Name: Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole: Cozy Comfort in Every Bite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Shredded Chicken Breast (Consider using rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Ensure it's softened for easy mixing.); 1 cup Sour Cream (Plain Greek yogurt can be a substitute.); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Experiment with other cheeses if desired.); 1 small Onion (Finely diced; can substitute with garlic or shallots.); 1 cup Ritz Crackers (Crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs can be used.); 4 tbsp Butter (Melted for even coverage.)

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As the oven’s warmth envelops the kitchen, a familiar, inviting aroma begins to fill the air. I’ve had a soft spot for comforting dishes that make me feel at home and today’s star is the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole—a creamy chicken casserole that never fails to impress. This easy casserole recipe not only lets you whip up a delicious meal in no time, but it’s also customizable to accommodate your cravings. With layers of tender chicken enveloped in a rich cream cheese filling and topped with a buttery, golden crunch, it’s perfect for both relaxed family get-togethers and more formal occasions. Curious about how to recreate this crowd-pleaser in your own kitchen? Let’s dive into the details!

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Why is Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole a must-try?

Comforting Delight: This creamy chicken casserole soothes the soul with every bite, making it an ideal dish for cozy nights at home.

Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up an impressive meal that rivals any restaurant.

Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, this casserole allows you to enjoy gourmet flavors without breaking the bank.

Customizable Options: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or substitute different cheeses to create a dish that suits your taste!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether at a potluck or family dinner, this casserole is sure to be a hit, just like my flavorful Eggs Benedict Casserole.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance, refrigerate overnight, and bake when ready—perfect for busy days!

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Ingredients

Discover the key ingredients that make this creamy chicken casserole a household favorite!

For the Casserole

Chicken Breast – A hearty protein that ensures a filling dish; consider using rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful option.
Cream Cheese – Provides a luxuriously smooth texture for that creamy goodness; try Greek yogurt for a lighter touch if desired.
Sour Cream – Adds a delightful tang; plain Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute.
Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully to give layers of rich flavor; experiment with Colby Jack or Monterey Jack for a different twist.
Onion – Lends depth and savoriness; feel free to swap with garlic or shallots if you prefer a different flavor profile.

For the Topping

Ritz Crackers – Brings a buttery crunch to the casserole; crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs can be used for a similar texture.
Butter – Essential for binding the topping; ensure it’s melted for even coverage over the crackers.

Now you’re all set with the ingredients for your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, ready to cook up a storm in your kitchen!

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 step is crucial for even baking, ensuring your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole achieves that perfect golden crust. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and have a 9×13 inch casserole dish ready for assembly.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Use a hand mixer or spatula to blend the ingredients until they form a smooth and creamy mixture. Take your time to ensure there are no lumps, as this will create the luxurious texture of your casserole.

Step 3: Incorporate the Chicken and Onion
Add the shredded chicken breast and finely diced onion to the creamy mixture. Gently fold the chicken and onion into the mixture until everything is evenly combined. This step infuses the casserole with savory flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly into the greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Use a spatula to smooth the surface, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. The creamy filling should be thick and luscious, ready to bake into a comforting meal that your family will adore.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping
Crumble the Ritz crackers over the top of the casserole mixture, covering it completely. This buttery topping will create a delightful crunch as it bakes. Next, drizzle melted butter over the crumbled crackers to ensure they bake up golden and crispy, adding that final touch of decadence to your dish.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Carefully place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is bubbling and golden brown. The aroma of creamy chicken filling combined with buttery crackers will fill your kitchen, promising a comforting meal ahead.

Step 7: Let it Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. This pause allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. The Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is ideal for scooping into warm portions, ensuring everyone enjoys its rich, creamy goodness!

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Storage Tips for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious when reheated.

Freezer: If you need to freeze the casserole, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer; just ensure it’s well-protected from freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until warm throughout, about 30 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.

Make-Ahead: You can assemble the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, allowing for a convenient, homemade comfort meal when you need it!

What to Serve with Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

As you savor each comforting bite of this creamy delight, let’s explore a few delicious pairings to elevate your dining experience.

Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad tossed with vibrant greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole beautifully, adding a refreshing crunch.
Garlic Bread: Buttery, toasted garlic bread pairs perfectly, soaking up leftover creamy goodness while providing a satisfying, indulgent texture.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a touch of greenery and vitamins, bringing both color and nutrition alongside the savory casserole.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal veggies brings out their natural sweetness, complementing the hearty chicken flavors and adding a rustic element to your meal.
Cranberry Sauce: A sweet-tart cranberry sauce can enhance the creaminess of the casserole, providing a delightful contrast that brightens each bite.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp with its gooey, spiced filling and crunchy topping rounds out the meal with cozy, comforting flavors that everyone loves.

Make Ahead Options

These Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance by following the first five steps, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just before baking, remove it from the fridge to ensure even cooking, and pour melted butter over the crumbled cracker topping. Bake as instructed for 30 minutes, and you’ll have a comforting, delicious meal ready to serve with minimal effort. Enjoy the magic of make-ahead meals without compromising quality!

Expert Tips for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Perfect Texture: Ensure you use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps in your creamy filling, creating a luxurious texture for your casserole.
Flavor Boost: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor and a pop of color in your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole.
Don’t Rush Baking: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving; this helps the textures set for easier portioning.
Watch the Topping: Avoid overcrumbling the Ritz crackers; larger pieces will achieve an even better buttery crunch on top.
Leftover Goodness: Store any leftovers in an airtight container; flavors meld beautifully after a day in the fridge, enhancing your next meal!

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Variations

Feel free to explore these creative twists to make the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole your own!

Veggie-Packed: Add mixed vegetables like broccoli, peas, or mushrooms for a nutritious boost, infusing color and flavor into every bite.
Creamy Ricotta: Substitute cream cheese with ricotta cheese for a lighter but equally creamy texture, giving a lovely twist to the traditional dish.
Spicy Kick: Introduce diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture for those who enjoy a little heat in their comfort food.
Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the casserole.
Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheese varieties such as Gouda or Havarti, adding layers of flavor based on your preference.
Crunchy Topping Upgrade: Switch Ritz crackers with crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning for a unique crunch.
Comforting Creaminess: Blend in a splash of heavy cream for an ultra-creamy texture that elevates the comfort aspect of the casserole.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked chicken or add a dash of liquid smoke for a delightful barbecue-inspired flavor that’s hard to resist.

Each variation opens up a world of flavor possibilities! If you’re looking for more crowd-pleasers, don’t forget to check out my delicious Garlic Butter Chicken or my tasty Baked Chicken Tenders. Enjoy your cooking adventures!

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Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this casserole?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender texture, but rotisserie chicken can also be a fantastic shortcut. This saves you time and adds a depth of flavor to your casserole.

How should I store leftovers of Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen and meld nicely, making them even more delightful upon reheating!

Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole for up to 2 months. To do this, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This will help prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What can I do if my casserole topping is too soggy?
If you find your topping is soggy, it may be due to excess moisture in the filling. To remedy this, try increasing the amount of crushed crackers on top and baking without foil in the last few minutes to achieve that golden crisp. Also, remember to gently fold in your ingredients without overmixing!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole can be made gluten-free by substituting Ritz crackers with gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. Additionally, for those with dairy allergies, consider using non-dairy cream cheese and yogurt alternatives. Always check labels and ingredient lists to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.

How long should I let the casserole cool before serving?
After baking, allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes. This brief resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to serve while enhancing the flavors. Enjoy the cozy warmth of this creamy delight!