
Mie Ayam
Lunch • Indonesia
About Mie Ayam
Seasoned egg noodles topped with minced chicken and soy broth
How to Make Mie Ayam (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Mie Ayam, a beloved noodle dish from Indonesia, is a staple lunchtime meal enjoyed across the archipelago. Originating from Java, Mie Ayam features tender wheat noodles topped with succulent chicken, aromatic seasonings, and fresh vegetables. Its balanced flavors—savory, slightly sweet, and full of umami—make it a favorite in Indonesian street food culture and home kitchens alike. With a lighter, health-conscious approach, this recipe stays true to tradition while ensuring low calories and optimal nutrition. Indonesians relish Mie Ayam not only for its comforting taste but also for its versatility. Vendors and families often personalize their bowls with greens like bok choy and a sprinkle of fried shallots. Traditionally served for lunch, Mie Ayam is a satisfying, energizing meal that fits well into a balanced diet. Its popularity extends from bustling city warungs (small eateries) to rural households, reflecting the deep-rooted culinary heritage of Indonesia’s vibrant noodle culture. This healthy version of Mie Ayam retains the authentic flavors with lean chicken breast, minimal oil, and generous vegetables. It's perfect for those seeking a delicious, low-calorie meal that’s rich in protein and nutrients, and easily fits a calorie-conscious lifestyle. Enjoy the classic taste of Indonesia while nourishing your body with this wholesome, traditional noodle dish.
Ingredients(for 1 bowl (approx. 250g) per serving)
- 150g Fresh wheat noodles (mie basah)
- 120g Chicken breast (diced)
- 100g Bok choy (chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic (finely minced)
- 2 Shallots (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp Low-sodium soy sauce (kecap asin)
- 1 tbsp Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
- 400ml Chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium)
- 1 tsp Vegetable oil (for sautéing)
- 1 tbsp Fried shallots (optional garnish) - optional
- 2 stalks Green onions (finely sliced) - optional
- 1/4 tsp White pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the chicken by dicing it into small, bite-sized pieces. Marinate briefly with half of the soy sauce and sweet soy sauce.
5 minutes
Marinating enhances flavor and tenderness.
- 2
Heat vegetable oil in a pan. Sauté garlic and shallots until fragrant. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it turns white and is cooked through.
6 minutes
Stir frequently to avoid burning the aromatics.
- 3
Pour in the chicken broth and simmer. Add bok choy, white pepper, and remaining soy sauces. Cook until bok choy is tender and chicken absorbs the broth flavors.
6 minutes
Simmer gently to retain the nutrients in the greens.
- 4
Boil a separate pot of water. Cook the noodles for 2-3 minutes or until al dente. Drain and portion into serving bowls.
5 minutes
Do not overcook noodles for best texture.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Mie Ayam recipe uses minimal oil, lean chicken, and plenty of vegetables, making it a heart-friendly, low-fat choice. The use of low-sodium soy sauce reduces sodium intake, and the ample greens add fiber and micronutrients. It’s an ideal meal for those seeking weight management and balanced nutrition without sacrificing authentic taste.
Mie Ayam is a balanced meal, offering lean protein from chicken breast, complex carbohydrates from wheat noodles, and essential vitamins and minerals from bok choy and aromatics. Each serving provides 160 calories, 10g protein, 22g carbs, and only 4g fat, making it suitable for calorie-conscious diets. Bok choy is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, while garlic and shallots provide antioxidants and immune-boosting properties.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh noodles for the best texture and authentic taste.
- 💡Tip 2: Simmer the chicken gently to keep it juicy and tender.
- 💡Tip 3: Add garnishes right before serving to maintain their crispness.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover chicken and broth separately from the noodles in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently and assemble just before serving to preserve texture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 160.0 kcal |
| Protein | 10.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22.0 g |
| Total Fat | 4.0 g |
| Fiber | 1.0 g |