Linda CainBefore we dive into the wonderful world of Neiman Marcus Gourmet Chicken Breast, let’s take a moment to appreciate some beautiful pairings that can elevate your meal, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a comforting family dinner. A herbed quinoa salad offers a nutty flavor complemented by fresh herbs, providing a light contrast to the chicken; toss in cucumbers, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon for added freshness.
Roasted seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, enhance the chicken’s flavors while the roasting process adds a delightful caramelized touch. For a classic side, creamy mashed potatoes enriched with butter and cream can provide a hearty complement.
Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the chicken’s juices, while a simple green salad with crisp greens, like spinach and arugula, drizzled with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish. With these perfect accompaniments in mind, we can now delve into the details of this delightful chicken recipe.
Have you ever tasted something so delicious that it felt like a warm hug? For me, that dish is Neiman Marcus Gourmet Chicken Breast. It’s not just food; it’s an experience, a celebration of flavors that comes with memories around the dinner table. As a registered dietitian and food blogger, I always seek ways to combine nutrition with taste, and this recipe hits the sweet spot.
The Neiman Marcus brand is synonymous with quality, and their gourmet chicken breast lives up to that reputation. When friends or family gather around, it’s this chicken dish that steals the show. So, let’s explore what makes this particular chicken breast so special and how we can recreate that magic in our own kitchens.
What is Neiman Marcus Gourmet Chicken Breast?
Neiman Marcus Gourmet Chicken Breast combines culinary excellence with bold flavors. It features perfectly cooked chicken breasts that are moist, tender, and seasoned to perfection. The hallmark of this recipe is its simplicity and the quality of ingredients. It involves marinating the chicken in cultured buttermilk, which not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken incredibly tender.
What sets this dish apart from standard chicken recipes is the special blend of seasonings, including smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a signature aromatic herb mix. These ingredients together enhance the natural flavor of the chicken without overwhelming it.
Why You’ll Love Neiman Marcus Gourmet Chicken Breast
You might wonder what’s so captivating about Neiman Marcus Gourmet Chicken Breast. Allow me to explain.
Firstly, versatility is a standout quality. Whether you grill, bake, or pan-sear, this chicken breast adapts beautifully to any style of cooking. You can serve it with an array of sides or toss it into salads. The flavors are complementary, seamlessly fitting into various cuisines.
Secondly, the use of cultured buttermilk as a marinade is not just a gimmick; it’s a crucial step that enhances moisture retention. The tangy buttermilk helps break down protein fibers, creating that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. You’ll feel like a culinary genius once your chicken comes out perfectly juicy—trust me, it’s a game-changer.
Moreover, it’s health-conscious. As a food enthusiast who prioritizes nutrition, I appreciate that this chicken breast is lean and packed with protein. The use of panko crumbs instead of regular breading gives it a crunchy texture with less grease.
Lastly, preparing this dish is an experience in itself. The aroma that fills your kitchen while the chicken cooks can draw everyone in as if it has magical properties. Just picture a family gathering with smiles all around, as each bite is met with delighted approval.
The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Neiman Marcus Gourmet Chicken Breast
Creating this dish requires a few key ingredients. Here’s what you need:
- 2 cups cultured buttermilk
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken fillets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup seasoned panko crumbs
- 1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons freshly minced parsley
- 1 teaspoon aromatic herb blend (thyme, rosemary, and oregano)
- Salt and cracked black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for greasing)
Directions
Now, let’s get down to how to prepare Neiman Marcus Gourmet Chicken Breast. Follow these simple but enlightening steps.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by pouring the cultured buttermilk into a large bowl. Sprinkle some salt and cracked black pepper for seasoning. Add the chicken fillets, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour, or overnight if you plan ahead.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, seasoned panko crumbs, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, minced parsley, and the aromatic herb blend. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. This coating will give the chicken its delectable crunch.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven (if baking)
If you decide to bake the chicken, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will ensure even cooking and browning.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the buttermilk. Allow any excess buttermilk to drain off. Take each chicken fillet and dredge it in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess.
Step 5: Cooking the Chicken
Option 1: Pan-Searing
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the coated chicken fillets. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Option 2: Baking
If you’re baking, place the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet. Drizzle with a bit of melted butter for added flavor. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest on a plate for a few minutes. This rest period helps retain juices. Then slice and serve with your chosen accompaniments.
Notes
Here are five key tips to ensure your Neiman Marcus Gourmet Chicken Breast turns out perfectly:
- Brine the chicken: If you have time, brining the chicken breast in a saltwater solution for an hour can enhance the flavor and moisture.
- Don’t skip marinating: Marinating in buttermilk is non-negotiable for that tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer: To avoid overcooking, check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Customize the herbs: Feel free to mix and match herbs based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy the chicken right away to savor the crispy crust.
Storage Tips
If you are fortunate enough to have leftovers, store them correctly:
- Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze cooked chicken for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition Information
neiman marcus gourmet chicken breast recipe nutrition facts
Serving Suggestions
Ready to dig in? Here are five delightful ways to serve Neiman Marcus Gourmet Chicken Breast:
- Over a Bed of Greens: Serve slices of the chicken over mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
- In Sandwiches: Layer slices in a crusty sandwich with pesto, fresh mozzarella, and sun-dried tomatoes; perfect for a quick lunch.
- With Pasta: Toss pieces into a creamy Alfredo or tomato sauce for a delicious pasta dish.
- As Part of a Platter: Pair with assorted cheeses, olives, and crackers for a stunning appetizer spread.
- Accompanied by Rice Pilaf: Serve alongside a lemon-infused rice pilaf for a wholesome dinner.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Neiman Marcus Gourmet Chicken Breast?
If you’re looking to switch things up, consider one of the following substitutes:
- Turkey Breast: A lean alternative that works well in the same recipe. Adjust cooking time as turkey may require a bit longer.
- Tofu: For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with extra-firm tofu. Use the same marinating and coating process.
- Quorn or Chickpea Patties: Use these for a meatless variation. They’re protein-rich while offering a different flavor profile.
- Pork Chops: Instead of chicken, try this recipe with boneless pork chops; follow the same marination and cooking steps.
- Bone-in Chicken Thighs: For those who enjoy deeper flavors, bone-in thighs can add a richness that’s delightful.
Neiman Marcus Gourmet Chicken Breast Recipe
Equipment
- Plastic wrap
- Large bowl
Ingredients
- 2 cups cultured buttermilk
- 4 boneless skinless chicken fillets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup seasoned panko crumbs
- 1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons freshly minced parsley
- 1 teaspoon aromatic herb blend thyme, rosemary, and oregano
- Salt and cracked black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon melted butter for greasing
Instructions
- Begin by pouring the cultured buttermilk into a large bowl. Sprinkle some salt and cracked black pepper for seasoning. Add the chicken fillets, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour, or overnight if you plan ahead.
- In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, seasoned panko crumbs, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, minced parsley, and the aromatic herb blend. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. This coating will give the chicken its delectable crunch.
- If you decide to bake the chicken, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will ensure even cooking and browning.
- Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the buttermilk. Allow any excess buttermilk to drain off. Take each chicken fillet and dredge it in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the coated chicken fillets. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- If you’re baking, place the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet. Drizzle with a bit of melted butter for added flavor. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy.
- Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest on a plate for a few minutes. This rest period helps retain juices. Then slice and serve with your chosen accompaniments.
Notes
- Brine the chicken: If you have time, brining the chicken breast in a saltwater solution for an hour can enhance the flavor and moisture.
- Don’t skip marinating: Marinating in buttermilk is non-negotiable for that tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer: To avoid overcooking, check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Customize the herbs: Feel free to mix and match herbs based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy the chicken right away to savor the crispy crust.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Neiman Marcus Gourmet Chicken Breast isn’t just a meal; it’s a journey into delightful cooking that anyone can experience at home. This dish combines rich flavor, health benefits, and the pleasure of a simple recipe.
The best part? You can easily customize it to your liking, making it a tool for creativity in the kitchen. So, whether you’re planning a family dinner, a fancy gathering, or simply wanting to spoil yourself, this chicken breast will not disappoint.
Next time you’re shopping or planning a meal, consider this recipe. Bring a little bit of the gourmet magic home to your kitchen!
