Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dish that has become a favorite comfort food for many. This casserole combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and a crispy, buttery topping for a delicious meal that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions. Inspired by the flavors of Neiman Marcus’ renowned dishes, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

In this article, we’ll walk you through the best way to make this delightful casserole, provide tips for the perfect dish, and answer frequently asked questions to ensure a flawless result every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and creamy: A comforting, indulgent dish packed with flavor.

  • Easy to make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.

  • Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, gatherings, or weeknight dinners.

  • Make-ahead friendly: Great for meal prep and reheating.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)

  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup

  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup sour cream

  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional but highly recommended)

For the Topping:

  • 1 ½ cups crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)

  • 4 tablespoons melted butter

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well mixed.

  2. Fold in the shredded chicken and crumbled bacon (if using) until evenly coated.

  3. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Buttery Cracker Topping

  1. In a small bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese until combined.

  2. Evenly sprinkle the mixture over the casserole for a golden, crispy topping.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

  1. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

  2. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

  • Serve alongside steamed vegetables like green beans or roasted broccoli.

  • Enjoy with warm dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

  • For a heartier meal, serve over buttered egg noodles or rice.

Cooking Tips for the Best Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

  • Use rotisserie chicken: It saves time and adds extra flavor.

  • Soften cream cheese completely: This helps ensure a smooth, creamy filling.

  • Crush the crackers finely: A uniform topping ensures even browning and crispiness.

  • Add extra veggies: Stir in cooked mushrooms, spinach, or peas for added nutrition.

  • Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the cracker topping just before baking to keep it crispy.

2. Can I Freeze Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole without the topping, cover it with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, add the topping, and bake as directed.

3. What Can I Use Instead of Ritz Crackers?

If you don’t have Ritz crackers, try substituting:

  • Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

  • Crushed cornflakes for a slightly sweeter topping.

  • Crushed butter crackers like Club crackers.

4. How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat:

  • Microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

  • Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes to keep the topping crispy.

5. Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes! Simply swap the cream of chicken soup for a gluten-free version and use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping.

6. What Variations Can I Try?

  • Buffalo-style: Add ¼ cup buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.

  • Mexican twist: Mix in ½ cup salsa and 1 teaspoon taco seasoning.

  • Ranch flavor: Replace some of the sour cream with ranch dressing for extra zest.

7. Can I Use Other Cheeses?

Yes! While cheddar works best, you can also try:

  • Mozzarella for a mild, melty texture.

  • Pepper Jack for a spicy twist.

  • Swiss for a nutty, creamy flavor.

8. What Side Dishes Go Well with This Casserole?

Great side dishes include:

  • Roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots.

  • Caesar salad or coleslaw.

  • Buttery mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes.

Final Thoughts

This Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with a crispy, buttery topping. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and guaranteed to be a hit at any dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is a delicious and foolproof option.

Try it today and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that everyone will love!

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