The Original Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad Recipe : A Timeless Classic!
Craving something creamy, refreshing, and elegant? My Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad Recipe is the perfect dish that brings luxury café flavours right to your kitchen. This legendary chicken salad, once served in the iconic Neiman Marcus cafés, is a timeless favourite. With tender Chicken, crisp celery, juicy grapes, and the crunch of toasted almonds, every bite is a beautiful balance of texture and taste. The secret twist? A touch of whipped cream folded into the mix, giving it a light, cloud-like texture that makes it irresistible.
Preparation Instructions
Making this chicken salad is simple, but the key is to balance textures and flavours. Here’s how I prepare it step by step:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
I start with cooked chicken breast that’s tender and juicy. To keep it soft, I either poach it gently in salted water or roast it until just cooked through. Once cooled, I cut it into bite-sized ½-inch cubes.
Step 2: Toast the Almonds
For the best flavour, I always toast the almonds lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat. It only takes 3–4 minutes for them to turn golden brown and fragrant. This step adds that extra crunch and nutty depth that makes the salad irresistible.
Step 3: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the mayonnaise, celery, grapes, almonds, parsley, and salt. This mixture is the creamy, crunchy backbone of the salad.
Step 4: Fold in Chicken and Whipped Cream
Next, I gently fold in the chicken pieces. Finally, I add the whipped cream and a touch of freshly ground black pepper, carefully folding it so the salad stays light and airy instead of heavy.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
For the best flavour, I cover the bowl and let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavours to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
One of the best things about the Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad is how versatile it is. Here are my favourite ways to enjoy it:
- Classic Sandwiches – Spoon it between soft croissants or buttery brioche rolls.
- On Lettuce Cups – A lighter, low-carb option that looks beautiful on a platter.
- Stuffed in Tomatoes or Avocados – Perfect for a lunch that feels fancy with very little effort.
- With Crackers or Toast – A quick snack or appetizer for gatherings.
This salad isn’t just a recipe—it’s a chic lunch experience that feels special every time.
Storage Instructions
One of the reasons I love making this salad is that it keeps so well, making it a great make-ahead option for lunches or gatherings. Here’s how I store it:
Refrigeration
I transfer the chicken salad into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. The flavour actually improves the longer it sits, so it’s even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
I don’t recommend freezing this recipe because the mayonnaise and whipped cream don’t thaw well, and the grapes will become mushy. It’s best enjoyed fresh from the fridge.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad
- Chickenicken Gently – Poaching chicken in lightly salted water ensures it stays moist, and overcooking chicken makes the salad dry.
- Toast the Almonds – This small step adds a huge flavour boost. Never skip it!
- Choose Sweet, Firm Grapes – Red or purple grapes give the salad a juicy pop of freshness.
- Don’t Over-Mix – Fold the whipped cream in gently to keep the salad fluffy.
- Chill Before Serving – Allowing it to rest in the fridge enhances the flavours and texture.
By following these tips, you’ll have a light, creamy, and luxurious chicken salad that tastes like it came straight out of Neiman Marcus Café.
Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Video
Notes
Required Kitchen Tools
To make this Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad at home, here’s what I keep on hand:- Sharp Chef’s Knife – For chopping chicken, celery, and parsley with precision.
- Mixing Bowls – A large one for combining the salad and a small one for prepping ingredients.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – To keep ingredient proportions just right.
- Toaster or Skillet – For toasting almonds to bring out their nutty flavor.
- Rubber Spatula – Essential for folding in the whipped cream without deflating it.
FAQ – Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad Recipe
1. Can I make Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad actually tastes even better when made a few hours in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. What’s the best chicken for this salad?
I recommend poaching chicken breasts in lightly salted water until tender, then cooling and dicing them. You can also use leftover roasted chicken or even rotisserie chicken for convenience.
3. Can I substitute the grapes?
Absolutely. While purple grapes add a nice sweetness and colour, you can use green grapes, apple chunks, or even dried cranberries for a twist.
4. Is there a lighter version of this salad?
Yes. You can substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayonnaise, or skip the whipped cream for a leaner option.
5. What can I serve this chicken salad with?
It’s delicious in croissants, brioche rolls, lettuce wraps, hollowed tomatoes, avocados, or simply with crackers. Perfect for lunch, brunch, or light dinners.
6. Why does this recipe use whipped cream?
The whipped cream is the Neiman Marcus twist; it makes the salad extra light and fluffy, giving it that signature café-quality texture.
7. Can I freeze chicken salad?
No, freezing isn’t recommended since the mayo and whipped cream don’t hold up well after thawing. Enjoy it fresh within 3 days.
Conclusion
Recreating the Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad Recipe at home is like bringing a touch of luxury into your everyday. With chicken, crunchy celery, juicy grapes, and toasted almonds all folded into a creamy whipped dressing, this salad is the perfect balance of flavours and textures.
Whether I serve it in buttery croissants, crisp lettuce cups, or simply with crackers, it always feels like something special. I love how versatile it is, perfect for brunches, light lunches, or even elegant parties. And the best part? It takes just minutes to. Chickenchickenedd.
If you’re craving a chicken salad that’s refreshing, creamy, and timeless, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. Trust me, it’s a classic for a reason.
Sophia Smith is a passionate home baker and dessert enthusiast who loves sharing her favorite recipes, baking tips, and kitchen secrets. Through Roses Baking Passion, she inspires others to bake with love and creativity every day.
