Mary Berry Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

The Mary Berry Chicken Tikka Masala is a creamy, flavorful curry that brings together tender marinated chicken pieces and a rich, mildly spiced tomato sauce. It’s one of Britain’s most-loved dishes — aromatic, comforting, and perfect for both family dinners and weekend gatherings. Mary Berry’s version simplifies the traditional recipe while keeping all the authentic Indian-inspired flavours intact, resulting in a dish that’s delicious, balanced, and easy to prepare.

What Is Mary Berry Chicken Tikka Masala?

Mary Berry’s Chicken Tikka Masala features marinated chicken cooked in a thick, spiced tomato and cream sauce. The chicken is first infused with yogurt, garlic, ginger, and Indian spices, then grilled or pan-seared before being added to the rich masala gravy. The result is a beautifully balanced curry that’s creamy, mildly spiced, and bursting with depth.

• Also Try: Mary Berry Chicken Recipes For Dinner Party

Why This Recipe Is Worth Trying

• Authentic yet easy – A simplified take on a classic curry.
• Rich and creamy – Perfect blend of spices, tomato, and cream.
• Family-friendly – Mild heat suitable for all ages.
• Great make-ahead meal – Flavours deepen overnight.
• Versatile – Pairs well with rice, naan, or roti.

Essential Ingredients to Make Mary Berry Chicken Tikka Masala

For the chicken marinade:

• Boneless chicken breasts or thighs – 600g, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Greek yogurt – 150g
• Garlic cloves – 3, minced
• Fresh ginger – 1 tbsp, grated
• Garam masala – 1 tsp
• Ground cumin – 1 tsp
• Ground coriander – 1 tsp
• Paprika – 1 tsp
• Lemon juice – 1 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

For the masala sauce:

• Vegetable oil or ghee – 2 tbsp
• Onion – 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic cloves – 2, minced
• Fresh ginger – 1 tbsp, grated
• Tomato purée – 2 tbsp
• Chopped tomatoes (tinned) – 400g
• Ground cumin – 1 tsp
• Ground coriander – 1 tsp
• Garam masala – 1 tsp
• Turmeric – ½ tsp
• Chili powder – ½ tsp (adjust to taste)
• Double cream – 150ml
• Fresh coriander – for garnish
• Salt – to taste

(Optional: 1 tsp sugar to balance acidity)

Handy Kitchen Tools for Best Results

• Mixing bowls
• Non-stick frying pan or grill pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Blender (optional for smooth sauce)
• Serving dish

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mary Berry Chicken Tikka Masala

Step 1: Marinate the chicken

In a large bowl, mix Greek yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, lemon juice, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavour.

Step 2: Cook the chicken

Heat a grill pan or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and cook the marinated chicken pieces for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the masala sauce

In a large pan, heat oil or ghee. Add onions and sauté until soft and golden. Stir in garlic, ginger, and tomato purée, cooking for 1–2 minutes to develop the base flavour.

Step 4: Add the spices and tomatoes

Add cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir well, then add chopped tomatoes. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Blend (optional)

For a smooth texture, use a hand blender to puree the sauce directly in the pan. Skip this step if you prefer a chunkier consistency.

Step 6: Combine chicken and sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir well to coat with the sauce, then simmer gently for 10 minutes to allow the flavours to meld.

Step 7: Add cream and finish

Stir in double cream and cook for another 2–3 minutes over low heat. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or sugar if needed.

Step 8: Serve and garnish

Sprinkle with fresh coriander and serve hot with basmati rice or warm naan bread.

What I Got Wrong (And How I Fixed It)

• Sauce too thin – Simmered longer to reduce and thicken naturally.
• Chicken too dry – Used thighs instead of breasts for juicier texture.
• Overly tangy flavour – Balanced acidity with a small amount of sugar.
• Too spicy – Reduced chili powder and increased cream.

Healthier Version of Mary Berry’s Chicken Tikka Masala

• Use low-fat yogurt for the marinade.
• Swap double cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt.
• Reduce oil or ghee for a lighter sauce.
• Serve with cauliflower rice instead of basmati for fewer carbs.

Ingredient Substitutions for Mary Berry Chicken Tikka Masala

• Double cream – Replace with single cream or coconut milk.
• Garam masala – Substitute with curry powder for a milder taste.
• Greek yogurt – Use plain natural yogurt.
• Tomato purée – Use concentrated tomato paste instead.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve With Mary Berry Chicken Tikka Masala

• Steamed basmati rice – Classic pairing that complements the sauce.
• Naan bread or roti – Ideal for scooping up the curry.
• Cucumber raita – Cools the spice and adds freshness.
• Mango chutney – Adds sweetness and contrast.
• Grilled vegetables – Light and colourful side option.

Expert Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Chicken Tikka Masala

• Marinate overnight – Enhances flavour and tenderness.
• Cook on medium heat – Prevents burning the spices.
• Use thick yogurt – Keeps the marinade from becoming watery.
• Avoid overcooking chicken – Keeps it juicy and soft.
• Add cream last – Ensures a smooth and rich finish.
• Simmer gently – Allows spices to blend without curdling the sauce.
• Taste before serving – Adjust salt and spice for perfect balance.

Creative Ways to Customize Mary Berry Chicken Tikka Masala

• Add vegetables – Include bell peppers, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Make it dairy-free – Replace cream and yogurt with coconut milk.
• Extra spicy version – Add green chilies or extra chili powder.
• Smoky flavour – Grill chicken over charcoal for an authentic tandoor taste.
• Nutty twist – Stir in ground almonds for a thicker, richer sauce.

Storing Mary Berry Chicken Tikka Masala the Right Way

• Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze – Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight – Reheat gently on the stove.
• Add a splash of cream or water – To loosen the sauce when reheating.

How to Reheat Mary Berry Chicken Tikka Masala (If Needed)

• Stovetop – Warm gently over low heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave – Heat covered for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway.
• From frozen – Defrost overnight, then reheat as usual.

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

• Calories: ~420 kcal
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Sugars: 6g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 2g

Other Popular Chicken Recipes

• Mary Berry Coronation Chicken
• Mary Berry Chicken Casserole
• Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken
• Mary Berry Chicken Chasseur
• Mary Berry Chicken Marbella

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FAQs

How do I keep the chicken tender in Chicken Tikka Masala?

To keep the chicken tender, marinate it in yogurt and spices for at least one hour or overnight. The yogurt helps break down the meat fibers and locks in moisture. Also, avoid overcooking the chicken when searing — it will finish cooking gently in the sauce.

Why does my Chicken Tikka Masala sauce separate?

The sauce can separate if the heat is too high after adding cream. Lower the temperature before stirring in the cream and mix it gently. Adding the cream slowly while stirring continuously ensures a smooth, velvety texture without curdling.

Can I make Mary Berry’s Chicken Tikka Masala ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken separately in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, combine and reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to refresh the sauce.

What can I use instead of double cream in Chicken Tikka Masala?

You can replace double cream with coconut milk, single cream, or Greek yogurt for a lighter version. These alternatives keep the curry creamy while reducing richness and calories, without losing the authentic flavour.

Wrapping It Up

The Mary Berry Chicken Tikka Masala is a timeless favourite that brings authentic Indian-inspired flavours to your kitchen in a simple, approachable way. With creamy tomato sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly balanced spices, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet comforting.