Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe You’ll Make Again

Q: Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely. Just use a large lasagna pan or two 9x13 pans, and make sure the middle cooks through. It may need an extra 5–10 minutes in the oven.

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

What Makes This Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole So Irresistible?

Ever come across a dish that feels like a hug in casserole form? That’s exactly what the Neiman Marcus chicken casserole is. It’s creamy, cheesy, crispy-topped perfection—and trust me, once you’ve tried it, you’ll wonder why it’s not already a staple in your weekly dinner rotation.

Now, despite its ritzy name (yes, that Neiman Marcus), this dish is the total opposite of fancy. Think more Sunday family dinner than Fifth Avenue. It’s easy to make, customizable to the max, and hits that sweet spot between indulgent and comforting. It’s one of those casseroles that makes you want seconds… and maybe just a tiny little third helping.

Let’s dig into the story and flavor of this down-to-earth luxury.

A Bit of Background: The Neiman Marcus Story

– A Legacy of Luxury Meets Home Cooking

You might know Neiman Marcus for high-end handbags and designer shoes, not cheesy casseroles. But here’s the twist: decades ago, the legendary department store published a cookbook that included recipes from their popular Zodiac Room café. That’s where this beloved chicken casserole comes into play.

It started as a simple, homestyle dish served to shoppers needing a break from all that retail therapy. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crunchy topping, it became a surprise favorite.

– How a Store-Famous Casserole Became a Household Staple

Word got out (as it always does with great food), and this casserole quickly jumped from the pages of a cookbook to dinner tables across the country. And you didn’t need a Neiman Marcus credit card to get in on the action. Home cooks loved how easy it was to throw together—minimal prep, pantry-friendly ingredients, and flavors that please even the pickiest eaters.

It’s now one of those “passed-down” recipes that feels like a little secret weapon. Perfect for potlucks, Sunday suppers, or just something warm and satisfying after a long day.

Ingredients Breakdown: What You’ll Need for Neiman Marcus

Let’s get to the good stuff—what goes in this magic mix?

Ingredients for chicken casserole — Simple ingredients, big flavor for ymmy Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

– Chicken Picks: Rotisserie, Canned, or Fresh?

This recipe is flexible. Got leftover roast chicken? Perfect. Want to keep it super easy? A store-bought rotisserie chicken is your best friend. In a pinch, canned chicken works too (though the texture can be a bit different). Boiled and shredded fresh chicken is the classic approach if you have the time.

Pro tip: Add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika to bland chicken to kick up the flavor.

– Cream Soups: The Secret Convenience Factor

The base of the sauce is usually cream of chicken soup—yep, the humble can! You can mix it up with cream of mushroom or even cream of celery for a different twist. If you’re not into canned soups, a homemade white sauce works too. But honestly, the canned version is part of the nostalgia for a lot of folks.

– Cheese, Veggies, and Crust Options

This dish is where cheese lovers unite. Sharp cheddar gives it that gooey, melty goodness. Some folks add a bit of Monterey Jack or mozzarella for stretchier texture. Veggies? Diced green chiles, sautéed onions, or peas blend in well if you want a one-dish meal.

The crunchy topping is the cherry on top. Traditionalists go for crushed Ritz crackers mixed with butter. Panko, crushed cornflakes, or even potato chips can be a fun alternative. Trust your cravings.

Step-by-Step Cooking Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Time to roll up those sleeves. Making this casserole is so easy, it almost feels like cheating. Here’s a simple way to get from a pile of ingredients to a bubbling, golden-brown beauty that smells like heaven.

– Prep Work: Chopping and Shredding Made Easy

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take care of the chicken. If you’re using rotisserie or leftover chicken, just shred it up with two forks. Aim for bite-sized pieces—not too big, not too shredded. We’re not making pulled chicken sandwiches here.

Dice up any extra add-ins like onions, garlic, or green chiles. If you’re adding frozen veggies like peas or carrots, just let them thaw a bit so they don’t water things down.

– Mixing Magic: Layering and Combine Techniques

Now the fun part. In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken, a can of cream of chicken soup, half a cup of sour cream (or Greek yogurt if you’re feeling fancy), and a healthy handful of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is coated and creamy.

Want a little zing? Add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of onion powder. Feeling spicy? A dash of hot sauce never hurt.

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Smooth it out like you’re tucking it in for a cozy nap.

– Baking Perfection: Time and Temperature Tips

Time to make it crispy. Crush about 1 sleeve of Ritz crackers (or whatever topping you’re using) and mix with 2–3 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle that golden goodness evenly over the casserole.

Pop it in the oven for 30–35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbling and the top is gloriously golden. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving—it’ll firm up a bit, and your tongue will thank you.

Variations & Ingredient Swaps

One of the best things about this casserole? It’s totally customizable. You can make it as traditional or as trendy as you want. Here are a few fun ways to put your own spin on it.

– Lighter Tweaks: Greek Yogurt or Low-Fat Soup

If you’re trying to keep things on the lighter side (you know, balance out the cookies later), sub in Greek yogurt for sour cream and look for low-sodium, low-fat soups. You’ll still get that creamy texture without all the guilt.

– Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, and Keto Options

Got food sensitivities in the house? No problem:

Gluten-free: Use GF cream soups (they exist!), and go with gluten-free crackers or crushed pork rinds for the topping.
Dairy-free: Try a plant-based sour cream and dairy-free shredded cheese. Vegan cheddar works surprisingly well.
Keto-friendly: Ditch the crackers, use full-fat sour cream and cheese, and bulk up the casserole with low-carb veggies like spinach or cauliflower.

– Flavor Boosters: Herbs, Spices, and Crunchy Toppings

Want to get fancy without really trying? Add a teaspoon of garlic powder, dried thyme, or smoked paprika to the mix. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top after baking make it feel restaurant-worthy.

And toppings? Crushed tortilla chips give it Tex-Mex vibes. Crispy fried onions? Absolutely. Bacon bits? Now we’re talking.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This casserole is a one-dish wonder, but if you want to elevate the whole meal, here’s how.

– Side Dishes: Veggies, Salads, and Breads

Veggies: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or a simple green bean sauté go great with the rich casserole.
Salads: A crisp Caesar or mixed greens with vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
Bread: Dinner rolls, garlic toast, or even cornbread muffins can round out the plate. (And mop up that creamy sauce. No shame.)

– Drinks: Wine, Cocktail, or Water?

For those over 21, a lightly chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly. If cocktails are your thing, a gin spritz or citrusy mule complements the richness. And hey, even a sparkling water with lemon feels kind of fancy when you’re enjoying something this cozy.

Why Women Love It: Comfort, Convenience & Community

Let’s be real for a second—life gets busy. Between work, family, errands, and that ever-growing to-do list, the last thing anyone wants is a dinner that needs three pots, five gadgets, and an emotional support playlist to get through. That’s where this casserole shines like a beacon of hope in a sea of chaos.

– Easy Weeknight Dinners

This dish is a hero on those “I forgot to defrost something” kind of nights. You can literally whip it up in 15 minutes if your chicken’s already cooked. It’s got protein, carbs, and comfort all in one bite.

It also reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping or just surviving Thursday when you’ve already mentally checked out.

– Potlucks, Family Dinners, and Neighborhood Swaps

If you’ve ever signed up to bring a dish for a community potluck, holiday party, or your kid’s school function, this casserole is your secret weapon. It’s like that one friend who shows up, looks great without trying, and makes everyone feel better just by being there.

And don’t be surprised if someone asks you for the recipe. It’s that kind of dish—humble yet unforgettable.

My Personal Experience (and a Little Cheeky Story)

Alright, confession time.

I first made this casserole during a week when my fridge was running dangerously low on inspiration. I had half a rotisserie chicken, a few sad slices of cheddar, and a can of soup I didn’t remember buying. Google led me to this Neiman Marcus casserole—and I am forever grateful.

I threw it together while my toddler was pulling cereal boxes out of the pantry like a tiny tornado. It baked while I wrestled her into pajamas and tried to remember if I’d already brushed my teeth (I hadn’t). And then… the magic happened.

The moment I pulled it out of the oven, the whole kitchen smelled like something that belonged in a Southern grandmother’s home. Warm, buttery, slightly cheesy air. My husband (who usually only reacts strongly to sports scores) literally said, “Whoa—what is that?”

And just like that, we were all happily digging in. Even the toddler, who thinks peas are betrayal in vegetable form, cleaned her plate.

Since then, it’s been my go-to for “save-the-day” dinners and “wow-the-crowd” events. I even brought it to a friend’s backyard baby shower once and left with an empty dish and two new text threads asking for the recipe.

Tips to Make It Even Better Neiman Marcus Chicken

Over time, you pick up a few tricks. Here are my hard-earned Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole hacks:

Chicken casserole variations — Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole for everyone

– Prep-Ahead Hacks

If you’re hosting or just planning ahead, you can assemble the whole thing the night before. Just cover it with foil and stash it in the fridge. Bake it the next day, adding an extra 5–10 minutes to the oven time since it’s coming in cold.

You can even freeze it—just don’t add the cracker topping until you’re ready to bake. No one wants soggy crust.

– Freezing, Reheating, and Leftovers Magic

Freeze in an aluminum tray or tightly sealed baking dish. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake like normal. For leftovers, reheat single portions in the microwave, or reheat the whole thing in the oven at 300°F for about 15–20 minutes, covered with foil to keep it from drying out.

And if you’re feeling creative? Leftovers can go in a wrap or even on top of a baked potato for a quick lunch remix.

📊 Protein Comparison: How These Cozy Meals Stack Up

When I started focusing more on protein, I realized how helpful it was to actually see the numbers. So here’s a quick chart comparing the protein content in each of the meals I’m sharing. These aren’t just comforting—they earn their spot on your weekly menu by fueling your body, too.

Meal Name	Main Protein Source	Approx. Protein per Serving	Why It Works
Turkey & Spinach Lasagna	Lean ground turkey	32g	Hearty, cheesy, and perfect for make-ahead dinners
Chickpea Coconut Curry	Chickpeas	18g	Plant-based, creamy, and packed with fiber
Baked Salmonhttps://www.amgroyal.com/delicious-stuffed-peppers/https://www.amgroyal.com/delicious-stuffed-peppers/https://www.amgroyal.com/crispy-oven-baked-sweet-potato-fries-recipe/ with Dill Yogurt	Wild salmon	34g	Omega-3 rich and cooks in under 25 minutes
Chicken & Quinoa Stuffed Peppers	Chicken + quinoa	28g	Balanced, colorful, and full of texture
Creamy Greek Yogurt Alfredo Pasta	Greek yogurt + cheese	20g	Comfort food makeover with a protein punch
Lentil & Sweet Potato Stew	Lentils	22g	Cozy and perfect for batch cooking
Beef & Black Bean Enchiladas	Lean beef + black beans	30g	Bold flavors, freezer-friendly, and crowd-approved

Even if you’re not counting grams every day, it’s so helpful to know which meals are doing the heavy lifting for your energy, satiety, and mood. Trust me—your body will thank you.

Healthier Tips & Nutritional Info

Look, we all love cheese and cream… but sometimes your jeans are begging you to consider a few lighter swaps. And that’s totally doable with this recipe. You can keep the flavor and comfort without completely throwing your nutrition goals out the window.

– Calorie-Saving Ingredient Swaps

Here are a few tweaks I’ve personally tested (yes, even the picky toddler approved):

Greek yogurt in place of sour cream cuts fat and boosts protein.
Use reduced-fat cheese or go a little lighter on the cheese overall—just a handful can still go a long way.
Pick a low-fat or low-sodium soup, especially if you’re watching salt.
Instead of buttery crackers, go for whole grain breadcrumbs or crushed rice cakes mixed with olive oil spray.

It won’t be identical, but honestly? Still delicious.

– Tracking Macros While Keeping Taste

If you’re someone who tracks macros (bless your organized soul), here’s a rough ballpark based on the classic version:

Serving Size: About 1 cup
Calories: 350–420
Protein: 20–25g
Carbs: 15–20g
Fat: 20g+

Using lighter ingredients can shave off up to 100 calories per serving. And yes, you can absolutely still enjoy a small slice with your favorite salad and feel good about it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s tackle those burning casserole questions. If you’ve thought it, someone else has asked it. Pinky promise.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Totally. Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, a can of chickpeas, or even firm tofu. Use cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken, and you’re golden.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Usually 3 to 4 days in a sealed container. But chances are, it won’t last that long—it’s too good.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely. Just use a large lasagna pan or two 9×13 pans, and make sure the middle cooks through. It may need an extra 5–10 minutes in the oven.

What’s the difference between panko and cracker crusts?

Panko gives you a crisp, airy crunch—more of a bakery vibe. Ritz crackers are buttery, soft, and melt-in-your-mouth. I personally like a mix of both. A little crunch, a little indulgence.

Do I have to use canned soup?

Nope. You can make a quick homemade version using butter, flour, chicken broth, and a splash of milk. Takes about 10 minutes and gives you more control over ingredients.

Any tips for reheating without drying it out?

Microwave it with a damp paper towel on top, or reheat in the oven with foil. If it seems dry, stir in a spoonful of milk or broth before reheating. Works like a charm.

Conclusion: Cozy Up With This Crowd-Pleasing Dish

In the end, the Neiman Marcus chicken casserole isn’t just another recipe—it’s a comforting, flexible, and nostalgia-packed meal that fits into real life. Whether you’re hosting friends, feeding a busy family, or just need something reliable and delicious, this casserole delivers every single time.

And while the ingredients are humble, the impact is huge. It’s the kind of dish that people remember—maybe not for its flashiness, but for how it made them feel: full, happy, and totally at home.

I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count, and each time I do, it brings back memories of my mom’s kitchen, my daughters’ laughter as they help me crush crackers, and those wonderful moments when something so simple becomes so special.

As the legendary Ina Garten once said, “You don’t have to cook fancy or complicated masterpieces—just good food from fresh ingredients.” This casserole is proof that simplicity can be stunning.

And when you put your own spin on it—maybe swapping ingredients, adding your family’s favorite spices, or baking it for a special occasion—you’re not just cooking. You’re making memories.

For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!