Name: Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole: A Cozy Family Favorite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (Using leftover rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.); 1 can cream of chicken soup (Swap for homemade soup for a fresher taste.); 1 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt is a great substitute.); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (Mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.); 2 cups mixed vegetables (Frozen mixed veggies work well for convenience.); 1 medium onion, finely chopped (Shallots can serve as a milder alternative.); to taste salt; to taste pepper; 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (Gluten-free options can be used.); 1/2 cup melted butter (Feel free to use olive oil for a healthier twist.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of savory chicken and melted cheese wafted through the air, instantly enveloping me in a warm embrace. This is the comforting essence of my Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, a dish that transforms ordinary evenings into extraordinary culinary moments. With tender chicken, creamy soup, and a crunchy topping, this casserole not only satisfies hunger but also brings a sense of nostalgia and joy to the dinner table. It’s the perfect easy dinner option, ideal for busy families craving home-cooked meals without the fuss. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, so you can whip up a batch ahead of time for those hectic nights. Ready to savor a slice of comfort? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why is Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole special?

Comforting Simplicity: This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal culinary skills while still delivering maximum flavor.

Savory Aromatics: The combination of tender chicken and creamy soup creates a rich, savory aroma that fills your home and warms your heart.

Crunchy Topping Delight: The buttery cracker topping adds a satisfying crunch, perfectly balancing the creamy texture of the casserole.

Family Appeal: This casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or mix up the cheese types—like gouda or pepper jack—for a fun twist.

By the way, if you love this casserole, you might also enjoy the ease of making a Mediterranean Chicken Gyros or the heartiness of a Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup.

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole

Cooked and Shredded Chicken – The star of the dish; using leftover rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.
Cream of Chicken Soup – The creamy base that brings it all together; swap it out for homemade soup for a fresher taste.
Sour Cream – Adds a delightful tanginess, enhancing the creaminess; Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a lighter option.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Offers rich flavor and gooey texture; try mixing in Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
Mixed Vegetables – Optional but boosts nutrition; frozen mixed veggies work wonderfully for convenience.
Onion, Finely Chopped – Infuses the casserole with aromatic layers; shallots can serve as a milder alternative.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for elevating the flavors; adjust these to match your taste preferences.

For the Topping

Crushed Buttery Crackers – Provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts the creaminess; gluten-free options can be used if needed.
Melted Butter – Helps bind the topping for a golden finish; feel free to use olive oil for a healthier twist.

Crafting the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole means bringing comfort and warmth right to your family dinner table. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite paired with that delightful crunch!

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 that your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole will bake evenly and come out bubbly and golden brown. As the oven warms up, you can gather your ingredients and prepare your baking dish. A 9×13-inch glass or ceramic dish works perfectly for this comforting recipe.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Add in the mixed vegetables and finely chopped onion, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated, creating a creamy filling that will serve as the heart of your casserole.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Carefully transfer the creamy chicken mixture to your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. This will help ensure that every bite of your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is filled with flavor. Press it gently to remove any air pockets, creating a compact and organized layer that blends seamlessly in the oven.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter and the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. This mixture will form a crunchy topping that perfectly contrasts the creamy casserole base. Stir until the crackers are well-coated, creating a rich and flavorful topping that will bake to a delightful crispness.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the chicken casserole mixture, ensuring an even distribution for that satisfying crunch. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes. Look for a bubbly and golden brown surface; this tells you that your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is ready to come out and delight your family.

Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This cooling period allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while making it easier to serve. As the comforting aroma fills the room, your family will eagerly anticipate the first delicious bite of this creamy, cheesy delight.

Make Ahead Options

These Neiman Marcus Chicken Casseroles are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the entire casserole (up to 24 hours in advance) by assembling it in a greased baking dish, then covering it tightly with foil and refrigerating. The creamy filling will maintain its quality, and the flavors will meld beautifully overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake it from the fridge at 350°F (175°C) for an extra 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s heated through. This way, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready to serve with minimal effort—perfect for those nights when you need a homemade touch without the hassle!

How to Store and Freeze Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Freezer: This casserole freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or re-bake the whole casserole covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly.

Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Simply cover with foil and pop it in the oven when you’re ready!

What to Serve with Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Transform your dinner into a comforting feast with delicious pairings that elevate this creamy masterpiece.

Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery slices pair perfectly, allowing you to soak up every bit of that rich casserole goodness.
Garden Salad: Crisp greens with a light vinaigrette bring freshness, balancing the richness of the casserole and adding a pop of color to your meal.
Steamed Broccoli: Tender broccoli adds a vibrant crunch and complements the cheesy flavors, turning your dinner into a wholesome experience.
Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of sweet-tart cranberry sauce cuts through the richness, providing a delightful contrast that keeps each bite exciting.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery, these spuds enhance the comfort factor while soaking up all that creamy sauce—pure bliss on your plate!
Red Wine: A glass of light-bodied red wine not only complements the flavors of the casserole but also adds a sophisticated touch to your family dinner.

Consider these delightful options that harmonize with your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole for a truly satisfying dining experience!

Helpful Tricks for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Use Quality Chicken: Opt for rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for maximum flavor and tenderness. Avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.
Customize Your Cheese: Get creative with cheese! While cheddar is classic, try gouda or pepper jack for a unique taste experience.
Bake Evenly: Ensure even cooking by spreading your filling uniformly in the baking dish. This prevents some areas from being dry and others from being overly creamy.
Prep Ahead: You can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready for a quick weeknight meal that’s as comforting as ever.
Mind the Topping: Don’t skimp on the crushed buttery crackers; a generous layer ensures that delightful crunch that makes this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole so special.

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Variations

Feel free to bring your own flair to this beloved casserole and make it uniquely yours!

Turkey Twist: Swap chicken for turkey for a leaner variant that still packs a comforting punch. Perfect for post-holiday meals!
Cheese Medley: Mix cheddar with gouda or pepper jack for a rich, smoky flavor that elevates every bite. Get creative with cheese choices.
Veggie Boost: Replace mixed vegetables with chopped broccoli or spinach for a nutritious twist that adds a pop of color and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a delightful kick that spice lovers will adore. It’s all about that added heat!
No Cream Soup: Substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade besan sauce for a fresh and wholesome touch that tastes incredible.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into your mixture for a fragrant twist that’ll remind you of cozy family gatherings.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crackers and a suitable flour for the topping to keep everyone in your family happy without sacrificing flavor.
Zesty Pesto: Blend a bit of pesto into the chicken filling for an herbaceous lift that surprises and delights your palate.

Once you’ve made this delicious casserole a few times, you may want to try out other comforting meals, like a savory Dorito Casserole Savory or a hearty Honey Pepper Chicken. Enjoy the journey of flavors!

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken works best for this casserole?
Using cooked and shredded chicken makes the preparation quick and easy. I highly recommend rotisserie chicken for its tender, flavorful meat and timesaving convenience—simply shred and toss it into the mix!

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Can I freeze Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed, or heat it straight from frozen, allowing for extra baking time.

What if my casserole seems too watery?
If you notice your casserole is too watery, it might be due to excess moisture from the chicken or vegetables. To remedy this, you can add more crushed buttery crackers to the topping to absorb some of the liquid, or consider draining excess moisture from the mixed vegetables before adding them to the mixture.

Is this casserole suitable for special diets?
If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily modify this recipe. Use gluten-free crackers for the topping, swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or select low-sodium soup to cater to those watching their salt intake. Always check the labels for allergens, especially if serving to guests with known food allergies.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, preparing this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole ahead of time is a fantastic idea! Simply assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. It can be baked straight from the fridge—just be mindful to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through completely.