Manti Chicken Recipe Easy and Delicious Step-by-Step Guide

Manti, a beloved dish across Central Asia and the Middle East, brings together delicate dumplings filled with savory meat and spices, served with a luscious yogurt sauce. This chicken manti recipe offers a lighter twist on the traditional lamb or beef versions, making it perfect for those seeking a flavorful yet less heavy meal.

The process of making manti may seem intricate at first, but once you get the hang of folding these little parcels of joy, the results are incredibly rewarding. Imagine tender bites of spiced chicken wrapped in thin dough, accompanied by a cooling garlic yogurt sauce and a drizzle of melted butter infused with paprika or sumac.

This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a wonderful way to bring family and friends together around the table.

Whether you’re a dumpling enthusiast or new to this cuisine, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create a mouthwatering meal from scratch. The blend of herbs and spices, combined with the soft, chewy dough, promises a comforting and satisfying experience.

Plus, making manti at home allows you to customize fillings and toppings according to your taste. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the world of delicious chicken manti!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken manti recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy traditional flavors with a healthier protein option. The chicken filling is seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices that perfectly complement the mild dough wrapper.

The dumplings are steamed or boiled, resulting in a tender texture that melts in your mouth.

Homemade dough means you avoid preservatives and get a fresh, soft wrapper that holds up beautifully against the juicy filling. The yogurt and garlic sauce adds a creamy tanginess that balances the spices.

Plus, this recipe is highly customizable—you can swap chicken for turkey or add vegetables to the filling for extra nutrition.

It’s a fun cooking project that brings a sense of accomplishment, and the end result is a crowd-pleaser suitable for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Manti is also great for meal prep as leftovers reheat wonderfully.

Ingredients

• For the Dough: 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• For the Filling:
• 500 grams (approx. 1 lb) ground chicken breast
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• For the Sauce:
• 2 cups plain yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• For Serving:
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon paprika or sumac for garnish
• Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Knife and cutting board
• Large pot or steamer
• Large spoon or spatula
• Small saucepan (for butter sauce)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fork (for sealing edges)
• Serving plate or platter

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the egg, warm water, and vegetable oil. Mix the ingredients with your hand or a spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
3. Make the Filling: While the dough rests, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley in a bowl. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
4. Roll Out the Dough: After resting, divide the dough into two equal portions. On a floured surface, roll out one portion into a thin rectangle about 1/16 inch thick (very thin but not tearing).
5. Cut the dough sheet into approximately 2-inch squares. Place a small spoonful (about 1 teaspoon) of the chicken filling in the center of each square.
6. Shape the Manti: Fold each square into a triangle by bringing one corner over the filling to the opposite corner. Press the edges together firmly with your fingers, then seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
7. Optionally, you can pinch the two opposite corners of the triangle together to create a distinctive shape often seen in traditional manti.
8. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling until all manti are formed. Place them on a floured tray to prevent sticking.
9. Cook the Manti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently drop the manti into the boiling water and cook for 8-10 minutes or until they float to the surface and the dough is tender.
10. Alternatively, you can steam the manti over boiling water for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
11. Prepare the Sauce: While the manti cook, mix the plain yogurt with minced garlic and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
12. In a small saucepan, melt the butter and stir in paprika or sumac for color and a subtle smoky flavor. Remove from heat once fragrant.
13. Serve: Drain the cooked manti and arrange on a serving platter. Spoon the garlic yogurt sauce generously over the top, then drizzle with the melted butter mixture. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

“For the best texture, make sure the dough is rolled out very thin but not so thin that it tears easily.”

If you prefer a richer filling, try mixing the chicken with a little ground lamb or beef. Adding finely grated carrots or zucchini to the filling can also introduce a subtle sweetness and extra moisture.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs such as mint or cilantro for a fresh twist. For the sauce, you can add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of chili flakes to give it a bit of zing.

Instead of boiling, steaming your manti keeps them tender and slightly chewier. If you’re short on time, store-bought wonton wrappers work as a convenient substitute for homemade dough.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Manti pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to cut through the richness. A side of pickled vegetables or a fresh tomato and cucumber salad also complements the flavors well.

For a traditional experience, serve the manti with extra garlic yogurt sauce and a sprinkle of sumac or red pepper flakes. Warm flatbread or pita can be served alongside to soak up any leftover sauce.

For a heartier meal, accompany with a bowl of hearty lentil soup or a roasted vegetable medley.

Conclusion

Making chicken manti at home is a rewarding culinary adventure that brings authentic flavors right to your kitchen. This recipe balances the delicate chicken filling with a tender, homemade dough and a tangy garlic yogurt sauce, creating a dish that’s both comforting and impressive.

Though it requires some patience and practice, the process of assembling these dumplings is a wonderful way to engage with traditional cooking techniques and share a memorable meal with loved ones. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, chicken manti is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore other delicious dishes like Lentil Soup, Roasted Vegetables, and Garlic Yogurt Dip to complement your culinary journey!

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