Irresistible Neiman Marcus Chicken

This hearty Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole has been my comfort food staple for years. The creamy texture combined with the buttery cracker topping creates a dish that's both elegant and satisfying enough for any occasion.

I first made this casserole when hosting my in-laws for dinner, and it's become our go-to dish whenever family visits. The way the kitchen fills with that warm, inviting aroma as it bakes always signals good times ahead.

• Cooked chicken: shredded. Use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience
• Cream of chicken soup: creates the rich base that holds everything together
• Sour cream: adds tanginess and creamy texture that elevates this dish beyond ordinary casseroles
• Butter crackers: crushed. Look for Ritz or Club crackers for that signature buttery topping
• Onion: chopped. Sweet onions work best to provide flavor without overpowering
• Celery: diced. Adds subtle crunch and fresh flavor that balances the richness

How To Make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Prepare the baking dish:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and thoroughly grease a 9x13 baking dish. I recommend using butter rather than cooking spray for added flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Mix the filling:

In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped onion, and diced celery. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated. This is where the magic happens, as the creamy elements coat each piece of chicken.

Transfer to baking dish:

Spread the chicken mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish, making sure to get it into the corners. An offset spatula works wonders for creating a smooth surface.

Create the topping:

Crush the butter crackers into coarse crumbs, leaving some larger pieces for texture. Mix with melted butter until every crumb is coated. This step creates that irresistible golden crust.

Add the topping:

Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken filling, creating a consistent layer that will brown beautifully in the oven.

Bake to perfection:

Place in your preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes until the top turns a rich golden brown and you can see the edges bubbling. The aroma will tell you when it's nearly done.

Rest before serving:

Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes serving much easier.

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The butter crackers are truly the star ingredient here. I've tried various substitutes, but nothing compares to their distinctively rich flavor and texture. My grandmother always insisted on using Ritz crackers specifically, saying they were the secret to making this casserole memorable rather than mundane.

Make It Your Own

This casserole welcomes customization based on your family's preferences. Try adding a cup of steamed broccoli florets or sautéed mushrooms for extra vegetables. For a cheesier version, mix in a cup of shredded cheddar or sprinkle it on top before the cracker layer. The versatility of this dish means it never gets boring, even when served regularly.

Storage and Reheating

Once cooled, cover leftover casserole tightly with foil or transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For reheating, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The microwave works in a pinch, but the oven helps maintain that crispy topping.

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Serving Suggestions

This casserole shines as a standalone dish, but I love pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For special occasions, serve alongside steamed asparagus or green beans almondine. A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the creamy flavors beautifully for adult diners.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake it when ready to serve.

→ What substitutions can I make for dietary preferences?

You can use low-fat sour cream, gluten-free crackers, or homemade cream of chicken soup to accommodate different dietary needs.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can include diced carrots, broccoli, or peas to enhance the nutritional value and textures of the casserole.

→ How do I achieve a crispier topping?

For an extra crispy topping, toast the crushed crackers with a bit of butter in a skillet before adding them to the casserole.