How to Make Chicken Bihun Soup (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Chicken Bihun Soup, or 'Sup Ayam Bihun', is a beloved Malaysian lunch dish, renowned for its comforting warmth and nourishing qualities. Rooted in Malaysia’s multicultural culinary heritage, this soup features tender chicken, light rice vermicelli (bihun), and a fragrant broth infused with local spices like lemongrass (serai) and pandan leaves. Its clear, aromatic broth is a staple in many Malaysian households, often enjoyed during rainy seasons or as a soothing meal for the unwell. Malaysians cherish Chicken Bihun Soup for its harmonious blend of flavors and textures—soft bihun, succulent ayam, and crisp vegetables. The dish is typically garnished with daun sup (local parsley), fried shallots, and a squeeze of limau nipis (lime) for a zesty finish. As a lunch option, it’s light yet filling, making it an ideal meal for those seeking both satisfaction and health-conscious eating. Chicken Bihun Soup embodies the essence of Malaysian cuisine, reflecting the nation’s diversity and preference for balanced, wholesome food.
Ingredients
- 100g Rice vermicelli (bihun) (Soaked in water)
- 200g Chicken breast (Skinless, boneless)
- 1 small Carrot (Julienned)
- 1 Celery stalk (Sliced)
- 1 stalk Serai (lemongrass) (Bruised)
- 1 Pandan leaf (Tied into a knot)
- 2 tbsp Daun sup (local parsley) (Chopped)
- 2 tbsp Fried shallots (Optional garnish)
- 1 Limau nipis (lime) (Cut into wedges)
- 800ml Water (For soup base)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (To taste)
- 1/4 tsp White pepper (To taste)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Soak bihun in warm water for 10 minutes until soft
Soak bihun in warm water for 10 minutes until soft. Drain and set aside.
Step 2 · Bring water to a boil in a pot
Bring water to a boil in a pot. Add chicken breast, lemongrass, and pandan leaf. Simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 3 · Remove chicken breast
Remove chicken breast, shred into bite-sized pieces. Return to soup.
Step 4 · Add julienned carrot and sliced celery
Add julienned carrot and sliced celery. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
Step 5 · Season soup with salt and white pepper
Season soup with salt and white pepper. Taste and adjust as needed.
Step 6 · Place bihun in serving bowls
Place bihun in serving bowls. Ladle hot soup and chicken over bihun.
Step 7 · Garnish with daun sup
Garnish with daun sup, fried shallots, and lime wedges. Serve immediately.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Malaysian Chicken Bihun Soup is healthy because it uses lean chicken, minimal oil, and plenty of fresh vegetables. The clear broth reduces fat content while still providing flavor. Rice vermicelli is gluten-free and easy to digest. The soup is filling without being heavy, making it ideal for weight management and balanced nutrition.
A note on tradition
Chicken Bihun Soup is especially popular in central Malaysia, enjoyed across all ethnic groups for its simplicity and comfort. Typically served for lunch or breakfast, it’s a go-to meal for families and is commonly found in warungs and kopitiams. The use of local aromatics like lemongrass and pandan reflects the region’s love for herbal flavors. This soup is also a favorite during Ramadan for its lightness and easy digestion.