Neiman Marcus Chicken Broth Recipe: A Luxurious Take on Comfort Food
When it comes to comforting classics, few things can compete with a warm, flavorful bowl of chicken broth. But when you add the luxurious touch of Neiman Marcus, the result is nothing short of gourmet perfection. The Neiman Marcus Chicken Broth Recipe takes a simple, humble dish and elevates it with elegance, rich flavor, and a touch of sophistication.
Whether you’re craving a soothing homemade broth on a cold day or want to impress dinner guests with a restaurant-quality soup base, this Neiman Marcus-inspired recipe will be your go-to. In this article, we’ll walk you through the full recipe, the story behind it, pro tips for perfect results, and delicious ways to use this broth in your cooking.
The Story Behind the Neiman Marcus Chicken Broth Recipe
The name Neiman Marcus is synonymous with luxury — from fashion to fine dining. Their in-store restaurants, such as the iconic Zodiac Room in Dallas, have long been known for their elegant menu offerings, including the famous Neiman Marcus Chicken Broth.
This recipe isn’t just any soup. It’s a signature dish known for its rich, golden color, perfectly balanced seasoning, and slow-simmered flavor that feels both nourishing and indulgent. It’s served as a starter at their café and often used as a base for their equally famous Neiman Marcus Chicken Soup.
The beauty of this broth lies in its simplicity. It uses high-quality ingredients and slow cooking to extract the maximum flavor from chicken, herbs, and vegetables — a hallmark of the Neiman Marcus culinary philosophy.
Why You’ll Love Neiman Marcus Chicken Broth Recipe
- Rich, Golden Flavor: The long simmer time develops a depth of flavor that store-bought broth can’t match.
- Perfect for Any Dish: Use it as a base for soups, risottos, sauces, or to cook grains for extra flavor.
- Nutritious and Soothing: Packed with collagen, vitamins, and minerals from the chicken and vegetables.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a large batch and store it for up to 3 months for quick meals later.
Ingredients for Neiman Marcus Chicken Broth Recipe
To create the signature Neiman Marcus flavor, you’ll need simple, wholesome ingredients — but in the right proportions and cooked with care.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 to 5 pounds) – preferably organic or free-range for the best flavor
- 12 cups cold water – filtered if possible
- 2 large onions, quartered (leave skins on for golden color)
- 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 leek, cleaned and sliced (optional but adds a gourmet touch)
- 1 head of garlic, halved horizontally
- 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
- 2 bay leaves
- A handful of fresh parsley stems
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
Optional Additions:
- 1 parsnip, peeled and chopped – for added sweetness
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – helps extract nutrients from the bones
- Fresh dill or tarragon – for a unique Neiman Marcus twist
How to Make Neiman Marcus Chicken Broth
This recipe is all about slow cooking and layering flavors. Here’s the step-by-step process to get that signature Neiman Marcus taste.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
Rinse the chicken thoroughly and remove any giblets. Place it in a large stockpot or Dutch oven. Chop the vegetables roughly — they don’t need to be perfect since they’ll be strained later.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add the chicken, vegetables, herbs, and spices to the pot. Pour in the cold water until everything is fully submerged (about 12 cups). Add salt and apple cider vinegar if using.
Step 3: Bring to a Simmer
Set the pot over medium-high heat and bring it to a gentle boil. As it heats, skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface. This keeps your broth clear and clean-tasting — a hallmark of Neiman Marcus-style presentation.
Step 4: Slow Simmer
Once it reaches a gentle simmer, reduce the heat to low. Cover partially with a lid and simmer for 3 to 4 hours, or up to 6 hours for extra richness. Avoid boiling, as that can make the broth cloudy.
Step 5: Strain the Broth
Carefully remove the chicken using tongs and strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl. Discard the vegetables and herbs — they’ve already given their flavor.
If you’d like, shred the chicken meat and save it for other recipes (like Neiman Marcus Chicken Soup or chicken salad).
Step 6: Chill and Store
Let the broth cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it overnight. The next day, skim off any solidified fat on top for a cleaner taste.
Transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Chef’s Tips for the Perfect Neiman Marcus Chicken Broth
- Use a whole chicken — including bones, skin, and cartilage — for maximum depth of flavor and body.
- Don’t rush the simmering process. The longer it cooks (up to 6 hours), the richer your broth will be.
- Add vinegar early. It helps extract collagen and nutrients from the bones.
- Keep it clear. Skim off foam and fat during cooking to maintain a golden, translucent broth.
- Roast the chicken first (optional). For deeper flavor, roast the chicken and vegetables at 400°F for 25 minutes before simmering.
How to Use Neiman Marcus Chicken Broth
This broth is wonderfully versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- As a starter soup: Simply serve warm, garnished with parsley or dill, for a comforting appetizer.
- Base for chicken noodle soup: Add shredded chicken, egg noodles, and fresh herbs.
- Cooking grains: Use broth instead of water to make rice, quinoa, or couscous extra flavorful.
- In sauces or gravies: The rich broth enhances cream sauces or pan reductions.
- For risotto: Adds depth and umami to any risotto recipe.
Neiman Marcus Chicken Broth Variations
- Spicy Version: Add a small piece of fresh ginger and a dash of red pepper flakes for warmth.
- Asian Fusion: Replace thyme with lemongrass and add a splash of soy sauce.
- Herb-Infused Gourmet Broth: Add rosemary, basil, and bay leaves for a Mediterranean touch.
- Vegetable-Heavy Broth: Double the vegetables for a lighter, garden-fresh version.
Health Benefits of Homemade Chicken Broth
The Neiman Marcus Chicken Broth isn’t just tasty — it’s nutrient-rich and deeply nourishing:
- Supports immunity: Thanks to amino acids and minerals from bones and vegetables.
- Promotes gut health: The gelatin in the broth helps protect and heal the digestive tract.
- Hydrating and low-calorie: Ideal for light meals or detox days.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Helps soothe colds and joint pain naturally.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerate: Up to 5 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze: Up to 3 months in freezer-safe jars or silicone molds.
- Reheat: Gently warm on the stove over low heat. Avoid boiling to preserve flavor.
Tip: Freeze in 1-cup portions for easy use in recipes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Boiling instead of simmering: Causes cloudy broth and uneven flavor.
- Using too much salt early: Add salt at the end to control seasoning.
- Skipping the skimming: This leads to a greasy, murky result.
- Overcrowding the pot: Give ingredients room to release flavor evenly.
Neiman Marcus Chicken Broth Recipe (Printable Version)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Serves: About 8 cups
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (4–5 lbs)
- 12 cups cold water
- 2 onions, quartered
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 4 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 leek, sliced
- 1 head garlic, halved
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tbsp whole peppercorns
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- Fresh parsley and thyme sprigs
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a large pot.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and skim off foam.
- Simmer uncovered for 4 hours.
- Strain broth through a fine sieve.
- Cool, refrigerate overnight, and skim off fat.
- Store in containers or use immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken parts instead of a whole chicken?
Yes! Use a mix of wings, thighs, and drumsticks — they’re full of collagen and create a rich broth.
2. How do I make it more flavorful?
Roast the chicken and vegetables before simmering, or simmer longer (up to 6 hours) for deeper flavor.
3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Cook on low for 8–10 hours. It’s a great hands-off method that yields similar results.
4. How do I make it look clear like Neiman Marcus’s version?
Skim impurities often and avoid boiling. For extra clarity, strain through cheesecloth.
5. Is this broth gluten-free?
Yes — this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
The Neiman Marcus Chicken Broth Recipe is proof that even simple comfort foods can be elevated to luxury with the right technique and care. This rich, golden broth is soothing, versatile, and deeply flavorful — perfect for sipping, cooking, or creating the foundation for countless dishes.
Whether you’re channeling the elegance of Neiman Marcus’s Zodiac Room or simply craving a bowl of homemade warmth, this recipe delivers every time. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to store-bought broth again.
