Chicken Laksa Nyonya
Southeast Asia • non_veg
How to Make Chicken Laksa Nyonya (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Chicken Laksa Nyonya is a vibrant noodle soup that beautifully showcases the multicultural tapestry of Malaysian cuisine. Born from the Peranakan heritage, this dish infuses Chinese and Malay culinary traditions, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors and aromas. The broth, enriched with santan (coconut milk), lemongrass, and local spices, is both comforting and deeply aromatic. Juicy chicken, rice vermicelli, and fresh herbs make every spoonful a delightful experience. Loved throughout Malaysia, especially in Penang and Malacca, Chicken Laksa Nyonya is a savory snack or light meal perfect for any time of day. Its balance of creamy, spicy, and tangy notes, with fresh toppings like bean sprouts and daun kesum (Vietnamese mint), makes it a soul-warming favorite at home and in bustling kopitiams. With local ingredients such as belacan and pandan leaves, this laksa is a delicious way to savor Malaysia’s rich cultural history in a health-conscious way, making it an excellent addition to your calorie-tracked diet.
Ingredients(for 1 large bowl with noodles and toppings)
- 150g Chicken breast (skinless, boneless)
- 120g Rice vermicelli (bihun)
- 1 cup Santan (light coconut milk) (use low-fat for health)
- 1 medium Onion (red onion, finely sliced)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 thumb-sized piece Ginger (sliced)
- 2 stalks Lemongrass (white part only, smashed)
- 1 small piece Fresh turmeric (or 1 tsp turmeric powder)
- 2 tbsp Chili paste (blended dried chilies)
- 1 tsp Belacan (shrimp paste, optional) - optional
- a handful Daun kesum (Vietnamese mint, optional but authentic) - optional
- 1 cup Bean sprouts (tauge)
- 1/2 Cucumber (julienned)
- 1 Pandan leaf (tied into a knot) - optional
- to taste Salt
- 1 tbsp Cooking oil (preferably canola or sunflower)
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the laksa paste by blending onion, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and chili paste into a smooth mixture. Add a splash of water if needed.
5 minutes
For extra aroma, toast belacan before blending if using.
- 2
Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté the laksa paste until fragrant and oil separates, about 4-5 minutes.
5 minutes
Stir continuously to avoid burning.
- 3
Add chicken breast pieces and cook until lightly browned. Pour in santan, 2 cups of water, lemongrass, and pandan leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5 minutes
Avoid boiling coconut milk to prevent splitting.
- 4
Simmer for 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and flavors meld. Season with salt. Add daun kesum if using.
10 minutes
Remove pandan and lemongrass before serving.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthier adaptation of Chicken Laksa Nyonya uses lean chicken breast and reduced-fat santan, making it lower in calories and saturated fats while preserving authentic Malaysian flavors. The abundance of herbs and fresh vegetables enhances the nutrient profile, making it suitable for calorie trackers and those seeking a balanced, nourishing meal. It is filling yet light, perfect for maintaining energy and managing weight.
Chicken Laksa Nyonya provides a balanced meal with lean protein from chicken breast, complex carbohydrates from rice vermicelli, and healthy fats from light santan. The use of fresh herbs and spices like turmeric and lemongrass adds antioxidants, while vegetables such as cucumber and bean sprouts boost fiber, vitamins (A, C, K), and minerals. This recipe is lower in saturated fat by using light coconut milk and minimal oil, supporting heart health and aiding digestion.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Always use fresh herbs and spices for the most aromatic laksa broth.
- 💡Tip 2: Use low-fat santan to keep calories in check without sacrificing creaminess.
- 💡Tip 3: Assemble bowls just before eating to keep noodles springy and vegetables crisp.
Storage & Serving
Store broth and noodles separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the broth gently before serving and assemble fresh to preserve texture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 500.0 kcal |
| Protein | 5.8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8.5 g |
| Total Fat | 4.7 g |
| Fiber | 1.1 g |
| Sugars | 1.2 g |
| Iron | 0.8 mg |
| Calcium | 17.0 mg |
| Sodium | 420.0 mg |
| Potassium | 180.0 mg |
| Cholesterol | 28.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 120.0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 3.0 mg |
| Magnesium | 18.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.6 mg |
| Phosphorus | 65.0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.4 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 1.5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.2 µg |
| Folate | 12.0 µg |
