The system and method for processing flowback fluid include a plurality of wellheads producing flowback fluid flows, a manifold skid, a plurality of first stage separators corresponding to at least one wellhead of an installation with multiple wellheads and multiple flowback fluid flows, a plurality of metering devices corresponding to each first stage separator, and a second stage separator in fluid connection with the metering devices and the first stage separators. Flowback fluid flows pass from the wellhead to the manifold skid so that the flowback fluid flows can be distributed under controlled conditions, such as temperature, pressure, and flow rate. The manifold skid improves safety, efficiency, and control of the later separation processes in the first stage separators and second stage separator.