If you have a penchant for comforting, creamy, and irresistibly flavorful dishes, then you are in for a real treat with the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe. This casserole is a perfect harmony of tender chicken, a cheesy creamy sauce, crunchy almonds, and crispy bacon, all topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a big warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or sharing with friends. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a cherished classic in your kitchen repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating a casserole that is both hearty and delicious. Each component plays an important role — from the tender cooked chicken that forms the heart of the dish, to the combination of cheeses and sour cream that add rich creaminess and depth, and the crunchy toppings that bring texture and an extra layer of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this iconic casserole:
- 4 cups cooked chopped chicken: Use leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken for quick prep and maximum flavor.
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup: This creamy base ties everything together and keeps the casserole moist.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and silky texture that balances the richness.
- ½ cup chopped green onions: Freshness and mild bite brighten the dish.
- ½ cup sliced almonds: Provide delightful crunch and a subtle nutty undertone.
- 1 cup cooked chopped bacon: A smoky, salty kick that elevates every bite.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, this cheese brings robust flavor.
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese: Adds creaminess with a smoother taste that complements the sharp cheddar.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Enhances the savory depth without overpowering.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses gentle warmth and aroma.
- 1 Tbsp hot sauce: Just enough to give the casserole a subtle spicy zing.
- 1 sleeve crushed Ritz crackers: Creates that irresistible golden crust with buttery goodness.
- ½ cup melted butter: Binds the cracker topping and adds rich flavor and a crispy finish.
How to Make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. This ensures it reaches the perfect baking temperature by the time your casserole is assembled. Next, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and giving it a quick spritz with cooking spray will prevent the casserole from sticking and make serving easier.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the can of unsalted cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheeses, sliced almonds, cooked chopped bacon, onion powder, garlic powder, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir these well to create a luscious sauce bursting with savory flavors. Add in your cooked chopped chicken and mix everything until the chicken is fully coated and the ingredients are evenly distributed. This mixture is the heart and soul of the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe, bringing together creaminess, tanginess, and just the right kick of spice.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the creamy chicken mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out to the edges. In a separate small bowl, stir together the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter until the crumbs are thoroughly coated. Sprinkle this buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole—this step promises a beautiful golden crust once baked.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling bubbles invitingly around the edges. This baking time allows the flavors to meld and the topping to crisp up, creating that signature contrast of creamy filling and crunchy topping that makes the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe so memorable.
How to Serve Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the dish visually and adds a touch of herbaceous freshness that cuts through the richness. You could also add a few extra chopped green onions on top for more color and gentle sharpness that complements the creamy layers beneath.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple, crisp sides like a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. The crunch and lightness of greens balance the rich casserole perfectly, creating a well-rounded meal. Roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans are also excellent choices to accompany this hearty dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more festive gathering, serve the casserole in individual ramekins bringing a personal touch to the table. You could also layer the casserole ingredients in clear glass dishes to showcase the beautiful layers before baking. Adding a few toasted almond slices on top just before serving elevates the texture further and brings a lovely visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This casserole reheats beautifully, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe another day, freeze it before baking. Cover the assembled casserole tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350ºF oven for about 20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. To preserve the crispy topping, avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the cracker crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of chicken?
Absolutely! While cooked shredded or chopped rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for convenience, grilled or baked chicken leftovers are just as delicious. The key is to have fully cooked, tender chicken ready to mix into the casserole.
Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the Ritz crackers for a gluten-free cracker or breadcrumb alternative. Make sure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free, and you’ll enjoy the dish without worry.
Can I substitute sour cream with something else?
Sour cream adds creaminess and tang, but if you need an alternative, Greek yogurt is a great substitute with similar texture and flavor. Just use plain, full-fat Greek yogurt for the best results.
How spicy is the hot sauce in this recipe?
The tablespoon of hot sauce gives a mild to moderate kick that wakes up the flavors without overwhelming the dish. Feel free to adjust the amount according to your spice preference or omit it for a milder casserole.
What can I add to make this casserole even more flavorful?
Try adding a handful of sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Each addition brings a new dimension of taste without straying from the cozy comfort of the original recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about mastering the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe. It’s a dish that feels both nostalgic and elevated, perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests. The creamy, crunchy, and smoky layers come together so effortlessly, making it a recipe you’ll want to keep returning to. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and share this delightful casserole with those you love. Trust me, it’s a winner every time!
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Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked dish loaded with tender cooked chicken, crunchy almonds, crispy bacon, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping. This crowd-pleasing casserole combines savory flavors with a delightful texture contrast, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 4 cups cooked chopped chicken
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- ½ cup sliced almonds
- 1 cup cooked chopped bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 Tbsp hot sauce
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1 sleeve crushed Ritz crackers
- ½ cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar and white cheddar cheeses, sliced almonds, chopped cooked bacon, onion powder, garlic powder, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper. Add the cooked chopped chicken and chopped green onions, then mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, making sure it is level for even baking.
- Prepare Cracker Topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter, mixing well so the crackers are fully coated.
- Add Topping and Bake: Spread the cracker and butter mixture evenly over the top of the chicken casserole. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, optionally garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking from cold.
- Use cooked bacon with less fat for a leaner dish.
- Adjust the hot sauce quantity based on your preferred spice level.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute gluten-free crackers for the Ritz crackers.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.
