Name: Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole: Creamy Comfort Awaits
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded Chicken Breast (using rotisserie chicken recommended); 8 oz Cream Cheese (can substitute with plain Greek yogurt); 1 cup Sour Cream (can substitute with additional plain yogurt); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (can replace with extra sour cream or Greek yogurt); 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (can swap with Colby Jack or Monterey Jack); 1 cup Ritz Crackers (can use panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes); 1 medium Onion (both fresh and dried versions work); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (fresh garlic can be used); 1 cup Additional Cheddar Cheese (for topping); 1/2 cup Crushed Ritz Crackers (for topping)

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As I took my first bite of the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, I was instantly transported to the cozy corners of a Southern kitchen. This dish marries tender chicken with a creamy mixture, topped with a buttery crunch from Ritz crackers that makes every forkful a delight. Perfect for those busy weeknights or when I’m entertaining friends, this creamy chicken casserole is not just easy to prepare, but it also feels like a warm hug on a plate. The simple ingredients come together to create a comfort food experience that’s sure to impress, making it a top choice for gatherings or a relaxing dinner at home. Are you ready to dive into this deliciously rich recipe and create your own comforting masterpiece?

Why is this casserole a must-try?

Creamy Goodness: Each bite is a warm embrace, blending tender chicken with a luscious creamy sauce that will satisfy your comfort food cravings.
Effortless Cooking: This easy casserole takes minimal prep time, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing: With its rich flavors and buttery Ritz cracker topping, it’s guaranteed to impress family and friends, whether served alongside a fresh green salad or as part of a larger spread.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep, simply assemble earlier in the day and pop it in the oven when guests arrive.
For another delightful dinner option, try Garlic Parmesan Chicken—it’s sure to please!

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole

Chicken Breast – Provides the primary protein; using rotisserie chicken can save time.
Cream Cheese – Adds a luxurious, creamy texture; consider substituting with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter bite.
Sour Cream – Contributes tanginess and creaminess; you can also use additional plain yogurt as a substitution.
Mayonnaise – Enhances the richness of the dish; can be replaced with extra sour cream or Greek yogurt for a healthful twist.
Cheddar Cheese – Offers a sharp flavor that perfectly complements the dish; swap with Colby Jack or Monterey Jack if desired.
Ritz Crackers – Provides a buttery crunch for the topping; alternatively, use panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a different texture.
Onion – Imparts depth of flavor; both fresh and dried versions work well based on your preference.
Garlic Powder – Amplifies taste; fresh garlic can lend even more intensity to the flavor profile.

For the Topping

Additional Cheddar Cheese – More cheesy goodness on top for a deliciously rich finish.
Crushed Ritz Crackers – Adds that signature buttery crunch that makes this casserole unforgettable.

Indulging in this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole not only warms the soul but also creates delightful memories around the dinner table. Enjoy the process of creating this creamy chicken casserole that the whole family will love!

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 ensures the perfect baking temperature for the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, allowing it to cook evenly and achieve that delightful golden crust. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and cooking equipment, including a large mixing bowl and a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula to blend these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining. This rich base brings a wonderful creaminess to the casserole and should take about 2–3 minutes of mixing.

Step 3: Fold in the Chicken and Cheese
Next, gently fold in your shredded chicken and half of the cheddar cheese into the creamy mixture. Ensure the chicken is well coated with the cheese sauce, which should take about 1–2 minutes. This step is crucial as it combines the flavors and gives your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole its signature heartiness.

Step 4: Transfer to the Casserole Dish
Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Use a spatula to level the top, creating a smooth surface that will bake evenly. Be sure to pack the mixture down slightly so that it holds together during baking, taking just a moment to ensure it looks appetizing.

Step 5: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken mixture. Then, crush the Ritz crackers and layer them generously on top to form a wonderful crunchy crust. This buttery topping will add impressive texture to your casserole, making it visually appealing and delicious.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as you want to see the cheese bubbly and the cracker topping turning golden brown, indicating it’s ready to come out of the oven for that perfect finish.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, carefully remove the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes serving easier, as it helps the casserole set up nicely without falling apart.

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Variations

Feel free to make this comforting casserole your own by experimenting with these delightful variations!

Veggie Boost: Add steamed broccoli or sweet peas for an extra nutritious punch. Their vibrant color and taste will enhance the overall dish.
Turkey Twist: Substitute shredded chicken with turkey for a unique flavor twist, perfect for holiday leftovers or a healthier option.
Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to ignite your taste buds and give the casserole an exciting lift of heat.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch that elevates the dish, making it feel even more special.
Crunchy Alternative: Replace Ritz crackers with crushed pretzels for a salty, crunchy topping that adds a different texture and new flavor notes to the casserole.
Creamy Switch: Swap out regular cream cheese for herbed cream cheese or add a touch of cream of mushroom soup to deepen the flavor profile.
Savory Umami: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions into the chicken mixture for an extra layer of savory goodness that complements the creaminess beautifully.
Grainy Base: Layer in cooked quinoa or rice at the bottom of the casserole dish for a more filling meal with added fiber and texture.

These easy swaps and additions not only cater to your taste but also allow you to craft a dish that resonates with your family’s preferences, just like the warmth found in my recipes for Honey BBQ Chicken or the comforting Fiery Chicken Ramen. Enjoy the adventure in your kitchen!

Make Ahead Options

These Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. To ensure the best quality, cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out. For even longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months—just make sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade comfort food, simply bake it straight from the fridge (no need to adjust the temperature) for about 30 minutes, until bubbly and golden, and relish the effortless deliciousness!

How to Store and Freeze Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to keep the creamy chicken casserole fresh and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Be sure to label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25–30 minutes, until warmed through and bubbly.

Make-Ahead: Assemble the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it—perfect for busy days!

Expert Tips for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using rotisserie chicken for the best texture and flavor without the hassle of cooking raw chicken.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the creamy mixture with the chicken, avoid overmixing to keep the meat tender and maintain a delightful creamy base.

• Check for Doneness: Look for a bubbling center and a golden-brown crust on top; these visuals are perfect indicators that your casserole is cooked through.

• Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to cool for at least 10 minutes after baking; this helps it set and makes serving easier while enhancing the flavors.

• Customize Your Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Try using crushed pretzels or seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor alongside the Ritz crackers in this creamy chicken casserole.

What to Serve with Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?

To create a delightful meal that complements the rich flavors of your creamy casserole, consider these delicious pairings.

Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy filling, making each bite even more satisfying.
Steamed Broccoli: This fresh, vibrant veggie adds a crunchy contrast and a pop of color to your plate, balancing the richness of the casserole beautifully.
Caesar Salad: A crisp and tangy Caesar salad brings a refreshing touch that pairs excellently with the comforting flavors of the chicken casserole.
Roasted Carrots: Sweet and caramelized, these tender carrots provide an earthy sweetness that enhances the casserole’s creamy texture.
Coleslaw: The crunchy and zesty slaw brings a delightful contrast, adding a fresh element that cuts through the richness of the casserole.
Sweet Tea: A tall glass of sweet tea offers a delightful southern touch, enhancing the comfort food experience while providing a refreshing sip.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, an apple crisp with a crumbly topping makes a warm, sweet ending to your comforting dinner, echoing the flavors of home.

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Fresh chicken breasts are ideal, but for convenience, I recommend using rotisserie chicken. It’s fully cooked, tender, and full of flavor, which saves you preparation time!

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just ensure the casserole is completely cooled before sealing it to maintain its creamy texture and flavors.

Can I freeze Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?
Very! To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25–30 minutes.

What if my casserole turns out too dry?
No worries! If you find your casserole ends up dry, it’s often due to overbaking. Simply cover it with foil while reheating and add a splash of chicken broth or water before warming to keep it moist. You can also serve it with additional sour cream or gravy on the side for an extra creamy option!

Are there any dietary considerations or substitutions I should know?
Definitely! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, you can easily customize this dish. For a lighter option, substitute cream cheese and mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. Always check for allergies related to dairy or chicken, and feel free to incorporate vegetables like broccoli or peas for added nutrition without compromising taste!

How long does it take to prepare this casserole?
Typically, the preparation time is about 15-20 minutes, with an additional 30-35 minutes in the oven. For those busy nights, you can even prepare it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal without the hassle!