Chicken manchurian

Chicken Manchurian is an Indo-Chinese dish featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a tangy, spicy sauce made from soy sauce, tomato, and aromatics. It is fried and then simmered in a rich gravy, making it a delightful choice for any meal.

17 Jan 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1 tsp corn flour
1 egg
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 lb chicken breasts
2 shallots
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp ginger root
1/2 cup chicken gravy
1/3 cup tomato sauce
1 tsp sugar

Chicken Manchurian is a popular Indo-Chinese dish that combines succulent pieces of chicken with a tangy and spicy sauce. It's a perfect blend of flavors and textures that can be enjoyed as a starter or a main course. This recipe is quick to make and requires only a few simple ingredients. Whether you're cooking for family or hosting a dinner party, Chicken Manchurian is sure to impress your guests.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.
- In a small bowl, beat the egg and mix it with 1 tsp of corn flour and a pinch of salt. Pour this mixture over the chicken pieces and mix well to coat them evenly. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes.

2. Prepare the Aromatics:
- Finely chop the shallots and garlic cloves.
- Peel and finely grate the ginger root.

3. Fry the Chicken:
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the chicken pieces with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

4. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a separate pan or the same wok, add a little oil if needed and sauté the chopped shallots, garlic, and grated ginger until fragrant and soft, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the soy sauce, tomato sauce, and sugar to the pan. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the chicken gravy and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Combine and Finish:
- Add the fried chicken pieces to the sauce, tossing well to coat the chicken evenly.
- Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.

6. Serve:
- Transfer the Chicken Manchurian to a serving dish.
- Garnish with finely chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.

7. Enjoy:
- Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Chicken Manchurian is a delightful dish that brings together the best of both Indian and Chinese culinary traditions. The combination of tender chicken pieces in a rich, flavorful sauce makes for a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Serve it hot with steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy the amazing blend of flavors in every bite. Happy cooking!

Chicken manchurian FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken for Chicken Manchurian?

Marinate the chicken with the egg and corn flour mixture for at least 15 minutes. This helps tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

What is the ideal cooking time for frying the chicken?

Fry the chicken pieces in batches for about 5-7 minutes per batch until they are golden brown and cooked through. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan to maintain the oil's temperature.

Can I substitute the soy sauce in Chicken Manchurian?

Yes, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option, or coconut aminos as a soy sauce alternative. However, this may alter the flavor slightly.

How can I store leftover Chicken Manchurian?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.

What can I serve with Chicken Manchurian?

Chicken Manchurian pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles, complementing the dish's flavors perfectly.

Tips:

- Marinate the chicken in soy sauce and egg for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor and tenderness.

- Make sure to stir-fry the garlic and ginger until they're fragrant to bring out their full aromatic potential.

- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add an extra teaspoon of cornflour mixed with water to the gravy.

- For a spicier version, you can add a few chopped green chilies or a teaspoon of chili sauce to the recipe.

- To make the dish more vibrant, you can add some chopped bell peppers and spring onions during the final stages of cooking.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 200kcal
Protein 30g
Carbohydrates 9g
Fiber 1.07g
Sugar 3.63g
Fat 5g

Chicken manchurian