Famous Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad
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I recently came across a chicken salad recipe on Saveur that was originally created for the cafés inside Neiman Marcus department stores, and I knew I had to try it. The famous Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad dates back to the 1950s and was created by well-known Texas cook Helen Corbitt.
I’ve made creamy chicken salads before that use heavy cream, and it adds such a rich, extra-creamy texture. Since this recipe also called for whipping cream, I knew it had to be good—though I did tweak it slightly by using a smaller amount and adding it straight from the carton instead of whipping it to soft peaks.
I also used store-bought rotisserie chicken to make this. But you can always cook your own chicken if you prefer. This salad was a rich, creamy treat for dinner. I served it on croissants for my family because they would think I was crazy to serve chicken salad any other way. However, for me, I just served up the chicken mixture on a couple of red lettuce leaves. I also enjoyed the leftovers for lunch the next day! This was an easy dinner to prepare. No cooking was required – definitely a great way to beat the summer heat!
Ingredients for Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad
- CHICKEN BREAST
- LIGHT MAYONNAISE
- CELERY
- RED GRAPES
- FRESH PARSLEY
- SALT
- BLACK PEPPER
- HEAVY WHIPPING CREAM
- TOASTED SLICE ALMONDS
Instructions for Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad
Place all of the ingredients into a large mixing bowl. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently fold everything together until the chicken is evenly coated and all the flavors are well combined. Take care not to overmix—folding gently helps keep the chicken salad nice and creamy.
Once mixed, the chicken salad is ready to serve. It’s delicious piled onto buttery croissants for a classic presentation, or you can serve it over crisp red lettuce leaves if you’re looking for something lighter. This recipe makes about 6 servings and is perfect for lunches, showers, or easy entertaining.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes. This chicken salad actually tastes better after it has chilled for a bit. You can make it up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator.
How long does chicken salad last in the refrigerator?
Stored in an airtight container, it will keep well for about 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
Do I have to use whipping cream?
The whipping cream adds richness and a creamy texture, but you can substitute half-and-half if needed. The flavor will still be delicious, just slightly lighter.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken works great and makes this recipe even easier. Just be sure to remove the skin and shred or dice the meat.
What’s the best way to serve this chicken salad?
It’s delicious served on croissants, sandwich bread, or over lettuce leaves for a lighter option. It also works well as a filling for wraps.
Can I use different nuts for this recipe?
Yes. Chopped pecans or walnuts are popular choices.
Is this recipe good for parties or showers?
Definitely. This chicken salad is a classic, crowd-pleasing recipe that works well for luncheons, baby showers, bridal showers, or casual entertaining.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:
- Healthy Chicken Salad
- Wonton Chicken Salad
- Orchard Style Chicken Salad
- Loaded Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad
Real Mom Kitchen
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken cooked and diced, I used a rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup light mayonnaise
- 1 cup celery diced
- 1 ½ cup purple grapes halved
- 1 Tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- pepper to taste
- ⅓ cup whipping cream
- ½ cup toasted sliced almonds plus additional for garnish if desired, I bought them toasted from the store
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine all of the above ingredients.
- Fold the mixture until well combined. Serve on croissants or over red lettuce leaves.
- Serves 6.
Nutrition
Recipe adapted from Saveur.
