Picture this: a steaming bowl of chicken Manchow soup, loaded with tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and crispy noodles, all with a spicy kick that warms you from the inside out.
Sounds amazing, right? It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for rainy nights or whenever you crave something hearty and flavorful.
Here’s the best part—you don’t need takeout to enjoy it! With this easy recipe, you can whip up this delicious soup in your own kitchen.
I’ll guide you step by step, share tips for crispy noodles, and even cover how to store leftovers. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more!
What is the meaning of manchow?
The term Manchow does not have a specific meaning in Chinese cuisine but is believed to be derived from the word “Manchu,” referencing the Manchurian region in China.
However, in the context of Indo-Chinese cuisine, Manchow refers to a spicy, flavorful soup made with a blend of Chinese seasonings and Indian-inspired spices.
It’s known for its rich umami flavors, slightly thickened texture, and the signature topping of crispy fried noodles. This fusion dish showcases the creativity of blending Chinese culinary techniques with Indian tastes.
About the Manchow Soup
This recipe brings together the best of Indo-Chinese flavors in a bowl. The soup features shredded chicken, finely chopped vegetables, and aromatic spices, all simmered to perfection in a soy sauce-based broth.
It’s thickened slightly with cornstarch and topped with golden-fried noodles for that signature crunch.
What makes it stand out is its bold, spicy flavor profile and versatility. You can tweak it to suit your preferences, make it vegetarian, or adjust the spice level to your liking.
Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or an impressive starter for a dinner party, this soup never fails to wow.
Why This Recipe is Great
This is one-pot recipe with Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
You can easily make it vegetarian and vegan Adjust the spice, swap the chicken for tofu, or add your favorite veggies.
It is budget-friendly and requires no expensive ingredients, just pantry staples.
Kids love the crispy noodles, while adults adore the bold flavors.
Packed with protein and veggies but with a touch of indulgence from the fried noodles.
Is Manchow Soup good for health?
Manchow Soup can be a healthy choice when prepared with minimal oil and fresh ingredients. The vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
It is loaded with protein from tender chicken and bone broth. See”What Is Bone Broth, and What Are the Benefits” and brimming with essential vitamins and minerals from a medley of fresh vegetable.
See”10 essential health benefits of eating vegetables according to dietation” It’s not just a meal but a bowl of health-boosting comfort.
The warming spices and garlic enhance its immunity-boosting and digestion-aiding properties. However, its sodium content may be high due to soy sauce and other seasonings, so it’s best consumed in moderation, particularly for those monitoring their salt intake.
Ingredients
Chicken-Use Boneless chicken thighs, for a tender bite. For vegetarian recipe you can use tofu or paneer or for a seafood twist, add shrimp.
Vegetables-Normally Cabbage, carrots, capsicum, celery, and spring onions are used for a fresh crunch in this soup but string beans , mushrooms, or baby corn work great too.
Garlic & Ginger-These aromatics are the heart of the soup, with freshly grated ginger and garlic enhancing its aroma and flavor. If you’re short on time or out of fresh ingredients, ginger-garlic paste works as a convenient alternative.
Soy Sauce- It creates the base of the umami flavor. I prefer using low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option. For a gluten-free alternative, choose tamari or coconut aminos.
Chilies & Chili Sauce- These add the spicy kick that defines the soup. You can adjust the spice level to your taste or swap red chili sauce with sriracha for a different flavor.
Cornstarch- Used to thicken the soup just enough without making it heavy. While cornstarch is naturally gluten-free, for those with severe gluten sensitivities, it’s best to use cornstarch labeled as “certified gluten-free” to avoid any cross-contamination.
Alternatively, you can use rice flour or arrowroot powder as a substitute.
Crispy Noodles – Use homemade noodles that have been boiled, dried, and fried until golden and crispy, or opt for store-bought crispy noodles if you’re short on time.
How to Make Spicy Chicken Manchow Soup
Cook the Soup Base:
Heat a large soup pot over medium heat and drizzle in olive oil. Once the oil is warm, add ginger, garlic, and serrano peppers. Stir and sauté for a minute, being careful not to let the garlic burn. Reduce the heat if necessary
Add The Chicken:
Add chicken thighs to the pot, along with sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Stir in Veggies:
Stir in the celery, carrots, scallions, mushrooms, green beans, onion, and cabbage. Add the soy sauce, red chili sauce, and vinegar, and stir everything together for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors infuse into the veggies.
Add the Bone Broth:
Add the chicken bone broth to the pot and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Crispy Noodles:
Let the soup simmer while you prepare the Chinese noodles. Cook thin noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and pat them dry.
Heat oil in a deep pan and fry small batches of noodles until crispy and golden brown. Place on paper towels to soak excess oil. Trust me, these noodles are the star of the dish—so don’t skip this step!
Thicken the Soup
Mix cornstarch with water to create a smooth slurry. Slowly pour it into the soup, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the soup thickens slightly. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, top generously with crispy noodles, and garnish with fresh spring onions or cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy the medley of flavors and textures.
Tips to Make Best Manchow Soup:
- Adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the green chili and chili sauce.
- For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add tofu or extra veggies like mushrooms and baby corn.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crispy noodles at their best.
- Use thin noodles and boil them for just a minute or two. Drain well and pat dry before frying to avoid oil splatters.
- Fry in small batches over medium heat for even crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with a generous topping of crispy noodles. Pair with steamed dumplings for a complete Indo-Chinese experience.
Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and a dash of lemon juice for added freshness.
How to Store and Reheat
Storage: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the crispy noodles in a separate container.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, add a splash of water or stock to adjust the consistency. For crispy noodles, quickly re-toast them in a dry pan or refry if needed.
FAQs
How is Manchow Soup different from Hot and Sour Soup?
While both soups are tangy and spicy, Manchow Soup is garnished with crispy noodles and focuses on bold garlic and soy sauce flavors. Hot and Sour Soup has a thicker consistency, often includes tofu or mushrooms, and features the balance of heat and vinegar as its defining characteristic.
Can Manchow Soup be made vegan?
Yes, it’s easy to make vegan by using plant-based soy sauce, avoiding animal-based broth, and replacing egg noodles with vegan alternatives.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and ensure the noodles and thickening agent (cornstarch or similar) are gluten-free. This way, it accommodates gluten sensitivities without altering its taste.
Feeling inspired? It’s time to bring this delicious Spicy Chicken Manchow Soup to your table! Follow fryer Fresh on Instagram and Pinterest, and don’t forget to tag me when you try this one.
Loved this recipe? Check out my other warm and hearty recipes on the blog—perfect for any season.
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Spicy Chicken Manchow Soup
Description
Warm up with Chicken Manchow Soup! This cozy bowl blends tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and aromatic spices, topped with crispy fried noodles for a comforting crunch. Perfect for chilly days or a flavorful pick-me-up! 🥣✨
Ingredients
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients:
Keep everything ready by chopping, dicing, mincing, or peeling the ingredients as needed before you start cooking.
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Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a large soup pot over medium heat and drizzle in olive oil. Once the oil is warm, add ginger, garlic, and serrano peppers. Stir and sauté for a minute, then add the onion and sauté for another couple of minutes, being careful not to let the garlic burn. Reduce the heat if necessary
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Cook the Chicken:
Add chicken thighs to the pot, along with sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
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Add the Vegetables:
Stir in the celery, carrots, scallions, mushrooms, green beans, and cabbage. Pour in the soy sauce and vinegar, and sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to slightly soften and absorb the flavors.
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Add Bone Broth & simmer:
Pour chicken bone broth into the pot and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook for at least 30 minutes.Â
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Prepare the crispy noodles:
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Thicken The Soup:
Mix cornstarch with water to create a smooth slurry. Slowly pour it into the soup, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the soup thickens slightly. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
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Garnish and Serve:
Ladle the soup into serving bowls. Top with crispy dried chow mein noodles and fresh cilantro. For additional flavor, garnish with scallions, extra serrano slices, if desired. Enjoy your delicious chicken Manchow soup.
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 228kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9.1g14%
- Cholesterol 18.9mg7%
- Sodium 920mg39%
- Total Carbohydrate 25.7g9%
- Sugars 11g
- Protein 12g24%
- Vitamin A 125 IU
- Vitamin C 44 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer green chilies and chili sauce.
- For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use tofu or extra veggies.
- If you prefer a thinner soup, reduce the cornstarch or add more broth.
- Skip the noodles for gluten free version or use gluten free noodles.
