As I shuffled through my recipe box, a familiar name caught my eye—Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole. This creamy delight has a way of wrapping you in warmth, boasting a golden crust that promises comfort after a long day. What makes this dish truly special is not just its heartwarming flavor, but also how effortlessly it comes together. Within 30 minutes, you can serve up a crowd-pleasing comfort food perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, utilizing simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Intrigued by the variations? Let’s dive into how you can make this dish your own!
Why is This Casserole a Must-Try?
Easy Preparation: This Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights!
Versatile Options: You can easily customize your casserole by swapping in leftover rotisserie chicken or adding your favorite veggies, such as broccoli or mushrooms.
Creamy Indulgence: The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar creates a rich, irresistible flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing accessible ingredients like chicken and Ritz crackers keeps this dish economical without sacrificing taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, this casserole is sure to impress, just like our Fiery Chicken Ramen or Southern Cheesy Chicken.
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
- Chicken Breast – The main protein source that adds flavor and substance; consider using rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Cream Cheese – This adds a creamy, luxurious texture; there’s no direct substitute that achieves the same richness.
- Sour Cream – Contributes a delightful tanginess and creaminess; plain Greek yogurt is a healthy alternative.
- Cheddar Cheese – Provides rich, savory flavor; Colby Jack or Monterey Jack works well if you’re looking for a change.
- Mayonnaise – Binds everything together with extra creaminess; you can replace it with more sour cream for a lighter option.
For the Topping
- Ritz Crackers – Their buttery crunch balances the creaminess of the casserole; try panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a similar texture.
- Onion – A subtle layer of flavor that enhances the whole dish; green onions can add a refreshing twist if desired.
This Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a wonderful way to embrace comfort food!
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 a perfectly cooked Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, as a hot oven provides even and consistent baking. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and prepare your 9×13 inch casserole dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter for easy serving later.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded chicken, diced onion, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix these ingredients together until smooth and creamy, which should take about 2–3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is uniform and has a luscious texture that is inviting to the eye.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the creamy chicken filling evenly into your greased casserole dish. Using a spatula, ensure that the filling is evenly distributed across the bottom so every bite of your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is filled with flavor. The mixture should reach the corners of the dish, creating a solid base for the flavorful toppings to come.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Topping
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken mixture, covering it completely with a generous layer. Next, crush the Ritz crackers and distribute them evenly on top as well. This creates a delightful crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling, enhancing the overall appearance of the casserole.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown, the cheese is bubbly, and the edges are slightly crisp. The delightful aromas will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait for the final result.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
After baking, take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the casserole set, making it easier to slice and serve. As you dish out each serving of this comforting Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, prepare for the compliments to roll in from satisfaction!
Expert Tips for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
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Preheat Properly: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F for even cooking and that golden top we’re aiming for.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix the filling just until combined. Overmixing can make the filling dense rather than creamy, impacting the overall texture.
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Crunchy Topping: For a delightfully crunchy topping, bake the casserole uncovered for the last few minutes, allowing the Ritz crackers to toast perfectly.
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Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to incorporate vegetables like broccoli or peas into your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole for added nutrition and flavor.
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Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just pop it in the oven when ready to bake!
How to Store and Freeze Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
Room Temperature: Homemade casserole should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. After that, it’s best to refrigerate or freeze to maintain safety.
Fridge: Store leftover Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s cooled down before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezer: If you want to keep it for longer, the casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, ensuring no air reaches the dish for optimal preservation.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, approximately 25-30 minutes. Add a bit more cheese on top for extra creaminess!
What to Serve with Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
Pairing the perfect sides brings your comfort food experience to a whole new level of satisfaction.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor of crusty bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy chicken casserole, creating a delightful blend of textures.
- Steamed Green Beans: Crunchy and vibrant green beans bring a fresh contrast to the rich casserole, providing a much-needed pop of color and nutrients.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing offer a refreshing balance to the creamy casserole, while the crunchy croutons enhance the texture.
- Crispy Roasted Potatoes: These golden, crispy bites add a wonderful contrast to the casserole’s creaminess while soaking up any delicious flavors on your plate.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw brings brightness and crunch that cuts through the richness of the dish. Try adding crunchy apples for a twist!
- Fruit Salad: A light, sweet fruit salad makes for a perfect palate cleanser. Its refreshing nature complements the hearty casserole beautifully.
- White Wine: Serve a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc; its crispness pairs well with the casserole’s creamy texture, elevating your dining experience.
- Brownies: End on a sweet note with fudgy brownies. Their rich chocolate flavor serves as a delightful contrast to the savory casserole you’ve just enjoyed.
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Variations
Feel free to customize your casserole adventure with these delightful twists that tantalize your senses!
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Healthier Option: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to cut calories while keeping the creamy texture. It’s a simple way to lighten up without losing flavor.
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Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a delicious plant-based option. The earthy flavors enhance the comfort of this classic dish perfectly.
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Creamy Dream: Mix in a touch of cream of mushroom soup for an extra layer of creaminess and flavor depth. It elevates the dish to gourmet comfort food status.
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Cheesy Delight: Experiment with Italian cheeses like Fontina or Gruyère for unique and rich flavor profiles. Each bite will surprise you with its savory nuances.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to introduce a delightful heat that compliments the creaminess. It’s sure to please heat lovers!
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Crunchy Swap: Use crushed tortilla chips instead of Ritz crackers for a fun texture twist. You’ll enjoy a delightful, tortilla-inspired topping.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate slivered almonds or chopped pecans in the topping mixture for a pleasant crunch and warm, nutty flavor that contrast beautifully with the creamy filling.
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Veggie Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach to amp up the nutrition while adding vibrant color to your casserole. It’s a delicious way to sneak in extra vegetables!
With these appealing options in mind, let your creativity flow as you make this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole your own. If you’re looking for more inspiration, try pairing it with a vibrant side salad or some hearty garlic bread, creating a perfect meal that everyone will love!
Make Ahead Options
The Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts seeking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the creamy filling—combining cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded chicken, and seasonings—up to 24 hours in advance. Once mixed, simply cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. For optimal flavor and texture, assemble the casserole by spreading the filling in your greased dish, topping it with cheese and crushed Ritz crackers just before baking. This ensures that the crunchy topping stays fresh and delightful, resulting in a dish just as delicious as if it were freshly made. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in a preheated oven for about 30 minutes and enjoy your comforting meal!
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe FAQs
What chicken should I use?
Absolutely! You can use fresh chicken breasts, but I often opt for rotisserie chicken for convenience. Just shred it and you’re ready to go! If you have leftover turkey, that works beautifully too.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to avoid condensation which can lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Very! To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and then with foil to prevent freezer burn. You can store it for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake it at 350°F (175°C) until bubbling—around 25-30 minutes should do!
What if my casserole is too watery?
If you find your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole comes out too watery, it’s likely due to excess moisture in the ingredients, especially if fresh chicken is used. To combat this, drain any liquid from the chicken before mixing and consider reducing the sour cream or mayonnaise slightly. You can also bake it uncovered for the last few minutes to help evaporate excess moisture.
Are there any allergy considerations?
Yes! If anyone in your household has dairy allergies, consider using dairy-free cream cheese, yogurt, or nut-based cheese alternatives. Additionally, be cautious with prepackaged ingredients like the Ritz crackers, as they may contain allergens such as dairy or gluten. Always check labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
How can I make this dish healthier?
I recommend substituting the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt to reduce calories and fat while adding protein. You can also add in nutritious veggies like spinach or mushrooms and reduce the cheese by half for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor. The more the merrier when it comes to customizing your dish!
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole: A Creamy Comfort Classic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the 9x13 inch casserole dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded chicken, diced onion, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth.
- Spread the creamy filling evenly into the greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese and crushed Ritz crackers on top.
- Bake for about 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
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