Oh, let me tell you about my love affair with this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole! The first time I made it, my kitchen smelled like pure comfort – that magical blend of creamy chicken and buttery Ritz crackers toasting up golden brown. I was skeptical at first (mayonnaise in a casserole? Really?), but one bite of that crispy, crunchy topping giving way to the luscious filling convinced me forever.
This recipe became my go-to for potlucks after it saved me during a last-minute “bring a dish” panic. My neighbor still asks for the recipe every time I make it. What makes it special? That perfect contrast of textures – velvety chicken swimming in rich sauce beneath a blanket of crisp, nutty topping. It’s fancy enough for company but easy enough for weeknights when you’re running on empty.
The best part? You probably have most ingredients already. Rotisserie chicken? Check. A sleeve of crackers hiding in the pantry? Double check. In about 45 minutes, you’ll have a bubbling dish of comfort that tastes like it took hours to make. Trust me, this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole will become your new “they think I slaved all day” secret weapon too.
Why You’ll Love This Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
Let me count the ways this casserole will steal your heart (and probably your neighbor’s too):
- Creamy dreamy filling: That perfect blend of sour cream and mayo makes every bite richer than your aunt’s Thanksgiving mashed potatoes
- Crunch that’ll make you swoon: Buttery Ritz crackers and toasted almonds create texture magic you’ll want to eat straight from the pan
- Weeknight superhero: Fifteen minutes of prep is all that stands between you and casserole glory
- Crowd-pleaser extraordinaire: I’ve yet to meet a potluck or picky eater this dish couldn’t conquer
- Leftovers that reinvent: Somehow tastes even better reheated – if it lasts that long!
Honestly? It’s the kind of dish that makes people ask if you’re taking new best friend applications.
Ingredients for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
Alright, let’s talk ingredients – and I mean the good stuff that makes this casserole sing. I’ve made this enough times to know exactly what works (and what doesn’t). Here’s your shopping list, with all my little notes scribbled in the margins:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works beautifully here – no shame in shortcuts that taste this good!)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (the classic Campbell’s version is my go-to for that nostalgic flavor)
- 1 cup sour cream (full-fat for maximum creaminess, though light works in a pinch)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (Duke’s or Hellmann’s – no miracle whip in this house!)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium so you can control the salt)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (I use sharp for extra flavor, but mild works too)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (these toast up so nicely under the crackers)
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (about 35 crackers – just smash ’em right in the sleeve!)
- 1/4 cup melted butter (real butter only – this is what makes the topping magical)
See? Nothing weird or hard-to-find – just simple ingredients that come together in the most delicious way. Now let’s get cooking!
Equipment Needed
Don’t worry – you won’t need any fancy gadgets for this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole! Just grab these basics from your kitchen:
- 9×13-inch baking dish (my trusty Pyrex has seen many casseroles)
- Large mixing bowl (for that glorious chicken mixture)
- Medium bowl (to toss the cracker topping)
- Measuring cups and spoons (no eyeballing – this recipe’s worth precision!)
- Wooden spoon or spatula (for gentle mixing)
- Can opener (unless you’re a superhero who can open cans with your bare hands)
That’s it! Now let’s make some magic happen.
How to Make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
Preparing the Chicken Mixture
First things first – preheat that oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you are. Now, grab your big mixing bowl and let’s get messy! I dump in the shredded chicken (oh, the rotisserie smell!), cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayo, and chicken broth all at once. Then comes the fun part – stirring until it’s one creamy, dreamy mixture. Don’t overmix though, just get everything friendly. Last, fold in that shredded cheddar – watch how the cheese disappears into the velvety sauce. Mmm, already smells like comfort food heaven!
Adding the Crunchy Topping
Now for the magic crust! In a separate bowl, I crush those Ritz crackers right in their sleeve (so satisfying!), then mix them with the sliced almonds. Pro tip: leave some cracker pieces a bit chunky for extra texture. Drizzle in the melted butter and stir until every crumb is coated – this is what makes that golden, crispy crown we all love. Sprinkle it evenly over your chicken mixture, and don’t press down! We want those peaks and valleys to get perfectly toasty.
Baking and Serving
Pop that beauty in the oven for 30 minutes – you’ll know it’s done when the filling bubbles at the edges and the topping turns golden brown. Resist the urge to dig in immediately! Let it rest 5 minutes (so hard, I know). This lets the flavors settle and prevents burned mouths. Serve it up with a simple green salad, and watch the compliments roll in. That first bite of creamy chicken with the buttery crunch? Absolute perfection.
Tips for Perfect Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
After making this casserole more times than I can count, I’ve picked up some tricks that take it from good to “give-me-the-recipe-right-now” amazing:
- Rotisserie chicken is your friend – saves time and adds incredible flavor (I steal all the crispy skin bits for snacking while prepping)
- Throw in frozen peas or diced carrots when mixing for extra color and nutrition (the kids never notice!)
- Slightly underbake by 2 minutes if making ahead – it finishes cooking when reheated
- Toast the almonds first for maximum crunch factor (350°F for 5 minutes does the trick)
- Let leftovers cool completely before refrigerating to keep the topping crisp
My biggest tip? Always make a double batch – this stuff disappears faster than you’d believe!
Ingredient Substitutions
Listen, I get it – sometimes you’re staring into your fridge thinking “I don’t have that!” Don’t panic! Here are my tried-and-true swaps that keep this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole delicious:
- Sour cream: Plain Greek yogurt works beautifully (just drain any excess liquid first)
- Mayonnaise: More sour cream or even ranch dressing in a pinch (weird but works!)
- Ritz crackers: Any buttery cracker will do – gluten-free folks can use Schär table crackers
- Almonds: Pecans or crushed cornflakes add nice crunch if you’re nut-free
- Cheddar cheese: Monterey Jack or Colby melt just as nicely
The beauty of this recipe? It’s forgiving. As long as you keep that creamy-crunchy balance, you’re golden. Literally.
Storing and Reheating Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
Here’s the thing about leftovers – they never last long in my house! But when they do, I’ve learned a few tricks to keep that casserole tasting fresh. Let it cool completely (about 30 minutes) before covering tightly with foil or transferring to an airtight container. It’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for 3 days.
For reheating, I swear by the oven method – 325°F for 15-20 minutes brings back that perfect crispy top. Microwave works in a pinch (about 2 minutes per serving), but the topping won’t stay as crunchy. Pro tip: sprinkle a few fresh cracker crumbs on top before reheating for extra texture. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
Nutrition Information
Okay, let’s talk numbers – but remember, these are just estimates based on my typical ingredients. Your exact nutrition facts might vary depending on brands or if you tweak the recipe (no judgment here!). Per generous serving, you’re looking at:
- Calories: Around 420
- Protein: A solid 20g (thanks, chicken!)
- Carbs: About 18g
- Sugar: Just 3g
Is it health food? Nah. Is it soul-warming comfort food that’s worth every bite? Absolutely! Everything in moderation, right? Now go enjoy that creamy, crunchy goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
I get so many questions about this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole – let me answer the most common ones so you can bake with confidence!
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Just assemble it (without baking), wrap tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, bake from frozen – add 15-20 extra minutes to the cooking time. The topping might lose a little crispiness, but the flavor stays amazing.
Can I make it ahead of time?
You sure can! Prep it the night before (topping and all), cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven – might need 5 extra minutes since it’s cold. Perfect for stress-free entertaining!
Is it okay to use canned chicken?
While fresh or rotisserie chicken is best, drained canned chicken works in a pinch. Just be sure to break up any big chunks and season it well – it can be a bit bland otherwise.
Share Your Feedback
Did your family go crazy for this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole like mine does? I’d love to hear your stories and see your photos! Leave a comment below or tag me on social – your kitchen triumphs make my day!
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Irresistible Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole in 45 Minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A hearty and creamy chicken casserole with a crunchy topping, inspired by the famous Neiman Marcus recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, and chicken broth.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese.
- Spread mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Combine crushed Ritz crackers, sliced almonds, and melted butter in a bowl.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the chicken mixture.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for quick preparation.
- Add 1/2 cup frozen peas for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, creamy chicken bake, easy casserole recipe
