Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe

The Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a cozy, flavorful dish that’s become a beloved comfort food classic for so many. Packed with tender shredded chicken, creamy soup, sharp cheddar, and a delightful crunch from buttery cracker topping and slivered almonds, every bite bursts with rich, satisfying textures and flavors. This casserole is perfect for gathering family or friends around the table, offering an inviting warmth and a hint of zesty heat from the hot sauce that keeps things exciting. If you’re looking to whip up something deliciously indulgent yet surprisingly simple, the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a game-changer you’re going to adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

As much as this dish feels like an upscale comfort classic, the ingredient list is refreshingly straightforward. Each item plays a crucial role in layering taste and texture into the casserole, making sure every forkful is a harmonious blend of creamy, savory, and crunchy.

• 4 cups shredded cooked chicken: The hearty protein base that makes this casserole satisfying and filling.
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup: Adds luscious creaminess and depth of flavor throughout the dish.
• 1 cup sour cream: Brings a tangy richness that balances the cheddar and soup perfectly.
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese: Sharp, melty, and gooey cheese is a must for that comforting allure.
• 1/2 cup sliced green onions: Offers a fresh, subtle bite and a pop of vibrant color.
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds: Introduces a lovely nutty crunch that elevates the texture.
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Smoky, salty, crispy bits that add incredible flavor layers.
• 1 ½ teaspoons hot sauce: Just enough heat to nicely brighten the dish without overpowering it.
• 1 sleeve buttery crackers, crushed: The secret to that irresistibly crispy golden topping you’ll love.
• 1/2 cup butter, melted: Keeps the cracker topping rich and perfectly toasted.

How to Make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that once your casserole dish is ready, it will bake evenly and develop that beautiful golden crust we all look forward to.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

Grab a large bowl and mix together the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded Cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, slivered almonds, crumbled bacon, and hot sauce. This combination creates the wonderful creamy, cheesy, savory base of the casserole that’s packed with exciting flavors.

Step 3: Transfer the Mixture to a Casserole Dish

Once your delicious mixture is well combined, spread it evenly into a greased casserole dish. This dish will hold all those wonderful flavors as they bake and meld together.

Step 4: Prepare the Delicious Cracker Topping

In a separate bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are fully coated. This topping is what transforms the casserole into a masterpiece with its crispy, golden texture.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the casserole and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when those irresistible aromas start filling your kitchen.

Step 6: Let It Cool and Serve

After baking, allow the casserole to cool just a bit before serving. This resting time lets everything set, so each portion holds together perfectly without being too hot to enjoy immediately.

How to Serve Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Garnishes

For garnishes, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional sliced green onions adds a lovely brightness and fresh color contrast to the warm, inviting casserole. You could also add extra slivered almonds on top for crunch lovers who want to amp up the texture.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with light, refreshing sides. A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or steamed green beans balances out the richness, while roasted seasonal vegetables bring additional warmth and heartiness to the meal. For a cozier vibe, creamy mashed potatoes or warm dinner rolls never fail to please.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests? Serve the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. Alternatively, present it family-style right from the casserole dish accompanied by serving spoons. You can also layer it in a clear glass casserole dish to showcase the beautiful colorful layers, making it as delightful visually as it is in taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole leftovers will keep wonderfully in the refrigerator stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for quick lunches or dinners during a busy week without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Freezing

If you want to plan ahead, this casserole freezes well. Simply assemble it but don’t bake, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking according to the directions. The flavors remain remarkably fresh after freezing!

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or the whole dish in a 350°F oven until heated through and the topping regains its crispness. If microwaving, you can sprinkle some fresh crushed crackers on top and briefly broil it for a minute to restore that signature crunch.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds a juicy, flavorful element to the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, making your prep even quicker.

What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?

If you prefer homemade or want a healthier option, you can substitute with a simple mixture of chicken broth and a homemade white sauce (béchamel) to maintain that creamy texture.

Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?

Yes! Simply swap the shredded chicken for cooked, shredded jackfruit or a hearty vegetable medley, and substitute the soup with a vegetarian-friendly creamy soup option.

Can I make this casserole spicy?

Definitely! The recipe already includes hot sauce, but you can increase the amount or add diced jalapeños or chili flakes to turn up the heat to your liking.

What kind of crackers work best for the topping?

Buttery crackers like Ritz are the classic choice because they create a perfectly crispy, flavorful topping. However, buttery round crackers or buttery bread crumbs are great alternatives too.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so wonderfully comforting and satisfying about the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole that keeps me coming back for more. It’s an easy-to-make dish that feels like a special occasion every time, and honestly, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite for so many. Gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones, and enjoy this timeless casserole that truly warms both the body and heart.

Print