Indulge Your Senses with Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole: A Cozy Family Favorite
Setting the Scene
Picture this: the evening sun dips low, casting a warm golden glow across your kitchen. The aroma of something savory and rich fills the air as you prepare to welcome loved ones into your home. If there’s one dish that embodies comfort and delightful nostalgia, it’s the iconic Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole. Known for its creamy textures and fun crunch, this casserole is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together around the dining table.
Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festively delicious dish for a gathering, the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole has a knack for becoming the star of the show. Imagine the way the creamy filling envelops tender chicken, topped with a crispy golden crust that crackles delightfully with each serving. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make time and time again, becoming a staple in your culinary repertoire.
So gather around, because something special is bubbling just moments away, and I promise, you are going to want a scoop of this warm, satisfying dish.
What You’ll Need
This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, requiring just a few key ingredients and straightforward tools.
Ingredients
- 3 cups of cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 sleeves of crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Tools
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, have these kitchen tools ready:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- 9×13 inch casserole dish
- Skillet or saucepan (for mixing)
- Spoon or spatula for spreading
How to Make It
When it comes to making the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, the process is as straightforward as it is delightful. So let’s embark on this comforting culinary adventure together.
Prep the Base
Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). As the oven warms, the anticipation begins to build—a delightful warmth will soon envelop your kitchen. Grab a 9×13 inch casserole dish and give it a generous coating of grease, ensuring your recipe doesn’t stick to the sides. The sound of butter or cooking spray gliding onto the surface adds a satisfying touch, like the hush before a symphony begins.
In a spacious bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. As you blend these ingredients, take a moment to savor the buttery scent wafting up from the mixture. Add in garlic powder, salt, and pepper, allowing the spices to mingle and enhance the flavor. This creamy concoction serves as the foundation of your casserole, promising richness and depth.
Build the Flavor
Next, fold in the shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, and green onions into your creamy base. With each scoop, the vibrant green of the onions harmonizes beautifully with the golden cheddar. As you combine these elements, the contrasting textures begin to emerge: the smoothness of the cheese, the tenderness of the chicken, and the crunch of the onions, creating an irresistible medley that delights the senses.
Once combined, pour this flavor-packed mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. As you smooth the surface, allow the anticipation of bubbling goodness to make your mouth water—you can practically hear the sizzling symphony of deliciousness that awaits.
Bake to Perfection
Now it’s time for the magic of baking! In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until they resemble golden sand. This buttery mixture will create a sumptuous topping that adds texture and flavor, a delightful contrast to the creamy filling below.
Sprinkle the buttery Ritz mixture generously over the top of your chicken filling. As you do, the sound of the crackling crackers will give you a sense of satisfaction that can only come from knowing something delicious is moments away. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and set the timer for 25-30 minutes, during which time the kitchen will fill with an aroma that speaks of comfort and indulgence.
When it’s done, the top will be golden brown and bubbly, inviting you to dive in. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This little pause only amplifies the anticipation—picture the contrasting textures and flavors waiting to be savored.
Finish & Serve
Finally, dish out servings of this delectable Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, allowing the warm colors to spill onto the plates. Each spoonful will showcase creamy chicken awash with tangy notes, perfectly complemented by the crunch of the Ritz cracker topping. If desired, garnish with additional green onions for a pop of color and freshness, ready to enchant those lucky enough to share this experience with you.
Creative Twists
While the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a classic in its own right, don’t hesitate to play around with the recipe and inject your personal touch:
- For a seasonal twist, consider adding cooked butternut squash or sautéed spinach during the mixing stage for extra nutrition and color during the fall.
- Opt for a zesty kick by mixing in a spoonful of hot sauce or diced jalapeños for your spice-loving friends.
- If you’d like to elevate the herbaceous notes, include fresh cilantro or parsley for brightness, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
- Swap the cooked chicken with shredded rotisserie turkey after Thanksgiving for a delightful way to enjoy leftovers.
- For those watching their carbs, experiment with cauliflower rice instead of chicken for a divine vegetarian version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Final Inspiration
The Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is more than a dish; it’s a moment, a blanket of warmth wrapped around cheerful gatherings and cozy weeknight meals alike. It has all the makings of a beloved family favorite, destined to inspire laughter and conversation around your dining table.
So gather your ingredients, invite friends and family, and let this comforting casserole be your culinary canvas. Each hearty bite is an invitation to savor life’s simple pleasures. Share this recipe, create delicious memories, and allow the warmth of this dish to fill your home. Happy cooking!
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Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A cozy and indulgent chicken casserole that combines creamy textures with a crunchy topping, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 sleeves crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
- In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
- Pour mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
- In another bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter, then sprinkle over the chicken mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, consider garnishing with additional green onions. You can also customize with seasonal vegetables or spices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 80mg

