When I first made Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, it was one of those cold New York evenings when everyone wanted something warm and filling. The smell of creamy chicken, melted cheese, and buttery cracker topping had my kids asking when dinner would be ready before it even came out of the oven. That’s when I knew this casserole wasn’t just another recipe. It was comfort on a plate.
This dish is famous for its creamy texture, rich cheese, and crisp golden topping that makes every bite satisfying. Some say the recipe started at the Neiman Marcus café in Dallas, while others believe it began as a home-cook favorite that just borrowed the elegant name. Either way, it has become one of America’s most loved family dinners.
Why home cooks love it:
- Quick to prepare with simple pantry ingredients
- Creamy, hearty, and family-friendly
- Easy to customize with vegetables or rice
- Perfect for weeknight meals or potlucks
If you enjoy this recipe, you might also love Buffalo Chicken Sliders, Chicken Fajita Casserole, or Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for more family-style favorites.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
Making Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole at home is easier than it looks. You’ll use everyday pantry ingredients, and in less than an hour, you’ll have a creamy, golden dinner ready to serve.
Here’s everything you’ll need to make the classic version — no bacon, no pork, just pure, family-style comfort.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shredded cooked chicken | 4 cups |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 (10.5-ounce) can |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Shredded Cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
| Sliced green onions | ½ cup |
| Slivered almonds | ½ cup |
| Hot sauce (optional) | 1 teaspoon or to taste |
| Buttery crackers, crushed | 1 sleeve |
| Melted butter | ½ cup |
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
Equipment
- oven
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- large mixing bowl
- mixing spoon or spatula
- measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 can (10.5-ounce) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup sliced green onions
- 0.5 cup slivered almonds
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 sleeve buttery crackers, crushed
- 0.5 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, soup, sour cream, cheese, onions, almonds, and hot sauce. Stir until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter until evenly coated.
- Spread the chicken mixture into the baking dish, then top with the cracker mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Add Rice: Mix in 2 cups of cooked rice to make a one-pan meal.
- Vegetable Boost: Add peas, broccoli, or spinach before baking.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free butter crackers or crushed rice cereal.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Lighter Version: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt and use low-fat cheese.
- Freezing Tip: Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 724 kcal
- Protein: 40 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fat: 55 g
- Saturated Fat: 25 g
- Sodium: 840 mg
- Sugar: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Step-by-Step Instructions for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine chicken, soup, sour cream, cheese, onions, almonds, and hot sauce. Stir until creamy.
Prepare topping: Mix crushed crackers with melted butter.
Assemble casserole: Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the baking dish. Sprinkle the cracker topping across the surface.
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Cool slightly before serving for the perfect creamy texture.
This version delivers the classic creamy comfort you expect from Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole — smooth inside, crisp on top, and packed with flavor in every bite.
Smart Variations and Serving Ideas for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
One of the best parts about Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is how flexible it can be. Once you master the base recipe, you can adjust it to fit your taste, your schedule, and even what’s in your fridge.
Easy Ways to Change It Up
- Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole with rice: Add 2 cups of cooked white or brown rice to the filling for a heartier version. It turns the dish into a full meal in one pan.
- Vegetable boost: Stir in a cup of frozen peas, broccoli florets, or chopped spinach before baking for extra color and nutrition.
- Lighter version: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheese to cut down on calories without losing flavor.
- Crockpot method: Mix all ingredients except the cracker topping. Cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, then sprinkle the crushed crackers on top during the last 15 minutes for a soft, buttery crust.
- Gluten-free option: Replace regular crackers with gluten-free butter crackers or crushed rice cereal.
What to Serve with Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
This casserole pairs beautifully with simple side dishes that balance its creamy richness:
- Crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli
- Buttered corn or honey-glazed carrots
- Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat at 350°F until warm throughout. Add a little cream or milk to restore the creamy texture.
Whether you bake it for family dinner, prep it ahead for guests, or use your crockpot on a busy day, Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole always delivers cozy, crowd-pleasing flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
1. Why is it called Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?
The dish is believed to have originated from the famous Zodiac Room café inside the Neiman Marcus store in Dallas, Texas. It may not be the exact recipe served there, but home cooks loved the elegant name and creamy flavor, and the title stuck.
2. What’s the secret to a good casserole?
A great casserole balances creamy and crunchy textures. Make sure your filling is smooth and rich, and your topping is buttery and crisp. Using quality cheese and not overbaking helps keep the casserole soft inside and golden on top.
3. Should I bake my casserole covered or uncovered?
Always bake uncovered so the top becomes crispy and golden brown. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil during the last few minutes.
4. What vegetables go best in chicken casserole?
Classic choices include broccoli, peas, spinach, green beans, or even diced carrots. They add color, flavor, and nutrients without changing the creamy texture.
5. How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Assemble the casserole completely, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature and bake as directed.
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole has earned its place as a true comfort food favorite. It’s creamy, rich, and full of flavor, yet simple enough for any cook to make. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or sharing it at a potluck, it’s one of those dishes that always disappears fast.
If you’re looking for more cozy dinners, try my Buffalo Chicken Sliders, Chicken Fajita Casserole, or Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps next time you’re in the mood for something delicious and family-friendly.