dish tastes best fresh and warm.

3. How spicy is this dish?

This basic version isn’t spicy, but I sometimes add chili flakes or fresh chilies to give it a mild to moderate kick, depending on my mood.

4. Is pansit bihon gluten-free?

It can be, provided I use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce, and confirm that the broth is gluten-free too.

5. Can I freeze pansit bihon?

I don’t recommend freezing—it changes the noodles to be mushy. I prefer to store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently.

Conclusion

I love how Pansit Bihon brings warmth, texture, and flavor to the table with minimal effort. It’s adaptable, quick, and always a hit with friends and family. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do!