If you have been on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing classic that brings together creamy textures, savory chicken, and a crispy golden topping, then look no further than the Famous Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe. This dish is pure nostalgia in every bite, blending tender shredded chicken with rich sour cream and sharp cheddar, all nestled beneath a buttery crust of crushed crackers. It is an ideal recipe to make ahead for busy weeknights or to impress guests with a dish that feels both indulgent and homey. Trust me, once you try the Famous Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe, it will become one of your go-to staples to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this casserole just right is all about the balance of simple, classic ingredients that each play a vital role in flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Every element here is straightforward but essential and will combine to create a dish that’s hearty, creamy, and delightfully crispy on top.
- 4 cups cooked and shredded chicken: The star protein, providing that satisfying meaty texture and hearty base.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess and depth with subtle savory notes.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings tang and smoothness, balancing the richness of cheese and soup perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus ½ cup for topping): Sharp and melty, cheddar lends the dish its signature gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (optional but recommended): Provides color, nutrition, and a slight crunch that rounds out the casserole.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and savory depth that infuses the casserole.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance every ingredient without overpowering.
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz): The secret to a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy layers below.
- ½ cup melted butter: Binds the cracker topping together and adds that irresistible buttery richness.
How to Make Famous Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven
Start by warming your oven to 350°F (175°C). Setting the right temperature early ensures your casserole bakes evenly, developing that perfect golden crust while the inside becomes delectably bubbly and inviting.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar, mixed vegetables, and finely chopped onion. This blend is where the magic happens — each ingredient melds into a creamy, savory filling that forms the hearty heart of the casserole.
Step 3: Season to Perfection
Add salt and pepper to taste and stir the mixture thoroughly. Proper seasoning at this stage is crucial because it ensures every bite bursts with balanced flavor instead of feeling bland or flat.
Step 4: Transfer to a Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the mixture evenly into it. Spreading it out helps the casserole cook consistently and makes sure every serving has a lovely mix of chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce.
Step 5: Prepare the Crispy Topping
In a small bowl, combine crushed buttery crackers with melted butter, mixing until all crumbs are coated. This topping is the crowning glory, bringing texture and a golden crunch that elevates the creamy casserole underneath.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Cracker Topping
Sprinkle the reserved ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. Then, spread the buttery cracker mixture on top, creating a robust crust that will bake into a golden, irresistible finish.
Step 7: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the cracker topping has turned a beautiful golden brown.
Step 8: Allow to Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps it set slightly, making it easier to serve while also letting flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Famous Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions over the top just before serving adds a fresh pop of color and crisp flavor contrast. For a touch of zest, a small drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can heighten the overall taste experience.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides to balance the richness. Think a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or even some roasted asparagus. For a heartier meal, buttery dinner rolls or garlic mashed potatoes complement the creamy chicken casserole beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a charming, personal touch. You can also layer the casserole over a bed of buttery rice or quinoa to introduce a subtle nutty texture. For potlucks or family dinners, scoop it into a warm bread bowl to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the lid on tight to maintain moisture and prevent the cracker topping from becoming soggy. When ready to enjoy again, reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. If freezing before, assemble it fully but hold off on adding the cracker topping; add that just before baking to keep it crisp. Wrap the dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and it will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or frozen Famous Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe in a 350°F oven until it’s warmed through and the topping has regained some crunch—usually about 20 to 25 minutes. Cover loosely with foil if the topping browns too quickly.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and can save you time. Just shred it well before mixing with the other ingredients.
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute with homemade white sauce or cream of mushroom soup if you prefer. Both add creaminess, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chicken for a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers, and use a suitable vegetarian soup base in place of cream of chicken.
Is there a way to make the topping gluten-free?
Definitely. Use gluten-free crackers instead of buttery Ritz crackers to keep that beloved crunch without gluten.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Try adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix or topping it off with jalapeño slices before baking for a gentle heat boost.
Final Thoughts
The Famous Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe is one of those comforting classics that never loses its charm or deliciousness. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or bringing something special to a gathering, this casserole hits all the right notes—from creamy and cheesy to crisp and buttery. I promise, once you make it, it’s going to find a permanent spot in your recipe collection and your heart.
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Famous Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Famous Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked dish combining shredded chicken, mixed vegetables, and a crunchy buttery cracker topping. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, it blends tender chicken with a savory sour cream and cheddar cheese sauce, topped with golden, crispy crackers for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (optional but recommended)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- ½ cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Combine the chicken mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, mixed vegetables, and finely chopped onion until well combined.
- Season the mixture: Add salt and pepper to taste, then stir thoroughly to evenly distribute the seasoning.
- Prepare the baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then pour the chicken mixture into it, spreading it out evenly.
- Make the cracker topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter until well coated.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken mixture in the baking dish.
- Top with cracker mixture: Spread the buttered cracker mixture evenly on top of the cheese layer to create a crunchy crust.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
- Rest before serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set before serving for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute mixed vegetables with broccoli, peas, or carrots based on your preference.
- Cook and shred the chicken in advance to reduce prep time.
- For added flavor, consider adding garlic powder or paprika to the chicken mixture.
- Use gluten-free crackers to make the recipe gluten-free if needed.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
