As I stood in the kitchen, the enticing aroma of roasting chicken filled the air, instantly transporting me to a comforting haven of home-cooked goodness. This warm Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole has become my go-to recipe for chilly evenings and busy weeknights alike. Rich, creamy, and topped with a delightful crunch, this dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also budget-friendly, making it perfect for gatherings without breaking the bank. What’s more, it’s a make-ahead wonder—you can prepare it in advance and simply slide it into the oven when it’s time to eat. Are you ready to indulge in this creamy comfort food delight that will leave everyone asking for seconds?
Why is this casserole a must-try?
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a party with friends, the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is versatile enough to impress everyone.
Budget-friendly: With affordable ingredients, you can whip up this creamy delight without stretching your wallet.
Make-ahead magic: Prepare it in advance and bake when you’re ready, saving time for what truly matters.
Crowd-pleasing: Everyone loves a comforting casserole, and this one is bound to have your guests raving.
Easy substitutions: Feel free to switch out ingredients based on what you have at home—check out options like adding veggies or using different cheeses for a personal touch!
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Ingredients
For the Filling
• Chicken Breast – Use cooked and shredded chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Sour Cream – Adds creaminess and tang; plain Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute.
• Mayonnaise – Provides a creamy texture; can be replaced with more sour cream or yogurt.
• Cream Cheese – Enhances richness and creates a velvety body for the casserole.
• Cheddar Cheese – Offers a sharp flavor; Colby Jack or Monterey Jack can be used for variety.
For the Topping
• Ritz Crackers – Adds a buttery crunch; swap with panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes if desired.
• Onions (optional) – Contributes sweetness; shallots may be used for a milder flavor.
This Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is poised to become a beloved addition to your meal rotation!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it reaches the ideal temperature for baking. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust on top of your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole. While the oven heats, prepare your casserole dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter for easy serving later.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken with sour cream, mayonnaise, cream cheese, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir these ingredients together until well blended and creamy. This mixture will be the heart of your casserole, so ensure all elements are thoroughly combined and evenly mixed for a delightful texture.
Step 3: Layer Ingredients in the Casserole Dish
Carefully spread the creamy chicken mixture into the greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, smoothing it out with a spatula. Make sure to distribute the filling evenly across the dish to ensure an even bake. The vibrant colors and creamy texture should entice your senses as you prepare the finishing touches for this comforting meal.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, crush the Ritz crackers and mix them with melted butter until they are evenly coated. This combination will create a buttery crunch that perfectly contrasts the creamy filling. Once the crackers are ready, sprinkle this delightful topping evenly over the chicken mixture in the casserole dish.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place the assembled Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole in your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Keep an eye on the casserole during the last few minutes to ensure it reaches that heavenly golden color, which indicates it’s ready to pull from the oven.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After baking, allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time will help the flavors meld beautifully and make it easier to serve. Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy the comforting, creamy goodness of the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole with your loved ones.
What to Serve with Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
There’s nothing quite like complementing that creamy, bubbling warmth of your casserole with perfect sides that bring balance to the meal.
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Fresh Green Salad: A vibrant salad with mixed greens and cherry tomatoes adds a crisp contrast to the rich casserole, refreshing your palate with each bite. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to enhance those flavors.
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Garlic Bread: The golden, buttery embrace of garlic bread offers a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the creamy texture of the casserole. Plus, it’s ideal for mopping up every last bit!
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrients, while its mild flavor acts as a lovely balance to the richness of the chicken casserole. Enjoy the crunchy bite between cheesy spoonfuls!
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Roasted Vegetables: Mixed roasted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add both flavor and nutrition. The caramelization enhances sweetness, making for a delightful contrast to the savory casserole.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Luxuriously creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting base for a hearty meal, soaking up casserole flavors beautifully. The smooth texture matches that of the dish!
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Cranberry Sauce: A tangy-sweet cranberry sauce can elevate the overall experience, adding a refreshing burst of flavor that cuts through the richness. It’s the perfect finishing touch!
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Iced Tea: A chilled glass of sweetened iced tea offers a lovely refreshment, complementing your meal without overpowering the flavors. Plus, it’s a classic Southern pairing for any comfort food!
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, serve warm chocolate chip cookies. Their sweetness perfectly rounds off the meal, ensuring everyone leaves the table with a smile!
Expert Tips for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
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Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors blend and makes serving easier.
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Avoid Overmixing: When preparing the filling, gently mix your ingredients to maintain a creamy texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense final product.
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Layering Technique: Spread the filling evenly in the casserole dish. Bumping up the edges slightly creates a gorgeous presentation and ensures thorough cooking.
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Topping Variants: Explore different crunch toppings like crushed tortilla chips or flavored crackers for a twist on the classic buttery Ritz topping while keeping the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole deliciously creamy.
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Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve, making weeknight meals a breeze!
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Variations
Feel free to personalize your casserole experience with these exciting twists and substitutions that enhance flavor and nutrition!
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Vegetable Boost: Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms for a burst of nutrition and texture.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Replace sour cream and cream cheese with cashew cream or silken tofu for a creamy, dairy-free alternative. You’ll still enjoy that luscious texture!
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Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to elevate the heat and excite your taste buds. Spice lovers will adore this version!
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Herbed Essence: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley into the filling for a fragrant flavor boost that brightens the casserole.
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Pasta Layer: Mix in cooked pasta, like rotini or penne, within the filling to turn this casserole into a hearty pasta dish that kids will love!
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Cheese Variations: Switch up the cheese by using pepper jack or feta for a new flavor profile. Each cheese adds its own unique touch to the creamy layers.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crackers or panko to ensure this beloved dish is accessible for your gluten-sensitive friends and family.
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Crispy Topping: Replace the traditional topping with crushed potato chips or tortilla chips for an extra crunch that adds variety and fun to your casserole experience!
The Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a foundation for culinary creativity! Experiment with these variations and find your family’s favorite twist on comfort food bliss. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a side of fresh green salad or fluffy garlic bread, setting the stage for a delightful dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can make the filling—combining shredded chicken, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream cheese, and half of the cheddar cheese—up to 24 hours ahead. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate to maintain its creamy texture. The topping can also be prepped separately by mixing crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and storing it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, spread the filling in a greased casserole dish, sprinkle the topping over, and bake as directed—just allow the casserole to cook until golden and bubbling, ensuring delightful comfort in every serving!
Storage Tips for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
- Fridge: Store leftovers covered in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This creamy casserole maintains its delicious flavor while being conveniently ready for a quick meal.
- Freezer: Freeze the casserole for up to 2 months; wrap the dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
- Reheating: To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. This keeps the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole creamy and delightful!
- Make-Ahead: The filling and topping can be prepared separately and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours, allowing for easy assembly right before baking.
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the casserole?
Absolutely! I recommend using cooked and shredded chicken breast for the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole. You can also opt for rotisserie chicken to save time. Make sure it’s fully cooked and tender for the best results.
How should I store leftovers from the casserole?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s well-sealed to keep the creamy texture intact. Reheat gently so it remains delicious and comforting!
Can I freeze the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?
Very much! You can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking at 350°F until hot throughout.
What substitutions can I make for dietary restrictions?
If you’re looking to make this dish gluten-free, swap the Ritz crackers with gluten-free alternatives like crushed gluten-free crackers or panko. For a lighter option, plain Greek yogurt can replace sour cream, and you can use dairy-free cream cheese if needed.
What are some signs that my casserole is done baking?
To check if your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is ready, look for a golden brown topping and bubbling edges. If you insert a knife in the center, it should come out hot. If there’s resistance or it feels cool, give it a few more minutes. Enjoy that perfect creamy goodness!
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole: Creamy Comfort for Any Night
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your casserole dish.
- Combine shredded chicken, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream cheese, and half of the cheddar cheese in a large bowl.
- Spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly in the greased casserole dish.
- Crush Ritz crackers and mix with melted butter, then sprinkle over the chicken mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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