The Mary Berry Cashew Chicken Recipe is a delightful balance of flavors, bringing together tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and a silky, flavorful sauce.
As culinary enthusiasts, we aim to present the most detailed, well-structured, and SEO-optimized guide to preparing this dish so that you can recreate the beloved recipe perfectly at home.
With step-by-step instructions, ingredient insights, and professional cooking tips, this comprehensive article covers everything you need to make the best cashew chicken recipe inspired by Mary Berry.
What Makes Mary Berry’s Cashew Chicken Special?
Mary Berry is known for her classic, elegant, and approachable cooking style. Her version of cashew chicken features:
- Perfectly cooked chicken breast that stays juicy and tender
- A rich and creamy sauce with mild spice
- The natural sweetness and crunch of roasted cashews
- Balanced seasonings and a smooth finish
This dish offers a comforting blend of flavors that pair beautifully with rice, noodles, or even a fresh green salad.
Ingredients for Mary Berry Cashew Chicken Recipe
Below is a detailed list of ingredients essential to achieving the authentic flavor and texture of this dish.
For the Chicken:
- 600g chicken breast, cut into thin strips
- 2 tbsp sunflower oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 tbsp ginger, freshly grated
- 200 ml chicken stock
- 150 ml double cream
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp curry powder
- ½ tsp turmeric
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornflour, mixed with 2 tbsp water
For Garnish & Finish:
- 100g roasted cashew nuts
- Fresh coriander, chopped
- Lemon wedges (optional)
How to Make Mary Berry Cashew Chicken – Step-by-Step Method
Follow this neatly structured cooking method to achieve a perfectly balanced, creamy, and flavorful cashew chicken every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken strips with salt and black pepper. Heat oil in a large non-stick pan, then add the chicken. Cook over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned but not dry.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary. Add:
- Chopped onions
- Crushed garlic
- Grated ginger
Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onions become soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Flavor Base
Add the spices:
- Curry powder
- Turmeric
Stir for 1 minute to release their natural aromas.
Then add:
- Chicken stock
- Soy sauce
- Honey
- Lemon juice
Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Pour in the double cream, stirring continuously.
Then add the cornflour slurry to thicken the sauce. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce becomes glossy and smooth.
Step 5: Add Chicken and Cashews
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and add roasted cashews. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.
Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 6: Final Touch
Garnish with fresh chopped coriander and serve with steamed rice, noodles, or flatbread.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cashew Chicken
To elevate your cooking experience, here are some professional insights:
1. Use Toasted Cashews
Roasting enhances the nutty flavor and brings a pleasant crunch to the dish.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Overcooking can make chicken dry. Searing it lightly keeps it tender.
3. Balance the Sweetness and Saltiness
Adjust honey and soy sauce levels to match your taste preference.
4. Make It Creamier
For a richer texture, increase double cream or substitute with coconut cream.
5. Add Vegetables (Optional)
Enhance color and nutrition by adding:
- Red bell peppers
- Broccoli
- Carrots
Serving Suggestions
Pair Mary Berry’s cashew chicken with:
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Garlic fried rice
- Stir-fry noodles
- Warm naan bread
- Fresh green salad
This allows you to enjoy a complete, well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
You can freeze without cashews for up to 1 month. Add fresh cashews when reheating.
Reheating:
Warm in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or cream to refresh the sauce texture.
Why This Cashew Chicken Recipe Stands Out
This version of Mary Berry Cashew Chicken is:
- Rich and creamy
- Balanced with spice and sweetness
- Easy to prepare
- Perfect for family dinners or gatherings
- Elegant enough for guests
The combination of premium ingredients, careful seasoning, and creamy-smooth sauce creates a luxurious and unforgettable dish that everyone will enjoy.
Final Thoughts
The Mary Berry Cashew Chicken Recipe remains one of the most comforting dishes to prepare. Its delicious aroma, rich texture, and harmonious flavors make it a must-try for anyone who loves classic, flavorful meals.
By following this detailed guide, you’ll be able to cook it perfectly every single time.