Name: Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole: A Cozy Family Favorite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (can substitute with rotisserie chicken or turkey); 8 oz cream cheese (for creaminess and tang); 1 cup sour cream (plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute); 1/2 cup mayonnaise (can replace with extra sour cream or Greek yogurt); 2 cups cheddar cheese (Colby Jack or Monterey Jack can be used); 1 small onion (or use shallots for a milder flavor); 1 cup Ritz crackers (can substitute with Panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes)

As the aroma of a bubbling casserole drifts through the air, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. Have you ever indulged in the creamy goodness of a warm Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole? This dish is more than just a comforting meal; it’s a versatile, budget-friendly option that brings smiles to the whole family. With its easy prep and flexible ingredients, you can whip it up for a cozy weeknight dinner or dazzle your friends at gatherings. What I love most is how this recipe invites creativity—feel free to swap in turkey or even experiment with different toppings to match your taste. Ready to discover the magic of homemade comfort food? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!

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Why will you adore this casserole?

Comforting and rich, this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole feels like a warm hug in a dish, perfect for any occasion. Versatile and customizable, you can easily swap ingredients to fit your taste—try adding your favorite veggies or opt for turkey instead of chicken! Crowd-pleasing, it’s guaranteed to impress your family and guests alike, making it an ideal choice for potlucks. Plus, make-ahead friendly! Prepare it in advance and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready. With every cheesy, buttery bite, you’re not just serving a meal; you’re creating cherished memories around the table.

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole
• Chicken Breast – The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and protein. You can substitute with rotisserie chicken or turkey for hassle-free cooking.
• Cream Cheese – Adds a velvety texture and delightful tang; it’s best not to substitute for the same creaminess.
• Sour Cream – Enhances creaminess with a hint of tang; plain Greek yogurt works as a great alternative.
• Mayonnaise – Contributes moisture and richness; if needed, you can replace with extra sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully into the casserole, delivering crave-worthy flavor; try Colby Jack or Monterey Jack for a fun twist.
• Onion – Brings depth and flavor; feel free to omit or use shallots for a milder profile.

For the Topping
• Ritz Crackers – Create a buttery, crunchy topping that everyone loves; Panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes make for good substitutes.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to crafting the delightful Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole that brings comfort right to your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole will bake evenly and thoroughly. While the oven warms up, gather all your ingredients and get ready for the delicious assembly ahead.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken with cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, and diced onion. Use a spatula to mix everything until it’s smooth and well-integrated. This creamy blend will form the heart of your casserole, bringing together rich flavors and comforting textures.

Step 3: Transfer to Casserole Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Then, carefully transfer the chicken mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This ensures that every bite of your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole will be packed with that delicious, creamy goodness.

Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping
Take your Ritz crackers and crush them into small pieces using your hands or a rolling pin—this will create a delightful topping. Sprinkle the crushed crackers evenly over the chicken mixture, ensuring every inch is covered. This topping will turn beautifully golden-brown and crunchy while baking, adding an irresistible texture.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it cooks; you’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. This baking step will meld all the flavors together, resulting in a warm and inviting dish.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to settle and enhances the overall texture. Serve your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole warm, and watch as everyone gathers around to enjoy this creamy, comforting delight!

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Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Variations

Feel free to get creative with the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole! These delightful twists will make your dish even more exciting.

Turkey Swap: Substitute shredded chicken with turkey for a delicious alternative that’s equally comforting and crowd-pleasing.
Veggie Boost: Stir in cooked broccoli, peas, or mushrooms for added nutrition and a pop of flavor. This is a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream and dairy-free yogurt as substitutes for a creamy vegan version without sacrificing taste.
Zesty Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for an enticing flavor boost that packs a little heat.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the mixture for a fragrant touch that elevates the dish superbly.
Crunchy Variation: Swap Ritz crackers for Panko breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips for a different crunchy topping that adds texture.
Cheese Experiment: Try different cheese combinations—blend in Gouda or Pepper Jack for unique flavor profiles that surprise and delight!

For even more recipe ideas, be sure to check out my warm and cheesy Chicken Broccoli Casserole or the indulgent Balsamic Glazed Chicken. Enjoy the journey of making this recipe your own!

How to Store and Freeze Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure the casserole is cooled before sealing to prevent excess moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a tightly wrapped portion or a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To maintain moisture, reheat the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole covered with aluminum foil in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.

Assembling Ahead: If preparing in advance, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours before baking. Keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to pop it in the oven.

Expert Tips for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Avoid Soggy Bottoms: Ensure the chicken mixture isn’t too watery by draining any excess moisture before mixing. This helps maintain the desired casserole texture.
Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, experiment with flavored cheeses for a unique twist. Just remember to balance the creaminess with your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole base!
Crunchy Topping: Be sure to crush the Ritz crackers finely, but not into dust. This preserves the crunch when baking and adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy filling.
Prep Ahead: To save time, assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This will also allow flavors to develop further before baking!
Leftover Love: When reheating leftovers, cover with foil and bake at a low temperature. This prevents drying out and keeps every bite as delicious as the first.

What to Serve with Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?

The comforting warmth of a creamy casserole deserves the perfect sides to create a memorable feast.

Garlic Bread: The buttery warmth of garlic bread pairs beautifully, soaking up the casserole’s luscious sauce. A crunchy loaf delivers a delightful contrast!
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess, adding a burst of color and flavor to the meal.
Steamed Green Beans: Tender, vibrant green beans offer a crisp texture and fresh flavor that balances the richness of the casserole. Lightly seasoned, they add a nice crunch.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes create a pillow-soft base, perfect for scooping up casserole. They take comfort food to a whole new level!
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers bring a charred sweetness that complements the casserole’s creamy, savory notes.
Apple Crisp: For a sweet finish, serve a warm apple crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Its sweet, spiced flavors contrast deliciously with the savory casserole.
Sparkling Lemonade: The refreshing zing of sparkling lemonade adds a fun, bright note to your meal, making it a perfect pairing for the rich casserole.

Make Ahead Options

These Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is ideal for busy home cooks seeking to save time during hectic weeks! You can assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking, allowing you to enjoy a home-cooked meal with minimal effort on a busy evening. To prep, combine the cooked chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, and onion, then transfer it to a greased casserole dish and top it with crushed Ritz crackers. Make sure to cover it tightly to maintain quality and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop it in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, and you’ll have a comforting, delicious casserole that’s just as scrumptious as if it were fresh out of the oven!

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Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this casserole?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken, look for fresh, plump breasts, avoiding any that have a grayish hue or a strong smell. For your onions, opt for firm bulbs without dark spots—these will add fresh flavor to your dish.

How should I store leftovers of Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?
For best quality, store your casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which could make it soggy.

Can I freeze Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the casserole in a tightly wrapped portion or a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating; this keeps your casserole moist and ready to enjoy!

What’s the best way to reheat leftover casserole?
To maintain moisture, reheat your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole covered with aluminum foil in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. This method will keep it creamy and delightful, just like the first time!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be mindful of the dairy ingredients like cream cheese and cheddar cheese. For a dairy-free alternative, use plant-based cream cheese and nutritional yeast instead of cheese. Always double-check ingredient labels if you’re accommodating specific dietary needs.

What if my casserole turns out too watery?
That’s a common concern! To avoid a watery casserole, make sure your chicken is well-drained and not overcooked when you mix it with the other ingredients. If you find yourself in a pinch after baking, you can thicken the mixture by mixing in a bit of cornstarch dissolved in water and baking it a little longer. This should help achieve that perfect creamy texture!