Name: Creamy Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole That Everyone Loves
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 3 cups Cooked Chicken (Rotisserie chicken works well.); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Softened for easy mixing.); 1 cup Sour Cream (Plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute.); 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Colby Jack or Monterey Jack can be alternatives.); 1 medium Onion (Chopped, garlic can be added for extra depth.); 1 cup Ritz Crackers (Can be substituted with panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.)

There’s something magical about a warm casserole bubbling in the oven, filling the air with inviting aromas that instantly bring everyone to the table. My Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole does just that, offering a delicious blend of creamy goodness and savory chicken, all in a budget-friendly package that’s perfect for those busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Not only is this comforting dish a cinch to prepare, but it also allows for endless customization—swap in rotisserie chicken or your favorite cheese, and let your creativity shine! Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option, ensuring you have a hearty meal ready to go when life gets hectic. Curious to learn how to bring this delightful dish to your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why is Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole a Must-Try?

Comforting and Satisfying: This dish embodies the essence of comfort food, featuring a creamy base that wraps around tender chicken, delivering a warm hug in every bite.
Effortless Preparation: With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, even novice cooks can impress their families or guests.
Customizable Options: Make it your own by incorporating varied cheeses or even adding veggies for extra nutrition; the possibilities are endless!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it a day in advance, so when life gets busy, all you need to do is pop it in the oven for a delicious, homemade meal. For more make-ahead inspiration, check out my Spicy Southern Chicken or Chicken Stuffing Casserole.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for a family dinner or a potluck, the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is sure to garner rave reviews, making it the perfect dish for any gathering.

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Ingredients

For the Filling

Cooked Chicken – Provides the main protein; rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver.
Cream Cheese – Delivers a rich, creamy texture; be sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Sour Cream – Adds tang and moisture; plain Greek yogurt makes a perfect substitute.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Gives gooeyness and flavor; try Colby Jack or Monterey Jack as alternatives.
Onion – Enhances complexity of flavor; consider using garlic for extra depth.

For the Topping

Ritz Crackers – Brings a buttery crunch; can be swapped with panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for variation.

With these savory ingredients in hand, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delightful Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole that will warm your heart and home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather your equipment, including a mixing bowl, a 9×13 inch casserole dish, and a spatula. The warm-up time prepares the oven to perfectly bake the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, ensuring the cheese melts beautifully and the top gets a lovely golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine your cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped onion. Using a spatula, blend the ingredients until you achieve a smooth and creamy filling with a well-incorporated texture. This delightful mixture creates the heart of your casserole, promising rich flavors in every bite.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Next, take your greased 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread the chicken mixture evenly across the bottom. Ensure an even layer to promote uniform cooking throughout the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole. This step sets the foundation for the savory filling, making sure each serving is just as satisfying as the last.

Step 4: Add the Topping
Crush the Ritz crackers in a separate bowl and sprinkle them generously over the chicken mixture in the casserole dish. Aim for an even covering to achieve a buttery, crunchy topping that beautifully contrasts with the creamy filling. This delightful texture brings an irresistible crunch to the final dish!

Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it bubbles joyfully and the cracker topping turns a tempting golden brown. This baking time allows flavors to meld perfectly while creating that signature casserole crust everyone adores.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Allowing it to rest helps the flavors develop further and makes portioning easier. The Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole will be creamy and comforting, ready to delight your family and friends!

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Variations

Feel free to make this comforting casserole your own with delicious twists and substitutions!

Rotisserie Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy filling; it saves time while still delivering flavor.
Greek Yogurt: Swap sour cream for plain Greek yogurt to add protein without compromising on creaminess; your casserole remains rich and delightful.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like Colby Jack or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor profile; blending different cheeses adds depth to the dish.
Crushed Tortilla Chips: Top with crushed tortilla chips instead of Ritz crackers for a crunchy, southwest-inspired twist that adds a fun texture.
Veggie Boost: Include sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms in the filling for an extra punch of nutrition and flavor; they seamlessly blend into the creamy base.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a touch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a bit of heat; it’s a simple way to spice things up!
Herbed Variations: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or dill to enhance freshness and brighten the dish; these herbal notes can elevate the comforting profile.
Plant-Based Adaptation: For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with hearty beans or lentils; it transforms the casserole into a wholesome, meat-free meal.

With these variations, you can create endless family favorites that everyone will love, just like my other popular dishes, like Chicken Alfredo Tater or Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Enjoy experimenting!

What to Serve with Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

There’s nothing quite like creating a delicious meal experience that leaves lasting memories—pair these delightful sides with your casserole for a complete feast!

Garlic Green Beans: The slight crunch and fresh taste of crisp green beans tossed in garlic complement the creamy richness of the casserole perfectly.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crunchy romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons adds a refreshing contrast to the comforting casserole.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of creamy mashed potatoes makes for a dreamy pairing, soaking up the rich flavors of the chicken casserole beautifully.
Roasted Broccoli: Tender, roasted broccoli offers a slight char and earthy flavor, introducing a nutritious element that balances the meal.
Cranberry Sauce: This sweet and tart sauce adds a refreshing touch, enhancing the savory flavors of the casserole. It’s like a burst of joy on the plate!
Warm Buttermilk Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are perfect for mopping up any leftover casserole, adding an element of comfort that resonates with home-cooked goodness.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay brings lightness to the meal, allowing the flavors of the casserole to shine through without overpowering.

Creating a harmonious meal is a delightful journey—these pairings enrich your dining experience while showcasing the beloved Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole.

Make Ahead Options

These Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole preparations are a game changer for busy home cooks! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance by preparing the filling and topping it with crushed Ritz crackers. Store the unbaked casserole tightly covered in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and maintain its creamy texture. If you prefer to prep even further ahead, consider freezing it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply let it thaw overnight in the fridge before popping it in the oven. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort, perfect for those hectic weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps retain the creamy texture of your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, ensuring every bite remains delicious.

Freezer: If you want to make ahead, freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in foil or use a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes until heated through and bubbly. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Wrap Up: For best results, seal items tightly to maintain freshness and quality, letting you enjoy your comforting meal whenever the craving strikes!

Expert Tips for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Always use softened cream cheese for the filling to ensure smooth blending. Cold cream cheese can create lumps.
Using Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick option, rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Just shred it and mix right into your filling for time savings without sacrificing flavor.
Topping Alternatives: If you’re out of Ritz crackers, try panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. They can provide a different texture and taste for your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole.
Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition by including diced vegetables like spinach or bell peppers in the filling. This can enhance both flavor and texture while making it more wholesome.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze unbaked casseroles for up to 2 months.
Baking Time Caution: Keep an eye on your casserole in the oven. If it browns too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while ensuring it cooks thoroughly.

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best cooked chicken for the casserole?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose cooked chicken that is moist and tender. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, look for ones that have a good amount of meat and aren’t overly dry. When picking fresh chicken to cook yourself, aim for pieces that are plump and have a nice color, ideally with no dark spots or unpleasant smells.

What’s the best way to store leftovers from the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?
I recommend placing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days. This keeps the casserole’s creamy texture intact. Just remember to cool it completely before sealing it up, as trapping steam can make it soggy.

Can I freeze the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, and what’s the best method?
Yes, you can! To freeze, I suggest preparing the casserole but not baking it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) as you normally would.

How can I adjust the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole for dietary considerations?
Very! To cater to dietary needs, you can replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or a store-bought vegan cream cheese. If anyone has gluten sensitivities, substituting Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or panko works beautifully too. Always check other ingredients for hidden allergens!

What if my cream cheese is difficult to blend?
No worries! If your cream cheese is still chilled, it can indeed be tough to mix smoothly. I often microwave it for about 10-15 seconds; this softens it enough to become creamy without melting too much. Blend it with the other ingredients after softening, and you’ll achieve that luscious texture needed for your filling!

What should I do if my casserole doesn’t seem to be cooking evenly?
It happens sometimes! If you notice your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is browning too fast or unevenly, cover it with aluminum foil. This will help retain moisture and ensure even cooking without over-browning the top. Additionally, consider rotating your casserole dish halfway through baking for consistent heat distribution!