Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole – Creamy, Cheesy & Crowd-Pleasing Recipe

ByEmma Riley

Have you ever wondered why some casseroles become instant classics at family gatherings? The secret often lies in achieving that perfect balance of creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and hearty chicken flavor — a combination that the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole nails effortlessly. This crowd-pleasing dish has earned its reputation not just for being rich and comforting, but also for being surprisingly straightforward to make at home.

Many home cooks shy away from making casseroles like this because they worry about the dish turning out dry or overly heavy. But with a few simple techniques, you can whip up a Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole that is both creamy and indulgent without being overwhelming. Whether you’re feeding a large crowd or simply want a flavorful weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers on every front.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious chicken casserole. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients List

Here is what you’ll need to make the classic Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole. These ingredients are carefully selected for maximum creaminess and flavor, but I’ve also included some substitutions for dietary preferences and availability.

  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works great!)
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for extra earthiness)
  • 1 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt for a healthier swap)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (mozzarella or Monterey Jack as alternatives)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (can substitute with vegan mayo or more Greek yogurt)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives (for a fresh pop)
  • 1 (12 oz) package cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
  • 1 cup French fried onions (optional, for crunchy topping)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Timing

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Compared to other creamy chicken casseroles that require hours, the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole comes together swiftly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute company dinners. The rice adds heartiness while the soup and sour cream create that signature velvety texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken and Rice

Make sure your chicken is cooked and shredded for easy mixing. Leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken saves time here. Cook the rice according to package instructions if you haven’t prepped it earlier.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. For extra zest, you can add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika.

Step 3: Add Chicken, Rice, and Cheese

Fold in the shredded chicken, cooked rice, shredded cheddar, and chopped green onions. Mix thoroughly, ensuring the chicken and rice are well coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Transfer and Top

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 casserole dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle a generous layer of French fried onions on top if using; they give that sought-after crunch and golden color.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes or until bubbly and the top is golden. If you want a crispier top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: ~420 kcal
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 700mg

This casserole offers a solid dose of protein from the chicken and cheese, balanced with carbs from rice. It’s rich in fats due to the creamy components, so moderation is key for those monitoring fat intake.

Healthier Alternatives

If you want to enjoy this delicious casserole but with a healthier twist, consider these swaps:

  • Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and mayo for added probiotics and fewer calories.
  • Choose brown or wild rice for added fiber instead of white rice.
  • Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to increase volume and nutrient density.
  • Use low-fat cheddar cheese or reduce cheese quantity to lessen fat content.
  • Substitute French fried onions with toasted whole wheat breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of olive oil and herbs for crunch.

Serving Suggestions

This Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides or can be jazzed up for a full meal:

  • Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
  • For a festive touch, top with fresh parsley or sliced green onions.
  • Offer seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts for contrast.
  • For low-carb dieters, serve portions atop steamed cauliflower rice or a bed of leafy greens.
  • Turn leftovers into hearty sandwiches or wraps with a bit of extra cheese melted on top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcooking the casserole: Baking too long can cause it to dry out. Keep an eye during the last 10 minutes and check for bubbling edges.
  • Skipping the creamy base mix: Stirring soup, sour cream, and mayo until smooth ensures consistent moisture and prevents clumps.
  • Using undercooked rice or chicken: Precook these fully before mixing to avoid a gritty texture.
  • Not seasoning adequately: Since rice and chicken are mild, seasoning with salt, pepper, and aromatics is essential for flavor depth.
  • Forgetting to grease your dish: The casserole can stick badly to pans if not greased or lined with parchment.
Baked Neiman Marcus chicken casserole topped with golden cheese and crispy breadcrumbs in a casserole dish.

Storing Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
  • To freeze, place in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
  • Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain texture and flavor integrity.

Conclusion

The Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole remains a timeless, creamy, cheesy favorite ideal for feeding a crowd or enjoying comfort food at home. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that impresses every time. Don’t forget to share your results in the comments or sign up for more delicious recipes delivered straight to your inbox!

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake fresh when ready to serve for best texture.

Q2: What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
Make a homemade white sauce with butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk or blend cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.

Q3: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze fully cooled casserole in portions or whole. Thaw slowly and reheat gently to preserve creaminess.

Q4: Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken?
Definitely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor.

Q5: How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and substitute French fried onions with crushed gluten-free crackers or nuts.

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