If you’re on the hunt for a recipe that feels like a warm hug in casserole form, then the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe is definitely one to keep in your back pocket. It’s rich, comforting, and loaded with cheesy, creamy, flavorful goodness that makes it a showstopper at any potluck, family dinner, or even a cozy weeknight meal. I’ve made it countless times, and every single time it disappears fast—no leftovers here!

What makes this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe truly special is how effortlessly it combines simple ingredients into something that tastes surprisingly gourmet. The blend of shredded cooked chicken, savory cream of chicken soup, tangy sour cream, and sharp cheddar cheese works in perfect harmony. Don’t get me started on the buttery cracker topping with slivered almonds and crispy bacon. It’s a texture and flavor party you’ll want to RSVP to again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this casserole plays a crucial role — from creaminess to crunch — and I love how they all come together effortlessly. When shopping, look for good quality shredded chicken to save time, and definitely pick your favorite crackers for that buttery topping.

Shredded cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken works like a charm here and saves tons of prep time.
Cream of chicken soup: This brings comforting, savory goodness; homemade if you have time, canned works perfectly too.
Sour cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess that balances the flavors.
Shredded Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar packs the best punch; don’t skimp on quality.
Sliced green onions: These add a light freshness and subtle bite to the casserole.
Slivered almonds: For that delightful crunch and a nutty twist that’s subtle but impactful.
Bacon (cooked and crumbled): Crispy bacon bits bring smokiness and texture.
Hot sauce: I use Tabasco for just a hint of heat—adjust it to your liking.
Buttery crackers (like Ritz): Crushing these gives you the ultimate golden and crispy topping.
Butter (melted): It binds the cracker topping and adds richness that makes the crust irresistible.

Variations

I love that the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe is so adaptable depending on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. I often switch things up to keep it exciting and tailored to whoever I’m feeding.

Variation: Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a fresher, tangier taste and a bit less fat—I actually enjoy this every now and then when I want a lighter version.
Variation: For a gluten-free twist, use gluten-free crackers for the topping. I did this once for a friend and it was just as delicious!
Variation: Add a handful of chopped mushrooms or broccoli for extra veggies. It sneaks in some nutrition without overwhelming the flavor.
Variation: Use smoked gouda or Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar for a creamier, mellower flavor. This is my go-to when I want a slightly different cheesy vibe.

How to Make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Mix Together the Creamy Base

Start by combining the shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded Cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, slivered almonds, crumbled bacon, and hot sauce in a big bowl. I like to use my hands or a sturdy spoon to make sure everything is evenly mixed. This base is rich and flavorful, so don’t be shy about seasoning it with a little salt and pepper if needed. The hot sauce adds mild heat and a nice layered flavor—we keep it subtle here, you can always add more later.

Step 2: Prepare the Topping

Crush the buttery crackers until they’re coarse crumbs—don’t pulverize them into dust. Toss the crumbs with the melted butter until everything is evenly coated. This step is critical for that golden, crispy topping that contrasts so nicely with the creamy filling below. I like to toast half the crumb mixture for a few minutes on a baking sheet before topping the casserole—this adds an extra layer of crunch and depth.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Spread the mixed chicken casserole evenly in a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping all over, spreading it out to cover the entire surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. You’ll know it’s done when the top is crispy and inviting—don’t overbake or it will dry out.

How to Serve Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I love adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or extra green onions just before serving. It brightens up the rich casserole and adds a pop of color. Sometimes, I also drizzle a bit more hot sauce on top for anyone wanting an extra kick.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with simple green salads or steamed veggies to balance out all that richness. My personal go-to is roasted asparagus or a fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Mashed potatoes or buttered noodles also work wonderfully for a hearty meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday dinners or special occasions, I like to bake the casserole individually in small ramekins. It feels extra fancy and makes portion control easy, plus everyone gets their own crispy crust. Another fun idea is to serve it in a bread bowl—just hollow out a round loaf and pour the casserole inside. It’s a crowd-pleaser and extra comforting!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers store really well in the fridge—just cover the casserole tightly with foil or use an airtight container. I usually find it keeps perfectly for up to 3 days. The flavors meld a bit more overnight, which I secretly love.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this casserole a few times with great success. I prepare the casserole fully assembled, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When I’m ready to enjoy it, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven. The texture might change a little, but it still tastes fantastic and the convenience is worth it.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer popping leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes covered with foil to keep it moist, then uncover for the last few minutes to let the topping crisp back up. Microwaving works in a pinch but you might lose the crispy topping texture. No judgment if you go microwave route though—I do it on busy weeknights!

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of shredded cooked chicken in the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe?

Yes, you can use fresh chicken, but I recommend cooking and shredding it before mixing it into the casserole. Poaching chicken breasts or thighs for easy shredding works well. Using pre-cooked shredded chicken saves a lot of time and ensures the casserole cooks evenly without drying out the chicken.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

If you want a homemade or healthier alternative, try making a simple white sauce with butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk seasoned with salt and pepper. This replicates the creamy texture of the soup without any canned ingredients. Otherwise, cream of mushroom soup can work in a pinch but it will slightly alter the flavor.
How spicy is the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe usually?

The recipe includes about 1 ½ teaspoons of hot sauce, so it’s just lightly spiced with a gentle kick that complements the creaminess. You can always add more or less hot sauce to suit your spice preference—or leave it out entirely if you prefer no heat.
Can I prepare the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day before baking. Just cover it tightly and keep it refrigerated. When you’re ready, bake it as directed. This makes it perfect for entertaining or busy weeknights when you want dinner ready with minimal fuss.
What’s the best way to make the topping extra crispy?

For an extra crispy topping, try toasting the crushed crackers with melted butter on a baking sheet in the oven for a few minutes before adding them to the casserole. This step enhances the crunch and flavor. Just keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Final Thoughts

This Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites because it hits all the right notes—comforting, cheesy, and just the right amount of indulgent without being tricky to make. It’s the kind of dish I feel confident bringing to a crowd and loving for dinner on a quiet night at home. I really hope you try it soon, and let it become a staple in your recipe rotation like it is in mine!