Today’s recipe, Chicken Manchurian, is a delicious fusion of Chinese cooking techniques with a touch of Indian spices and ingredients. Chicken Manchurian is a dish that belongs to Indo-Chinese cuisine. This dish is saucy, slightly spicy with a tangy flavor that’s perfect for a comforting meal or an impressive dinner party dish.
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Indo-Chinese Chicken Manchurian:
Emerged from the Chinese culinary practices, this dish was adapted in India to cater to local tastes, resulting in a flavorful blend that has gained immense popularity across the subcontinent and beyond. Chicken Manchurian is known for its deliciously crispy chicken pieces that are covered in a tangy, thick sauce.
The overall flavor profile of Chicken Manchurian is enhances by a combination of different sauces like soy sauce, chili sauce, and vinegar, which give this dish a savory and slightly tangy flavor. The marinated chicken is fried until crispy that best compliments the sauce once added in it. Addition of vegetables like onion and bell pepper further enhance the nutritional value of this dish.
Chicken Manchurian is amazingly versatile and can be easily adapted to suit vegetarian preferences, by skipping the chicken and adding substitutes like tofu or paneer. You can enjoy this dish as an appetizer, a main course, or as a side dish served with noodles or Egg Fried Rice. It has many variations as well like Gobi Manchurian or Paneer Manchurian, also it has dried version in which there is not much sauce and the other one has more sauce. I am making Chicken Manchurian with gravy today, a saucy version of the dish.
Why Everyone Loves Chicken Manchurian
There are many reasons why Chicken Manchurian is a everyone’s favorite by captivating food lovers around the globe.
- The Perfect Balance of Flavors is the primary reasons behind its widespread appeal, as this dish a delicious blend of savory, sweet, and tangy elements, creating a symphony of taste that tantalizes the palate. The bite-size juicy fried chicken pieces absorb the rich, flavorful sauce infused with soy sauce, chili sauce, garlic, and ginger, delivering a delightful culinary experience that keeps diners coming back for more.
- Furthermore, Chicken Manchurian is Adaptable and Versatile, appealing to both children and adults. The versatility of this dish makes it a perfect meal that caters to different taste preferences. You can adjust the spice level, sauces and all other ingredients as per your liking.
- Another factor enhancing the versatility of this is that it can be prepared in both Dry and Saucy Variations, catering to different preferences. The saucy version is usually served with Rice or Noodles as a main course, while the dried version can be enjoyed as snack and appetizer.
- Moreover, the Aromatic Profile of this dish plays a significant role in making the dish a preferred choice for gatherings and celebrations. The fragrance of spices and sauces, combined with the sweetness of the bell peppers and onions and the distinctive scent of fried chicken, wafts through the air, stimulating appetites of people.
- When prepared, Chicken Manchurian creates an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness, making mealtimes a cherished occasion. In this way, Chicken Manchurian stands out not just as a meal but as a cherished experience that embraces the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Manchurian:
Before moving toward the detailed recipe let me first share a few tips to make perfect Chicken Manchurian, but if you want to skip you can jump to the recipe card down below.
- The ingredients you are going to use should be fresh and of high quality. Choose vegetables that are vibrant and fresh to add flavor and color to the dish. Use boneless chicken that should be cut into bite-size cubes to ensure even cooking. The quality of sauces, particularly soy sauce and vinegar, significantly impacts the final taste, so opt for well-known brands.
- Prepare all your ingredients ahead of time for seamless and quick cooking process. Marinating the chicken in spices, soy sauce, and cornstarch for at least 30 minutes will enhance its taste and texture. Cornstarch not only acts as a tenderizer but also helps create a crisp coating when frying.
- When frying the chicken, ensure the oil is heated enough to avoid excess oil absorption, resulting in a soggy texture. Frying chicken in hot oil can help achieve a perfect golden-brown crust.
- Stir-fry the vegetables quickly over high heat to keep their crunchiness and freshness intact that will complement the tender chicken.
- Timing is essential during this process; overcooked vegetables can lose nutrients and vibrant colors.
- Finally, once the chicken and vegetables are cooked, toss them in a flavorful sauce off the heat to maintain the integrity of the ingredients.
Ingredients to Make Chicken Manchurian:
This is the detailed breakdown of all the ingredients that we need to make perfect Chicken Manchurian. Exact measurements of all the ingredients are given below in the recipe card.
- The primary ingredient, Chicken, is typically boneless and can be cubed or diced based on personal preference. Chicken thighs are often preferred due to their tender texture, but breast meat can also be used as a healthier alternative. For vegetarians or those seeking a meat substitute, tofu or paneer can serve as effective alternatives.
- Next, the Sauces play a vital role in delivering the classic savory flavor associated with Chicken Manchurian. Soy sauce and Chili Sauce are the backbone, providing a balance of saltiness and heat. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, tamari can be swapped for regular soy sauce. I also use Chili sauce and tomato sauce to add a perfect blend of spicy and sweet flavor.
- Vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and spring onions are integral to the dish. They contribute not only to the texture but also to the flavor of the dish. Bell peppers, available in various colors, add sweetness and a crunchy bite. Onions provide depth, and their flavor can be enhanced with leeks or shallots if needed.
- Lastly, spices such as Garlic, Ginger, Salt and Black pepper are critical for flavor enhancement.
- Fresh herbs (Optional) can elevate the dish further, with cilantro serving as an excellent garnish.
- Tomato puree is used that not only contributes to the flavor but also enhances the overall texture and appeal of the dish. It adds a slightly sweet and tangy flavor to the sauce, balancing the spiciness from ingredients like chili garlic sauce.
Each ingredient plays its part in crafting the dish, and understanding their roles can help in making informed choices while cooking Chicken Manchurian. Whether you adhere closely to the traditional recipe or choose to modify it with substitutions, the essence of the dish remains intact.
5 Easy Steps to Make Chicken Manchurian:
By following this step-by-step recipe, you can make delicious Chicken Manchurian, starting with marinating the chicken, then frying it, and finally creating a rich and aromatic sauce that brings all the elements together. Without any further ado, let’s begin!
Marinating the Chicken:
- First step is to marinate the chicken to enhance its flavor and tenderness. For this wash boneless chicken and cut it into bite sized cubes.
- In a mixing bowl, add minced ginger-garlic, soya sauce, chili sauce, vinegar, salt and pepper. Mix everything altogether and then add boneless chicken, cut into small pieces.
- Then add one egg and mix well. Finally add corn-flour and mix well (Corn-flour can also be added right before frying but I prefer adding it in the marinade). You can also make batter separately with corn-flour, egg and then add the marinated chicken into the batter. But to make less mess I add corn-flour in the marinade.
- Before frying if you thing batter is thin, you can add more cornstarch at that point. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes while you gather the rest of the ingredients.
Frying the Chicken:
- In a deep frying pan, heat enough oil over medium heat for shallow frying.
- Once hot, carefully drop in the marinated chicken pieces, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the chicken until it turns golden brown and crispy, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
- After frying, place the chicken onto paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Prepare the Gravy:
- In a deep pan heat oil on low-medium heat, add chopped ginger-garlic and sauté for one minute or until you can feel the aroma of ginger and garlic.
- Add onions and capsicum cut into cubes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring that they don’t overcook. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- In a small bowl you can mix all the sauces like soya sauce, vinegar and chili sauce and then add them in sautéed vegetables or you can directly add each of them in the pan. I add sauces separately in vegetables. Cook for another minute.
- Now add tomato puree and tomato sauce in the pan and cook for a while or until it comes to boil.
Cook the Fried Chicken in Sauce (Gravy):
- Now add fried chicken pieces in the gravy to coat them thoroughly with the sauce. Lower the flame let the Chicken simmer for 2 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
- If you like dried version of Chicken Manchurian, you can garnish with freshly chopped chives or spring onions and serve as an appetizer as it is. I make this with gravy so I add a cup of water or preferably chicken stock into the pan and let it come to boil.
- In a small bowl add 2 table spoons of corn-flour with water and mix. Once the chicken gravy starts boiling, add corn-flour and water mixture into the pan while continuously stirring to avoid any lumps.
- Add sesames seeds for added punch of flavor and sprinkle freshly chopped green onions or chives. To add more spice I add a tea spoon of chili crisp sauce in the gravy. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.
Serve:
Serve immediately with Egg Fried Rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Manchurian!
More Recipes:
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Making Chicken Manchurian can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are some common mistakes that can affect how the dish turns out. I am jotting down some of them here but if you want to skip, you can jump to the recipe.
- Do not overcook the chicken because when cooked too much, it tends to become dry and tough, which diminishes its flavor and texture in the final dish. It is essential to cook the chicken just until it is thoroughly done, ideally retaining some juiciness to complement the sauce.
- Do not use low quality sauces because the quality of sauces such as soy sauce, chili sauce, and vinegar significantly influences the overall taste of Chicken Manchurian.
- Seasoning should be balanced to ensure that the Chicken Manchurian does not taste one-dimensional. Relying solely on soy sauce may lead to an overpoweringly salty dish. Instead, consider incorporating a variety of seasonings, such as ginger, garlic, black pepper, and even a pinch of sugar, to bring out the dish’s complexities.
- Do not overlook the garnishing aspect of Chicken Manchurian that enhances the visual appeal of the dish. A sprinkle of green onions or cilantro adds color and freshness, elevating the dish to a restaurant-quality meal.
Paying attention to these details can significantly enhance the experience of preparing Chicken Manchurian and ensure a delicious result that will impress your family and friends.
Enjoy Your Chicken Manchurian Experience:
Chicken Manchurian represents a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making it a popular dish in many households. This versatile recipe offers an opportunity to indulge in a culinary adventure, blending traditional Chinese cooking methods with Indian spices and ingredients.
The key elements of this dish include marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, and a luscious sauce, all of which work harmoniously to create an unforgettable dining experience. By following the step-by-step guide, you can create your own version tailored to your taste preferences, whether you prefer a milder flavor or a spicier twist. The variations in preparation allow for creativity, and cooking Chicken Manchurian can become a fun and rewarding activity in the kitchen.
Cooking is not merely about following a recipe; it is an expression of love and care. We encourage you to experiment with different ingredients, share your results, and engage in discussions about your own Chicken Manchurian experiences. Your feedback and stories help foster a sense of community among food enthusiasts.
I hope you relish every moment of preparing and enjoying your Chicken Manchurian. It is a dish that brings joy not only through its taste but also through the memories made while sharing it with others. Feel free to leave comments below about your experience and any variations you may have tried; I would love to hear from you!
Chicken Manchurian Recipe (Gravy)
Ingredients
- 500 grams Boneless Chicken (Cut into Bite-Size Cubes)
- 1 Cup Capsicum (Cut into Cubes)
- 1 Cup Onion (Cut into Cubes)
- 1 Cup Cooking Oil (For Frying)
- 2 Tbsp. Cooking Oil (For Cooking Chicken and Vegetables)
- 2 Tbsp. Soya Sauce (1 Tbsp. for Sauce and 1 for Marinade)
- 2 Tbsp. Chili Sauce (1 Tbsp. for Sauce and 1 for Marinade)
- 2 Tbsp. Vinegar (1 Tbsp. for Sauce and 1 for Marinade)
- 1 Cup Tomato Puree
- 2 Tbsp. Tomato Sauce
- Salt and Pepper (To Taste)
- 1 Tsp. Chili Crips Sauce (Optional)
- 2 Tbsp. Ginger-Garlic (Minced for Marinade and Chopped for Cooking Chicken)
- 4 Tbsp. Corn-Flour (For Marinade and Gravy)
- 1 Egg (For Marinade)
Instructions
Marinating the Chicken:
- Wash boneless chicken and cut it into bite sized cubes.
- In a mixing bowl, add minced ginger-garlic, soya sauce, chili sauce, vinegar (1 Tbsp. each), salt and pepper (To taste). Mix everything and then add boneless chicken.
- Add one egg and mix well. Finally add 2 Tbsps. of corn-flour and mix well. You can also make batter separately with corn-flour, egg and then add the marinated chicken into the batter. But to make less mess I add corn-flour directly in the marinade.
- Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes while you gather the rest of the ingredients.
Frying the Chicken:
- In a deep frying pan, heat enough oil over medium heat for shallow frying.
- Once hot, carefully drop in the marinated chicken pieces, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the chicken until it turns golden brown and crispy, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. After frying, place the chicken onto paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Prepare the Gravy:
- In a deep pan heat oil on low-medium heat, add 1 Tbsp. chopped ginger-garlic and sauté for one minute or until you can feel the aroma of ginger and garlic.
- Add onions and capsicum cut into cubes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring that they don’t overcook. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- In a small bowl you can mix all the sauces like soya sauce, vinegar and chili sauce and then add them in sautéed vegetables or you can directly add each of them in the pan. I add sauces separately in vegetables. Cook for another minute.
- Now add tomato puree and tomato sauce in the pan and cook for a while or until it comes to boil.
Cook the Fried Chicken in Sauce (Gravy):
- Now add fried chicken pieces in the gravy to coat them thoroughly with the sauce. Lower the flame let the Chicken simmer for 2 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
- If you like dried version of Chicken Manchurian, you can garnish with freshly chopped chives or spring onions and serve as an appetizer as it is. I make this with gravy so I add a cup of water or preferably chicken stock into the pan and let it come to boil.
- In a small bowl add 2 table spoons of corn-flour with water and mix. Once the chicken gravy starts boiling, add corn-flour and water mixture into the pan while continuously stirring to avoid any lumps.
- Add sesames seeds for added punch of flavor and sprinkle freshly chopped green onions or chives. To add more spice I add a tea spoon of chili crisp sauce in the gravy. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.
Serve:
- Serve immediately with Egg Fried Rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Manchurian!
Notes
- Chicken Manchurian represents a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making it a popular dish in many households.
- The key elements of this dish include marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, and a luscious sauce, all of which work harmoniously to create an unforgettable dining experience.
- By following the step-by-step guide, you can create your own version tailored to your taste preferences, whether you prefer a milder flavor or a spicier twist.
- The variations in preparation allow for creativity, and cooking Chicken Manchurian can become a fun and rewarding activity in the kitchen.
