Last summer we took a quick weekend trip to visit my sister and somehow I ended up in her kitchen instead of sightseeing. Classic me, right? I thought I’d just help with dinner but then she pulled out this casserole recipe and said, “Trust me, you’ll love it.” I was skeptical. My track record with casseroles isn’t the best. The first one I ever made came out dry and, well, kind of sad.

But this one was different. Creamy filling, cheesy goodness, buttery cracker topping. The whole house smelled like comfort food heaven. I remember standing there thinking, “Why does this taste like it belongs on a holiday table?” Funny how food can surprise you like that.

And here’s the thing—have you ever had a recipe that feels fancy but actually takes no effort at all? That’s this casserole. Honestly, if I can make it without burning it (yep, I’ve done that before), then anyone can. So if you’ve never tried Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, you’re definitely in the right place.

What is Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a creamy, comforting baked dish that combines tender cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, and a crunchy Ritz cracker topping. It’s the kind of recipe that feels both special and simple. While the name might sound fancy, it’s really just good old comfort food that’s easy enough for weeknights yet delicious enough for gatherings. The rich flavors of the creamy filling and the buttery crunch of the topping make it a dish loved by both kids and adults.

What to Eat With Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

This casserole is filling on its own, but it tastes even better with sides that balance the richness. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a perfect partner. Steamed veggies like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus can add color and crunch. You can also serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or even a slice of crusty bread to scoop up the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, pair it with fruit salad or roasted zucchini.

Ingredients

4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
1/2 cup melted butter
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional for garnish)

how to make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well blended and creamy. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, mixing again so the seasonings spread evenly.
Transfer the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to cover the whole dish.
In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Stir until all the crumbs are coated with butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This creates the crispy golden crust everyone loves.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving so it sets a little and is easier to scoop out.
Garnish with parsley if desired, then serve warm.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

9×13-inch baking dish
Large mixing bowl
Small mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Oven mitts
Knife and cutting board (if cooking chicken from scratch)

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before storing. Place the pieces into an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. When reheating, you can warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave single servings for about 2 minutes. For longer storage, you can freeze portions of the casserole for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake until warmed through.

FAQ

What makes this casserole different from others?

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole stands out because of its creamy filling paired with a buttery Ritz cracker topping, giving it both richness and crunch.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe since it saves time and adds great flavor.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and topping separately, then assemble right before baking. Or you can assemble the whole dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just assemble it, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. When ready, thaw in the fridge and bake as directed.

Can I use other types of crackers?

Definitely. Ritz crackers are classic, but you can swap them with buttery club crackers or even panko breadcrumbs for a slightly different crunch.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar is the most popular choice, but you can mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a little Parmesan for more flavor.

How do I make it healthier?

You can use reduced-fat sour cream, light cheese, or whole wheat crackers. Adding veggies like spinach, broccoli, or peas to the filling is another easy way to make it more wholesome.

What should I serve with this casserole for a complete meal?

A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light fruit salad pair beautifully with the richness of this casserole.

Conclusion

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a dish that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a warm, creamy, and crunchy meal that brings everyone around the table with smiles. It’s easy to prepare, great for busy weeknights, and special enough for holidays or family get-togethers. If you try this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more tasty and comforting recipes like this one!