Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a classic comfort dish that brings together tender chicken, savory cream soup, and crispy buttery cracker topping all baked to golden perfection. It’s a simple…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
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Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a classic comfort dish that brings together tender chicken, savory cream soup, and crispy buttery cracker topping all baked to golden perfection. It’s a simple yet satisfying casserole that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The mix of creamy and crunchy textures makes every bite really enjoyable.
I’ve always loved making this casserole when I want something easy but special. What I like most is how the buttery cracker topping gives it a little crunch that’s just right, and it’s a family favorite every time. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want a hassle-free dish that still tastes homemade and cozy.
One of my favorite ways to serve Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is alongside a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies. It’s such a great dish for a potluck or a simple weeknight dinner. I think it’s the kind of meal that reminds you how good classic home cooking can be, and it always brings smiles around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using cooked chicken works best here. Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor, but leftover poultry or baked chicken breasts work well too.
Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is classic for casseroles due to its shape and texture. If you don’t have it, small shells or penne are great substitutes.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This gives the casserole its creamy base. If avoiding canned soup, make a quick homemade bechamel with chicken broth and cream for a fresh alternative.
Crackers: Ritz crackers add buttery crunch on top. You can swap them for seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed saltines if needed. Just be sure to mix with melted butter for crispness.
How Do You Get a Crispy, Golden Topping Every Time?
Getting a crispy topping can make a big difference. Follow these steps for the best crunch and golden color:
- Crush your buttery crackers finely but not into powder so they crisp nicely without burning.
- Mix crushed crackers evenly with melted butter until coated — this helps browning and flavor.
- Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole so every bite has some crunch.
- Bake uncovered to let moisture escape, which helps crisp the topping. If the top browns too fast, tent with foil.
- Let the casserole sit a few minutes after baking. The topping continues to crisp as it cools slightly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for even baking and easy serving.
- Mixing bowl – for combining the sauce and ingredients smoothly.
- Spoon or spatula – to mix and spread the casserole evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right amounts of ingredients every time.
- Oven mitts – to safely handle the hot casserole dish when removing it from the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey to use up leftovers; it adds a rich flavor especially after holidays.
- Add cooked broccoli or peas for a fresh veggie boost and color contrast.
- Mix in shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder, gooey cheese texture.
- Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or dried thyme for extra warmth and depth.
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 3 cups cooked macaroni or elbow pasta
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Topping:
- 2 cups crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz crackers)
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and assemble, plus 25-30 minutes to bake. After baking, allow a few minutes for it to settle before serving, so in total plan for about 45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well blended.
2. Combine Chicken and Pasta:
Add the cooked chicken and macaroni to the sauce mixture. Gently mix everything so the noodles and chicken are coated well. If you like, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese now for extra cheesiness.
3. Prepare the Casserole and Topping:
Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish lightly. Pour the chicken and pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are coated.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping evenly over the casserole. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you like. Enjoy your warm, creamy, and crunchy Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole with your favorite side dishes!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Casserole?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before using. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water to speed things up. Pat dry the chicken to avoid extra moisture in your casserole.
Can I Make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it uncovered for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge to ensure it heats through evenly.
How Do I Store Leftover Casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through or use the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heat.
What If I Don’t Have Ritz Crackers for the Topping?
No problem! You can substitute with crushed saltine crackers, breadcrumbs, or even crushed cornflakes. Just be sure to mix them with melted butter to keep that buttery crunch on top.