Imagine the comforting scent of a bubbling casserole filling your kitchen—the kind that invites everyone to the table before it’s even served. That’s the experience you get with the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole. This rich, creamy, and crunchy dish has been a family favorite for generations, and once you try it, you’ll understand why.
With straightforward preparation, pantry-staple ingredients, and an indulgent flavor profile, this casserole brings together everything we love about classic comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, entertaining guests, or meal-prepping ahead, this dish will not disappoint.
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole delivers a unique combination of convenience and decadence. Here’s what makes it a standout dish:
- Simple to make – no special skills or tools required.
- Perfectly balanced texture – creamy filling paired with a crispy, buttery topping.
- Customizable – easily adjust ingredients based on your pantry or preferences.
- Crowd-pleasing – excellent for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday meals.
This recipe is forgiving and versatile, making it a go-to dish even on busy days. Plus, it tastes just as delicious reheated, so leftovers won’t go to waste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this flavorful casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup crushed butter crackers (like Ritz)
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup celery, diced
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
Optional additions:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
You can opt for low-fat or gluten-free alternatives if needed.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped onion, and diced celery. Stir well until fully mixed.
If you’re using garlic powder or paprika, add them now.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 4: Create the Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed butter crackers with melted butter until coated. Sprinkle this cracker mixture evenly over the chicken layer.
For an extra-rich version, sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese before adding the cracker topping.
Step 5: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to firm up for easy slicing.
Tips for the Best Results
- Fully cook the chicken before assembling to avoid uneven baking.
- Add seasoning like dried thyme, black pepper, or cayenne for a flavor boost.
- Don’t cover the dish while baking—this keeps the cracker topping crispy.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time.
- Double the recipe and freeze one dish for later convenience.
Creative Variations to Try
This casserole serves as the perfect canvas for customization. Try these ideas to suit your taste or use up leftovers:
- Protein Swaps: Use cooked turkey, ham, or even shredded rotisserie duck.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Stir ½ cup of grated cheese into the chicken mixture for added richness.
- Vegetable Boost: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or frozen peas and carrots.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Cracker Alternatives: Try crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or even potato chips for different textures.
Don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is rich and creamy, so it’s best paired with something fresh or light to balance it out:
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts
- Buttery dinner rolls or garlic bread
- A glass of chilled white wine (like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc)
For dessert, something fruity like apple crisp or lemon bars makes a perfect follow-up.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate until ready to bake. If baking straight from the fridge, increase the cook time by 5–10 minutes.
How do I store leftovers?
Allow leftovers to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. Or freeze in portions after baking for quick lunches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, canned chicken works well in a pinch. Just drain and shred it before mixing.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free crackers for a fully gluten-free version.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute and adds a slight tang.
Can I add rice or pasta?
While this recipe doesn’t include starches, you can serve it over cooked rice or pasta for a heartier meal. Just avoid baking them directly into the casserole as it may affect the consistency.
Final Thoughts
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is everything a comfort dish should be: warm, creamy, flavorful, and easy to make. Its nostalgic appeal combined with a luxurious, creamy texture makes it ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy dinner at home. With its blend of versatility and taste, it’s no surprise this dish has earned its place as a beloved American classic.