Name: Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-488174H21M38S
Total time: PT-488174H21M38S
Cuisine: American Comfort
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese; ½ cup sliced green onions; ½ cup slivered almonds; 6 slices beef, cooked and crumbled; 1½ teaspoons hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco®), to taste; 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed; ½ cup butter, melted (for topping)

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Short description

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a rich, creamy dish featuring tender chicken, cheese, sour cream, beef, and green onions, all baked under a buttery Ritz cracker topping. It’s a comforting, indulgent recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make with simple ingredients and minimal prep
Creamy, cheesy base with crispy, buttery topping
Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or cozy family meals
Great use for leftover or rotisserie chicken
Flexible and customizable with add-ins or swaps

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
½ cup sliced green onions
½ cup slivered almonds
6 slices beef, cooked and crumbled
1½ teaspoons hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco®), to taste
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
½ cup butter, melted (for topping)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, beef, green onions, almonds, and hot sauce if using. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish.
In a separate bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until crumbs are coated.
Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole.
Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving to allow the sauce to set.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8 portions
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Vegetable boost: Add frozen peas, carrots, broccoli, or mushrooms to the filling.
Different cheese: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend.
Nut-free: Omit almonds if preferred.
Lighter version: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cheese.
Make-ahead: Assemble the casserole (without topping), refrigerate overnight, then add the cracker mixture just before baking.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Assemble without cracker topping, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, adding fresh cracker topping if needed for crispness.

FAQs

1. Why is it called Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?

It’s named after a comforting chicken casserole dish popularized by the Neiman Marcus cafés.

2. Can I use other meats?

Yes—turkey, or even rotisserie beef can be substituted.

3. Is the cracker topping necessary?

It adds the signature crunch, but you can replace it with panko breadcrumbs or omit it for a softer casserole.

4. Can I make it spicy?

Yes—add jalapeños, cayenne, or extra hot sauce to the mix.

5. What soup alternatives work?

Cream of mushroom, celery, or homemade white sauce can be used.

6. How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cream soup and swap the Ritz crackers for gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes—just use a larger baking dish and extend baking time slightly.

8. What sides pair well?

Green salad, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or rice complement the richness of the casserole.

9. Can I make it ahead?

Yes—assemble, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.

10. Does it taste better the next day?

Many say yes—the flavors meld beautifully after sitting overnight.

Conclusion

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish with a buttery crunch that makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Easy to prepare, versatile, and perfect for gatherings, it’s a recipe that turns simple ingredients into a rich, satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Jane

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole