How to Make Chicken Bihun Goreng (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Chicken Bihun Goreng is a beloved Malaysian lunch dish, celebrated for its fragrant, savory flavors and light texture. Originating from Malaysia’s multicultural heritage, this stir-fried rice vermicelli offers a harmonious blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian culinary influences. The dish is made using bihun (rice vermicelli), lean chicken breast, and local aromatics like bawang putih (garlic), cili merah (red chili), and kicap manis (sweet soy sauce), creating a truly authentic Malaysian experience. What sets Chicken Bihun Goreng apart is its adaptability and the way it captures the essence of Malaysian home cooking. The noodles are softly stir-fried with an array of fresh vegetables such as sawi (mustard greens) and taugeh (bean sprouts), making it a wholesome and balanced meal. Its lightness and subtle spiciness reflect the tropical climate and the use of fresh, local ingredients, while retaining the comforting flavors Malaysians love. This dish is ideal for those seeking a health-conscious, flavorful lunch that’s easy to prepare and deeply rooted in Malaysia’s culinary traditions.
Ingredients
- 120g Bihun (rice vermicelli) (soaked in water for 15 minutes)
- 100g Chicken breast (thinly sliced)
- 2 cloves Bawang putih (garlic) (minced)
- 2 Bawang merah (shallots) (thinly sliced)
- 1 Cili merah (red chili) (sliced)
- 1 cup Sawi (mustard greens) (chopped)
- 1 cup Taugeh (bean sprouts) (washed and drained)
- 1 tbsp Kicap manis (sweet soy sauce) (can substitute with reduced sodium soy sauce)
- 1/4 tsp Lada sulah (white pepper powder)
- 1 tbsp Minyak masak (cooking oil) (preferably canola or sunflower oil)
- 1/4 tsp Garam (salt) (to taste)
- 1 Limau kasturi (calamansi lime) (for garnish)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Soak bihun in room temperature water for 15 minutes until softened
Soak bihun in room temperature water for 15 minutes until softened. Drain well.
Step 2 · Heat oil in a non-stick wok
Heat oil in a non-stick wok. Sauté bawang putih and bawang merah until fragrant and golden.
Step 3 · Add sliced chicken breast and stir-fry until just cooked and no lon...
Add sliced chicken breast and stir-fry until just cooked and no longer pink.
Step 4 · Add cili merah
Add cili merah, sawi, and taugeh. Stir-fry until vegetables are just wilted but still crisp.
Step 5 · Add drained bihun to the wok
Add drained bihun to the wok. Pour in kicap manis, sprinkle lada sulah, and season with salt. Toss gently until noodles are evenly coated and heated through.
Step 6 · Squeeze limau kasturi over the noodles before serving for a zesty f...
Squeeze limau kasturi over the noodles before serving for a zesty finish.
Step 7 · Serve hot with extra sliced chilies if desired
Serve hot with extra sliced chilies if desired.
Why this recipe is healthy
This dish is a smart choice for calorie-conscious eaters as it uses lean meats, plenty of vegetables, and minimal oil. The stir-frying method reduces the need for excessive fats, while fiber from vegetables and bean sprouts helps keep you full. Chicken Bihun Goreng can easily be adapted to fit various dietary needs, making it ideal for a balanced Malaysian lunch.
A note on tradition
Chicken Bihun Goreng is commonly enjoyed across Peninsular Malaysia, especially in urban homes and at hawker stalls. It reflects the multicultural tapestry of Malaysia, blending Malay spices with Chinese noodle traditions. The dish is frequently served for lunch or at gatherings, and is a staple during family celebrations, yet it remains a daily favorite for its versatility and ease.