Irresistible Chicken Manchurian You Can Master at Home
Chicken Manchurian is a delightful fusion dish that combines spiced chicken with savory sauces, creating a flavor explosion that captivates the taste buds. This recipe offers a perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness, making it a beloved dish for many. Master this easy recipe at home to impress your family and friends with a restaurant-quality meal.
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This Chicken Manchurian is not just packed with flavor; it’s also easy to prepare. It brings a taste of Indo-Chinese cuisine right to your kitchen. The crunchy chicken pieces coated in a rich and tangy sauce are sure to be a hit, whether served as an appetizer or main dish. With the added flexibility of varied ingredients, you can easily tailor this dish to suit your preferences. Get ready to create a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
How to Make Chicken Manchurian
Ingredients:
- 500 grams Boneless Chicken (Use dark meat for juiciness)
- 100 grams Cornstarch (For crispy coating)
- 3 tablespoons Garlic-Ginger-Onion Mix (Can be bought pre-made)
- 1 cup Sweet Red Bell Pepper (Optional: use various colored peppers)
- 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Gluten-free option available)
- 2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce (Substitute with mix of soy sauce and sugar if needed)
- 1 tablespoon Dark Soy Sauce (For rich color)
- 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar (Use white vinegar if necessary)
- 1 teaspoon Chili Powder (Use Indian chili powder for authenticity)
- 1 piece Bird’s Eye Chili Pepper (Optional for more heat)
- 1 bunch Cilantro (Optional garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the boneless chicken into bite-sized pieces. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Coat the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little salt and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in the cornstarch mixture until well coated. This helps achieve a crispy exterior when fried.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a pan on medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, sauté the garlic-ginger-onion mix until aromatic. Add the chopped sweet bell peppers and sauté for another couple of minutes.
- Add Sauces: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili powder. Mix well and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the fried chicken to the pan and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. If you like spice, add the chopped bird’s eye chili pepper at this stage. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Manchurian
Chicken Manchurian can be enjoyed as an appetizer or served as a main dish alongside steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. It is a perfect dish for parties and gatherings, providing a burst of flavors that everyone loves. Serve it hot for the best experience.
How to Store Chicken Manchurian
To store leftovers, allow the Chicken Manchurian to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Chicken Manchurian Perfect
- Use dark meat chicken for added flavor and juiciness.
- Ensure the oil is hot before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the sauces to your preference for sweetness or spice.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to customize this Chicken Manchurian recipe! You can add vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or peas for extra nutrition. For a healthier option, consider air-frying the chicken instead of deep-frying. If you’re a fan of different protein sources, try substituting chicken with tofu or beef.
Pro Tips for Success
- Marinate the chicken in soy sauce and garlic-ginger paste for at least 30 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Use a non-stick pan to prevent the chicken from sticking and ensure even cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a little water and add it to the sauce while cooking.
FAQs About Chicken Manchurian
Can I use different types of chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but dark meat is recommended for juicier results. Always make sure to cut into even pieces for uniform cooking.
Is Chicken Manchurian spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted according to your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili powder and omit the bird’s eye chili pepper.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or paneer for a delicious vegetarian version of Chicken Manchurian.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Manchurian is a delightful dish that anyone can master at home with the right ingredients and steps. With its crispy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. With just a few adjustments, you can make this dish your own while enjoying the essence of Indo-Chinese cuisine. Get ready to serve a memorable meal that will leave everyone asking for more!
Chicken Manchurian
Ingredients
Method
- Cut the boneless chicken into bite-sized pieces. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- In a bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little salt and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in the cornstarch mixture until well coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan on medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In the same pan, sauté the garlic-ginger-onion mix until aromatic. Add the chopped sweet bell peppers and sauté for another couple of minutes.
- Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili powder. Mix well and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the fried chicken to the pan and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. If you like spice, add the chopped bird’s eye chili pepper at this stage. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.