I’m so excited to share the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe with you — it’s one of those dishes that feels both comforting and a little bit fancy at the same time. I first tried this casserole at a friend’s gathering and immediately knew I had to bring it home to my own kitchen. The blend of creamy chicken, sharp cheddar, and that buttery cracker topping makes it irresistibly good, perfect for family dinners or potlucks when you want to impress without stress.

What I love most is how easily the ingredients come together, and how versatile this recipe can be. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weekday meal or as a hearty dish for guests, the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe always hits the spot. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll keep coming back to it whenever comfort food calls your name.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this casserole lies in the combination of creamy, crunchy, and savory ingredients. Each one brings a special texture or flavor that builds layers of deliciousness. When you shop, look for quality chicken and fresh cheese to really shine through.

Shredded cooked chicken: I usually roast a chicken or use leftover rotisserie chicken — it keeps things quick and tasty.
Cream of chicken soup: This adds creaminess and depth; feel free to use low sodium if you want less salt.
Sour cream: It brightens the casserole with a slight tang and richness.
Shredded Cheddar cheese: Sharp or mild works—sharp cheddar adds a nice punch.
Sliced green onions: These add a fresh, mild onion bite that balances richness.
Slivered almonds: For a delightful crunch and subtle nutty flavor.
Bacon, cooked and crumbled: Don’t skip this! It brings a smoky, savory goodness.
Hot sauce: I like Tabasco, but you can adjust to your heat preference.
Buttery crackers (like Ritz®): Crushed crackers make the best golden topping.
Butter, melted: Binds the cracker topping and adds richness.

Variations

I like to switch things up now and then with this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe, making it my own or fitting it to what I have on hand. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite twist!

Vegetarian version: Swap out chicken for cooked mushrooms or a mix of hearty veggies like zucchini and bell peppers; the creamy sauce still works wonders.
Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash more hot sauce if you love things bold like I do.
Nut-free: Just leave out the slivered almonds and maybe add extra bacon or green onions for texture.
Cheese swap: Melt Gouda or Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar for a milder, smoky flavor.

How to Make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Mix the Base

Start by making sure your cooked chicken is shredded into bite-sized pieces. I find using two forks works best to get a nice texture. Then, in a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar, sliced green onions, slivered almonds, crumbled bacon, and hot sauce. Stir everything gently until it’s mixed but still has a bit of body—don’t overmix or you’ll lose some of those lovely layers.

Step 2: Layer and Top

Pour the chicken into the bowl and fold it into the creamy mixture evenly. Transfer everything to a greased casserole dish and smooth the top. Next, combine the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture generously over the casserole. This topping will toast to golden perfection and add that irresistible crunch.

Step 3: Bake Until Bubbly

Bake your casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it—you’re looking for the edges bubbling around the sides and the cracker topping turning that beautiful golden brown. When done, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving — this helps everything set up nicely, making it easier to scoop.

How to Serve Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a little extra fresh chopped green onion or parsley on top just before serving. The green pops beautifully against the golden crust and adds a fresh flavor note. Sometimes, a small drizzle of extra hot sauce on the side is great for those who want a bit more heat.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple green vegetables like steamed broccoli or a crisp garden salad to lighten things up. I’ve also served it alongside buttery mashed potatoes or garlic bread when we want a really comforting meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to bake this casserole in individual ramekins—everyone gets their own personal portion with its own crispy top. It’s fun and a bit fancy, perfect for dinner parties or holiday meals. Also, garnishing with edible flowers or sage leaves can add a charming touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying the casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 3 days, and the flavors actually deepen overnight. I usually reheat individual portions, which makes for a perfect next-day lunch or dinner.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this casserole successfully several times. Assemble it fully but don’t bake, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed. It’s a lifesaver for busy days!

Reheating

To reheat, I cover the casserole lightly with foil to keep it moist and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes. This helps preserve that creamy texture without drying out the topping. Microwaving works in a pinch but the texture won’t be quite as good.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken in the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe?

Yes, canned chicken can be used if you’re short on time, but shredded fresh or rotisserie chicken usually gives a better texture and fresher flavor. Just make sure to drain it well before mixing to avoid extra moisture in the casserole.
Is there a gluten-free version of this casserole?

Absolutely! To make the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe gluten-free, swap out the buttery crackers for a gluten-free cracker or crushed gluten-free cornflakes, and confirm your soup is gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free cream of chicken soup nowadays.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, assembling the casserole a day ahead and refrigerating it is a great time saver. Just add the cracker topping right before baking so it stays crispy and fresh.
What if I don’t have hot sauce—can I skip it?

You can skip the hot sauce if you prefer mild flavors. The casserole will still be delicious but without that little subtle kick. Alternatively, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some smoked paprika for warmth.
How do I get the cracker topping perfectly crispy?

Make sure the crackers are well coated with melted butter and spread in an even layer. Avoid pressing down too hard; a looser layer crisps better during baking. Watching closely toward the last 5 minutes will help you catch the ideal golden brown color.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe holds a special place in my heart—it’s one of those dishes that always brings everyone to the table with smiles. I love how easy it is to prepare but how impressive it tastes, making weeknight dinners feel celebratory. Give this recipe a try like I’m sharing a favorite secret with a close friend, and I’m sure it’ll become one of your go-tos for cozy, satisfying meals.