Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad: 4 Elegant Creamy Layers

Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad is a refined yet comforting lunch classic known for its creamy texture, tender chicken, and subtle sweetness from fresh fruit. Served chilled, it feels light but satisfying, making it ideal for midday meals, showers, or casual gatherings. Each bite delivers a delicate balance of savory chicken, crisp celery, and juicy grapes folded into a smooth dressing.

What sets Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad apart is its layered flavor and texture. Finely chopped pecans add gentle crunch, while a touch of mayonnaise and a hint of seasoning bind everything together without overwhelming the ingredients. The result is polished yet simple, perfect for serving on a bed of greens, tucked into croissants, or spooned onto crisp lettuce cups.

This version stays true to the beloved department store tradition while remaining easy to prepare at home.

Ingredients Overview

Cooked chicken breast is the foundation of Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad. Poached or roasted chicken works beautifully, as long as it is tender and well seasoned. Allow the chicken to cool completely before chopping into small, even pieces. Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience, but remove the skin to keep the texture smooth.

Mayonnaise creates the creamy base of the dressing. Choose a high-quality, full-fat mayonnaise for the most authentic flavor and texture. It binds the ingredients while allowing the other flavors to shine.

Celery provides essential crunch. Finely dice it so it blends evenly throughout the salad without overpowering each bite.

Red seedless grapes bring gentle sweetness and a burst of freshness. Slice them in halves or quarters depending on size. The natural juiciness balances the richness of the dressing.

Toasted pecans contribute a warm, nutty flavor and subtle texture contrast. Toast them lightly in a dry skillet for a few minutes to deepen their flavor before chopping.

A small amount of lemon juice brightens the dressing and balances the creaminess. Salt and freshly ground black pepper round out the seasoning.

Some variations include a small spoonful of sour cream for added tang or a pinch of sugar to enhance sweetness, though these are optional.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by preparing the chicken. If cooking from raw, poach boneless, skinless chicken breasts in gently simmering salted water for about 15 minutes, or until fully cooked. Let them cool completely before chopping into small, bite-sized pieces.

Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for three to five minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and let them cool before chopping roughly.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, diced celery, sliced grapes, and toasted pecans.

In a separate small bowl, stir together mayonnaise, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. If using sour cream, whisk it in at this stage. The dressing should be creamy but not overly thick.

Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently fold everything together using a spatula or spoon, mixing just until evenly coated. Avoid overmixing, as this can break down the grapes and soften the texture.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and improves the overall texture.

Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add a small spoonful of mayonnaise if the salad seems dry after chilling.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

For extra texture, add finely chopped green apple. Its crispness pairs well with grapes and pecans.

If you prefer a lighter version, substitute part of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. This maintains creaminess while reducing richness.

For a savory twist, add a tablespoon of finely minced red onion or a pinch of dried tarragon. Both complement the chicken without overpowering it.

If pecans are unavailable, toasted almonds or walnuts can be substituted. Toasting the nuts remains important for depth of flavor.

To keep the salad fresh for several days, store it in an airtight container and stir gently before serving.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad is perfect for lunch spreads, bridal showers, and spring gatherings. Serve it on buttery croissants for an elegant sandwich or spoon it into lettuce cups for a lighter option.

It also pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, iced tea, or sparkling water with lemon. For a simple plated lunch, arrange the salad over mixed greens with sliced tomatoes and crackers on the side.

This dish works especially well when prepared ahead, making it convenient for entertaining or weekly lunch planning.

Nutritional & Health Notes

Chicken breast provides lean protein, helping create a filling yet balanced lunch. Grapes add natural sweetness along with vitamins and antioxidants.

Using moderate amounts of mayonnaise keeps the salad creamy without becoming heavy. Replacing part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt can lower saturated fat while maintaining texture.

Pecans contribute healthy fats and a small amount of fiber. When paired with fresh greens or whole-grain bread, this salad becomes part of a well-rounded midday meal.

Portion size plays a key role in keeping the meal balanced, especially when serving with croissants or crackers.

FAQs

1. Can I make Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Yes, it is ideal for preparing in advance. Refrigerate it for at least one hour before serving. It can be stored for up to three days in an airtight container.

2. Can I use canned chicken?

Freshly cooked chicken provides better texture and flavor, but drained canned chicken can work in a pinch. Break it up gently and adjust seasoning as needed.

3. How do I keep the salad from becoming watery?

Make sure the grapes are dry after washing and the chicken is fully cooled before mixing. Excess moisture can thin the dressing.

4. Can I freeze this chicken salad?

Freezing is not recommended. The mayonnaise-based dressing can separate, and the texture of the grapes and celery will change significantly after thawing.

5. What bread works best for serving?

Croissants are traditional for a rich presentation. Whole-grain bread, brioche, or even soft sandwich rolls also work well.

6. Is this recipe overly sweet?

The sweetness comes naturally from the grapes. If you prefer a more savory profile, reduce the amount of grapes slightly or add extra celery.

7. Can I add herbs?

Yes, fresh parsley or tarragon adds a pleasant herbal note without overpowering the classic flavor profile.

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