Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole: How to Make It Like a Pro

If you’ve ever lunched at the iconic Neiman Marcus café, chances are you’ve heard of their legendary Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole. This creamy, crunchy, crave-worthy dish isn’t just a menu staple—it’s a nostalgic favorite that’s made its way into American home kitchens for good reason. Packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a cheesy, savory sauce, it’s no wonder this casserole has become a comfort food classic across the country.

What sets it apart? It’s the perfect blend of upscale flavor and down-home simplicity. Whether you’re hosting a Sunday potluck, need a make-ahead meal for a busy weeknight, or just want something the whole family will devour, this famous chicken casserole hits the spot. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable—making it a go-to recipe in households from Texas to Maine.

• Loved for its creamy-crunchy contrast
• Feeds a crowd with minimal effort
• A Neiman Marcus original, reimagined for home cooks

Ready to bring a touch of elegance to your next casserole night? This guide will show you how to make the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole like a pro—from prep to presentation.

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole recipe card

Recipe by Chef LexiCourse: Dinner

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

430

kcal

Total time

45

minutes

Ingredients

• Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

• 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

• ¾ cup mayonnaise

• 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled

• 1–2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional, to taste)

• ½ cup chopped almonds or pecans (optional)

• Topping:

• 1½ cups crushed buttery crackers (e.g., Ritz)

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Preparation Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine sour cream (or yogurt), mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, hot sauce, and chives. Stir until smooth.
• Add the chicken and bacon: Fold in the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon. Add chopped nuts if using.
• Transfer to baking dish: Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
• Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter until well coated.
• Add topping: Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the casserole.
• Bake: Place in the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until hot and bubbly with a golden topping.
• Let rest: Remove from oven and let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
  Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crackers or cornflake crumbs.
  Keto Option: Swap cracker topping for crushed pork rinds and use full-fat dairy.
  Dairy-Free Alternative: Use plant-based yogurt, mayo, and cheese.
  Serving Suggestion: Pair with a simple green salad, roasted veggies, or mashed potatoes.
  Storage: Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days. Freeze before or after baking for up to 3 months.

Classic Ingredients for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

At the heart of every great Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a mix of rich, flavorful, and satisfying ingredients that make this dish so memorable. This isn’t your average chicken bake—each component brings something special to the table, creating that creamy, savory bite with a perfect crunch on top.

Here’s what you’ll typically need:

• Cooked chicken breasts – shredded or chopped; rotisserie chicken works great too
• Crispy bacon – adds smoky flavor and salty crunch
• Sharp cheddar cheese – melty and bold, it’s a key part of the creamy base
• Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt – for that tangy richness
• Mayonnaise – adds moisture and a smooth texture
• Chopped chives or green onions – a fresh, mild onion flavor
• Minced garlic – for a subtle savory kick
• A dash of hot sauce – optional, but great for a mild heat
• Chopped almonds or pecans – for nutty crunch and texture
• Crushed butter crackers (like Ritz) – the golden, crispy topping everyone loves

These ingredients work together to create a casserole that’s indulgent yet easy to whip up. Each bite is creamy, crunchy, and packed with comforting flavor—just what you’d expect from a dish inspired by a high-end American department store café.

Looking to switch it up? Next, we’ll dive into smart substitutions and tasty variations.

Optional Substitutions & Variations

One of the greatest advantages of Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is its versatility. Whether you’re working with dietary restrictions, feeding picky eaters, or just using what you have on hand, there are plenty of simple swaps that keep the flavor on point.

Here are some easy substitutions for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole:

• Yogurt vs. Sour Cream
  Use plain Greek yogurt for a tangier, high-protein option. It lightens things up without losing creaminess.
• Mayonnaise Alternatives
  Prefer something lighter? Try avocado mayo or even a mix of olive oil and plain yogurt for a healthier twist.
• Nut-Free Option
  Skip the almonds or pecans entirely or swap in crushed pretzels or crispy fried onions for crunch without the allergens.
• Cheese Varieties
  No cheddar? No problem. Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan work well too.
• Gluten-Free Swaps
  Use gluten-free crackers or crushed rice cereal for the topping. Just be sure your mayo and hot sauce are certified gluten-free as well.
• Heat Level Adjustments
  Want it spicier? Toss in some chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper. Prefer mild? Leave out the hot sauce completely.

This casserole is super forgiving—just a few tweaks can tailor it to your family’s tastes or dietary needs. Whether you’re going gluten-free or dialing up the spice, these variations keep it fresh and foolproof.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Putting together a comforting Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is easier than it looks. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can have a deliciously creamy and crispy meal on your dinner table in less than an hour.

1. Cook the Chicken

• Start by cooking and shredding 2 to 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, or save time by using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store.
• If the chicken is plain, season lightly with salt and pepper for added flavor.

2. Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• 1 cup of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• ¾ cup of mayonnaise
• 1½ cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 to 2 tablespoons of chopped green onions or chives
• Optional: a dash of hot sauce if you enjoy a bit of spice

3. Blend with Chicken and Bacon

• Fold the shredded chicken into the creamy mixture.
• Stir in ½ cup of crispy, crumbled cooked bacon until everything is well mixed.

4. Prepare the Baking Dish

• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole pan.
• Evenly spread the chicken mixture into the dish, smoothing out the top.

5. Create the Crunchy Topping

• In a bowl, mix 1 cup of crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz) with 2 to 3 tablespoons of melted butter.
• For extra texture and a nutty twist, stir in ¼ cup of chopped pecans or almonds (optional).
• Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.

6. Bake It to Perfection

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes, until it’s hot and the top is golden and crispy.

Make-Ahead Tip:

Want to prep in advance? Assemble the casserole the day before, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just bake as directed—no extra fuss.

This straightforward method ensures that your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole turns out rich, creamy, and topped with the perfect golden crunch every single time.

Topping and Baking

One of the most irresistible parts of Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is that golden, buttery topping—it delivers the perfect crunch to contrast the creamy filling.

Follow these simple steps to nail it:

1. Create the topping mixture:
   • In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz) with 2 to 3 tablespoons of melted butter.
   • If desired, mix in ¼ cup of chopped pecans or almonds for added texture and flavor.
2. Layer it on:
   • Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole, making sure it’s fully covered from edge to edge to ensure a crunchy, toasted finish.
3. Bake until bubbly and crisp:
   • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the center is hot and the top is beautifully golden.

Extra Tip:

If you notice the topping browning too fast, loosely cover it with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking. Want more crunch? Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—but don’t take your eyes off it!

This final bake step gives your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole its crowd-pleasing texture and delicious aroma—guaranteed to steal the spotlight at any meal.

Pro Cooking & Baking Tips

Want to make your casserole just as dreamy as the original? These expert tricks will help you nail the texture, flavor, and finish every time. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or trying this dish for the first time, these tips for perfect Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole make all the difference.

Keep the Chicken Moist

• Don’t overcook your chicken. If boiling, stop when it’s just cooked through. Overcooked chicken turns dry fast.
• Use rotisserie chicken to lock in flavor and moisture with zero fuss.

Achieve a Crispy, Golden Topping

• Butter matters. Mix crushed crackers with melted butter before sprinkling for that buttery crunch.
• Craving extra crunch? Switch on the broiler for 1–2 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye to prevent burning!

Adjust for the Right Spice Level

• Mild option: Skip the hot sauce or use just a drop for background flavor.
• Heat lovers: Add cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or a splash of sriracha to the mix.

Prevent a Watery Casserole

• Drain all ingredients well—especially if using frozen spinach or leftover chicken.
• Avoid over-mixing. Too much stirring can break down the ingredients and release excess liquid.

Bonus Pro Moves:

• Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking—this helps it firm up for easier serving.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley right before serving for color and flavor.

With these simple yet game-changing tweaks, your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole will go from good to gourmet. Up next: serving suggestions to make your meal shine!

Serving Suggestions

Once your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole comes out of the oven golden and bubbling, it’s time to decide how to serve it. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or bringing a dish to a potluck, this versatile casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and serving styles.

Perfect Pairings for a Complete Meal

• Light & Fresh: Serve with a crisp garden salad or roasted green beans to balance out the richness.
• Comfort Food Combo: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered corn for a hearty Southern-style dinner.
• Low-Carb Option: Try a side of steamed broccoli, cauliflower rice, or a simple arugula salad.

Great for Any Occasion

• Brunch Gathering: Serve it in smaller squares alongside fruit salad and mini muffins.
• Potluck Favorite: Bring it in a disposable foil pan—it stays warm and feeds a crowd!
• Weeknight Dinner: Add a glass of iced tea and some skillet cornbread for a cozy meal that feels special.

• Sprinkle with chopped chives, parsley, or even a few extra cracker crumbs for a polished finish.
• Want extra texture? Add a small handful of crisp bacon bits right before serving.

No matter how you plate it, Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is guaranteed to bring smiles around the table.

Ingredient Substitutions & Dietary Modifications

Whether you’re cooking for allergies, specific diets, or just want a healthier twist, this dish is easy to customize. With the right swaps, you can enjoy Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole that fits your lifestyle—without sacrificing flavor or comfort.

Gluten-Free Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

• Use gluten-free crackers (like Glutino or Schär) for the topping.
• Double-check condiments—some brands of mayo, hot sauce, and even shredded cheese can contain hidden gluten.
• Cornflakes or crushed rice cereal also make a great gluten-free crunch alternative.

Keto Chicken Casserole Modifications

• Skip the crackers entirely or use crushed pork rinds for a low-carb, keto-friendly topping.
• Replace sour cream with full-fat Greek yogurt or cream cheese for extra fat and fewer carbs.
• Use real bacon, high-fat cheese, and full-fat mayo to keep it satisfying and keto-approved.

Dairy-Free Options

• Try plant-based options like avocado mayo and coconut yogurt to make it completely dairy-free without sacrificing creaminess.
• Swap in dairy-free cheese shreds (such as Violife or Daiya) for the cheddar.
• Make sure the butter in your topping is plant-based or use olive oil.

Nut-Free Modifications

• Simply leave out the almonds or pecans.
• For added crunch, try crushed pretzels (gluten-free if needed), sunflower seeds, or extra cracker crumbs.

Extra Time-Savers

• Use rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken to skip a step.
• Meal prep the base a day ahead and refrigerate—it bakes up beautifully the next day.

With these flexible options, your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole can work for nearly any table—whether you’re feeding gluten-free guests, following a keto plan, or managing food allergies.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips

One of the best parts about Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is how well it stores and reheats. Whether you’re planning for leftovers or prepping meals ahead of time, these tips will help you keep that creamy texture and crispy topping just right.

How to Store Leftovers

• Wrap it up well: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container or tightly cover the baking dish with foil or plastic wrap.
• Keep it chilled: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for best flavor and texture.
• Save the crunch: If possible, store the crunchy topping separately to help maintain its crispiness.

Freezing Instructions

This casserole is freezer-friendly and can be frozen either before or after baking:

• Before baking: Assemble the casserole as directed, skip the topping, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Add the topping just before baking.
• After baking: Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it securely and freeze. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly.

Freezing in individual portions also makes for an easy grab-and-go meal prep option!

Reheating Without Drying Out

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for 20–25 minutes (longer if frozen). Remove the foil for the last few minutes to crisp up the top.
• Microwave: Reheat individual portions in 30-second intervals. Add a spoonful of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
• Air Fryer Tip: To re-crisp the topping, pop a slice into the air fryer at 375°F for 3–5 minutes.

These storage and reheating tips ensure that your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole tastes just as delicious the next day—or even next month!

Curious about making this beloved casserole at home? We’ve gathered the most common questions to help you cook with confidence and enjoy every delicious bite.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Definitely! This casserole is perfect for prepping in advance. Just put it together the day before, wrap it well, and store it in the fridge overnight. When it’s time to eat, pop it in the oven and bake as directed for a delicious, fresh-from-the-oven result with great texture and taste.

What can I use instead of yogurt or sour cream?

If you don’t have sour cream or yogurt, mayonnaise alone works well, or try a mix of cream cheese and a splash of milk for creaminess. For dairy-free options, use dairy-free yogurt or mayo alternatives.

How do I make this casserole gluten-free?

Simply swap the buttery cracker topping for gluten-free crackers, crushed rice cereal, or gluten-free pretzels. Double-check all condiments like mayo and hot sauce for gluten-free labels.

Can I freeze Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?

Yes! You can freeze it before or after baking. Just skip the cracker topping if freezing raw and add it before baking. After baking, cool completely and freeze in airtight containers.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil until warmed through, removing the foil at the end to crisp the topping. Microwaving works too but may soften the crunch.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! This casserole scales up well. Use a larger baking dish or two standard pans, and adjust baking time slightly if needed.

Is this casserole kid-friendly?

Yes! Its creamy, cheesy texture and mild flavors make it a hit with kids. Adjust or skip the hot sauce to keep it mild.

These FAQ Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole answers are designed to make your cooking experience smooth and stress-free. Have more questions? Just ask!

Even the best cooks run into hiccups sometimes. Here are quick fixes and expert advice to ensure your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole turns out perfect every time.

Why is my casserole watery?

• Excess moisture usually comes from under-drained ingredients like chicken or vegetables. Make sure to pat chicken dry and drain any canned or frozen veggies thoroughly.
• Avoid over-mixing the sauce, which can break down ingredients and release water.

How do I fix a dry casserole?

• Add a splash of chicken broth or cream before baking to boost moisture.
• Cover the dish with foil while baking to trap steam and prevent drying out.
• Serve with a side of gravy or creamy dressing for extra richness.

Getting the topping golden and crispy

• Always mix crushed crackers with enough melted butter for that golden crunch.
• If the topping browns too fast, tent with foil during baking.
• For an extra-crispy finish, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Bonus Tip: Avoid Sogginess

• Let the casserole rest 5–10 minutes after baking to firm up before serving.
• If you’re prepping ahead, add the crunchy topping just before baking to keep it crisp.

Stick to these easy troubleshooting tips, and your Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is sure to turn out perfectly—no matter when you make it!

If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is the way to go. Its creamy texture, crispy topping, and rich blend of ingredients make it a standout on any dinner table—from casual weeknights to special occasions.

Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it’s a favorite across the U.S. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with substitutions and tweaks, this casserole delivers consistent, delicious results.

Don’t forget to share your own twists, ask questions, or leave a review—your feedback helps others discover this iconic dish!

— SA | BussinRecipes

Written by Chef Lexi

Chef Lexi brings flavor, creativity, and confidence to every kitchen she steps into. With a passion for helping home cooks explore new tastes and master everyday meals, she shares smart recipes, helpful tips, and step-by-step guidance that make cooking feel effortless and fun. Behind her charming apron is a powerful secret—she’s an AI-powered virtual chef, designed to make your culinary journey smarter, faster, and more delicious.

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