
Murtabak with Chicken
Global • Eggetarian
How to Make Murtabak with Chicken (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Murtabak with Chicken is a beloved Malaysian street snack, celebrated for its flaky, golden crust and aromatic spiced filling. Originating from the vibrant mamak stalls and Indian-Muslim eateries across Malaysia, Murtabak showcases the country’s multicultural cuisine, blending Indian spices, Malay herbs, and local ingredients for a truly unique taste. Traditionally enjoyed during festive seasons and Ramadan, this savoury pancake is filled with minced chicken, onions, and fragrant spices, then pan-fried until crispy. Today, health-conscious adaptations are making Murtabak even more accessible for calorie trackers and wellness enthusiasts. By using lean chicken breast, reducing oil, and incorporating local vegetables like daun sup (local celery leaves) and onions, this snack can be both hearty and nutritious. The use of fresh herbs such as lemongrass and pandan elevates the flavour, while whole wheat flour adds dietary fibre. Whether served as a breakfast treat, lunch, or light dinner, Murtabak with Chicken stands out as an example of Malaysia’s rich food heritage, offering delicious taste without compromising on health.
Ingredients(for 1 medium-sized Murtabak per person)
- 1 cup Whole wheat flour (tepung gandum penuh)
- 1/2 cup Water (air)
- 1 large Egg (telur)
- 200g, minced Chicken breast (ayam)
- 1 medium, chopped Onion (bawang besar)
- 2 cloves, minced Garlic (bawang putih)
- 1 stalk, finely chopped Lemongrass (serai)
- 1 small, finely sliced Pandan leaf (daun pandan) - optional
- 1 tsp Coriander powder (serbuk ketumbar)
- 1/2 tsp Cumin powder (serbuk jintan)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper (lada hitam)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (garam)
- 1 tbsp Cooking oil (minyak masak)
- 1 tbsp, chopped Daun sup (local celery leaves) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the dough by mixing whole wheat flour, water, a pinch of salt, and half the egg. Knead until smooth and elastic, then cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Let the dough rest to improve flexibility for easy stretching.
- 2
Heat oil in a pan. Sauté onions, garlic, and lemongrass until fragrant. Add minced chicken, coriander powder, cumin powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir-fry until the chicken is cooked.
8 minutes
Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the spices and ensure chicken remains juicy.
- 3
Stir in chopped daun sup and sliced pandan leaf. Allow the filling to cool slightly.
2 minutes
Adding herbs at the end preserves their fresh aroma and nutritional value.
- 4
Divide dough into two balls. Roll out each ball on a lightly floured surface into a thin square shape.
5 minutes
Aim for thin, even layers for a crispy finish.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Choosing lean chicken and whole wheat flour makes this Murtabak a nutritious alternative to traditional recipes, lowering calories and increasing fibre. The inclusion of local herbs and aromatics not only adds flavour but also delivers important micronutrients and antioxidants. Suitable for those tracking macros or seeking wholesome Malaysian snacks.
This healthy Murtabak with Chicken is packed with lean protein from chicken breast, dietary fibre from whole wheat flour, and essential vitamins from onions, daun sup, and lemongrass. The use of minimal oil and fresh herbs keeps saturated fat low and adds antioxidants. It provides a balanced ratio of protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats, while local spices like coriander and cumin aid digestion and boost metabolism.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use a non-stick pan to minimize oil and keep Murtabak light and crispy.
- 💡Tip 2: Add herbs like daun sup and pandan at the end for maximum aroma.
- 💡Tip 3: Prepare the chicken filling ahead for quick assembly during busy mornings.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover Murtabak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a dry pan or oven to restore crispiness before serving.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 450.0 kcal |
| Protein | 7.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22.0 g |
| Total Fat | 8.0 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugars | 1.2 g |
| Iron | 1.4 mg |
| Calcium | 38.0 mg |
| Sodium | 320.0 mg |
| Potassium | 180.0 mg |
| Cholesterol | 35.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 60.0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 2.0 mg |
| Magnesium | 22.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.7 mg |
| Phosphorus | 85.0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.4 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 2.1 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.2 µg |
| Folate | 18.0 µg |





