Linda CainAs a food enthusiast and registered dietitian, I often find myself reminiscing about delightful meals enjoyed at special occasions. One such dish that stands out to me is the Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad. It’s a recipe that sparks memories and tantalizes the taste buds. It combines a medley of flavors creating a dish that feels both indulgent and homey.
What is Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad?
The Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad recipe originated from the famed department store, Neiman Marcus, where it quickly became a popular dish in its cafes. Known for its unique blend of sweet and savory elements, this chicken salad features tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing that binds everything together beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad Recipe
Imagine biting into a dish where the crunch of celery meets the sweetness of grapes. It’s not just a salad; it’s an experience. You’ll love this recipe for several reasons:
Flavorful: The mix of grapes and almonds creates a delightful contrast, while the seasoned chicken adds depth.
Versatile: You can adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or to suit different dietary preferences.
Easy to Prepare: With just a little chopping and mixing, you’ll have a dish ready in no time.
Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a picnic or a potluck, this chicken salad is a crowd-pleaser.
Let’s dive deeper into this culinary adventure and break down the components of this salad.
The Ingredients
To create the Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup light olive oil mayo
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup diced green onions
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped Italian parsley
- 1 ½ cups red grapes, halved
- 1 cup finely chopped celery
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- 4 cups shredded and cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup toasted slivered almonds, plus extra for garnish if desired
Step by Step Instructions
Here’s how to bring this salad to life, step-by-step.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by gathering everything you need. It makes the cooking process smoother. Ensure your chicken is cooked and shredded beforehand—using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a game changer.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, add the light olive oil mayo and heavy cream. Whisk them together until smooth. Then stir in the Dijon mustard, sea salt, and a few cracks of freshly ground black pepper. This creamy base is the heart of your salad.
Step 3: Chop the Vegetables and Fruits
Now, chop the celery and green onions. You want them to be finely chopped, so they blend well into the salad. Halve the red grapes. The sweetness of the grapes plays a vital role in this dish.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
Add the shredded chicken, chopped celery, halved grapes, and green onions into the mixing bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together. The aim here is to coat all the ingredients without breaking down the chicken too much.
Step 5: Finish It Off
Add the toasted slivered almonds and chopped parsley. Give it one last gentle mix, ensuring the almonds are evenly distributed. At this point, the salad will already look inviting.
Step 6: Chill Before Serving
For the best flavor, cover your chicken salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld. Serve it garnished with extra slivered almonds on top.
Tips & Tricks
Here are some invaluable tips to help you perfect this recipe:
Use Quality Chicken: For the best results, opt for high-quality, well-seasoned chicken.
Add Crunch: Toast your almonds for better flavor and texture.
Chill Time: Don’t skip chilling; it elevates the dish significantly.
Mix It Up: If you’re not a fan of mayo, substitute it with yogurt for a lighter option.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh veggies and herbs for a vibrant taste.
Nutrition Information
Can I Store Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad?
Absolutely! This chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate slightly.
What Can I Serve with Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with:
Crispy Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option.
Crusty Bread: A baguette or sourdough works wonders.
Fresh Fruit: Like a light fruit salad or sliced melons.
Veggie Chips: For an extra crunch alongside your meal.
Variations
Sometimes, it’s nice to switch things up a bit. Here are some variations to try:
Add Avocado: Incorporating diced avocado adds creamy goodness and extra healthy fats.
Substitute Fruits: Try using apples or pears instead of grapes for a different flavor profile.
Include Dried Fruits: Add dried cranberries or apricots for a sweet and chewy texture.
Use Different Nuts: Swap almonds for pecans or walnuts to give a unique twist.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a little heat.
Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1 cup light olive oil mayo
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup diced green onions
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped Italian parsley
- 1 ½ cups red grapes halved
- 1 cup finely chopped celery
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- 4 cups shredded and cooked chicken rotisserie chicken works perfectly
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ½ cup toasted slivered almonds plus extra for garnish if desired
Instructions
- Start by gathering everything you need. It makes the cooking process smoother. Ensure your chicken is cooked and shredded beforehand—using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a game changer.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the light olive oil mayo and heavy cream. Whisk them together until smooth. Then stir in the Dijon mustard, sea salt, and a few cracks of freshly ground black pepper. This creamy base is the heart of your salad.
- Now, chop the celery and green onions. You want them to be finely chopped, so they blend well into the salad. Halve the red grapes. The sweetness of the grapes plays a vital role in this dish.
- Add the shredded chicken, chopped celery, halved grapes, and green onions into the mixing bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together. The aim here is to coat all the ingredients without breaking down the chicken too much.
- Add the toasted slivered almonds and chopped parsley. Give it one last gentle mix, ensuring the almonds are evenly distributed. At this point, the salad will already look inviting.
- For the best flavor, cover your chicken salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld. Serve it garnished with extra slivered almonds on top.
Notes
- Here are some invaluable tips to help you perfect this recipe:
- Use Quality Chicken: For the best results, opt for high-quality, well-seasoned chicken.
- Add Crunch: Toast your almonds for better flavor and texture.
- Chill Time: Don’t skip chilling; it elevates the dish significantly.
- Mix It Up: If you’re not a fan of mayo, substitute it with yogurt for a lighter option.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh veggies and herbs for a vibrant taste.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
The Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad isn’t just a salad; it’s cherished memories and delightful flavors all wrapped in one dish. It’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or looking for a quick lunch recipe, this salad has got you covered.
So, gather your ingredients, implement these instructions, and savor each bite of this flavorful creation. Trust me; you’re going to love every moment of preparing and enjoying this wonderful dish. Let’s make mealtime memorable!
