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If you’ve had the Neiman Marcus chicken salad, you know why it’s famous. My copycat version gets the combo of chicken, grapes, almonds, and a smooth dressing perfectly! It’s my go-to for showers, lunches, and everything in between.

What Makes This Taste Like the Original
- Tastes Like The Real Thing! The secret ingredient to make it just like the real thing is whipping cream!
- Make-Ahead Friendly! You can prep it in advance! Check my notes in the recipe card. Make ahead for lunches, showers, and brunches!
- It Works A Dozen Ways! Scoop it onto croissants, crackers, or lettuce cups, or eat it straight from the bowl!
Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad Ingredients

- Almonds: I like the slivered almonds, but you can use sliced or chopped if you prefer. Toasting the almonds also adds great flavor!
- Grapes: Substitute or add diced apples or pineapple.
- Nuts: You can use your favorite nuts! Pecans and walnuts are great alternatives to almonds.
- Add-Ins: Stir in sliced green onions or onion powder for added flavor. Or add a tasty texture with dried fruit, such as craisins.
Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad Recipe
In the 1950s, Neiman Marcus department stores made chicken salad famous, thanks to Helen Corbitt’s simple, elegant style, so, this is my take on that classic. I like serving it for brunch with fruit salad and cinnamon pull-apart bread!
- Combine: In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken breast, celery, red grapes, slivered almonds, and fresh parsley.
- Stir: Add good quality mayonnaise, then stir to combine.
- Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, add heavy whipping cream, then mix using an electric hand mixer until soft peaks form.
- Combine and Season: Gently fold the whipped cream into the chicken mixture until it is fully incorporated. Season Neiman Marcus chicken salad with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.




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