Chicken Manchurian
Indo-Chinese fusion — crispy chicken balls in tangy soy-chili sauce.

The Story
Chicken Manchurian is a beloved dish that reflects the fusion of Chinese and Indian cuisines, a testament to the cultural exchanges in Pakistan. Its spicy and tangy profile brings warmth to family gatherings, making it a favorite among both young and old during celebrations and everyday meals.
Nutrition per Serving
350
Calories
35g
Protein
15g
Carbs
18g
Fat
2g
Fiber
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Begin by cutting the boneless chicken breast into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch in size. This will ensure they cook evenly and are easy to eat. Set aside in a mixing bowl.
- 2
In a small bowl, mix the cornflour, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and the whole egg. Stir until you have a smooth batter. This will coat the chicken and give it a crispy texture when fried.
- 3
Add the chicken cubes to the batter, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors and create a nice coating.
- 4
While the chicken is marinating, finely chop the garlic and ginger. Dice the onion and green bell pepper into small pieces, making sure they are uniform for even cooking.
- 5
In a deep frying pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in batches, frying until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
- 6
In another pan, add a tablespoon of oil if necessary, and sauté the chopped garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn them as they can turn bitter.
- 7
Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the pan and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they are slightly softened but still crunchy. The colors should be vibrant and the vegetables aromatic.
- 8
Next, add the soy sauce, tomato ketchup, and chili sauce to the vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine, allowing the sauces to bubble and thicken slightly, about 2 minutes.
- 9
Once the sauce is well combined, gently fold in the fried chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- 10
Finally, chop the spring onions and sprinkle them over the Chicken Manchurian just before serving for a fresh, aromatic finish. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- •
Ensure the chicken is well-marinated for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
- •
Use high heat while cooking to achieve a nice char and to lock in the juices.
- •
Adjust the red chili powder to your taste preference for the desired spice level.
- •
Serve immediately after resting to maintain the texture and flavor.
Variations
- →
Swap chicken with paneer for a vegetarian option.
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Add bell peppers and onions for a regional twist inspired by local street food.
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Use a yogurt-based sauce instead of a marinade for a creamier texture.


