How to Make Chicken Mee Hoon (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Chicken Mee Hoon is a beloved Malaysian noodle dish, featuring delicate rice vermicelli (mee hoon) in a light, savory chicken broth, complemented by an array of fresh local herbs and vegetables. This dish is a staple in many Malaysian households, enjoyed for its comforting flavors and quick preparation. Drawing from Malaysia’s multicultural food heritage, Chicken Mee Hoon celebrates the harmonious blend of Malay, Chinese, and Nyonya culinary influences, often enhanced with aromatic ingredients like daun pandan and serai (lemongrass). The taste of Chicken Mee Hoon is light yet flavorful, making it an ideal choice for lunch. The clear broth, infused with chicken, garlic, ginger, and lemongrass, creates a fragrant base that is both nourishing and satisfying. The addition of local vegetables and a hint of white pepper gives this dish a distinct Malaysian character, while the use of mee hoon ensures a lighter calorie profile compared to other noodle types. Chicken Mee Hoon not only brings together the essence of Malaysian comfort food but also fits perfectly into a health-conscious diet, making it a favorite for those seeking both tradition and wellness in their meals.
Ingredients
- 100g Mee hoon (rice vermicelli) (soaked in water for 10 minutes)
- 150g Chicken breast (skinless, sliced thinly)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 inch Ginger (sliced)
- 1 stalk Serai (lemongrass) (bruised)
- 1 leaf Daun pandan (pandan leaf) (knotted)
- 1 small Carrot (julienned)
- 1 cup Sawi (mustard greens) (chopped)
- 1 tbsp Light soy sauce
- 1/4 tsp White pepper
- 1/2 tsp Salt (to taste)
- 800ml Water (for soup base)
- 2 stalks Scallions (sliced for garnish)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Soak the mee hoon in room temperature water for 10 minutes until so...
Soak the mee hoon in room temperature water for 10 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
Step 2 · In a pot
In a pot, heat a small amount of oil and sauté garlic, ginger, and bruised serai until fragrant.
Step 3 · Add chicken breast slices to the pot and stir-fry until they turn w...
Add chicken breast slices to the pot and stir-fry until they turn white.
Step 4 · Pour in water and add pandan leaf
Pour in water and add pandan leaf. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for 8 minutes.
Step 5 · Add carrot and sawi
Add carrot and sawi. Season with light soy sauce, white pepper, and salt. Cook until vegetables are tender.
Step 6 · Blanch the softened mee hoon in boiling water for 1 minute
Blanch the softened mee hoon in boiling water for 1 minute, then divide into serving bowls.
Step 7 · Ladle the hot chicken broth and toppings over the mee hoon
Ladle the hot chicken broth and toppings over the mee hoon. Garnish with sliced scallions if desired.
Why this recipe is healthy
Chicken Mee Hoon is a healthy Malaysian recipe because it combines lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and low-GI rice noodles in a clear broth without the use of heavy fats or coconut milk. The gentle cooking method preserves nutrients, while the addition of local herbs boosts both flavor and nutrition. This meal is satisfying yet won't weigh you down, perfect for anyone tracking calories or seeking a wholesome lunch.
A note on tradition
Chicken Mee Hoon is commonly enjoyed across Malaysia, especially as a light lunch or hearty breakfast. It reflects the multicultural heritage of Malaysia, combining local Malay flavors with Chinese-style clear broth techniques. Popular in Penang and Kuala Lumpur kopitiams, this noodle soup is often served at family gatherings and festive open houses, showcasing the unity and diversity of Malaysian cuisine.