Manhattan Chicken is a flavorful dish that brings a taste of the city right to our kitchen. Inspired by the vibrant culinary scene of New York, this recipe combines tender chicken with a rich, savory sauce that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It’s a simple yet impressive meal that anyone can master.
We love how this dish balances bold flavors with easy preparation. Using common ingredients, it transforms everyday chicken into something extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, Manhattan Chicken offers a delicious way to enjoy a classic American-inspired meal with a twist. Let’s dive into making this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite in our recipe collection.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Manhattan Chicken, it’s essential to gather fresh, quality ingredients that bring out the bold and comforting flavors of this iconic dish. Below we break down the components to guide us step-by-step.
Chicken
We start with tender, juicy chicken for the base of our recipe. Choose:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- Pat dry to ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption
Marinade and Sauce
The heart of Manhattan Chicken lies in its richly spiced marinade and sauce. This combination infuses the chicken with deep savory notes and a hint of sweet tang.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Soy sauce | ¼ cup | Adds umami and saltiness |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tablespoons | Provides a dark, complex flavor |
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons | Balances acidity with subtle sweetness |
| Garlic cloves | 3 cloves | Minced, for sharp aromatic depth |
| Fresh ginger | 1 tablespoon | Grated, adds warmth and spice |
| Red wine vinegar | 1 tablespoon | Enhances tanginess |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Freshly ground for subtle heat |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Promotes even cooking and moist chicken |
Garnishes and Extras
Elevate the dish with these finishing touches that complement and brighten the robust flavors of the chicken and sauce:
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons chopped) — adds fresh herbal brightness
- Sliced green onions (optional) — for mild sharpness and color contrast
- Lemon wedges on the side — to squeeze for a fresh acidic kick
- Steamed jasmine rice or buttery mashed potatoes — perfect for soaking up the sauce
By assembling these ingredients thoughtfully, we set the stage to make our Manhattan Chicken an unforgettable culinary experience.
Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect Manhattan Chicken recipe, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool plays a key role in ensuring the chicken is cooked evenly and the sauce develops its rich, bold flavors.
Essential Cookware and Utensils
- Large skillet or sauté pan
We use a heavy-bottomed skillet or sauté pan to achieve a nice sear on the boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This helps lock in juices and develop a flavorful crust.
- Mixing bowl
A medium-size mixing bowl is perfect for combining the marinade ingredients thoroughly. This allows the flavors from soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar to meld perfectly.
- Whisk or fork
A whisk is ideal to blend the marinade ingredients until smooth, but a fork works just as well if you don’t have a whisk on hand.
- Measuring spoons and cups
Precise measurements are crucial for balancing the bold marinade flavors, so use measuring spoons and cups for accuracy.
- Tongs
Tongs allow us to flip the chicken gently without piercing the meat and help transfer the cooked chicken from pan to plate. -
Knife and cutting board
A sharp knife and sturdy cutting board are important when prepping garnishes like fresh parsley and green onions that brighten the dish.
- Serving platter or dishes
Choose a warm serving platter to present the Manhattan Chicken attractively alongside sides like steamed jasmine rice or mashed potatoes.
Optional but Helpful Tools
- Basting brush
We recommend a basting brush for applying extra marinade or sauce during cooking for enhanced flavor and moisture.
- Meat thermometer
To ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking, a meat thermometer is very useful.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large skillet | Searing and cooking chicken evenly |
| Mixing bowl | Combining marinade ingredients |
| Whisk or fork | Blending marinade smoothly |
| Measuring spoons/cups | Measuring ingredients accurately |
| Tongs | Handling chicken safely without piercing |
| Knife and cutting board | Prepping garnishes and accompaniments |
| Serving platter | Presenting the finished dish |
| Basting brush | Applying sauce or marinade during cooking (optional) |
| Meat thermometer | Checking chicken’s doneness (optional) |
With these tools ready, we can move confidently into preparing our Manhattan Chicken with precision and ease, ensuring each bite delivers the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Prep Work
Getting the Manhattan Chicken ready starts with precise and organized preparation. Let’s break down the crucial steps to ensure every element is perfectly prepped for an outstanding dish.
Preparing the Chicken
- Use four boneless, skinless chicken breasts, ideally of even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Trim excess fat or connective tissue but keep the meat intact.
- Pat dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear.
- Lightly score the surface on both sides to allow the marinade to penetrate deeply.
- Optionally, season with a pinch of salt and black pepper before marinating.
Making the Marinade
To achieve the signature balanced and bold flavor of our Manhattan Chicken, combining the marinade ingredients thoroughly is key.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Soy sauce | 1/4 cup | Use low sodium for better control of saltiness |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tablespoons | Fresh bottles yield better flavor |
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons | Light or dark according to preference |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced fresh |
| Fresh ginger | 1 tablespoon | Peeled and finely grated |
| Red wine vinegar | 2 tablespoons | Provides acidity and brightness |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Freshly ground preferred |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons | Use extra virgin for richness |
- In a mixing bowl, whisk these ingredients until sugar dissolves and marinade is homogenous.
- Ensure marinade is well mixed before adding the chicken to maximize flavor infusion.
Prepping Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate the dish’s presentation and freshen the palate:
- Fresh parsley: Wash, dry, and finely chop about 2 tablespoons.
- Green onions: Clean and thinly slice 2-3 stalks, including some tender green tops.
- Optionally, prepare lemon wedges for a subtle citrus squeeze before serving.
- Set garnishes aside in small bowls ready for garnish plating.
By carefully following these prep steps, our Manhattan Chicken will come alive with vibrant flavors and an impeccable finish.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to prepare the Manhattan Chicken perfectly, ensuring every bite bursts with bold and balanced flavors.
Marinating the Chicken
Start by placing the four boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large mixing bowl or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor infusion.
- Use a spoon or your hands to massage the marinade into the chicken.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or seal the bag securely.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 4 hours or overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
“Patience in marinating is key to achieving tender and flavorful Manhattan Chicken.”
Cooking the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and allow it to warm until shimmering but not smoking.
- Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Reserve the marinade to use later.
- Place chicken breasts in the skillet, cooking 5 to 6 minutes per side without moving them to develop a golden brown crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to rest for 5 minutes.
| Step | Time | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Searing chicken | 5-6 minutes/side | Medium-high heat | Golden crust forms |
| Internal temp | – | 165°F (74°C) | Ensure doneness |
| Resting chicken | 5 minutes | Off heat | Juices redistribute |
Preparing the Sauce
While the chicken rests, it’s time to create the rich, flavor-packed sauce that defines Manhattan Chicken.
- Pour the reserved marinade into the same skillet.
- Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and stir until dissolved, thickening slightly.
- Simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce reduces and becomes glossy.
The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, carrying the perfect blend of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.
Combining Chicken and Sauce
Return the rested chicken breasts to the skillet with the sauce.
- Spoon the sauce generously over and around the chicken, heating together for 1 to 2 minutes to meld flavors.
- Avoid overcooking; the chicken is already perfectly done.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and sliced green onions.
Serving tip: Pair our Manhattan Chicken with steamed jasmine rice or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the luscious sauce.
By meticulously following these steps, you ensure a vibrant, succulent dish that truly captures the essence of Manhattan Chicken.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Manhattan Chicken experience, serving it thoughtfully enhances both presentation and flavor balance. Here are our recommended serving suggestions for a complete and satisfying meal:
- Pair with Fluffy Jasmine Rice
The delicate fragrance of jasmine rice complements the rich savory notes of the Manhattan Chicken sauce. Serve a generous scoop beside the chicken to soak up every bit of the luscious sauce.
- Opt for Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes bring a comforting texture contrast to the tender chicken. Their buttery richness harmonizes perfectly with the sweet and tangy glaze of the dish.
- Add Steamed or Roasted Vegetables
Lightly steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans provide a fresh, crunchy element and brighten the plate visually. Alternatively, oven-roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts add earthy depth.
- Garnish for Visual Appeal and Freshness
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions over the plated chicken to introduce a burst of color and fresh herbal aroma.
- Include a Crisp Side Salad
A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette refreshes the palate and balances the richness of the chicken.
Serving Table Overview
| Serving Component | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Jasmine Rice | Fluffy and aromatic | Soaks up sauce, enhances aroma |
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy and buttery | Balances tangy and sweet sauce |
| Steamed/Roasted Veggies | Broccoli, green beans, carrots, etc. | Adds freshness and crunch |
| Fresh Herb Garnish | Parsley, green onions | Visual appeal and flavor lift |
| Crisp Side Salad | Arugula or mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette | Cleanses palate |
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy the full flavor of Manhattan Chicken with minimal stress on serving day, proper preparation ahead is key. Here are our expert tips to make this dish ahead without sacrificing taste or texture.
Marinate in Advance
- Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This allows the bold flavors of the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices to fully infuse the meat.
- Use an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to prevent contamination and enhance flavor absorption.
- Keep the marinating chicken refrigerated at all times to maintain food safety.
Prepare the Sauce Earlier
- While the chicken marinates, reserve and simmer the marinade separately until it thickens into the rich Manhattan Chicken sauce.
- Once thickened, cool the sauce completely, then transfer it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to avoid burning or separation.
Partially Cook for Time-Saving
- For a quicker finish, sear the marinated chicken breasts in a skillet until just browned but not fully cooked (approximately 3-4 minutes per side).
- Cool the chicken and store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
- On serving day, finish cooking in the skillet or oven to the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure juiciness and tenderness.
Storage and Reheat Guidelines
| Item | Storage Duration | Reheat Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Marinated raw chicken | Up to 24 hours in fridge | Cook thoroughly to 165°F (74°C) |
| Cooked chicken | 3-4 days in fridge | Reheat gently on medium heat, covered |
| Sauce | Up to 3 days in fridge | Warm slowly in a saucepan, stirring often |
Final Assembly Tips
- Assemble sauce and chicken just before serving to keep chicken moist.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and green onions at the last moment for vibrant color and freshness.
- Pair with your preferred side dish. Reheat sides separately to maintain ideal texture.
“Preparing Manhattan Chicken ahead lets us savor the city’s bold flavors with ease and convenience.”
By following these Make-Ahead Tips we ensure every bite of Manhattan Chicken remains as succulent and flavorful as freshly made.
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage and reheating techniques are essential for preserving the rich flavors and tender texture of our Manhattan Chicken. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your leftovers remain as delicious as freshly made.
Storing Manhattan Chicken
- Marinated Raw Chicken:
Store in an airtight container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. Refrigerate immediately and use within 24 hours for optimal freshness. If marinating overnight, ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent flavor loss and cross-contamination.
- Cooked Chicken and Sauce:
Transfer to separate airtight containers. Refrigerate promptly and consume within 3 to 4 days. Keeping sauce and chicken separate prevents over-softening and prolongs quality.
| Item | Storage Method | Maximum Refrigerator Time |
|---|---|---|
| Marinated Raw Chicken | Airtight container/bag | 24 hours |
| Cooked Manhattan Chicken | Airtight container | 3–4 days |
| Sauce (thickened marinade) | Airtight container | 3–4 days |
Freezing Guidelines
- Raw marinated chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe bags with excess air squeezed out. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Cooked chicken and sauce freeze well separately for up to 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating Manhattan Chicken
Reheating must maintain moisture and flavor without drying the chicken.
- Oven Method (Recommended):
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place chicken in a baking dish and spoon some reserved sauce over it to keep it moist.
- Cover loosely with foil.
- Heat for 15 to 20 minutes, checking internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Stovetop Method:
- Heat a skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add chicken pieces and a splash of sauce or water.
- Cover and warm slowly, turning halfway, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Microwave Method (Quickest):
- Arrange chicken on a microwave-safe plate and drizzle with sauce.
- Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap with a small vent.
- Heat on medium power for 1 to 2 minutes, check, then continue in 30-second increments until warmed through.
Essential Tips for Best Results
- Avoid overheating as it can dry out the chicken.
- Reheat only the portion you plan to eat to preserve leftovers quality.
- Stir sauce occasionally when reheating separately to prevent scorching.
“Reheating with sauce preserves the iconic bold flavors and juicy texture of our Manhattan Chicken—each bite as vibrant as when first cooked.“
By following these storage and reheating practices, we ensure that enjoying Manhattan Chicken anytime remains a satisfying and flavorful experience.
Conclusion
Manhattan Chicken is a versatile dish that brings bold flavors and effortless elegance to any meal. With its rich marinade and savory sauce, it’s a recipe that fits perfectly into both busy weeknights and special gatherings.
By following the tips and techniques we’ve shared, you’ll consistently achieve tender, flavorful chicken that impresses every time. Whether you’re cooking fresh or making it ahead, this recipe adapts well to your schedule without sacrificing taste.
We’re confident that Manhattan Chicken will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen, offering a delicious way to enjoy a classic with a modern twist. Give it a try and watch it earn a permanent spot in your recipe lineup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Manhattan Chicken?
Manhattan Chicken is a flavorful dish inspired by New York’s culinary scene, featuring tender chicken breasts marinated and cooked in a rich, spiced sauce made with soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red wine vinegar.
What ingredients are needed for Manhattan Chicken?
Key ingredients include boneless, skinless chicken breasts, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic, fresh ginger, red wine vinegar, black pepper, olive oil, and optional garnishes like parsley and green onions.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least one hour, but ideally four hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
What sides pair well with Manhattan Chicken?
Steamed jasmine rice, buttery mashed potatoes, and steamed or roasted vegetables complement the dish well. A fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette is also a great palate cleanser.
Can I prepare Manhattan Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce up to three days in advance. Partially cooked chicken can also be stored and finished on serving day to save time.
How should Manhattan Chicken be stored?
Store marinated raw chicken and cooked chicken separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The sauce can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for longer storage.
What’s the best way to reheat Manhattan Chicken?
Reheat gently using the oven, stovetop, or microwave, covering the dish to keep moisture. Avoid high heat to maintain tenderness and flavor.
What equipment is needed to cook Manhattan Chicken?
You’ll need a large skillet, mixing bowl, measuring tools, and optional items like a basting brush and meat thermometer for best results.
How do I ensure the chicken cooks evenly?
Trim excess fat, score the chicken surface slightly, and ensure even thickness before marinating. Cook over medium-high heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).