If you have a craving for a dish that cozy feels like a warm hug, then the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This casserole is a sensational blend of creamy textures, savory layers, and that irresistible crunchy topping that makes every bite a delight. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you want to impress without stress. The balance of cheddar cheese, crunchy almonds, smoky bacon, and subtle spicy zing from hot sauce creates a flavor symphony that keeps everyone coming back for more. Trust me, once you try this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe, it’ll become one of your favorite go-to meals too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe plays a crucial role in creating its distinctive flavor and luscious texture. These simple but carefully chosen components come together to make a casserole that’s both hearty and full of character.
- Cooked chopped chicken: The star protein that provides a tender, meaty base for the dish.
- Unsalted cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can): Adds creamy richness and depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Sour cream: Lends tanginess and moisture that balances the cheese and soup perfectly.
- Chopped green onions: Brings a mild, fresh onion flavor and a pop of color.
- Sliced almonds: Offers a nutty crunch that elevates texture complexity.
- Cooked chopped bacon: Infuses smoky, savory notes that deepen the overall flavor.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Provides sharp, gooey richness that melts beautifully.
- Shredded white cheddar cheese: Adds a creamier, mellow cheese profile.
- Onion powder: Enhances savory aroma and subtle sweetness.
- Garlic powder: Introduces a savory, aromatic punch that complements the other seasonings.
- Hot sauce: Gives a gentle kick that wakes up the flavors without overwhelming.
- Crushed Ritz crackers: Create an irresistible golden, crispy crust.
- Melted butter: Binds the cracker topping and helps it brown perfectly.
How to Make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. This ensures perfect even cooking later on. Next, spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray so your casserole won’t stick and will slide out easily for serving.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken Filling
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheeses, sliced almonds, crumbled bacon, onion powder, garlic powder, hot sauce, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir in the cooked chopped chicken until every piece is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
Step 3: Spread the Mixture Into the Pan
Transfer your deliciously mixed chicken filling into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out in an even layer so it cooks uniformly and bakes into that perfect creamy consistency we all crave in a casserole.
Step 4: Create and Add the Crunchy Topping
In a smaller bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until all crumbs are moistened. This step is key to getting that golden, crispy top that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling beneath. Sprinkle this cracker mixture evenly over the chicken layer.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Pop your casserole in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’re looking for that bubbly, steaming filling and a beautifully browned, crunchy topping. This is when the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe really shines with its inviting aroma and perfect texture.
How to Serve Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley over the golden crust adds a lovely burst of color and a fresh flavor note that brightens the whole dish. It’s a simple but elegant finishing touch that makes this casserole look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
For a balanced meal, serve alongside crisp green salads, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or buttery dinner rolls. The creamy richness of the casserole pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides that add a crunchy or bright contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch at dinner parties. You can also layer some fresh sliced tomatoes or avocado on the side to add freshness and vibrant color. Reverse the topping by mixing nuts and cheese right into the filling for a different texture experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for delicious next-day meals or easy lunch options.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! Prepare the dish through step 3, then cover tightly with foil and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then add the cracker topping and bake as directed. This makes a terrific make-ahead meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture.
Reheating
To warm up leftovers, place them in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350ºF until heated through and bubbly, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave single servings but they won’t have as crisp a topping, which makes the oven method preferable for the full experience.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully since it’s already seasoned and tender, making your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe even easier to prepare.
Is there a good vegetarian substitute for the bacon?
Yes, you can swap out bacon for smoked tempeh or sautéed mushrooms to maintain that smoky, savory flavor without the meat.
What can I use if I don’t have Ritz crackers for the topping?
Panko breadcrumbs or crushed buttery crackers like Town House are excellent alternatives that will create a similarly crispy and flavorful crust.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and substitute gluten-free crackers for the crust to make this casserole safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
How spicy is the hot sauce in this casserole?
The hot sauce adds a mild gentle kick that enhances the other flavors without making it too spicy. You can adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe that brings warmth to any meal and smiles to every face at the table. Its perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, savory, and just a touch of spice makes it a standout in the world of casseroles. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to a lovely homemade dinner, this recipe is a joy to make and even more enjoyable to eat. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved classic in your kitchen!
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Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked dish featuring tender cooked chicken mixed with a flavorful blend of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheeses, crunchy almonds, and crispy bacon, all topped with buttery Ritz crackers for a delightful crunch. Perfect for family dinners and potlucks, this comforting casserole combines rich textures and bold flavors baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Chicken Casserole Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 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 well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Add the cooked chopped chicken and fold it in gently until evenly coated with the mixture. Spread this chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are fully coated. Evenly sprinkle this cracker mixture over the top of the chicken casserole to create a crispy, buttery crust.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired before serving. Enjoy warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For extra crunch, toast the sliced almonds lightly before adding.
- Adjust hot sauce quantity based on your spice preference.
- Can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated before baking; increase bake time slightly if baking straight from the fridge.
- Ensure the casserole is bubbly before removing from the oven to guarantee it’s heated through.
