Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole – Quick, Cheesy, and Delicious Dinner

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is comfort food at its finest — creamy, cheesy, and topped with that buttery, golden Ritz cracker crunch we all secretly (or not-so-secretly) love. If you’ve ever craved something warm and indulgent that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this one’s your new best friend. Between school pickups, Zoom calls, and the nightly “what’s for dinner?” panic, this casserole steps in like a culinary superhero.

It’s rich enough for Sunday dinner but simple enough for a Tuesday night. The best part? This Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole reheats beautifully, making it a dream for leftovers or next-day lunches. Let’s just say your family might “accidentally” leave a few crumbs just to make sure you bake it again next week.

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What is Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is one of those dishes that somehow manages to feel both fancy and familiar. It’s said to have originated from recipes inspired by the famed Neiman Marcus cafés — where comfort meets sophistication. Imagine tender shredded chicken nestled in a luscious mix of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise, then topped with buttery Ritz cracker crumbs that crisp up beautifully in the oven.

The blend of cheddar cheese and green onions adds layers of flavor that feel indulgent but not over the top. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just cooking to impress yourself (and you should), this casserole hits that sweet spot between “homemade” and “luxuriously easy.”

Reasons to Try Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

If creamy, cheesy comfort food sounds like your kind of meal, you don’t need much convincing — but here’s why this dish deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. First, it’s foolproof. You can throw it together with simple pantry staples, and it still tastes like something straight off a restaurant menu. Second, it’s versatile — you can swap in turkey, add veggies, or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream if you’re feeling a bit virtuous.

Third, it’s a total crowd-pleaser. Kids love the cheesy filling, adults love the creamy richness, and everyone loves that buttery cracker topping. Plus, this casserole pairs beautifully with lighter sides like salads or roasted veggies. And if you adore hearty, creamy dishes, you’ll also love our Easy Cream Cheese Chicken — it’s another family favorite that brings the same cozy vibes to your table.

Ingredients Needed to Make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sliced green onions
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed
• ½ cup melted butter

Instructions to Make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole – Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This ensures nothing sticks later and makes cleanup a breeze — because no one wants to scrub baked-on cheese after dinner.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a hand mixer or sturdy spoon to blend everything until smooth. The cream cheese gives that dreamy, rich texture, while sour cream adds tang to balance it out. This creamy base is what gives Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole its signature luxurious feel.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Cheese

Fold in your shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions. Mixing by hand helps keep the chicken tender and evenly coated. Every bite should have that perfect mix of cheesy goodness and juicy chicken.

Step 4: Spread the Mixture

Spoon the mixture into your greased casserole dish and spread it evenly. It doesn’t have to look perfect — it’s a casserole, not a runway model. What matters is even coverage so every portion bakes to creamy perfection.

Step 5: Make the Ritz Topping

In a small bowl, mix your crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. This topping is what gives that irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base. Think of it as the casserole’s crown — golden, buttery, and slightly salty.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken filling. Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The smell will fill your kitchen and might even lure your family to the table before you’re ready.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once baked, let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps it set slightly, making it easier to scoop and enjoy. Serve warm, perhaps with a sprinkle of extra green onions for a pop of color.

If you enjoy cozy, baked comfort dishes like this, you might also love Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole. It’s hearty, flavorful, and just as satisfying for busy weeknights.

What to Serve with Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

This rich casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides that balance out the creaminess. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is perfect, or try roasted green beans or steamed broccoli. Garlic bread makes an excellent companion if you’re in full comfort-food mode. For something lighter, consider pairing it with Quinoa and Veggie Power Bowls — the fresh, wholesome flavors complement the casserole’s creamy texture beautifully.

Key Tips for Making Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick prep shortcut. It’s flavorful, tender, and saves tons of time.
• Want extra crunch? Toast your cracker topping separately, then sprinkle it on right before serving.
• If you like a little color, mix some frozen peas or broccoli florets into the filling.
• Don’t skip the rest time after baking — it helps everything meld together perfectly.
• For a lighter version, swap sour cream with plain Greek yogurt and reduce the butter slightly.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Let leftovers cool completely before storing. Cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container, then refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or microwave in short bursts until warm. If the topping softens, pop it under the broiler for a few minutes to restore that satisfying crunch. You can also freeze the casserole (unbaked or baked) for up to 3 months — just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use a different topping?
Yes, Panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes work too, though Ritz crackers give the best buttery flavor.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes. Freeze before baking, then thaw overnight and bake as usual.

What’s the best cheese substitute?
Monterey Jack or Colby blend works great if you prefer something milder.

Can I make this low-carb?
Skip the crackers and top with crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly twist.

Final Thoughts

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table — creamy, comforting, and downright irresistible. It’s easy enough for weeknights yet special enough for guests. Whether you’re craving warmth after a long day or looking for something the whole family will actually eat, this casserole delivers every time. If you loved this, don’t miss our High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole for another cozy dinner idea that’s just as satisfying.

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